Students pick a research mentor by the beginning of their first semester in the program and do research for the duration of their time in the program.  Students prepare a written thesis and present their work as a seminar for the final defense.

Students may choose from any of the courses below.

• A minimum of 8 tuition units are required.
  • At least five of the required eight courses must be structured, advanced level courses in biology or the sciences.
  • Must receive a grade of B or better, courses must be taken for a grade rather than credit/no credit.
  • No more than three of the required eight courses are to be used for thesis research (Graduate Independent Study).
• Program Director endorses the student’s proposed curriculum.