Advanced Courses

Course requirements and descriptions are listed on the Course Descriptions page.

Each of these courses focuses on integrating material from basic molecular biology, cell physiology, and clinical pathophysiology. The format for these courses involves didactic information and reading of the original literature followed by critical discussion in an informal setting.

The Immunology Program has a weekly seminar series in which all advanced graduate students present their research on an annual basis to the entire Immunology Program. This experience affords students an opportunity to perfect their skills in oral presentation and communication to a sophisticated audience. Teaching opportunities also are available.

During the second year, students are required to pass a qualifying examination for admission to candidacy for the Ph.D. The qualifying examination consists of a written proposal and its oral defense. Successful completion of the qualifying examination is required to advance to Ph.D. candidacy.

A Supervisory Research Committee is appointed for those candidates. This Committee reviews and evaluates the student’s progress and, upon completion of the dissertation based on original research and the student’s public presentation of the work, participates in the final oral examination of the student.