Timeline to PhD

YEAR 1

Fall semester

  • Course work: MDTP seminar; Current Issues in Microbiology; plus additional didactic course work, including Independent Research credits.
  • Research rotations, 3 minimum.
  • December: placement in thesis lab.

Spring semester

  • Course work: MDTP seminar; Current Issues in Microbiology; plus additional didactic course work, including Independent Research credits.

Summer

  • Coursework: Independent Research credits.
  • First committee meeting.
Memorial Union chairs after rain.

YEAR 3

Fall semester

  • Advance to dissertator status.
  • Research Professional Development Opportunities
  • Continue thesis research.
  • Course work: MDTP seminar; Independent Research credits.
  • Be prepared to make a 30-minute research presentation in MDTP seminar.

Spring semester

  • Continue thesis research.
  • Course work: MDTP seminar; Independent Research credits.

Summer

  • Continue thesis research.
  • Course work: Independent Research credits.
  • Annual committee meeting.
Hoarfrost on tree branches at Alumni Park
Koi fishpond at Allen Centennial Gardens

YEAR 2

Fall semester

  • Continue thesis research.
  • Course work: MDTP seminar; Independent Research credits, and/or other coursework.
  • Complete teaching practicum (Fall OR Spring semester).

Spring semester

  • Continue thesis research.
  • Course work: MDTP seminar; Independent Research credits, and/or other coursework. Complete major and minor course requirements.
  • Complete teaching practicum (Fall OR Spring semester).

Summer

  • Continue thesis research.
  • Course work: Independent Research credits.
  • Prepare thesis proposal and pass prelims (must be held prior to first day of classes of the fall semester).
Lincoln statue in front of Bascom Hall

YEAR 4 AND BEYOND

  • Continue thesis research.
  • Course work: Independent Research credits.
  • Complete Professional Development.
  • Be prepared to make a 45-minute research presentation in MDTP seminar.
  • Present written progress report to thesis committee for annual committee meeting.
  • Hold prospectus committee meeting six months ahead of proposed defense date.
  • Prepare and defend dissertation.
  • Check out postings on the job opportunities page.

The average time to graduation is between 5-6 years.