Timeline

A typical MCLS student will adhere to the time course indicated below. Obviously, some variability will exist depending on many factors, the most important of which is the focused efforts of the student themselves.

Year 1:

• Complete required courses
• Carry out four laboratory rotations
• Choose a laboratory for dissertation research
• Pass a general knowledge assessment exam
• Begin dissertation research
• Choose an appropriate dissertation committee

Year 2:

• Complete additional elective courses
• Continue with dissertation research
• Gain experience as a teaching assistant
• Pass a qualifying exam
• Hold first meeting with dissertation committee

Years 3-4:

• Continue with dissertation research
• Hold annual meetings with dissertation committee
• Present research accomplishments before department

Year 5:

• Complete dissertation research with consent of advisor and committee
• Carry out thesis defense