Curriculum

The BCDB program offers an ideal training venue for students. In the first year, BCDB students participate in an innovative series of mini-courses covering a range of topics in biochemistry, cell biology and development. They also get research experience through three laboratory rotations. In the second year and beyond, students focus on dissertation research in their chosen laboratory but also supplement their training with a course in biostatistics and one in hypothesis development and experimental design in a unique faculty peer-reviewed grant-writing course. Students may also choose from a number of electives in their specialized area of interest. The curriculum emphasizes communication, and critical thinking skills through journal clubs and student seminars. Students also gain valuable classroom teaching experience with a one-semester requirement that can be expanded to fit the desires of the student. Enhancing the educational experience in the BCDB program are monthly workshops devoted to ethical issues related to scientific research. The prospective and current student part of our website has details about all degree requirements, and more.