In the Magnetic Resonance Imaging track, graduate students will take the following courses in the first two years of entering the program:
During the first two years, each semester consists of a course in Biophysics, one in Neuroscience, and another in a related area to compliment the students' strengths and interests. This allows experience to be gained in technical and applied areas before choosing a research topic and advisor which generally occurs in their third year. Since students are supported as described below, their time is not occupied by teaching requirements, and are encouraged to get involved with a research area under the direction of a faculty member. Students are usually coauthor on several refereed journal publications prior to graduation. Directed studies and research courses are available to students as are classes at the two other local colleges, Marquette University and the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee. An oral dissertation proposal defense which takes the place of a written comprehensive qualifying exam is expected to be completed by the end of the third year or at the beginning of their fourth year in the program. A final dissertation defense is normally expected to occur by the fifth year of study.
In the Molecular Biophysics track, graduate students will take the following courses in the first two years of entering the program:
Incoming Molecular Biophysics students typically rotate through three labs in their first year. This allows for experience in several areas of research before choosing an advisor. In addition to the introductory core classes listed above, students have the opportunity to take more advanced classes specific to their chosen area of research. A dissertation proposal defense and qualifying exam are expected to be completed by the end of the third year of the program. A final dissertation defense is normally expected to occur by the fifth year of study.
The Biophysics Graduate Program has approximately 15-20 graduate students at any given time. This smaller program allows for an informal atmosphere where students are able to work closely with faculty members in addition to other graduate students and postdocs. All graduate students admitted to the Biophysics Graduate Program work toward a Ph.D. degree. All full-time students receive a stipend ($25,750 in 2008-2009), full tuition coverage, and exceptional full health care coverage. The annual stipend is anticipated to increase 5% each year. In addition, there are no teaching requirements. Provided that the student remains in good academic standing and makes continual progress, the stipend will be paid for at least 5 years.
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