Courses

Five curricular tracks are available to incoming students: (1) Biochemistry and Structural Biology, (2) Systems and Translational Biology, (3) Cell and Molecular Biology, (4) Neurosciences, and (5) Microbial and Molecular Pathogenesis. Additionally, selected students have the option to participate in the program through Texas A&M University. Each track has its own defined curriculum, which builds on two first year courses: Cell and Molecular Biology (MSCI 601) and Human Pathogenesis of Disease (MSCI 610). Additional opportunities include Biochemistry (BICH 603), Statistics (STAT 651 or SBTM 616), Ethics, Laboratory Techniques, and Biochemical Genetics (BICH 631). Additional coursework in the second year is tailored to the specific track chosen. Incoming students who are uncommitted can sample each and any curricular track. Students should expect to experience considerable flexibility in their choice of elective courses, within the College of Medicine, as well as courses offered through Texas A&M University in College Station. Most faculty members employ multidisciplinary approaches and provide broad training opportunities for students.

Programmatic Curriculum

• First Year Core Curriculum (PDF)
• Biochemistry and Structural Biology (PDF)
• Cell and Molecular Biology (PDF)
• Clinical and Translational Science (PDF)
• Microbial and Molecular Pathogenesis (PDF)
• Neurosciences (PDF)
• Systems Biology and Translational Medicine (PDF)

Rotations

Students typically do 3-4 laboratory rotations during their first year. Rotations not only provide students with a chance to explore new research areas, but help them identify the specific research topic and environment that best suits their interests. Incoming students are uncommitted: they can sample any research lab.