The qualifying examination is to ensure a doctoral student has sufficient mastery of fundamental principles of cancer biology which includes biochemistry, molecular biology, cell biology, and immunology to be successful as a Ph.D. candidate and independent researcher. A list of major topics to be examined will be distributed to the student after the completion of the first year. The student is expected to become knowledgeable in each of these topics through coursework, individual reading, or discussions with faculty members. Basic knowledge and understanding of general research techniques in cancer biology will be included.
The initial phase of the Qualifying Examination consists of a set of written questions administered by a Qualifying Examination Committee (QEC) composed of faculty members of Cancer Biology program. In the written phase, a student will answer a given set of questions within a given time (3 hours). After a review of the student's answers, the Chairman of the QEC will schedule an oral examination (within 2-3 weeks). The oral examination consists of questions that further explore the answers given on the written exam, as well as questions on additional topics of cancer biology.
Two attempts to successfully pass the qualifying examination are allowed. Failure of the student to pass the qualifying examination results in dismissal of the student from the doctoral program. In this case, a student may be allowed to complete the requirements for a Master of Science degree.
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