Ph.D. Curriculum
Overview
Please refer to the University Academic Catalog for an overview of the Neuroscience Graduate Program.
Curriculum
Detailed information, including degree requirements and the academic plan of study for the Doctor of Philosophy in Neurosciences can be found in the University Catalog.
Research Rotations
A minimum of three research rotations are required to identify a research mentor and laboratory. This is usually satisfied during the first year in the IGPBS.
Research Seminars
A minimum of two research-oriented presentations in a seminar format attended by students, faculty, and guests are required. This is usually satisfied in Neuroscience Seminar 799 or via a departmental seminar series.
Research Skills and Responsible Scholarship Requirement
All students in doctoral programs must meet the research skills and responsible scholarship requirement of the university. Neuroscience Ph.D. students meet these requirements during their IGPBS year of study by taking GSMC 857 Biographics, GSMC 852/GSMC 855; Introduction to Biomedical Research I and II, respectively and GSMC 856 Introduction to Research Ethics.
Doctoral Research
During the research phase of training, students register for NEUS 990 (1-6 credit hours; participation/fail/incomplete). Original and independent laboratory investigation in partial fulfillment of the requirements for the Ph.D. degree.
As the research phase nears completion (*or after 18h of post comprehensive coursework has been completed), students register for NEUS 999, Doctoral Dissertation (1-6 credit hours; and a letter grade is assigned the semester in which they defend; ABCDF or incomplete). Preparation of the dissertation based upon original research and in partial fulfillment of the requirements for the Ph.D. degree. *Once 18h of post comprehensive coursework has been completed the student can enroll in 1h of NEUS 999.
Lab safety and animal use instruction. As part of the IGPBS, students will become certified to use radioisotopes and will be instructed in general lab safety issues by the KUMC Safety Office. Students who work with animals in their research will be required to take the animal care and handling course offered by Laboratory Animal Resources.
Grades in Academic Courses
University and Office of Graduate Studies rules apply. You must maintain B (3.00) or better grade point average in your course work. Students must take a minimum number of hours to remain in active status (see the University Academic Catalog). Programmatic policy is that only grades of participation (P) or Fail (F) will be given for the following courses: Master's Research (NEUS 890) and Doctoral Research (NEUS 990).