The program brings together about 60 faculty members from Basic Science and Clinical Departments, as well as the Lombardi Comprehensive Cancer Center (a National Cancer Center designated Comprehensive Cancer Center, combining excellence in basic and clinical cancer research, as well as research in cancer prevention and control). A combination of formal courses, seminars and ongoing collaborative research projects bring together faculty and trainees in a unified doctoral program committed to providing quality education in cancer biology, prevention and therapy.

Masters in Tumor Biology

The M.S. program provides students with an interdisciplinary concentration in the study of Tumor Biology. The program provides a comprehensive curriculum for students interested in cancer research as well as laboratory research experience. The M.S. in Tumor Biology program is a one year (2 full-time semester) program with admissions in the fall semester. The formal requirements for a MS degree in Tumor Biology are completion of 30 graduate credits and a laboratory experience (Cancer Research Techniques) over two semesters.
Ph.D. and M.D./Ph.D. in Tumor Biology

The formal requirements for a doctoral degree in the Tumor Biology Program are completion of 33 credit hours, with at least a B average (including the designated core courses), three (3) different laboratory rotations, satisfactory completion of a comprehensive examination, a thesis proposal, a written dissertation, and a final oral defense. It is anticipated that following completion of the first two years of formal course work (or one year for MD/PhD students with approximately 30 hours of credit from the medical school) that completion of the final phases of the PhD will require approximately three additional years.

Course Listing
Year 1: Semester 1

This semester introduces the student to basic principles of Biochemistry, and Molecular Biologic Methods, with an introduction to Cancer Research through directed readings, seminars, and electives.

Year 1: Semester 2

This semester introduces the student to Cell Biology and Cancer Research through a core course integrating cellular and molecular biology of the disease; in addition, students receive further training in the basic principles of Medical Sciences and Ethics, along with directed readings and seminars.

Year 2

Emphasis will be on completion of the 33 credit requirement, and on the preparation for and beginning of thesis research in Tumor Biology. Students will complete their training with a course in Cancer Pharmacology, additional electives in their area of emphasis, directed readings, and seminars. Their Comprehensive Examination (described later) is usually taken by the end of the summer following this academic year.