Pathology Graduate Program

The Pathology Graduate Program offers a unique training opportunity because it bridges basic and clinical research. The study of pathology is dedicated to determining the structural, biochemical, cellular and molecular changes in cells, tissues, and organs that contribute to various diseases. Students completing this program will receive a doctor of philosophy (PhD) degree in Experimental Pathology. The program is also tailored to accomodate students who are pursuing a combined MD/PhD degree.

Students can expect to receive training focused on modern molecular, immunologic, and biochemical techniques that will help them unravel the mechanisms underlying the disease process.  We have nationally acknowledged expertise and research programs in vascular cell biology, hemostasis, inflammation, immunopathology, blood brain barrier systems in Alzheimer's disease and aging, neuropathology, intracellular trafficking, autoimmunity, and tumor biology.

Since Pathology is the "bridging department" (being both a basic and clinical department), there are many opportunities for collaborations with a large group of investigators who will provide advanced training in the molecular basis of human disease.  Students are guided by a diverse and interested faculty where research and graduate education go hand-in-hand.  Graduate students are an integral part of our community and are considered important for the growth and progress of the department.

Students wishing to enter the PGP must apply to the Graduate Program in Biomedical Sciences (GPiBS).  The PGP is a participant in the new Graduate Program in Biomedical Sciences (GPiBS) which combines the expertise of six programs at the University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center: Pathology, Biochemistry & Molecular Biology, Cell Biology, Microbiology & Immunology, Neuroscience, and Physiology. Students enroll in a common first-year curriculum that is built around a fully integrated, literature-driven course covering molecular, cellular and systemic biology.  Students can conduct laboratory rotations with faculty mentors in any of the participating programs.  After successful completion of the first year, students enter a research laboratory to complete their training in the Ph.D. program in Pathology.  Application materials to the GPiBS may be requested from gpibs@ouhsc.edu. In special cases, students may also apply directly to the PGP.  Further information about the direct application may be obtained from Ms. Rose Herrera.

In the Pathology Graduate Program, an emphasis is placed on the laboratory experience.  Once the student has successfully completed the GPiBS curriculum and chooses to undertake their dissertation research in the Department of Pathology, they will need to enroll in advanced courses of study which will differentiate them as being students of experimental pathology.  These will include the flagship course, Principles of Pathobiology, Mechanisms of Disease, and advanced electives as deemed necessary by their major advisor.  In subsequent years, the student will be primarily involved in dissertation research, with involvement in journal clubs and seminars.

The facilities available in the Department of Pathology are state-of-the-art, well equipped, spacious laboratories.  Faculty have access to a number of Core facilities which include histology, immunohistology, molecular pathology, molecular biology, flow cytometry, protein chemistry and a centralized animal care facility.

Graduate study in experimental pathology emphasizes hypothesis-driven research using cutting edge experimental approaches that will help develop independent new investigators who will be competitive in obtaining career opportunities in the biomedical arena at the national level.

For more information on the graduate program in the department of pathology, please contact:

As with all other graduate programs at OUHSC, the PGP adheres to all guidelines and policies outlined by the Graduate College.

Financial Support

In Academic Year 2022-2023, the stipend level for graduate students is $30,000 per year plus tuition and health plan. The GPiBS secures tuition and stipend support for the first year of study. During subsequent years, each student's Dissertation Advisor has responsibility for arranging this support.