The Ph.D. track in Physiology prepares students for research and teaching careers in academic, industry, government, and other settings where broad-based biomedical sciences and physiology training are required.
The first year and a half of the Ph.D. program are largely devoted to course work. During the first year, students complete interdisciplinary course work in the Graduate Program in Biomedical Sciences https://graduate.ouhsc.edu/Graduate-Programs/PhD-Programs/Graduate-Program-in-Biomedical-Sciences, emphasizing molecular aspects of cell and organismal biology, along with research rotations. Human Physiology is taken in the second year.
After successful completion of a qualifying examination, based on a proposed plan for their research, the Ph.D. candidate performs original research leading to a dissertation. During this time the student works closely with their mentor and receives guidance from an advisory committee. Completion of the program in four years is a realistic goal.