Program of Study

The Graduate Program in Epidemiology and Human Genetics at the University of Maryland offers inter-disciplinary research and training opportunities with an internationally-renowned faculty. Our program provides training in state-of-the-art approaches and techniques leading to the MS or the PhD degree. The goal of this program is to introduce our students to the basic principles and latest methods in epidemiology, molecular epidemiology, or human genetics and to engage the students in hands-on research as soon as possible. Each student is assigned a Faculty Advisor who assists in designing the student’s individual course schedule and selecting mentors for research rotations. 

During the first year students take coursework in their chosen tracks and participate in journal clubs and seminars. MS students are eligible to graduate when they have completed all requirements.

PhD students begin their research rotations in the first year. Midway through their second year, they take a comprehensive examination and select a mentor for their dissertation research. Students then begin work towards development of a General Research Plan (GRP), a 10-page description of the research planned for the dissertation, which includes the proposed membership of the dissertation committee. Following approval of the GRP by the Graduate Program Committee, the student is advanced to candidacy for the PhD degree, at which point the student begins development of his or her full research proposal.

Once a Ph.D. candidate, the student's primary focus is on research, with participation in advanced elective courses as required by their track and as recommended by the mentor, and continued attendance at journal clubs and seminars.