Preliminary Examination

This exam, which is required by the Graduate School, is monitored by a faculty Preliminary Exam Committee, and administered as a series of cumulative exams throughout the first year, at the end of various sections of Core Curriculum.  The “Exam” is a series of 8 written exams on basic general knowledge and ability to critically read research articles in molecular biology, cell biology, developmental biology, genetics, and biochemistry, including but not limited to material covered in the first year course work. Passing the examination requires students to achieve an average grade of B or better over the 8 exams.  However, occasionally, the department reserves the right to require additional “test-taking” as part of a fulfillment of a conditional acceptance into the graduate program for example.  Upon passing the Preliminary exam, students can begin their research work. Unsatisfactory performance on this exam will generally lead to termination of graduate studies, unless COGSA recommends remedial action and a chance to retake the exam in the following year.