> For the complete documentation index, see [llms.txt](https://ismms-gs.gitbook.io/graduate-student-handbook/llms.txt). Markdown versions of documentation pages are available by appending `.md` to page URLs; this page is available as [Markdown](https://ismms-gs.gitbook.io/graduate-student-handbook/chapter-1-1/phd-in-biomedical-sciences-and-neuroscience/program-requirements/curricular-requirements.md).

# Curricular Requirements

All PhD students will be expected to fulfill the following course requirements for the PhD degree: 

1. **Core Curriculum** – During the first year, students complete either their BMS or NEU core curriculum.
2. **Laboratory Rotation** – At least one rotation or equivalent (except for transfer/ advanced students) must be completed. Requires course registration BSR1006 (Fall) and BSR1007 (Spring). See [Lab Rotations](/graduate-student-handbook/chapter-1-1/phd-in-biomedical-sciences-and-neuroscience/curriculum/lab-rotations.md) section. 
3. **RCR: Responsible Conduct in Research** – Fall semester, first-year (except MD/PhD students who take the course during the first year in their PhD phase) 
4. **Rigor and Responsibility** – Spring semester, first-year (except MD/PhD students who take the course during the first year in their PhD phase).  
5. **Biostatistics** – Fall or Spring semester, first-year (except MD/PhD students who take the course during the first year in their PhD phase) 
6. **Advanced Coursework** – Advanced coursework is required as defined by each MTA. See the [MTA chapter](/graduate-student-handbook/chapter-on-multidisciplinary-training-areas/multidisciplinary-training-areas.md), for a description of the individual course requirements, typical MTA requirements, and criteria for advancement to candidacy. 
7. **Research Courses** – BSR8000 Independent Research and BSR9000 Dissertation Research. Starting in year two, after declaring MTA, students register for BSR8000. Passing this course requires an advisory committee meeting and submitting a progress report form each semester. After passing their qualifier/thesis proposal defense, students register for BSR9000 each semester until the Dissertation Defense.
8. **Transfer Credits** – Students who have completed relevant graduate courses elsewhere will be granted exemption and/or graded credits at the discretion of the Dean, in consultation with the course and MTA Directors. See corresponding policy in [Chapter 3 of the Handbook](/graduate-student-handbook/chapter-3/enrollment-and-registration/grading-policies/transfer-credits-and-course-exemptions-waivers.md) for details of this policy. 

*After the rotation period, students are expected to:* 

1. Formally choose a research mentor.
2. Decide on the Multidisciplinary Training Area if he/she/they has not already done so. The MTA will be the student’s area of focus for his/her/their advanced coursework, journal clubs, and seminars.
3. Choose three members for an Advisory Committee with whom they will be meeting at least once each semester to assess progress.