MGRD 401/402 is a Case Western Reserve University (CWRU) School of Medicine Graduate Education two-semester series designed as a comprehensive preparation program for senior undergraduates and post-baccalaureate students planning to pursue graduate studies in biomedical sciences. The courses include hands-on assignments and practical exercises essential for the graduate school application process while building the professional skills needed to succeed once admitted.
Prior or current research experience is required.
MGRD 401
This course is designed to prepare senior undergraduates and post-baccalaureate students for the rigors of a biomedical PhD program. This is a two-semester series (with MGRD 402 offered in the spring) that will help students navigate the biomedical PhD program application and admissions process, improve their application credentials, and prepare them for success in top biomedical PhD programs throughout the nation. Students receive instruction and experience in reading the primary literature, develop oral and written communication skills, and participate in professional development activities. Students are expected to develop written personal and research statements, develop a written curriculum vitae (CV), develop written individual development plans (IDP), and participate in mock graduate school admission interviews with CWRU faculty. Students will be graded on their quality of their work and the overall level of participation in class. 1 credit hour. Graded.
MGRD 402
This course is designed to prepare senior undergraduates and post-baccalaureate students for the rigors of a biomedical PhD program. This is a two-semester series (with MGRD 401 offered in the fall) that will help students navigate the biomedical PhD program application and admissions process, improve their application credentials, and prepare them for success in top biomedical PhD programs throughout the nation. Students continue receiving instruction and experience in reading the primary literature, developing oral and written communication skills, and participating in professional development activities. This semester, students will learn learn about grant writing including determining the proper available grant funding mechanisms, developing a testable hypothesis, generating compelling aims, and searching of relevant literature. They will prepare professional presentation of a journal article. Students will be graded on their quality of their work and the overall level of participation in class. 1 credit hour. Graded.