Experimental Pathology Applied Environmental Science Program
Program Director: Dr. Henry Godfrey, (PhD program); Dr. Fred Moy, (Master's programs)
The Department of Pathology offers programs of study and research training leading to the Master of Science and Doctor of Philosophy degrees. These programs focus on the comprehensive study of pathogenic mechanisms of disease. This knowledge, and the ability to apply it, is absolutely essential for the ultimate prevention and cure of all diseases, whatever their cause. The educational program for both the M.S. and Ph.D. degrees is designed to foster analytical problem-solving within the wide range of the basic medical sciences, with particular emphasis on the fundamental disciplines of cellular and molecular biology, biochemistry, and immunology. Research programs within the graduate programs provide a vigorous multidisciplinary milieu in which to receive laboratory training for a career in the biomedical sciences.
In addition to an M.S. track in general experimental pathology, there are three more specialized M.S. tracks. Increasing awareness of environmental degradation has led to an increased need for persons with training in environmental pathology in industry and government. A series of departmental courses examines the biological effects of environmental pollutants and their role in the pathogenesis of environmentally caused disease. These courses permit students to emphasize environmental pathology in their graduate training and form the core of the program leading to an M.S. in Experimental Pathology with emphasis on environmental pathology. A second Master’s track adds courses and practical experience related to evaluation and management of environmental pathogenic factors and leads to an M.S. in Experimental Pathology with emphasis on applied environmental science. The Department also offers a program leading to an M.S. in Experimental Pathology with an emphasis on toxicological pathology for those already holding an advanced degree (M.D., Ph.D., D.V.M., or equivalent) who require specialized training in this area. Admission to this latter program is strictly limited and highly competitive.
The doctoral program leading to the Ph.D. in Experimental Pathology allows for great flexibility in course work to suit the student’s particular interest. The hallmark of the Ph.D. is, however, laboratory training and the development of research skills to prepare the student for a career as a research scientist in the broad area of pathogenesis of human disease. A wide range of research laboratories within the Department of Pathology, the College’s Cancer Research Institute and the adjacent American Health Foundation are available for the student’s dissertation research project.