Curriculum
Rigorous. Focused. Unique.
We offer a unique, standalone, graduate-level curriculum in reproductive science and medicine. Our core curriculum includes foundational didactic courses and hands-on laboratory instruction in male and female reproductive anatomy, histology, physiology and endocrinology and advanced topic courses in human reproductive health and disease. To generate well-rounded and wholistic scientists in our field, our core curriculum also includes reproductive science-focused responsible conduct of research, scientific communication and professional development. In addition to the core curriculum, students perform research either through the thesis or non-thesis tracks.
Core courses are completed in three quarters (fall, winter, spring) for both our thesis and non-thesis tracks. Visit the track pages and the timelines below to learn more. Both tracks earn Master of Science degrees from The Graduate School of Northwestern University.
Thesis Track
Students on the thesis track will perform five quarters (Q2-Q6) of independent research in a select laboratory under the guidance of a faculty mentor. The final deliverable is a written thesis.
| Q1(Fall) | Q2(Winter) | Q3(Spring) | Q4(Summer) | Q5(Fall) | Q6(Winter) | Q7(Spring) |
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| REPR_SCI 430 (optional) |
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| Select mentors |
Select committee |
Proposal defense |
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Progress report |
Thesis completed |
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Non-Thesis Track
Students on the non-thesis track will perform two quarters (Q2-Q3) of guided research in a team-based laboratory. The final deliverable is an exam.
| Q1(Fall) | Q2(Winter) | Q3(Spring) | Q4(Summer) | Q5(Fall) | Q6(Winter) | Q7(Spring) |
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| REPR_SCI 405 |
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| REPR_SCI 455 |
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| REPR_SCI 430 (optional) |
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| REPR_SCI 442 (research) |
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| Select track |
Start research |
Final exam |
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