Students graduate with a PhD from one of eight participating programs, preparing them for careers in academic or government research, teaching, biotechnology, the pharmaceutical industry, health management, science administration, regulatory offices, patent law, science policy, science communication, etc.

In addition to academic rigor and research training, the OUHC Graduate College aims to assist students in developing a comprehensive skillset through career and professional development programs intended to prepare trainees for success in a multitude of career paths.

All students complete interdisciplinary coursework emphasizing the core concepts for the participating programs. During year 1, students will participate in up to six 6-week lab rotations with faculty mentors of their choice and select a specific program for their dissertation research.

GPiBS students will spend their mornings in class and their afternoons in the lab getting hands-on experience. This allows the students ample time in a variety of labs to make an educated decision on which graduate program and mentor is the best fit to complete their PhD studies. After their GPiBS year, students focus on their research, complete advanced classes relevant to their areas of specialization, and participate in journal clubs and seminars.

All GPiBS students receive full tuition and fee waivers. Graduate students also receive a stipend of $37,080 per year. GPiBS provides each student with health insurance, access to the Student & Employee Health Clinic, a gym membership to the University Health Club, and access to the host of resources provided by OUHSC Student Affairs. While Teaching Assistant opportunities are not generally available, training opportunities are available to interested students through Preparing Future Faculty and the Biomedical Sciences Teaching Practicum course.

GPiBS students typically complete their PhD within 5.5 years. On average, students publish an average of 5.32 papers with their mentors. Graduates have earned post-doctoral fellowships at premier universities and competitive positions at biotechnology/pharmaceutical companies and government agencies.