The Department of Microbiology and Immunology offers students the M.S. and Ph.D. degrees. The programs are designed to promote understanding of the molecular mechanisms of infectious diseases.The department has research programs in the areas of parasitic, viral, and opportunistic infections; bacterial pathogenesis and biodefense; immunology; and drug development driven by investigators with national and international reputations and with extended histories of extramural funding from the NIH, as well as other sources of funding.

In the first year, students complete both required courses in the core curriculum, and research laboratory rotation requirements. All students must pass an examination at the end of the first year, while also attending seminars and journal clubs.