"My cohort is extremely tight. We are both friends and colleagues, supporting and cheering on one another through our successes and the inherent speed bumps of research and grad school. I’m lucky to have them."
Jeremy Gottlieb, MD/PhD student, Medical Anthropology
Year 1: Build Your Foundation
Your first year is about establishing both academic and personal footing. You will be immersed in coursework while learning how to navigate UCSF’s resources, community, and expectations.
This is the time to:
- Build strong relationships with faculty, peers, and mentors
- Explore research interests
- Begin connecting your PhD training to long-term career goals
- Develop habits that support your well-being
A strong foundation now will make every stage that follows more manageable.
Program Key:
GHS = Global Health Sciences; HHS = History of Health Sciences; MA = Medical Anthropology; N = Nursing; S = Sociology
Academic
- Orientation (General and Program Specific)
- Update Student Portal
- Pre-Qualifying Exam (HHS/MA/S)
- Complete Annual Self-Evaluation (N/S)
- Work on Education Plan (GHS/N)
Curricular and Co-Curricular Activities
- First Year Community Circles
- Required Courses
- Attend Program Town Halls and Meetings (S)
Community and Resources
- Chancellor’s Welcome
- Take Care of Your Mental Health and Wellbeing
- Learn about Campus Resources
- Join RCOs (Registered Campus Organizations)
- Review UCSF Library Archival Research Services
- Quarterly GEPA Dean's Office Hours
Career
- Review CPD Resources