LIFE SCIENCES PHD

The PhD in Biological Sciences is the final degree for students who wish to eventually play a leadership role in academic, government or industrial settings.

To assume these roles, it is essential that each student has an advanced understanding of the issues related to their specialty. The core curriculum during the first year provides a solid foundation in the advanced concepts of relevant disciplines.

In addition, reading and research methods provide students with the critical reading and writing skills required for the PhD application exam.

The second year offers a range of more advanced and specialized topics as electives.

This core sequence is reviewed by individual research committees, so that they can recommend specific courses based on each student’s background and needs.

Earning a PhD in the biological sciences prepares graduates for a variety of research-based work opportunities by providing comprehensive theoretical training and research experience in the field.

Biological scientists conduct basic and applied research in the hope of gaining a better understanding of living organisms and how they relate to the environment.

In addition to classroom and laboratory work, doctoral students in a biological science program conduct extensive independent research to complete a thesis.

These PhDs. programs often include a teaching component that prepares students to become educators in the field by providing them with the opportunity to assist faculty in teaching undergraduate science courses.

Many programs offer areas of concentration, such as microbiology, ecology, structural biology, and biophysics.

Applicants must have a bachelor’s or master’s degree in a relevant field, such as biological or physical sciences, engineering, or natural resource science. They must also have a strong background in general biology and mathematics.

Doctoral programs in the biological sciences are generally research-based and provide advanced professional training for scientists. The coursework of the program includes both lectures and seminar classes.

Students complete practical laboratory rotations to gain extensive experience in research methods and procedures.

The following subjects are typically included in a life science curriculum:

Biological Research
Biochemistry
Cellular Biology
Genetics
Molecular Biology
Neurobiology

Biological scientists can conduct independent research and apply their findings to help solve biological problems by developing new products or processes.

Research can be conducted in a laboratory or in the field. Employment opportunities are available in academia and private industry, as well as with government agencies.

Studies of Different Levels