See the website for a list of electives: http://www.bio.upenn.edu/graduate/handbook/academic-topics/course-requirements
The degree and major requirements displayed are intended as a guide for students entering in the Fall of 2024 and later. Students should consult with their academic program regarding final certifications and requirements for graduation.
Code | Title | Course Units |
---|---|---|
Year 1 | ||
Fall | ||
Advanced Topics in Current Biological Research | ||
Cell Biology | ||
Advanced Evolution | ||
Independent Study and Research | ||
Spring | ||
Genetic Analysis | ||
Evolutionary Ecology | ||
Theoretical Population Biology | ||
Independent Study and Research | ||
Independent Study and Research | ||
Summer | ||
Year 2 | ||
Fall | ||
Independent Study and Research | ||
Spring | ||
Communication for Biologists | ||
Independent Study and Research | ||
Summer | ||
Year 3 and Beyond | ||
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The PhD program in Biology is a research-intensive program that also has a strong focus on teaching, designed to produce top scientists and educators with a broad base of knowledge to tackle the most important biological problems of today. This is accomplished through research training, graduate-level courses, seminars, and teaching experience. Entering students are assigned an advisory committee of three faculty members who work with the student to plan a suitable program based on the student's experience and interests.
PhD students in Biology receive full tuition support for six years, a competitive stipend, health coverage, and receive extensive training in pedagogy, outreach, and communication that prepares them for careers in academia, biotechnology, education, and policy. Students are required to serve as teaching assistants for at least two semesters. Most students complete the requirement for teaching experience in the first year by assisting in the introductory undergraduate biology courses for two semesters.
During the first year, students become familiar with research opportunities in the department by doing short research rotations with various faculty members. This experience in expected to lead to the selection of a research focus for the PhD thesis, and it also sets the stage for cross-disciplinary approaches to the thesis topic that is pursued.
First- and second-year students usually take some graduate courses that are selected in consultation with the advisory committee, in addition to one required course: either Biology 243: Topics in Molecular and Cell Biology; Biology 244: Topics in Evolutionary Ecology; or Biology 246: Topics in Physiology and Animal Behavior.
The department faculty are educators as well as researchers, and the graduate students benefit from this expertise. Graduate students serving as teaching assistants have the opportunity to take a course on teaching and pedagogy to improve their skills, or to become involved with upper level courses in their area of expertise. In addition, we offer a one-month summer program for PhD students interested in contributing to course design and honing their teaching skills via GIFT, the Graduate Institute For Teaching .
Browse the six concentration areas below for recommended programs of study and relevant courses:
Graduate credit for a course requires a grade of B- (B minus) or better. A list of biology department undergraduate and graduate courses can be found by selecting the Courses button from the top bar.
Throughout the year, graduate students benefit from a variety of seminars on current research that are presented by faculty, fellow graduate students, and invited speakers.
School of medicine, ph.d. program.
The Johns Hopkins Human Genetics Training Program provides a training in all aspects of human genetics and genomics relevant to human biology, health and disease.
Advances in human genetics and genomics continue at an astounding rate and increasingly they are being integrated into medical practice. The Human Genetics Program aims to educate highly motivated and capable students with the knowledge and experimental tools that will enable them to answer important questions at the interface between genetics and medicine. Ultimately, our trainees will be the leaders in delivering the promise of genetics to human health.
The overall objective of the Human Genetics program is to provide our students with a strong foundation in basic science by exposure to a rigorous graduate education in genetics, genomics, molecular biology, cell biology, biochemistry and biostatistics as well as a core of medically-related courses selected to provide knowledge of human biology in health and disease.
This program is also offered as training for medical students in the combined M.D./Ph.D. program. Students apply to the combined program at the time of application to the M.D. program. (See section entitled Medical Scientist Training Program).
Research laboratories are well equipped to carry out sophisticated research in all areas of genetics. The proximity to renown clinical facilities of the Johns Hopkins Hospital, including the Department of Genetic Medicine, and Oncology Center provides faculty and students with access to a wealth of material for study. Computer and library facilities are excellent. Laboratories involved in the Human Genetics Program span Johns Hopkins University; consequently supporting facilities are extensive.
The program is supported by a training grant from the National Institute of General Medical Sciences. These fellowships, which are restricted to United States citizens and permanent United States residents, cover tuition, health care insurance and a stipend during year one. Once a student has joined a thesis lab, all financial responsibilities belong to the mentor. Students are encouraged, however, to apply for fellowships from outside sources (e.g., the National Science Foundation, Fulbright Scholars Program, Howard Hughes Medical Institute) before entering the program.
Applicants for admission should show a strong academic foundation with coursework in biology, chemistry and quantitative analysis. Applicants are encouraged to have exposure to lab research or to data science. A bachelor's degree from a qualified college or university will be required for matriculation. GREs are no longer required.
The Human Genetics site has up-to-date information on “ How to Apply .” For questions not addressed on these pages, please access the contact imformation listed on the program page: Human Genetics and Genomics Training Program | Johns Hopkins Department of Genetic Medicine (hopkinsmedicine.org) .
The program includes the following required core courses: Advanced Topics in Human Genetics, Evolving Concept of the Gene, Molecular Biology and Genomics, Cell Structure and Dynamics, Computational Bootcamp, Pathways and Regulation, Genomic Technologies, Rigor and Reproducibility in Research, and Systems, Genes and Mechanisms of Disease. Numerous elective courses are available and are listed under sponsoring departments.
Our trainees must take a minimum of four electives, one of which must provide computational/statistical training.
The HG program requires the “OPTIONS” Career Curriculum offered by the Professional Development and Career Office. OPTIONS is designed to provide trainees with the skills for career building and the opportunity for career exploration as well as professional development training
Human Genetics trainees also take a two-week course in July at the Jackson Labs in Bar Harbor, Maine entitled "Human and Mammalian Genetics and Genomics: The McKusick Short Course" which covers the waterfront from basic principles to the latest developments in mammalian genetics. The faculty numbers about 50 and consists roughly in thirds of JAX faculty, Hopkins faculty and “guest” faculty comprising outstanding mammalian geneticists from other US universities and around the world.
The courses offered by the faculty of the program are listed below. All courses are open to graduate students from any university program as well as selected undergraduates with permission of the course director.
Trainees must complete three research rotations before deciding on their thesis lab. They must also participate in the Responsible Conduct of Research sessions offered by the Biomedical Program; starting at year 3, students must attend at least two Research Integrity Colloquium lectures per year.
Our trainees participate in weekly journal clubs, department seminars, monthly Science & Pizza presentations as well as workshops given twice a year on diversity, identity and culture.
At the end of the second year, trainees take their Doctoral Board Oral Examination. Annual thesis committee meetings must be held following successful completion of this exam.
Average time for completion is 5.3 years.
Code | Title | Credits |
---|---|---|
Advanced Topics in Human Genetics | 1.5 | |
Introduction to Rigor and Reproducibility in Reseach | ||
Evolving Concepts of the Gene | 5 | |
Introduction to Responsible Conduct of Research | 1 | |
Human Genetics Boot Camp | 2 | |
Cell Structure and Dynamics | 1.5 | |
Molecular Biology and Genomics | 1.5 | |
Independent Research | 1 - 18 | |
Systems, genes and mechanisms in disease | 3 | |
Genomic Technologies: Tools for Illuminating Biology and Dissecting Disease | 1.5 | |
Understanding Genetic Disease | 0.5 | |
Pathways and Regulation | 2 |
Graduates from the Human Genetics program pursue careers in academia, medicine, industry, teaching, government, law, as well the private sector. Our trainees are encouraged to explore the full spectrum of professional venues in which their training my provide a strong foundation. Driven by curiosity and a desire for excellence, our trainees stand out as leaders in the chosen arenas of professional life. They are supported in the development of their career plans by a program faculty and administration who are dedicated to their success, and by a myriad of support networks across the Johns Hopkins University, many of which are provided by the Professional Development Career Office of the School of Medicine.
The United States is home to some of the most prestigious universities and colleges in the world. With over 150 universities featured in international rankings, the U.S. has some of the best business schools, medical schools, and engineering schools. Universities and colleges in the U.S. are well known for academic flexibility and ways to customize your study experience with optional studies and extracurricular activities. Depending on where you will be studying, you will be able to visit iconic places like the Statue of Liberty, Empire State Building, Goldengate Bridge, The Grand Canyon, Mount Rushmore, Disney's Magic Kingdom Park, and much more.
Take the test and find out which country is your best fit.
Biology degrees teach students about the principles sustaining life. Biology classes analyse the elements of life and how they function, interact, and evolve into complex organisms. Biology studies include courses in General Chemistry, Microbial Science, Genetics, or Natural Science. Biologists find work as biotechnologists, microbiologists, pharmacologists, soil scientists, laboratory technicians, and more.
Take the test and find out if Biology is the right path for you.
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The PhD in Biology is a research degree requiring graduate-level coursework, completion of a dissertation, and two semesters of participation in teaching (usually as a teaching fellow in laboratory or discussion sections of lecture courses led by Biology faculty). For most students, obtaining this degree typically involves five or more years of full-time study.
A summary of Biology PhD student expectations by year can be found here . Full details can be found in the Graduate Program Guide .
The Biology Department guarantees support for five years for all PhD students, contingent on satisfactory performance in the program.
How to Apply Frequently Asked Questions
1. Demonstrate academic mastery in one of three areas of Biology: Ecology, Evolution, Behavior & Marine Biology; Neurobiology; or Cellular & Molecular Biology.
2. Attain research expertise , including grant writing experience, and complete original research that advances a specific field of study within one of three broad subject areas represented in the department: Ecology, Behavior, Evolution & Marine Biology; Neurobiology; or Cellular & Molecular Biology.
3. Attain teaching experience and expertise in one of three broad areas of Biology: Ecology, Behavior, Evolution & Marine Biology; Neurobiology; or Cellular & Molecular Biology.
4. Attain the skills and qualifications needed for employment in an academic, government, or private sector position related to the life sciences.
Students must complete 64 credits with a minimum grade point average of 3.0; at least 32 of these credits must be accrued from lecture, laboratory, or seminar courses. Students with prior graduate work may be able to transfer course credits. See the Graduate School of Arts & Sciences (GRS) Transfer of Credits policy for more details.
Cell & Molecular Biology: BI 583 & BI 584 (CM section)
Ecology, Behavior, Evolution & Marine Biology: BI 579 & BI 580
Neurobiology: BI 583 & BI 584 (NEURO section)
Cell & Molecular Biology: BI 581
Ecology, Behavior, Evolution & Marine Biology: BI 671
Neurobiology: BI 581
Cell & Molecular Biology
1. GRS BI 791/GRS BI 792 Graduate Rotation Credits (2 credits each/4 credits total)
2. GRS BI 753 Advanced Molecular Biology (4 credits)
3. GRS MB 721 Graduate Biochemistry (4 credits)
4. GRS BI 735 Advanced Cell Biology (4 credits)
5. Two electives (8 credits, 500-level and above), see the Graduate Program Guide for recommendations
6. Research credits (remaining credits)
Ecology, Behavior, Evolution & Marine Biology
1. Six electives (24 credits, 500-level and above), see the Graduate Program Guide for recommendations
2. Research credits (remaining credits)
Ecology, Behavior, Evolution & Marine Biology PhD candidate coursework is highly variable. Students, in consultation with advisors, develop a plan of coursework and research. Students are required to take a minimum of 32 credits of coursework. The remainder of the credits should be research.
Neurobiology
2. GRS BI 755 Cellular and Systems Neuroscience (4 credits)
3. GRS BI 741 Neural Systems: Functional Circuit Analysis (4 credits)
4. Four electives (16 credits, 500-level and above), see the Graduate Program Guide for recommendations
5. Research credits (remaining credits)
The department requires a minimum of two semesters of teaching as part of the Doctor of Philosophy program. During the first semester of teaching, students are required to enroll in our first-year seminar course, GRS BI 697 A Bridge to Knowledge . The course provides guidance and training on pedagogy and other aspects of graduate school.
The qualifying examination must be completed no later than six semesters after matriculation. In most graduate curricula in the department, this consists of a research proposal—often in the form of a grant application—which the student submits to their committee and subsequently defends in an oral presentation. In the Cell & Molecular Biology and Ecology, Behavior, Evolution & Marine Biology curricula , this is preceded by a comprehensive written examination testing the student’s general background from coursework.
Candidates shall demonstrate their abilities for independent study in a dissertation representing original research or creative scholarship. A prospectus for the dissertation must be completed and approved by the readers, the Director of Graduate Studies, and the Biology Department Chair. Candidates must undergo a final oral examination in which they defend their dissertation as a valuable contribution to knowledge in their field and demonstrate a mastery of their field of specialization in relation to their dissertation. All portions of the dissertation and final oral examination must be completed as outlined in the GRS General Requirements for the Doctor of Philosophy Degree . The results of the dissertation must be presented at a department colloquium.
Forms and additional information about PhD graduation can be found on the GRS website .
9 – 12 months before proposed graduation date
Semester prior to your intended graduation cycle
About 2 months before dissertation defense
Once defense date is confirmed with committee
At least three weeks prior to dissertation defense
At least two weeks prior to dissertation defense
At least one week prior to dissertation defense
See the Graduate Program Guide for final dates to submit dissertation to ETD
Option one: A PhD student who has advanced to candidacy (as demonstrated by passing the PhD qualifying exam), and has completed 32 credits of graduate-level coursework (not including research) may apply to the Graduate School for an MS degree in Biology. This must be approved by the Director of Graduate Studies within the Biology Department. The student’s major professor will receive notification of this application process.
Option two: A PhD student who has taken, but has not advanced to candidacy based on the PhD qualifying examination, may still receive an MS degree. This student may receive a Coursework MS degree provided they have completed 32 credits of coursework (not including research credits). Alternatively, this student may receive a Scholarly Paper or Research Thesis MS degree if the written portion of the qualifying examination is adapted to ensure it is of sufficiently high quality for a MS degree, and approved by a majority of the qualifying exam committee and the Director of Graduate Studies.
Biology PhD students have the option to participate in the Boston University Graduate Program in Urban Biogeoscience and Environmental Health (BU URBAN), the National Science Foundation Research Traineeship Program Understanding the Brain: Neurophotonics (NSF NRT UtB: Neurophotonics), and the Biogeoscience Advanced Graduate Certificate Program . These programs require separate applications in addition to the standard Biology PhD application; those interested in BU URBAN are encouraged pre-apply .
Officially, the PhD must be completed within seven years after the first registration for doctoral study. PhD degrees are conferred in either May, August, or January, as specified on the GRS website . In addition, the PhD candidacy expires after the fifth anniversary of passing the Qualifying Examination. Petitions to extend this deadline are possible at the discretion of the Director of Graduate Studies, the Department Chair, and the Dean of the Graduate School, and can be obtained from the Office of the Graduate School of Arts & Sciences.
The Biology Department guarantees support for five years for all PhD students, contingent on satisfactory performance in the program. PhD students are encouraged to apply for fellowships and grants at funding agencies. All domestic students should apply for NSF Graduate Research Fellowships in the Fall semester of their first or second year.
Travel Grants may be available to assist students in their travel to professional scientific meetings; students presenting papers or posters on their research will receive first consideration.
Common Types of Funding:
Dean’s Fellowships: These are non-service fellowships allocated to first-year PhD students that do not have immediate teaching requirements.
Teaching Fellowships: These provide a stipend plus full tuition and fees for up to four full courses per semester plus a 2-credit teaching course. Teaching responsibilities usually require approximately 20 hours per week. Full or partial awards may be given.
Doctoral Research Fellowships: These awards are given to students who assist individual faculty with specific areas of research. These Research Fellowships provide a stipend and full tuition. The supervising faculty member determines the specific duties of the Research Fellow.
In addition to the above funding sources, several competitive Department awards and fellowships are available to graduate students in the Department of Biology.
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Integrated training across fundamental biomedical areas.
GMCB Program Guide
The Genetics, Molecular and Cellular Biology Program (GMCB) offers strong interdisciplinary training across a spectrum of fundamental biomedical areas, including classical and molecular genetics; structural & chemical Biology; and cell & developmental biology.
The GMCB program participates fully in the MS in Biomedical Research .
Our faculty of over 100 offer research opportunities applying these fundamentals to a wide range of disease areas, such as cancer, cardiovascular biology, musculoskeletal disorders, and eye disease.
GMCB offers students a unique mix of training sites. Many of our faculty are located on the Health Science Campus of Tufts University in downtown Boston. However, GMCB includes faculty on the Tufts Medford Campus in the College of Arts & Sciences and the School of Engineering as well as at the Cummings School of Veterinary Medicine in Grafton, MA.
Our students also have the opportunity to train at The Jackson Laboratory in Bar Harbor, Maine through the Mammalian Genetics at JAX track
Students can also train at MaineHealth Research Institute in Scarborough, Maine.
Students seeking admission to the Genetics, Molecular & Cellular Biology program apply to the Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences.
Most successful applicants have had significant research experience and completed courses in biology and related sciences in college.
Students interested in the Mammalian Genetics at JAX track must select this track when they apply.
Our curriculum is grounded in the fundamentals of genetics and molecular biology and cell biology. Students acquire a firm grounding in fundamentals while obtaining the knowledge to attack contemporary biomedical problems in these areas.
Students conduct three laboratory rotations and begin their thesis research by the end of May of their first year.
Students benefit from an interactive faculty, experienced in mentoring and are also advised by a thesis committee expert in their area of research.
GMCB students enjoy a robust seminar program with speakers from laboratories across the world.
Our students also receive training and mentoring in presenting their research and have opportunities to present their data in beginning in their first year.
Journal clubs supplement the learning experience and help students become familiar with reading the research literature.
Our students come from across the US and the world and are pursuing a wide range of thesis projects.
GMCB Students
Publication of research is a key part of training and our students publish their work in excellent journals.
GMCB Student Publications
Over 93% of our students complete an advanced degree and go on to pursue a wide range of careers.
GMCB Graduation Stats and Career Outcomes
Phil Hinds, PhD Program Director
Administrative Office M&V 501 Phone: 617-636-0393
College of Liberal Arts & Sciences
For over 150 years, the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign has been known around the world for its innovative, impactful, and collaborative research and educational programs. The School of Molecular & Cellular Biology, which includes the Departments of Biochemistry , Cell & Developmental Biology , Microbiology , and Molecular & Integrative Physiology , is at the forefront of life-changing research and education.
PhD students are an integral part of the university's and school’s traditions of excellence. Our accomplished faculty pride themselves on being accessible to their students, which creates a strong environment for mentoring. After graduating from Illinois, our PhD students become faculty at top academic research universities and leaders in industry, including pharmaceutical companies, national laboratories, and clinics.
During your first year as a PhD student in MCB, you will rotate among three different laboratories to explore your interests. In December of your first year, you will choose a research adviser and laboratory and join a departmental graduate program . We have more than 65 active research labs that recruit PhD students.
Each department has specific degree requirements, such as successful passage of core relevant courses and advanced elective courses in related areas. Faculty and graduate students from the departments and school interact daily via courses, seminars, and other activities.
MCB is also home to the Center for Biophysics and Quantitative Biology , which offers a graduate program in biophysics. In addition, the school is affiliated with the campus-wide Neuroscience PhD Program . Both programs have significant MCB faculty participation. Interested students should apply directly to those programs.
Finding solutions to the complex challenges facing society today requires multi-investigator and cross-disciplinary endeavors. MCB researchers are propelling breakthroughs in foundational and translational research. Faculty and students are uncovering insights into neurological and metabolic disorders, such as epilepsy and diabetes. They are at the forefront of diagnosing and treating cancer and combatting infectious diseases like the novel coronavirus and influenza.
PhD students receive financial support through fellowships, traineeships, or graduate assistantships, all of which provide a generous stipend as well as a full tuition and partial fee waiver. Departments guarantee financial support to students as long as they make satisfactory progress toward their degree. Several fellowships are awarded on a competitive basis to outstanding applicants. Students may also be eligible to participate in training grants associated with their graduate program.
Fellowship information from Illinois Graduate College School and department fellowships & awards
Applicants interested in one or more of the departmental PhD programs in the School of MCB ( Biochemistry , Cell and Developmental Biology , Microbiology , or Molecular and Integrative Physiology ) will apply to the Molecular and Cellular Biology PhD Program. Admission to the MCB PhD program requires a bachelor's degree in biological or physical sciences.
MCB is also affiliated with two robust interdisciplinary graduate-degree programs: the Center for Biophysics and Quantitative Biology and the Neuroscience PhD Program . Both programs have significant MCB faculty participation. Interested students should apply directly to those programs.
Deadlines & how to apply Attend a recruiting event
From iconic green spaces like the Quad and historic buildings like the Illini Union, the University of Illinois is an inspiring place. We’re home to vibrant arts, tech, and healthcare communities and a diverse dining and nightlife scene.
The School of MCB is a close-knit group of scholars. We gather regularly for scholarship and social activities, which creates an environment rich for collaboration and innovation.
Meet our PhD students Explore Champaign-Urbana Resources for graduate students
Lori Raetzman, Associate Director, MCB PhD Programs Shawna M. Smith, MCB Graduate Program Coordinator
217-333-1737 [email protected] B103 Chemical and Life Sciences Lab , MC-110 601 South Goodwin Avenue Urbana, IL 61801-3709
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Ph.d. biology.
Quick Facts |
General Inquiries |
| 404.385.4240 | EBB 2009 |
Our PhD program accepts students possessing Bachelors or Masters degrees who are planning a career in science. The purpose of our PhD program is to prepare highly qualified scientists who have excellent up-to-date training in the fields of biology or bioinformatics, who are actively involved in scientific research, are capable of making significant contributions to their scientific field, possess all the necessary skills for effective oral and written communication with colleagues, and can successfully compete in the job market for postdoctoral and research scientist level positions in academia and science-related industries.
We currently have approximately 100 PhD students in the Biology PhD program of the School of Biological Sciences. Of recent PhD graduates, 70% are currently employed as postdoctoral researchers in academia, 9% as government scientists , 9% as industry scientists , 4% as instructors , and 9% are enrolled in further professional training . The average number of journal publications is 3.9 per student and the average number of presentations at conferences around the world is 4.3 per student .
The PhD in Biology is a research-based degree involving deep immersion in a topic within biology with mentoring from an advisor and thesis committee with expertise in the field of study. Coursework is typically completed within the first 2 years (18 credit hours). Students who have previously earned an M.S. degree or taken graduate courses elsewhere can negotiate up to 9 transfer credit hours upon entering our program. Selection of a thesis advisor is made in discussion with our faculty and/or via lab rotations during the first year, and the composition of the thesis committee is established by the student by the end of the first year.
PhD students in the School of Biological Sciences are each supported by a stipend and do not pay tuition, only modest fees each semester. Stipend support comes from teaching or research assistantships which complement research training towards the PhD. Whether PhD stipends are earned from research or teaching assistantships after the first year is decided in consultation with a student's thesis advisor and the graduate committee. Our base PhD stipend is $33,500. Several fellowships are available which can supplement the PhD stipend.
Please take some time to review our funding opportunities and fellowships .
Our graduate program is primarily focused on the PhD which prepares students for careers in scientific research and employment in academia, industry, or government. We encourage potential applicants to the PhD program to directly contact individual faculty members whose research may appeal to them to discuss research interests and future opportunities. Students who are not yet sure of their interest in scientific research or are interested in other kinds of professional development should consider the M.S. degree in Biology or Bioinformatics . Admission decisions are made by our graduate committee (composed of Biology faculty) in consultation with all of the faculty in the School of Biological Sciences.
Georgia Tech provides application fee waivers to advance diversity, recognize outstanding undergraduate achievement, and engage prospective students in recruitment events where Georgia Tech is affiliated. Such fee waivers are currently available only to domestic applicants.
Biology related research centers.
Georgia Institute of Technology School of Biological Sciences 950 Atlantic Drive Atlanta, GA 30332 Office: 404-894-3700 Fax: 404-894-0519
Georgia Institute of Technology North Avenue, Atlanta, GA 30332 404.894.2000
© Georgia Institute of Technology
The Department of Biology & Biochemistry offers Ph.D. degrees in Biochemistry and in Biology. The Ph.D. program in Biology has two degree tracks: the Cell and Molecular Biology degree track, and the Ecology and Evolution degree track.
Faculty and graduate student research focuses on biochemical processes at the subcellular and macro-molecular levels and encompasses a variety of fields and methodologies. Areas of study include macromolecular structure and function as elucidated by nuclear magnetic resonance; X-ray crystallographic and spectroscopic techniques; enzyme reaction mechanisms; genomics; computational methods in molecular biology; computational biochemistry/biophysics; computer-aided drug design; signal transduction; neurochemistry; ion channel structure and function; the role of RNA in molecular evolution; the structure and function of virulence factors; and biotechnology.
The faculty and students in this program share common interests in understanding the molecular mechanisms which drive both fundamental cellular processes and the developmental processes of morphogenesis, cell differentiation and gene regulation. The strength of the program is the diversity of the biological systems under study, which stimulates extensive exchange and collaboration between the various groups. Faculty expertise spans the disciplines of cell and developmental biology, molecular biology, physiology, microbiology, neuroscience, immunology, and genetics.
This program blends knowledge and methodology from diverse biological disciplines to better understand ecological and evolutionary processes operating at multiple scales—from molecules to individuals to societies to communities. Current research programs include experimental evolution, evolution of development, evolutionary genetics, behavioral ecology, community ecology and evolutionary bioinformatics in systems ranging from bacteria to ants, from protists to grasses. Faculty conduct studies in natural habitats including the Colorado plateau, and coastal salt marshes, and in artificial systems such as petri dishes and theoretical models.
The Department of Biology & Biochemistry believes that high-quality graduate studies require a commitment to high-quality research. As a result, our graduate students receive financial support sufficient to provide a modest standard of living that enables them to make a full-time commitment to their graduate training. Some of the types of financial support available to students are listed below. Additional financial assistance may also be available from the College of Natural Sciences and Mathematics and the University of Houston Graduate School .
TAs are the main source of support for first-year students but are available in subsequent years for students not supported by grant funds. TAs will be provided a salary of $2,194.66/month (U.S. $26,335.92 per year). This level of support is sufficient for international students to obtain an F1 visa.
RAs are the main source of support for students after their first year in the program. RA support is provided through grants to the lab the student joins to conduct graduate research. RA support is currently $2,194.66/month (U.S. $26,335.92 per year).
Students supported as TAs or RAs are eligible for tuition fellowships to cover their mandatory tuition and fees. These fellowships provide the students with approximately $20,000/year to pay for mandatory tuition and fees. See more information on eligibility criteria .
Out-of-state students and international students employed as TAs or RAs receive a waiver of the additional tuition charged to non-residents.
All applications submitted for admission to the Biology & Biochemistry Graduate Program are reviewed by our Graduate Recruiting and Admissions Committee. This committee is comprised of a group of faculty from each division of the department. Once admitted to the program, accepted applicants are further evaluated for the Presidential Fellowship. The criteria for evaluation are as follows:
If awarded, the student receives $2,000/per year for the first two years. This fellowship is in addition to the monthly stipend and Graduate Tuition Fellowship given to all students admitted to our graduate program. Students must meet minimum full-time enrollment (9 hours) and a cumulative 3.00 GPA to maintain the fellowship each semester it is held.
This scholarship is awarded to outstanding students enrolled in our graduate program. The maximum award is $2,000/year. Recipients must be Texas residents and citizens or permanent residents of the United States. Students apply annually on the UH Foundation website.
In addition to their stipend, graduate students employed as TAs or RAs receive $150/month for health insurance. For more information about the student health insurance plan endorsed by and designed especially for the University of Houston, please see Student Health Insurance .
Houston has a relatively low cost of living compared to most major U.S. cities and many low-cost apartments and houses are available.
The minimum entrance criteria for doctoral graduate studies in the Department of Biology & Biochemistry are as follows:
Use the online application to submit all your documents electronically. Your references will be automatically contacted to submit their letters of recommendation. Please follow the instructions on the UH Graduate School Application page.
What we look for.
We seek to admit students who show a strong record of academic achievement and a high level of motivation and interest. Your record of academic achievement and ability is conveyed by your transcripts, GPA, and Graduate Record Exam (GRE) scores, as well as your letters of recommendation. Your level of motivation and interest is conveyed by your personal statement and letters of recommendation. We will evaluate your application on the basis of your transcripts, test scores (GRE scores for everyone, TOEFL/IELTS scores for foreign students), your personal statement, and the letters of recommendation.
Successful applicants to our program generally have GPA's of 3.00 or higher. However, a student with a high GPA and a transcript with lots of non-rigorous courses may not be viewed as favorably as a student with a somewhat lower GPA who has taken courses that are essential preparation for graduate work (such as Genetics, Cell Biology, Biochemistry, Evolutionary Biology, etc.). It is not essential to have all of these" foundation" courses before you start graduate school, but if you do not have most of them, you will not be well prepared for graduate school.
The GRE provides information regarding your overall academic ability. You are more likely to do well on the GRE if you prepare for the exam. Preparation guides and practice tests are available at most college bookstores.
Your school may provide assistance in preparing for the GRE; check with your career or academic counseling office.
This exam is required for all applicants who have not obtained a prior university degree from an institution where English is the medium of instruction (see list of exempt countries and English Language Proficiency Requirements ). These scores must be officially reported to the University before we can admit you to the program or offer financial support.
Your personal statement is your opportunity to tell us why you want to join our graduate program and what your long-term goals and interests are. You do not have to know exactly what you want to do, or what scientific questions you want to pursue, but you should tell us what excites your interest or curiosity. Be specific. Your statement is also a chance to discuss any aspect of your application (such as academic history) that you feel warrants further explanation.
If there is a reason for your low GPA (a bad semester due to personal difficulties, for instance), you can provide a brief explanation in your personal statement. High GRE scores can make up for a low GPA, and a high GPA can balance out low GRE scores. In some cases, research experience and strong letters of recommendation can make up for low grades and low GRE scores.
You will need 3–4 letters of recommendation. Most or all should be from your professors, and the letters should come from people who know you personally as well as your academic performance. Make sure your letter writers know your academic record, reasons for wanting to go to graduate school, and long-term goals.
You can contact individual faculty members in our department whose research is of interest to you, either before or after sending your application. Faculty interests and contact information are available on this Faculty Profiles webpage.
Find more information about the application process on the How to Apply page on the NSM website.
Contact: Rosezelia Jackson 713-743-2633 [email protected]
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UCLA's Graduate Program in Molecular Biology offers the following degree(s):
Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.)
Master of Science (M.S.)
With questions not answered here or on the program’s site (above), please contact the program directly.
Molecular Biology Graduate Program at UCLA 172 Boyer Hall 611 Charles E. Young Drive East Box 951570 Los Angeles, CA 90095-1570
Visit the Molecular Biology’s faculty roster
Visit the registrar's site for the Molecular Biology’s course descriptions
(310) 794-4256
Department doctoral programs.
The School of Biological Sciences offers graduate training in a collaborative environment with several schools and graduate programs. This provides excellent research training and professional development for graduate students pursuing the doctorate. Training opportunities include broad areas of Biological, Biomedical and Environmental Sciences including Neuroscience, Immunology and Pathogenesis, Cancer Biology, Developmental and Stem Cell Biology, Systems and Computational Biology, Genomics, Structural Biology, Ecology, and Evolutionary Biology.
Research in Ecology and Evolutionary Biology uses a range of methodologies spanning field studies, experimental approaches, and computational approaches. Students and faculty have easy access to field sites that include marine, desert, and California chaparral communities. The faculty have diverse interests including evolutionary biology, population genetics, genomics, behavioral ecology, physiology, and global change biology. Faculty in Ecology and Evolutionary Biology have extensive collaborations with scientists in neuroscience, molecular biology, genomics and microbiomes, global climate biology, systems biology, mathematics, as well as with faculty at other institutions.
The Department of Ecology and Evolutionary Biology offers admission directly to a departmental graduate program with full financial support. Students initiate research with a faculty thesis advisor while they take required coursework and complete other degree requirements.
The Department of Ecology and Evolutionary Biology is the only department that offers direct admission to a PhD Program. The other Dunlop Dunlop School departments offer admission to their PhD programs through a gateway disciplinary program such as CMB or INP. Click below to learn more about learning outcomes by department.
Charlie Dunlop School of Biological Sciences PLOs
Neurobiology and Behavior M.S./Ph.D.
PLO1: Core Knowledge
PLO5: Professionalism
Molecular Biology and Biochemistry M.S./Ph.D.
PLO2: Research Methods and Analysis
PLO3: Pedagogy:
PLO4: Scholarly Communication:
PLO6: Independent Research
Gateway programs offer admission to the doctoral programs affiliated with the Charlie Dunlop School of Biological Sciences, School of Medicine, School of Physical Sciences, Engineering and Information & Computer Science. Students enroll for the first academic year while they do lab rotations and take required coursework. Then, students select a thesis advisor and transfer to a department and complete remaining degree requirements. Gateway programs offer students excellent opportunities to perform laboratory rotations with any of a large number of faculty participants in that program, and in many areas of biological sciences.
The PhD program in Cellular & Molecular Biosciences (CMB) at UC Irvine provides ideal training to launch the careers of talented researchers in diverse fields of biological and biomedical sciences. With five different study focuses, the CMB PhD program gears future scientists to be ready for a diverse field. The program offers a rigorous but flexible curriculum with an extensive choice of laboratories and allows students to tailor their training to individual interests and goals. Outstanding facilities, a collaborative culture, a commitment to diversity, and guaranteed on-campus housing all contribute to a productive graduate experience.
The Interdepartmental Neuroscience Program (INP) provides a vehicle for meeting the diversity and challenges of graduate training in such a broad discipline. Neuroscience is an inherently broad and multidisciplinary area of scientific pursuit and scholarship. It has intellectual links to fields as diverse as developmental and cell biology, molecular biology, physiology, pharmacology, anatomy, psychology, computer science, and physics. The substantial breadth of Neuroscience is one of its strengths as a discipline, and one of the features that makes it an attractive and important area for graduate study. Students may train with any participating faculty member and are exposed to a variety of approaches before deciding on a research area for focused dissertation work. After the initial year of academic coursework and laboratory rotations, students join the more specialized graduate program of their chosen thesis advisor.
The goal of UCI’s program in Mathematical, Computational and Systems Biology (MCSB) is to provide students from a variety of academic backgrounds with doctoral training suitable for research careers in the nascent field of Systems Biology. The program emphasizes in-depth classroom study, interdisciplinary research rotations, and individualized advising. The MCSB Program is supported by funding from UCI’s Graduate Division, by a National Institute of General Medical Sciences grant to the UCI Center for Complex Biological Systems, and an NIH Training Grant.
Search stanford cancer institute.
Established in 1978, the interdisciplinary Cancer Biology PhD Program is designed to provide graduate and medical students with the education and training they need to make significant contributions to the field of cancer biology. The program is led by Laura Attardi, PhD, and Julien Sage, PhD, and currently has over 60 participating faculty members representing a variety of specialties.
Coursework during the first year equips students with a broad understanding of the molecular, genetic, cellular biological and pathobiological aspects of cancer. By the beginning of the second year, students have chosen a research advisor and begun work on their dissertation projects. An annual program conference provides students with an opportunity to present their research findings, receive feedback and forge collaborations with faculty and fellow students.
The Cancer Biology program also sponsors a postdoctoral scholar track in which accepted MD and PhD scholars pursue research under the guidance of a faculty mentor.
Catharine and howard avery professor of the school of medicine and professor of genetics.
Elaine and john chambers professor of pediatric cancer and professor of genetics.
Health care.
©2024 Stanford Medicine
Last updated May 7, 2022
As part of the series on How to Fully Fund Your PhD , here is a list of PhD programs in biology that offer full funding to their students. A Ph.D. in biology and related disciplines opens the door to a variety of interesting careers. You could work as a scientist, university professor, or serve as consultant, among many options.
“Full funding” is a financial aid package for students that includes full tuition remission and an annual stipend or salary for the duration of the student’s doctoral studies. Full funding is not universal, so it’s essential that you research the financial aid offerings of all the potential Ph.D. programs in your academic field, including small and lesser-known schools.
Would you like to receive the full list of more than 1000+ fully funded programs in 60 disciplines? Download the FREE Directory of Fully Funded Graduate Programs and Full Funding Awards !
Arizona State University (Tempe, AZ): They guarantee 5 years of academic-year funding as a teaching or research assistant. This includes a stipend, insurance, and tuition support to cover the required 84 hours for the degree.
Boston University, Ph.D. in Biomedical Sciences (Boston, MA): Students receive full tuition coverage, fees, health insurance options, and a $35,000 stipend per year.
Duke University (Durham, NC): The Graduate School expects that PhD students will be financially supported for the majority of the time they are registered and working toward their degree. Generally speaking, PhD students should receive payment of tuition, a stipend, and fee support for a minimum of five years, as well as health insurance for six years.
Harvard University, Ph.D. in Biological Sciences in Public Health (Boston, MA): All students admitted to the PhD in biological sciences in the public health program, including international students, are guaranteed full funding, which includes a stipend, tuition, and health insurance for five years, provided they maintain satisfactory progress.
Massachusetts Institute of Technology (Cambridge, MA): All graduate students receive full-tuition coverage, a stipend to cover living expenses, and Individual Health Insurance.
Mayo Clinic College of Medicine & Science (Rochester, MN): Our PhD Program in biomedical science includes an annual graduate-level stipend, full tuition, and travel expenses to scientific meetings provided by mentors.
University of Pittsburgh (Pittsburgh, PA): As of Fall 2019, the normal level of support is $29,520/year; the stipend amount typically increases by about 3-5% each year. The University of Pittsburgh provides excellent health insurance options and tuition waivers.
University of Rochester, Ph.D. in Biochemistry and Molecular Biology (Rochester, NY): The Program is fully funded with a tuition fellowship, competitive stipend, and health insurance.
University of Southern California (Los Angeles, CA): PhD students receive full funding throughout their studies, including stipends, and health and dental benefits.
Van Andel Institute Graduate School, Ph.D. in Molecular and Cellular Biology (Grand Rapids, MI): Students in the doctoral program at the Graduate School are supported by institutional (internal) fellowships for five years. These fellowships include a stipend of approximately $35,000 per year and health, dental and vision insurance for the student (and family). The Graduate School also provides a laptop computer and up to $2,000 per year to attend scientific conferences.
Need some tips for the application process? See my article How To Get Into a Fully Funded PhD Program: Contacting Potential PhD Advisors .
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Financial support includes:
Students in good standing are fully supported until they finish their degrees.
Students in the Molecular, Cellular, and Developmental Biology PhD program receive up to five years of financial support that includes tuition, a full stipend, and health and dental insurance. This financial support remains in place through the entire program as long as the student continues to make good progress toward the degree (including timely advancement to candidacy).
The main types of financial assistance for graduate students are:
Differences among Graduate Research Assistant, and Graduate Instructor, Fellowship Support,
| Fellowship | GSRA | GSI |
Status | Non Employee | Employee | Employee |
Timing of Pay | Student financial timeline | Last working day of the month | Last working day of the month |
Taxes | None withheld - student is responsible | Withholding as a employee | Taken out as an employee |
Insurance | Grad care | Grad care | Grad care |
Reimbursement | Grad. Coordinator | Use Concur | Use Concur |
Fellowships provide valuable additional support for some students. Some types of fellowships:
MCDB First Year Fellowships : These fellowships are offered to students during their first year in the program (fall and winter terms only).
PIBS: Students admitted through the PIBS program are supported via a PIBS fellowship their first year.
Rackham Merit Fellowship : offers a special funding package to promote the values of diversity and inclusion by encouraging the admission and funding of students who represent a broad array of life experiences and perspectives. Graduate students do not apply for this fellowship, but are nominated by faculty upon admission into the program. Only U.S. citizens and permanent residents are eligible for this award.
The availability of research funding varies between research groups. Some funding sources are given to very specific projects, while other research grants are much more flexible. Because of this and other factors, there is no strict rule for how much research funding students receive. Students are therefore encouraged to discuss funding expectations with prospective advisors.
Other than direct payment funds of tuition, fees, and benefits, all income is subject to taxation and must be reported on federal and Michigan state tax forms, as well as any other forms according to your individual situation. This includes stipends, debit funds, and any other funding you receive from the University that isn’t considered a qualified scholarship.
Depending on the type of appointment you have, the university may or may not deduct taxes from your paycheck, but your stipend is always taxable . If taxes are not withheld from your paycheck, you still must pay taxes on that income. Note that while domestic students may not have taxes deducted, international students may. Learn about more quarterly estimated tax procedures . Please refer to Rackham Graduate School's Tax Information for Fellowship Recipients . [ https://rackham.umich.edu/rackham-life/finances/#tax-information]
Each student is required to serve as a Graduate Student Instructor (Teaching Assistant) for two terms prior to receipt of a Ph.D. degree. Typically, students serve as a GSI for one term in year 2 and then another term after the second year. Graduate student instructors who are teaching for the first time are required to take MCDB 801-Supervised Teaching. Students who are awarded internal or external fellowships delay their teaching until they come off their fellowship.
All graduate students in the department are highly encouraged to apply for other sources of support for which they are eligible. Graduate students should work closely with their faculty advisor to identify appropriate funding sources, and to prepare strong funding applications.
· Rackham Funding Information
Graduate students: Grad Coordinator 734-615-1635 | | |
Chair's office: 734-764-7427
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A biology degree can be the foundation for a wide array of educational and career opportunities. Read on to learn more about starting your career in the field, potential job opportunities for biology majors, and choosing the right biology degree for you.
Biology is a comprehensive field that covers a broad range of disciplines from medicine and molecular biology to environmental conservation, community health services and more. Earning a biology degree is a foundational first step when pursuing a science- or medicine-related career, as you’ll be equipped with the skills and knowledge necessary to begin your professional journey.
“A biology degree opens doors to many possible careers in medicine, biotechnology, education, conservation and so many others,” noted Zack Shaffer, an assistant teaching professor for Arizona State University's School of Life Sciences . “For example, doctors, veterinarians and nurses are all specialized and applied biologists.”
Succeeding as a biology major involves a combination of academic diligence, time management and a sincere interest in the field. The curriculum of a biology program can be rather challenging at times, therefore it’s important to pursue a path that fascinates you.
“It will help to have some background in biology, math and chemistry,” professor Shaffer noted. “But even without those courses in one's background, if you have a true interest in living creatures and the processes of life, we can teach you everything else”.
“Keep a close eye on the course calendar and due dates once you begin a course,” said Schaffer. “While tests can be daunting for some students, most of our classes are designed in a way that rewards effort. So even if not every test goes your way, if you put in hard work in assignments and other projects, you can still succeed”.
As a biology major, you’ll be provided study and training in multiple disciplines, gaining expertise that ranges from the cellular level to entire ecosystems.
For example, ASU Online’s biological sciences bachelor’s program spans investigations into genetic and environmental causes of diversity, how organisms evolve, the interplay of organisms and their environments, and how these factors influence health and disease. The curriculum also aligns with the broad scientific competencies recommended for premed students, and it includes all chemistry, biochemistry, math and physics courses needed to prepare you for the MCAT or medical school admissions, as well as biology master’s programs.
As a student in the ASU Online’s program, you’ll also have the opportunity to choose between five concentrations specific to your desired career path. Available concentrations and their related career paths include:
Please note that advanced careers may require additional education and/or other requirements. Additionally, if you’re interested in a career path that entails earning a master’s or doctoral degree, you’ll want to confirm any additional qualifications your program entails.
One of the things that sets ASU Online’s science programs apart is our on-campus laboratory experiences. Respected by professional health programs and the science industry, these in-person lab experiences provide you with a rigorous and legitimate education, traditionally only available to students in on-campus programs.
Read on to learn all about these valuable lab experiences that allow you to graduate with practical, hands-on skills desired by employers.
In addition to preparing you for professional pathways, earning a biology degree can also provide you with the experience you need for a variety of postgraduate studies.
“Biology is good training in that it opens doors to many potential fields and graduate programs,” said Shaffer. “There are so many biology-related careers and graduate programs that a student can transition into after earning an undergraduate biology degree ”.
We’ve compiled what you need to know about online classes and degree programs at Arizona State University. Read on to learn all about what to expect from the ASU Online learning experience.
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Undergraduate students pursuing the biology major have a broad selection of courses and unique opportunities to gain experience in field and laboratory work. Students are encouraged to participate in the active research with faculty both on and off campus. The baccalaureate curricula are designed to prepare students for graduate work in biological sciences, admission to professional schools, or advanced specialized training.
Introduction to Biology I + Lab (BIOL 171+171L) | X | X |
Introduction to Biology II + Lab (BIOL 172+172L) | X | X |
Cell and Molecular Biology + Lab (BIOL 275+275L) | X | X |
Ecology (BIOL 305) | X | X |
Genetics + Lab (BIOL 375+375L) | X | X |
Evolutionary Biology (BIOL 470) | X | X |
(choose one): Principles of Biochemistry (BIOL 402) Molecular Biology I (BIOL 407) Basic Biochemistry (BIOC 441) Synthetic Biology (MBBE 451) | X | X |
(choose one): Biology of the Vertebrates + Lab (BIOL 325+325L) Biology of Invertebrates + Lab (BIOL 485+485L) Plant Form and Function (BOT 420) Biology of Microorganisms + Lab (MICR 351+351L) General Entomology (PEPS 363+363L) | X | X |
(choose one): Physiology of Domestic Animals (ANSC 451) Plant Form and Function (BOT 420) Microbial Physiology (MICR 431) Advance Anatomy and Physiology (PHYL 301) Animal Physiology (ZOOL 430) Comparative Physiology (ZOOL 432) | X | X |
3 Credits | 9 Credits | |
General Chemistry I + Lab (CHEM 161+161L) | X | X |
General Chemistry II + Lab (CHEM 162+162L) | X | X |
Organic Chemistry I + Lab (CHEM 272+272L) | X | X |
Organic Chemistry II (CHEM 273) [CHEM 273L recommended] | X | X |
Physics I + Lab (PHYS 151+151L or 170+170L) | X | X |
Physics II + Lab (PHYS 152+152L or 272+272L) | X | X |
Calculus I (MATH 215, 241, or 251A) | X | X |
Calculus II (MATH 216, 242, 252A) | X | |
Biostatistics (BIOL 220) | X |
Participating in Undergraduate Research
All Biology majors, regardless of what their desired career path, are encouraged to participate in undergraduate research. Engaging in research is a great way to experience science first-hand and develop a better appreciation for the field of Biology.
Individual research opportunities:
Students interested in participating in undergraduate research, known as Directed Research (BIOL 499), can count those credits towards their biology elective requirements. All students are encouraged to participate in research, even if they do not plan to pursue a Masters or PhD. The College of Natural Sciences Student Academic Success Center created a great resource to teach you all about what you need to do to find a research lab and enroll in Directed Research credits. More information about how to register for BIOL 499 can be found here .
Honors Project:
For students participating in the UH Mānoa Honors Program , their honors project credits (HON 496) can be used to fulfill Biology Elective credit requirements. Find more information about the Biology Honors Track here .
Group research opportunities:
S cience E ducation A lliance – P hage H unters A dvancing G enomics and E volutionary S cience (SEA PHAGES ) – Students complete Introductory Biology labs while learning to conduct research. This experience is perfect for any students requiring a full year of Introductory Biology Lab and desiring to engage in their first research project.
O ur P roject i n H awai‘i’s I ntertidal (OPiHI) – Complete a research project in small groups—collecting data related to coastal marine ecosystem management and conservation.
Course and Program Requirement Information
Online Class Availability
SoLS Catalog
Listing by Programs: Biology (BIOL) , Botany (BOT ), Microbiology (MICR) , Molecular Cell Biology (MCB) , Zoology (ZOOL)
Program Sheets and 4 Year plans
For a bs or ba in biology, student will be able to:.
Biological Knowledge: Synthesis and Application | 1. Explain biological processes from molecules to ecosystems in an evolutionary context, including being able to use examples from Hawai‘i. |
Critical Thinking and Reasoning Skills | 2. Demonstrate scientific literacy by critically evaluating scientific evidence, identifying gaps in knowledge, and applying strong evidence-based biological arguments to real-world problems. 3. Apply the scientific method to generate new hypotheses, formulate experimental approaches and outline potential outcomes, applying appropriate logical and quantitative methods. |
Values | 4. Work individually and in teams in an ethical manner, and demonstrate respect for diversity of viewpoints |
Communication skills | 5. In oral and written forms, be able to communicate biological information clearly and professionally. |
Why study biological sciences.
Biology is the scientific study of life and life processes. Biologists study the organization of life, from the structures of molecules to the balance of ecosystems. Biology majors learn to observe critically the details of all life; they analyze data and apply biological knowledge learned in the classroom to draw conclusions about their observations.
Biologists are able to make significant contributions to maintaining the health and well-being of the human population, as well as preserving and protecting the environment. They develop a knowledge base and scientific way of thinking that will enable them to make informed personal health and public policy decisions.
Freshmen applicants, please visit the Admission Requirements page for more information.
Students who have an interest in the living world around them, how the body works, the causes of diseases, etc., will often find a biology major very rewarding. Successful biology majors are good at making careful observations and recording information in a logical way. They excel at analyzing that information (critical thinking), which often involves employing basic math skills. Since many science courses involve laboratories, students who enjoy active, hands-on learning will enjoy the biology major. Visual learners will especially appreciate the beauty and complexity of the natural world. The major requires a significant amount of hard work and study time, but can result in a very rewarding career.
Graduates with a BS in biology have a wide range of career options as well as options for graduate study in biology. With a BS degree in biology, graduates may immediately enter careers in some technical fields or they may pursue a post-graduate degree. A few examples of career fields open to biology majors include the following (many of which require additional degrees):
Students working toward an undergraduate degree at UC can earn a minor. See an undergraduate student advisor in the Department of Biological Sciences to create a plan to meet the requirements outlined below.
Course Requirements (31-32 hours):
Click here to declare the minor online
Contact department via information which appears on this page.
Students in the UC College of Arts and Sciences enjoy many benefits afforded through study at a research-intensive institution ranked among the nation's top 25 public research universities. UC's urban, Tristate location offers exciting opportunities for global education, research and service learning, while its student-centered focus includes an 11:1 student-faculty ratio, a nationally recognized Center for Exploratory Studies and a highly successful First Year Experience program that teaches critical skills for first-year students and provides connections with important campus resources.
Faculty within the Department of Biological Sciences are actively engaged in research in a variety of areas. Undergraduates have the opportunity to participate in this research and can earn academic credit that can be applied toward their upper-level biology course requirements. Research can also be done in nearby biology laboratories outside of the department, such as at the UC Medical School, Cincinnati Children’s Hospital Medical Center, or the Environmental Protection Agency. Outstanding undergraduates (with a GPA of at least 3.3 overall) may apply for admission to the honors program in biology as early as the spring semester of their sophomore year.
Teaching laboratories within the department are well-equipped and devoted to undergraduate education. Faculty are involved and dedicated to employing new teaching methods and technology that enrich students’ educational experiences.
To graduate from the UC College of Arts and Sciences, students must:
Admission to A&S is generally available for any off-campus student who was admissible directly from high school and has 2.0 GPA cum and a 2.0 in the most recent institution.
Students who were not admissible directly from high school must have:
For more information, visit the Transfer and Transition Advising Center .
Transfer students should apply using our transfer student online application
Transfer Articulation Agreements & Pathways
UC has developed clear pathways (articulation agreements) between select associate degrees at partner institutions and compatible bachelor’s degrees at UC. Each pathway includes a Transfer Degree Map that offers a semester-by-semester course comparison to assist with your transfer planning.
The following institutions have Transfer Degree Maps for this major:
Admission to A&S is generally available for any on-campus student who was admissible directly from high school and has 2.0 GPA cum.
Early Admission
General Admission
While midyear admission is possible, fall semester is generally the best time to enter the college, since many course sequences begin in that semester. Applicants to the UC College of Arts and Sciences who are enrolled or who were previously enrolled as degree-seeking students in A&S or in other UC colleges should apply for admission directly to A&S (in French West, 2nd Floor). All other applicants who wish to earn an undergraduate degree from A&S should apply through the Office of Admissions (3rd Floor, University Pavilion).
Find related programs in the following interest areas:.
Program Code: 15BAC-BIOL-BS
She/her/hers Associate Professor
I first came to the U in the fall of 2006 as a chemistry graduate student, worked in Christy Haynes' group, and received my PhD in 2011. After a postdoc, I joined the chemistry department at the Virginia Military Institute (VMI) as an assistant professor in 2014. During my time at VMI I realized I really enjoyed teaching and running teaching labs. My partner and I also missed living in the Twin Cities. I came back to the U in the Fall of 2017 as the term assistant professor for analytical chemistry.
I teach introductory analytical chemistry lecture and lab, modern methods of instrumental chemistry lab, general chemistry I and general chemistry II. In all of the courses I teach students work on their critical thinking skills and how errors effect the accuracy and precision of their experiments.
I can't choose just one, but the chemistry professors at my undergrad, Cornell College, were amazing. They had high expectations, but were always supportive and kind. They made learning tough topics approachable and were amazing role models. I try to be as good of a professor as they were and are each day.
I enjoy being outdoors as much as possible. I like walking with my spouse and dogs, running with my running group, biking, and cross-country skiing. I read cozy mystery novels and travel during breaks in the academic year.
I still love the cheesy 1980's movie Real Genius. The idea of blowing up a giant jiffy pop popcorn bag with a military grade laser to destroy the evil professor's house is still hilarious.
I worked as a fry cook at my undergraduate college's snack cafe. I worked the flat top, fryer, and made milkshakes.
I love the trailhead @ Theodore Wirth Park. I spend most of my winter skiing there and I love how you can be out in nature and be able to see the city skyline.
I live with my husband and two golden retrievers, Pepper(11) and Grey(2).
They/Them/Theirs Senior Laboratory Technician
I work with Patrick Schildt and Laura Kundel in the stockroom to support various teaching labs. Getting/creating materials, cleaning spaces and equipment, helping with safety and more to have successful classes.
I graduated from Macalester college and found it to be the best time of my life. Working in academia was a career goal, since an environment of learning is exactly what I like the best. I had a couple roles in commercial laboratories before ending up at the East Bank. I hope this is the start of a long career at the U!
My background is in biology, but that's because it was the most broad science major to pick. I have the problem of liking too many different things to pick just one, so that's why I majored in biology. I've always been interested in organic chemistry, since my father was an avid gardener and he had his compost heap down to a science to ensure the right ratio of nitrogen and carbon to get rich soil for his vegetables.
Improving myself every day. Be it with learning a new skill, mastering an old one, or staying informed about scientific discoveries, I like to feel like I go to bed a better person than when I woke up.
Enthusiasm, accuracy, and a cheerful greeting everyday.
The Magic School Bus. I refused to play with dolls, but Ms. Frizzle was my one exception when mom bought a Ms. Frizzle doll from a Scholastic book fair when I was in elementary school. I loved her so much I almost tore her head off, and mom had to meticulously match the thread color with the fabric and stitch it back together. Someday I'll probably buy the whole series on disc if I can find it.
I worked for the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Department at the Minnesota Valley National Wildlife Refuge in Bloomington as a Youth Conservation Corps member. I did all sorts of things, like painting park buildings, catching and banding birds, clearing trails, cutting down invasive species, educating visitors, and wildlife surveys to name just some of the fun things I was able to do. I really loved the job!
I like to go hiking in the state parks with my DSLR camera. I will usually have quite a few pictures of fungus, moss, birds, and interesting tree bark by the time I'm finished.
I started foraging for mushrooms a few years ago and it's been very fun! A giant puffball even popped up in the front yard that I was able to harvest for stir fry. It really is just like tofu for cooking.
Lake of the Isles. Mom and I love to walk, bike, or kayak around it. I keep a keen eye out for the birds, as we've seen kingfishers, egrets, loons, herons, and all sorts of migrating songbirds around it.
I live with my mom, Gillian and one-and-a-half year old cat, Matey. I also have numerous houseplants and a bioluminescent dinoflagellate (Pyrocystis fusiformis) colony!
I have native white sage growing in the boulevard that we harvest and put into campfires to make wishes and share gratitude for what we have.
She/her/hers Graduate Student, Douglas Group
One day, as an undergraduate, one of my professors approached me about a great opportunity. She had told me about the Chemnext program hosted by the University of Minnesota. She said if I was interested in graduate school, then I should apply immediately (as the deadline was only two days away). I applied, and luckily, I was chosen to come and experience this community that I have come to appreciate dearly. It was during the Chemnext experience that I realized UofM was somewhere I wanted to be.
I am a member of NoBCChE. I was inspired to connect with other Black scientists along this journey in higher education to extend my sense of community.
This journey is not linear, and will most likely be quite difficult at points, but always remember to celebrate your achievements. No matter how small they may seem in comparison to the overarching goal you have in graduate school, they are the things that will compel you to keep going and keep pursuing your dreams.
Dr. Eric Crumpler was my first chemistry professor and mentor. He is the person who made me realize that I could pursue chemistry as a career, and his teaching and mentorship taught me the value of "people first" as a way to approach being a scientist. We hold a social obligation to use our knowledge and findings to better the lives of the whole.
I am a big foodie and a snack enthusiast!
COMMENTS
There are two tracks within the Biology Ph.D. program: Cell, Molecular and Organismal Biology Ecology and Evolution (Previously a part of the Department of Biology Hopkins Marine Station is now a part of the Oceans Department within Stanford Doerr School of Sustainability)
The Best Universities for PhDs in Biological Sciences in the USA (2024) Written by FAU Bot This article was written with the assistance of generative AI. All AI content on our site is guided and vetted for accuracy by humans, and data referenced is collected from reliable, authoritative sources. Why Study Biological Sciences in the USA
Biology Graduate Programs in America 1-25 of 396 results MIT School of Science Cambridge, MA · Massachusetts Institute of Technology · Graduate School Stanford University Department of Humanities and Sciences Stanford, CA · Stanford University · Graduate School Stanford University School of Medicine Stanford, CA · Stanford University ·
Stanford Biology PhD Program applications are made through Graduate Admissions. The application deadline for Autumn Quarter 2024 matriculation is December 5, 2023 at 11:59pm pst.
A Warm Welcome! The Biological and Biomedical Sciences (BBS) Program at Harvard offers Ph.D. training in the biosciences, built outward from core training in contemporary genetics, biochemistry, and molecular, cellular, and mechanistic biology.
The Biochemistry and Molecular Biology PhD program prepares students for a range of biomedical and health sciences careers, including in academia, industry, policy, and beyond. Visit the Graduate Employment Outcomes Dashboard to learn about Bloomberg School graduates' employment status, sector, and salaries. Sample Careers Research Scientist
290 results Sort by: Program Rankings School Name Location All Specialties Biochemistry / Biophysics / Structural Biology Cell Biology Ecology / Evolutionary Biology Genetics / Genomics /...
The Department of Molecular & Cell Biology at the University of California, Berkeley offers a Ph.D. program focused on the molecular mechanisms inherent to life. This program integrates research with a modern training curricula, teaching, and career mentorship.
2024-25 Catalog Biology, PhD Overview Sample Plan of Study The Biology Graduate Program represents many areas of biology, and interactions with a diverse group of colleagues provide opportunities to broaden every student's thinking and make connections between different fields and scientific approaches.
The PhD program in Biology is a research-intensive program that also has a strong focus on teaching, designed to produce top scientists and educators with a broad base of knowledge to tackle the most important biological problems of today. This is accomplished through research training, graduate-level courses, seminars, and teaching experience.
The overall objective of the Human Genetics program is to provide our students with a strong foundation in basic science by exposure to a rigorous graduate education in genetics, genomics, molecular biology, cell biology, biochemistry and biostatistics as well as a core of medically-related courses selected to provide knowledge of human biology in health and disease.
307 Biology PhDs in United States View all PhD's Infectious Disease The Infectious Disease graduate program from Mississippi State University provides advanced... Mississippi State University Starkville, Mississippi, United States Weed Science
The PhD in Biology is a research degree requiring graduate-level coursework, completion of a dissertation, and two semesters of participation in teaching (usually as a teaching fellow in laboratory or discussion sections of lecture courses led by Biology faculty).
See the US News rankings for Biology and Biochemistry among the top universities in United States. Compare the academic programs at the world's best universities.
The Penn State Biomedical Sciences (BMS) PhD Program - with its options in Biochemistry, Genetics, and Genomics, Cancer Biology, Cellular and Integrative Physiology, Translational Therapeutics, and Virology and Immunology - is a nationally and internationally recognized interdisciplinary graduate program that provides students curricular and research training with a unique focus on human ...
The Genetics, Molecular and Cellular Biology Program (GMCB) offers strong interdisciplinary training across a spectrum of fundamental biomedical areas, including classical and molecular genetics; structural & chemical Biology; and cell & developmental biology. The GMCB program participates fully in the MS in Biomedical Research.
Contact us. Lori Raetzman, Associate Director, MCB PhD Programs. Shawna M. Smith, MCB Graduate Program Coordinator. 217-333-1737. [email protected]. B103 Chemical and Life Sciences Lab, MC-110. 601 South Goodwin Avenue. Urbana, IL 61801-3709.
We currently have approximately 100 PhD students in the Biology PhD program of the School of Biological Sciences. Of recent PhD graduates, 70% are currently employed as postdoctoral researchers in academia, 9% as government scientists , 9% as industry scientists , 4% as instructors , and 9% are enrolled in further professional training .
The minimum entrance criteria for doctoral graduate studies in the Department of Biology & Biochemistry are as follows:. Completion of a baccalaureate degree (B.S.) with a major in Biology, Biochemistry, or an equivalent discipline. You can apply to our programs before you complete your degree, provided you graduate before you enter the program. (NOTE: A prior M.S. is not a requirement to ...
ADDRESS. Molecular Biology Graduate Program at UCLA. 172 Boyer Hall. 611 Charles E. Young Drive East. Box 951570. Los Angeles, CA 90095-1570.
The Department of Ecology and Evolutionary Biology is the only department that offers direct admission to a PhD Program. The other Dunlop Dunlop School departments offer admission to their PhD programs through a gateway disciplinary program such as CMB or INP. Click below to learn more about learning outcomes by department.
See the best biological sciences schools » Chemistry Analytical Biochemistry Inorganic Organic Physical Theoretical See the best chemistry schools » Computer Science Artificial Intelligence...
Established in 1978, the interdisciplinary Cancer Biology PhD Program is designed to provide graduate and medical students with the education and training they need to make significant contributions to the field of cancer biology.
University of Rochester, Ph.D. in Biochemistry and Molecular Biology (Rochester, NY): The Program is fully funded with a tuition fellowship, competitive stipend, and health insurance. University of Southern California (Los Angeles, CA): PhD students receive full funding throughout their studies, including stipends, and health and dental benefits.
Students in the Molecular, Cellular, and Developmental Biology PhD program receive up to five years of financial support that includes tuition, a full stipend, and health and dental insurance. This financial support remains in place through the entire program as long as the student continues to make good progress toward the degree (including ...
Explore how society shapes science and the impacts science has on how we understand the world around us. Related career paths: Bioinformatics scientist, community health worker, ... "There are so many biology-related careers and graduate programs that a student can transition into after earning an undergraduate biology degree".
The baccalaureate curricula are designed to prepare students for graduate work in biological sciences, admission to professional schools, or advanced specialized training. ... Listing by Programs: Biology (BIOL), Botany (BOT), ... Contact Us. Telephone: (808) 956-8303 ...
*Two courses are required; must be chosen from list of upper level biology courses posted by Biology department each academic year. One must have a lab component - this may be taken either by completing a combined course (designated C) or by completing a lecture course with a companion laboratory course, or by completing Undergraduate research ...
Tell us about your journey to the University of Minnesota. I first came to the U in the fall of 2006 as a chemistry graduate student, worked in Christy Haynes' group, and received my PhD in 2011. After a postdoc, I joined the chemistry department at the Virginia Military Institute (VMI) as an assistant professor in 2014.