Biology Ph.D.

Candidates for the Ph.D. must satisfy the requirements of the Graduate Program Committee (GPC) pass the first year Core Course, which serves as a qualifying exam with a grade of B or better, and pass a candidacy exam. The latter consists of a written and an oral portion, and must be taken by the end of the second year of full-time study. A degree candidate also must submit a dissertation based on an original research project, present their findings in a public seminar, and defend their work in an oral examination.  Additionally, all doctoral candidates are required to participate in teaching for at least one semester under the supervision of a faculty member. Seventy-two credit hours are required for the Ph.D.