Mar 28, 2024  
2015-2016 Graduate catalog 
    
2015-2016 Graduate catalog [Archived Catalog]

Biological Sciences (Ph.D.)


Doctor of Philosophy: Total 72 credit hours beyond the bachelor’s degree


Biology courses 60-72 credit hours to include:

Supporting courses subject to approval of student’s dissertation advisory committee 0-12 credit hours

Note:

  • NSCI 792/other topics courses will fulfill the four course topics requirement. Courses taken under a different prefix will be considered supporting coursework and will not count toward the required 60 credit hours of BIOL courses.
  • 50% of the program of study must be at the 700-level or above.
  • Up to 18 credit hours from a previous master’s degree can be applied towards Biology or supporting courses.
     

Dissertation Research


The area of concentration for this degree may be selected from the various biological specialties (e.g., ecology, cell biology, developmental biology, molecular biology, evolution, neuroscience, physiology). Completion of the degree requires a demonstrated ability to conduct original and independent research. Each doctoral student is required to take a comprehensive oral examination before the beginning of the third year, after completion of most of the coursework. Candidates for the Ph.D. degree present a departmental seminar and take a final oral examination that addresses the dissertation as well as evaluates the student’s knowledge of broader aspects of biology. See http://www.usd.edu/arts-and-sciences/biology/graduate.cfm for a description of the advisory committee, the annual progress report, the comprehensive oral examination, the dissertation proposal, and recommended timetable for completion of the degree.

Neuroscience Specialization (15 credit hours Optional)


 A Neuroscience Specialization is available if the dissertation topic is in the neuroscience area. The course requirements are as follows:

Select a minimum of 15 credit hours from the courses listed below, or courses approved by advisor/committee (at least 3 credit hours must be from the BIOL prefix).