Biological Science (Ph.D.)

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Doctor of Philosophy: Total 90 credit hours beyond the bachelor’s degree

Biology courses 31-41 credit hours
Topical seminar 3 credit hours
Graduate Seminar 1 credit hours
Dissertation research 15-40 credit hours
Support courses outside of area 5-15 credit hours

Supporting Course Work

Supporting course work must include a research tool, such as computer science or statistics. Previously completed graduate hours (maximum of 30 hours from a Master’s degree) may count towards the total number of credit hours subject to the approval of the advisory committee. Completion of the degree requires a demonstrated ability to conduct original and independent research. The Doctoral program is offered in cooperation with South Dakota State University (SDSU). Students may take courses at SDSU if appropriate to their degree program. See http://www.usd.edu/arts-and-sciences/biology/graduate.cfm for a description of the advisory committee, the annual progress report, the dissertation proposal, and recommended timetable for completion of the degree.

Specialization: Neuroscience: 15 credit hours (Optional)

Select a minimum of 15 hours from the courses listed below, or courses approved by advisor/committee.

Note:

*Dissertation topic must be in a neuroscience area if you specialize in Neuroscience.