Program Overview

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Evolutionary Biology, PhD

The Doctor of Philosophy in evolutionary biology is a transdisciplinary graduate degree program that provides doctorate-level training in the historical, conceptual, empirical, and quantitative aspects of biological evolution.

Program Description

Evolution is a fundamental scientific concept that underlies all aspects of modern biological, environmental, and health-related research. It cuts across biological sciences in ways that few other foci do and informs the theoretical foundations of subfields such as population genetics and ecosystem ecology. The program focuses on understanding the patterns and processes that have shaped life on Earth and continue to do so, training the next generation of scientists to use this knowledge to meet present and future challenges to the biosphere and human health in the face of increasing environmental perturbation.

At a Glance

• College/school: The College of Liberal Arts and Sciences
• Location: Tempe
• STEM-OPT extension eligible: Yes

Degree Requirements

• 84 credit hours
• A written comprehensive exam
• An oral comprehensive exam
• A prospectus
• A dissertation
• Required Core (9 credit hours)
  • BIO 514 Statistical Models for Biology (4)
  • EVO 601 Principles of Evolution (3)
  • EVO 610 Research Areas of Evolution (2)
• Electives (9 credit hours)
  • Determined by the program advisor and the student's advisor in conjunction with the student
• Other Requirements (54 credit hours)
  • Research, coursework, or 30 credit hours from a previously awarded master's degree
• Dissertation (12 credit hours)
  • EVO 799 Dissertation (12)
• Additional Curriculum Information
  • Students take EVO 610 (1 credit hour) twice

Admission Requirements

• General university admission requirements:
  • All students are required to meet general university admission requirements
• Specific Requirements:
  • Earned a bachelor's or master's degree in a related discipline from a regionally accredited institution
  • Minimum cumulative GPA of 3.00 (scale is 4.00 = "A") in the last 60 hours of their first bachelor's degree program or a minimum cumulative GPA of 3.00 (scale is 4.00 = "A") in an applicable master's degree program
  • Submission of:
    • Graduate admission application and application fee
    • Official transcripts
    • Academic record form
    • Personal statement
    • Curriculum vitae or resume
    • Three letters of recommendation
    • Proof of English proficiency

Tuition Information

Tuition information can be found on the university's website, detailing the costs associated with the program.

Application Deadlines

• Fall:
  • Session A/C: In Person, Deadline: 11/15, Type: Final

Program Learning Outcomes

• Able to review the literature relevant to the research question in evolutionary biology that they address in their dissertation
• Able to execute a research plan of their own design that addresses a significant scientific question about evolutionary biology
• Able to communicate the rationale and results of their research, both orally and in writing

Career Opportunities

Those who have earned a doctorate in evolutionary biology are prepared for academic careers at every level, from community colleges to research universities. Their skills and knowledge are also valuable for government careers in federal and state agencies, industry, and nongovernmental organizations. Career examples include:

• Health care scientist in an academic, private, or industrial lab
• Elementary or high school science teacher
• Principal investigator in a government lab or nonprofit organization
• Professor or instructor in a university or college
• Wildlife, animal, or conservation scientist

STEM-OPT Extension

This program may be eligible for an Optional Practical Training extension for up to 24 months, allowing international students to gain skills and experience in the U.S. after completing their degree. The OPT extension only applies to students on an F-1 visa and does not apply to students completing a degree through ASU Online.