Program Overview

Biological Sciences - Integrative Physiology and Neurobiology - Ph.D.

Overview

The Ph.D. degree in Biological Sciences - Integrative Physiology and Neurobiology is the study of a broad range of topics, including endocrinology, neuroscience, immunology, reproductive biology, and other regulatory systems. Students have access to resources for physiological research, including a vivarium, tissue culture facility, confocal microscope/visualization facility, laser capture microscope, genomics, and proteomics facilities.

Contact Information

• Oscar Rocha

Program Delivery

• Delivery: In person
• Location: Kent Campus

Examples of Possible Careers and Salaries

• Biological scientists, all other
  • 2.2% slower than the average
  • 44,700 number of jobs
  • $85,290 potential earnings
• Biological science teachers, postsecondary
  • 9.3% much faster than the average
  • 64,700 number of jobs
  • $85,600 potential earnings
• Medical scientists, except epidemiologists
  • 6.1% faster than the average
  • 138,300 number of jobs
  • $91,510 potential earnings

Admission Requirements

• Bachelor's degree or higher from an accredited college or university in the natural sciences
• Strong background in biology and related subjects such as chemistry and mathematics
• Minimum 2.750 GPA on a 4.000-point scale
• Official transcript(s)
• Résumé or curriculum vitae
• Personal statement that clearly explains why the applicant wishes to pursue an advanced degree and describes research experience and interest
• Three letters of recommendation that comment on chance of success in an advanced degree program
• English language proficiency

Application Deadlines

• Fall Semester
  • Priority deadline: November 15

Program Requirements

Major Requirements

• BSCI 70104: BIOLOGICAL STATISTICS 1 (4 credit hours)
• BSCI 70184: RESPONSIBLE CONDUCT IN RESEARCH AND TEACHING-BIOLOGICAL SCIENCES 2 (2 credit hours)
• BSCI 70191: SEMINAR IN BIOLOGY (taken 2-4 times) (2-4 credit hours)
• Additional Electives (20-22 credit hours)
• Student Seminar Presentation
• BSCI 80199: DISSERTATION I (30 credit hours)

Graduation Requirements

• Minimum Major GPA: 3.000
• Minimum Overall GPA: 3.000

Candidacy for the Degree

• Candidacy Exams: Students are admitted to doctoral candidacy following successful completion of both written and oral candidacy examinations.
• Prospectus: Following completion of the candidacy exam, students must successfully prepare, present, and defend a formal prospectus of the research project before their dissertation committee.
• Dissertation and Final Defense: Doctoral candidates must complete a dissertation.

Program Learning Outcomes

• Understand advanced biological concepts beyond the scope of the typical undergraduate degree and increase the depth of their knowledge through coursework and hands-on experiences.
• Apply scientific principles and appreciate work outside of their particular field.
• Effectively communicate about science with colleagues as well as those outside of the student's area of expertise.
• Develop the necessary laboratory skills that will allow testing of hypotheses.