Online PhD Biology

The online Phd. biology degree program focuses on developing outstanding college biology instructors from biologists who are experts in their fields. Completing coursework, a dissertation research project, and a supervised teaching experience contribute to this. Students must choose a potential faculty research mentor before starting their programs. They will create a research program with their chosen research mentor that focuses on their interests and utilizes the faculty’s expertise, leading to the completion of the Phd. dissertation. All dissertations are the result of in-depth biological or biological education research.

The online doctorate in biology is divided into 2 to 3 years of coursework followed by 2 to 3 years of research and dissertation work. All students take a set of core courses as well as field courses in their chosen specializations during their first year. They will study several topics in depth that will eventually help them in their research and writing of their dissertation. Of course, the exact program requirements and structure will vary by college and the chosen specialization. After completing the required coursework and field exams, students progress to the dissertation phase of the program. Every student is required to write and defend an original dissertation, either in the form of a single multi-chapter dissertation or a collection of separate but related papers. Read the Guide to Phd. Programs to understand more.

Here is the basic structure of Phd. in biological sciences programs:

(a) Coursework

The course selection for doctoral students is broad. Most of the time, students can choose their course plans from one branch of biology to fit their needs and professional objectives.

(b) Teaching

Although not always a requirement, at some colleges, teaching experience is strongly recommended for students who are not Graduate Teaching Assistants (GTAs) but want to become professors.

(c) Residency

In some cases, unless they have an assistantship, students are required to complete a certain number of prescribed credit hours of graduate-level coursework. The student is required to study full-time during this period. Residency is sometimes needed before taking the comprehensive exams.

(d) Comprehensive Exams

Students are eligible to take comprehensive examinations when they have completed all coursework. Most students choose to write a manuscript on a topic of their choice and defend it orally before a committee of departmental, school, and/or university faculty members.

(e) Dissertation

The Phd. candidate will collaborate with their advisor to choose a topic that will advance the field after passing the comprehensive exam.

(f) Field Experience

Doctoral students are encouraged to participate in independent study research courses to combine and relate classroom theory with field activities. They can engage with scientific communities through research and collate data from various sources for this purpose.

The courses one can expect in an online Phd. in biology degree would largely be the same for most programs but would be at advanced levels and would include:

Some of the specialty courses students can expect from the Phd. biology program include:
Conservation Biology

The Phd. program requirements at most universities would be:

In most cases, applicants must have a master’s degree from a regionally accredited institution or a foreign university that meets both the bachelor’s and master’s degree requirements to be admitted to online Phd. in biology programs. In addition, a Grade Point Average (GPA) of at least 3.2 on a 4.0 scale is typically required. At some colleges, prospective students may be required to find a suitable professor who will act as their advisor or mentor throughout their research. It is also not uncommon for some programs to require prerequisites to be fulfilled, such as coursework in calculus, organic chemistry, physics, genetics, and cell biology. Aside from these, the following are some of the most common Phd. in biology requirements for admission:

Online Application & Application Fee

Completing an online application and paying the prescribed application fee.

Official Academic Transcripts

An official copy of academic transcripts from each college/university attended.

Undergraduate/Graduate Degree + Grade Point Average

An undergraduate and/or graduate degree and Grade Point Average (GPA) of 3.2 or more.

Graduate Record Examination (GRE) or Graduate Management Admission Test (GMAT) Scores

An official copy of GRE scores no older than 5 years.

Graduate Résumé or Curriculum Vitae

The latest résumé or CV that provides personal information and work experience.

Personal Statement or Statement of purpose

A statement outlining how the program relates to the applicant’s career goals.

Letters of Recommendation

At least 3 letters of recommendation from those who can provide a thorough evaluation of the applicant’s abilities at the graduate level.

Proof of English proficiency

A document proving proficiency in English (for non-native English speakers).