University of California Davis

Overview

The Animal Biology program at the University of California, Davis, offers a comprehensive PhD track designed for those interested in advancing their knowledge and research skills in both domesticated and wild animal systems. This program emphasizes personalized education, allowing students to create a tailored plan of study that aligns with their individual research interests and academic backgrounds.

What you'll study

Programme Structure: The Graduate Group in Animal Biology promotes an individualized approach to coursework and research. Students will begin with foundational courses in animal biology and progressively focus on their dissertation research.

Core coursework areas (examples)

• Biochemistry
• Genetics
• Nutrition
• Physiology
• Integrative Animal Biology

Research and dissertation

• Conduct dissertation research under the guidance of an academic advisor and a committee of faculty members.
• Participate in ongoing research training, scientific writing, and the presentation of findings through seminars and progress updates.

Individualized plan

• Course selection is customized to reflect each student's research interests and prior academic experience.
• Students may choose electives and additional courses that complement their dissertation topics.

Entry requirements

Applicants are expected to hold a bachelor's degree or its equivalent, with a strong foundation in biological sciences or a closely related field. Specific thresholds for GRE/GMAT scores and GPA are not detailed, but a robust academic background is essential for success in this program.

Career prospects

Graduates of the Animal Biology program are well-prepared for a variety of career paths in academia, research institutions, and industry. Potential opportunities include roles in wildlife conservation, veterinary medicine, animal welfare, and scientific research, contributing to advancements in animal health and biology.