Biology (Marine and Environmental Biology) (PhD) at University of Southern California

Programme overview

The PhD in Biology with an emphasis in Marine and Environmental Biology offers a flexible curriculum designed to increase specialization within marine and environmental biology. Students must maintain a 3.0 GPA to remain in good standing.

Duration: Minimum 60 units | Study mode: full-time | Location: Los Angeles, CA, United States

What you will study

Core coursework totals 15 units including Readings in Marine and Environmental Biology, Faculty Lecture Series, Proposal Writing, four semesters of student seminar, a teaching practicum and a statistics requirement. Students also choose a core elective and four to five advanced seminars such as Plankton Biology, Marine Biogeochemistry and Symbiosis, then complete a screening exam, qualifying exam, dissertation and defense.

Official programme page

Application information

Entry requirements

Application deadline January 15. A minimum of 60 units is required, at least 25 of them formal graduate coursework, and students must serve at least one semester as a teaching assistant. Admission requirements follow the Biological Sciences department. USC Graduate School English proficiency for PhD applicants whose first language is not English (unless waived): TOEFL iBT 100 with at least 20 on each sub-score, IELTS Academic 7 with at least 6 on each band, or PTE 68 with at least 53 on each band; scores no older than 24 months, no super scores; individual departments may set higher minimums.

Duration: Minimum 60 units

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