Biological Sciences

Biological Sciences, Ph.D.

  • Anytime
    Application Deadline
  • Unknown (University site)
    Duration
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Overview

Many biologists perform basic or applied scientific research at colleges and universities to gain a better understanding of fundamental life processes. The goal of basic research is to expand human knowledge and to advance our knowledge of living organisms to e.g. develop solutions for human health problems or to increase environmental sustainability. Whereas applied research is directed towards solving specific problems and to develop for example new drugs or treatments, increase agricultural productivity or to develop new biofuels. 

Faculty members in the biological sciences, work on research projects and teach classes in their area of expertise and train undergraduate and graduate students. Biological scientists often work in teams and interact regularly with scientists of other disciplines, and technicians. Research biologists are also employed by industry and work for example in the field of biotechnological or medical research. 

Career Opportunities

A Ph.D. in Biological Sciences at  South Dakota State University  qualifies students for a variety of different careers, including positions at Universities or Colleges, with state or federal agencies, and for jobs in industry. University or college faculty positions generally require a Ph.D. degree. Employment of biological scientists is projected to grow 21% from 2008 to 2018, much faster than the average for all occupations, as biotechnological research and development continues to drive job growth.

Detailed Programme Facts

  • Programme intensity Full-time
  • Credits
    60 alternative credits

    *you can also choose 90 credit plan

  • Languages
    • English
  • Delivery mode
    On Campus

Programme Structure

Education:

  • Biologists with a teaching interest, normally seek positions at the primary, secondary, and collegiate levels, and can also find positions at museums, zoos, and nature centers and for example interact with visitors,  and plan and carry out exhibitions or educational programs, or teach specialized classes.

English Language Requirements

You need the following IELTS score:

  • Minimum required score:

    5.5

    The IELTS – or the International English Language Test System – tests your English-language abilities (writing, listening, speaking, and reading) on a scale of 1.00–9.00. The minimum IELTS score requirement refers to which Overall Band Score you received, which is your combined average score. Read more about IELTS.

Academic Requirements

  • This programme accepts GRE® scores. However, it does not provide a recommended score range.

    The GRE® General Test is a widely administered admissions test that measures the skills needed in today's graduate and business school programs worldwide. The GRE® General Test contains three sections - Verbal Reasoning, Quantitative Reasoning, and Analytical Writing. Three scores are reported: a Verbal Reasoning score on a 130 - 170 score scale in one-point increments, a Quantitative Reasoning score on a 130 - 170 score scale in one-point increments, and an Analytical Writing score on a 0 - 6 score scale in half-point increments.

General Requirements

  • The application must include the application fee, all post-secondary transcripts, degree certificates, and other materials as required by specific programs before processing of the application will begin. The Graduate School employs a rolling deadline, however, students should check with their program of interest for specific admission deadlines. 
  • Applicants for the Doctor of Philosophy degree, 60-credit plan, must have a Master’s degree. This degree must be awarded from an approved, accredited institution. In those cases where applicants do not have a Master’s degree, departmental requirements will apply, either requiring completion of a Master’s degree or permitting an individual to move directly into a doctoral program, 90-credit plan. Domestic, international or non-degree seeking students may submit an application online.

Tuition Fee

  • International

    648 USD/credit
    Tuition Fee
    Based on the original amount of 648 USD per credit and a duration of 0 .

  • National

    648 USD/credit
    Tuition Fee
    Based on the original amount of 648 USD per credit and a duration of 0 .

  • In-State

    337 USD/credit
    Tuition Fee
    Based on the original amount of 337 USD per credit and a duration of 0 .
We've labeled the tuition fee that applies to you because we think you are from and prefer over other currencies.

Living costs for Brookings

  • 1085 - 1890 USD/month
    Living Costs

The living costs include the total expenses per month, covering accommodation, public transportation, utilities (electricity, internet), books and groceries.

Funding

Check the programme website for information about funding options.

Studyportals Tip: Students can search online for independent or external scholarships that can help fund their studies. Check the scholarships to see whether you are eligible to apply. Many scholarships are either merit-based or needs-based.

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