Ohio University Biological Sciences Graduate Program Index

Ohio University
Graduate Catalog

Biological Sciences

Admission

Admission to graduate study in biological sciences requires a bachelor's degree with a strong background in the biological and physical sciences, including calculus, organic chemistry, and physics. Results of verbal, analytical, and quantitative tests of the Graduate Record Examination (GRE) are required of all applicants. The GRE advanced subject test in biology or a physical science is recommended but not required. These scores, along with the application; transcripts; a short essay concerning prior training, research interest, and career goals; and three letters of recommendation, should be received by February 1 for you to be considered for financial support during the following academic year, although applications are accepted at any time. Applicants whose native language is not English also must submit the results of the Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) or its equivalent.

Master's students must complete 45 quarter hours, with at least 30 hours being in formal courses and seminars. A nonthesis master's program is available for secondary school and junior college teachers. Doctoral students should complete 135 quarter hours (beyond the bachelor's degree), with at least 45 quarter hours in formal courses and seminars. At least one quarter of supervised teaching within the department is required of all master's students, and two quarters are required of doctoral students.

Areas of Emphasis

Areas of emphasis within the department include aquatic biology, entomology, ecology, animal behavior, evolutionary biology, microbiology , immunology, cell and developmental biology, ultrastructure, functional morphology, exercise physiology, physiology, and pharmacology.

The Department of Biological Sciences also offers interdisciplinary studies in the following areas:

Conservation Biology -- a plan of study leading to the M.S. and Ph.D. degrees, offered in conjunction with the Departments of Environmental and Plant Biology , Geography , and Geological Sciences . Its primary efforts are in furthering education and research in biodiversity. Further information is available through the department.
Molecular and Cellular Biology -- M.S. and Ph.D. programs offered in conjunction with the Departments of Chemistry and Environmental and Plant Biology . See listing under Molecular and Cellular Biology for further information.
Neurobiology -- a plan of study leading to the M.S. and Ph.D. degrees, offered in conjunction with the Department of Psychology . It prepares students for research and teaching careers in neuroscience. To apply, you must have a bachelor's or master's degree in biological sciences, physical science, psychology, engineering, or mathematics. Areas of research include computational neurobiology; developmental neurobiology and neural crest cell differentiation; control of movement; central pattern generation; muscle biology; musculoskeletal mechanics; visual, auditory, and vestibular neurobiology; cardiovascular regulation; psychobiology of stress; and brain behavior relations. Further information is available through the department.