Biodefense, PhD

Application Requirements

Students must meet the admission standards and application requirements of the university. See the Graduate Admission Policies section of the catalog. Because of the breadth of the program, students with backgrounds in science and other areas, such as international affairs, political science, law, public policy, and conflict resolution, are encouraged to apply. In addition to fulfilling the admission requirements for graduate study, applicants must submit:

• Three letters of recommendation from faculty members or individuals who have firsthand knowledge of the applicant’s academic or professional capabilities
• A statement of purpose consistent with research interests or professional goals
• A current resume or curriculum vitae
• Scores from GRE taken within five years prior to date of application
• Writing sample such as a full-length research paper

Reduction of Credit

Students who enter the doctoral program with a master’s degree or other graduate credit may have their credit reduced by up to 30 credits at the discretion of the department with the approval of the dean.

Continuous Registration

Once enrolled in 998, a student must maintain continuous registration in 998 or 999 each semester, except for the summer term, until the dissertation is submitted to and accepted by the University Library.

Advancement to Candidacy

To advance to candidacy, students must complete all coursework required on their approved program of study. They must also successfuly pass a qualifying exam.

Degree Requirements

Students pursuing the PhD in biodefense must successfully complete a minimum of 72 graduate credits.

Students are strongly encouraged to take the core courses as early as possible because they provide the foundation for the rest of the program. The courses that students plan on taking should be approved in an program of study designed by the student and their advisor during the student’s first semester. Students may take up to 12 credits of courses outside of the Biodefense Program with prior written approval of their advisor.  Consult with the graduate program director or coordinator for a list of BIOD electives and approved non-BIOD electives that can be used to fulfill some of the requirements below.