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The University of New Orleans, Department of Biological Sciences

Graduate Studies

Ph.D. in Conservation Biology and M.S. in Biological Sciences

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Many issues arise when deciding whether to pursue a graduate degree in Biological Sciences. Often you must weigh important personal and professional decisions; for example, you want to be assured that after all the hard work in the laboratory or the field you will have fulfilling career options. Many students also want to maintain a balance between academics and their social life. The Department of Biological Sciences offers a Doctoral Degree in Conservation Biology and a Master of Science degree in Biological Sciences. Both degrees feature an integrated program of course work and independent research.  The Doctoral program provides students with a broad knowledge of current issues in Conservation Biology, with opportunities for specialized research training in conservation ecology, conservation genetics, and reproductive biology. In the MS, here are three options available to suit student interests: general biological sciences; biotechnology emphasis; and biomedical emphasis.  The latter two feature research opportunities at the U.S. Department of Agriculture Southern Regional Research Center or the LSU Health Sciences Center, respectively .

Read more about our Ph.D. Program in Conservation Biology
Read more about our M.S. program in Biology
Meet our current graduate students

 

Innovative Research Programs & Training  

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Faculty members in the Department of Biological Sciences have research interests covering a broad spectrum of contemporary biology.  Specific areas of interest include ecology, genetics, reproductive physiology and biotechnology, evolutionary biology, physiology, biochemistry and molecular biology..  Our faculty publish in high-quality national and international journals, receive significant extramural funding from NSF, NIH, EPA and other state and federal agencies, and are readily accessible and excited about working with graduate students. High-quality facilities and research opportunities for students exist at the University of New Orleans main campus, through collaborative arrangements with zoos and other research institutions, and at a variety of local, regional, and international field sites.  A number of faculty members also participate in an interdisciplinary doctoral program in Biochemistry.  Prospective students are strongly encouraged to correspond with particular faculty members concerning proposed study and research areas.

Read about Course Offerings (pp. 183-185)

 

Admission Requirements & Financial Assistance

Students accepted into our Ph.D. program in Conservation Biology are guaranteed at least five years of financial support. We also offer a limited number of teaching assistantships to M.S. students. Currently, each student is paid $16,000 for 9 months on a teaching assistantship plus a full tuition waiver. Other avenues of support include a Board of Regents Superior Graduate Fellowship in Conservation Biology ($23,000 per year for 4 years) and research assistantships in faculty labs. Read more about admission requirements, how to apply, and financial assistance...