The biological sciences have entered into an exciting new era in which phenomena that once seemed insoluble mysteries—such as embryonic development, the functions of the brain, and the dynamics of ecosystems—are now yielding their secrets as the technology to study them becomes more and more sophisticated. From molecular biology, with its potential to revolutionize medicine and agriculture, to ecology, with its lessons for the sustainable management of the environment, biologists are fully engaged in meeting the challenges of the future, helping to improve the quality of human life and to preserve habitats and biodiversity. Thus, it is no surprise that the biological sciences are at the heart of many of today’s most pressing intellectual and social concerns.
The Departments of Ecology and Evolutionary Biology (EEB) and Molecular, Cell, and Developmental Biology (MCDB) offer a broad spectrum of courses that reflect the exciting new developments and directions in the field of biology. An outstanding group of faculty, each with a vigorous, internationally recognized research program, is available to teach courses in their specialties as well as core courses for the major. Areas of research strength within the departments include RNA molecular biology, molecular and cellular aspects of genetics and development, neurobiology, microbial biochemistry, plant biology, animal behavior, physiology, evolution, ecology, and marine biology. UCSC is unique in the UC system in providing exceptional opportunities for undergraduate research, allowing students to interact one-on-one with faculty and other researchers in a laboratory or field setting.
Biological Sciences Majors
Students may plan a program that leads to one of several bachelor of arts (B.A.) or bachelor of science (B.S.) degrees. Students may choose from the following major options:
Majors jointly sponsored by Ecology and Evolutionary Biology (EEB) and Molecular, Cell, and Developmental Biology (MCDB):
Biology B.A.
Biology B.S.
Biology B.A. (bioeducation concentration)
Majors sponsored by Ecology and Evolutionary Biology (EEB):
Ecology and evolution B.S.
Marine biology B.S.
Plant sciences B.S.
Environmental studies/biology combined major B.A. (administered in conjunction with the Environmental Studies Department)
Majors sponsored by Molecular, Cell, and Developmental Biology (MCDB):
Human biology B.S.
Molecular, cell, and developmental biology B.S.
Neuroscience B.S.
Biochemistry and molecular biology B.S. (administered in conjunction with the Chemistry and Biochemistry Department)
Bioinformatics B.S. (administered in conjunction with the School of Engineering)
Bioengineering B.S. (administered in conjunction with the School of Engineering)
Advanced undergraduates, with the guidance of faculty mentors, have access to extensive departmental laboratory facilities for independent research. Fieldwork draws on a remarkable variety of terrestrial habitats, as well as ready access to Monterey Bay and the open Pacific. Marine studies are supported by a coastal facility with running seawater, with a research vessel available for offshore work. Año Nuevo Island, north of Santa Cruz, is the site of extensive behavioral studies of marine mammals. Hospitals, convalescent and physical therapy centers, veterinary clinics, and other enterprises in the vicinity of the campus provide the opportunity to pursue field projects and internships comparable to on-the-job training. This array of opportunities for directed independent study enables biological science majors to enhance their upper-division programs to reflect and strengthen their own interests and goals in the sciences.
Prerequisites for the Biological Sciences
The introductory biology sequence is prerequisite to virtually all upper-division biology courses. BIOL 20A has a prerequisite of Chemistry 1A and 1B. Therefore, it is essential for students considering a major in the biological sciences to start chemistry as soon as possible. Students who have not taken Chemistry 1A or 1B but are prepared to begin biology may begin the introductory sequence with BIOE 20C. The entire introductory biology sequence should be taken the first and second year, concurrently with or following the general chemistry sequence.
The Mathematics Department offers a placement examination several times a year. Biological science majors are expected to take this examination. If the results indicate a need for precalculus, students need to take Mathematics 3 as soon as possible. Students with even less preparation may need to take college algebra at another institution.
Students intending to major in human biology should take the Spanish placement examination, offered by the language program, to determine with which course they should begin the Spanish sequence.
Course Substitution/Transfer Credit Policy
At least half of the upper-division courses (numbered 100–190) required for each major must be taken through the biological sciences program at UCSC, not as transfer credits from another department or institution. Transfer students are advised to contact the Physical and Biological Sciences Undergraduate Affairs office before enrolling in numerous upper-division courses at other institutions. For more information on transferring courses to UCSC, please consult the undergraduate web site at http://undergrad.pbsci.ucsc.edu.
A maximum of one upper-division course requirement may be met with a research-based independent study or graduate-level UCSC biology course or a course offered by another UCSC department.
Declaration Process for Biological Sciences Majors
Declaration guidelines can be found on the Physical and Biological Sciences Undergraduate Affairs web site at http://undergrad.pbsci.ucsc.edu.
Double Major in the Biological Sciences
Students interested in pursuing multiple majors within the biological sciences may not declare the following combination of majors: General Biology (B.A., B.S., bioeducation concentration, or minor) and any other biological sciences major; any combination of two EEB majors (Ecology and Evolution, Marine Biology, Plant Sciences, or Environmental Studies/Biology combined major); Molecular, Cell and Developmental Biology and Neuroscience; Molecular, Cell and Developmental Biology and Biochemistry and Molecular Biology; Neuroscience and Biochemistry and Molecular Biology.
Comprehensive Requirement
All majors in the biological sciences require a comprehensive requirement. This requirement can be satisfied in one of the following ways:
- by passing course 190, Senior Seminar;
- by receiving a passing grade in an internship, independent research laboratory, or field course:
Biological Sciences-EEB
BIOE 114L, Field Methods in Herpetological Research
BIOE 141L, Behavioral Ecology Field Course
BIOE 145L, Field Methods in Plant Ecology
BIOE 150L, Ecological Field Methods
BIOE 151, Ecology and Conservation in Practice
BIOE 155L, Freshwater Ecology Laboratory
BIOE 158L, Marine Ecology Laboratory
BIOE 159, Marine Ecology Field Quarter
BIOE 161L, Kelp Forest Ecology Laboratory
BIOE 183, Undergraduate Research in EEB
Biological Sciences-MCDB
BIOL 100L, Advanced Biochemistry Laboratory
BIOL 105L, Eukaryotic Genetics Laboratory
BIOL 105M, Microbial Genetics Laboratory
BIOL 109L, Yeast Molecular Genetics Laboratory
BIOL 110L, Cell Biology Laboratory
BIOL 111L, Immunology Laboratory
BIOL 115L, Eukaryotic Molecular Biology Laboratory
BIOL 119L, Microbiology Laboratory
BIOL 120L, Developmental Biology Laboratory
BIOL 121L, Environmental Phage Biology Laboratory
BIOL 178L, Protocols in Stem Cell Biology
BIOL 186L, Undergraduate Research in MCD Biology
BIOL 186R, Undergraduate Research in MCD Biology
BIOL 187L, Molecular Biotechnology Laboratory
BIOL 189, Health Sciences
BIOC 110L, Advanced Biochemistry Laboratory
BME 122, Environmental Virus Bioinformatics Laboratory
- by completing a senior thesis;
- by achieving a graduate record examination (GRE) score at or above the 50th percentile on the biology subject test or the biochemistry, cell, and molecular biology subject test. Reports of GRE scores must be submitted to the biological sciences advising office before the last day of the graduating quarter;
- by obtaining an medical college admission test (MCAT) score at or above the 50th percentile on the biological sciences section. Reports of MCAT scores must be submitted to the biological sciences advising office before the last day of the graduating quarter.
Letter Grade Policy
For all students entering UCSC in fall 2001 and later, all courses used to satisfy any of the biological sciences majors must be taken for a letter grade.
Major Disqualification Policy
The biological sciences departments have adopted a major disqualification policy that is intended to encourage students to take their performance in the introductory requirements seriously and to make a strong effort to pass the introductory courses.
Students who receive more than one No Pass, D, and/or F in the following introductory major requirements will not be permitted to major in any of the biological sciences majors:
BIOL 20A, Cell and Molecular Biology
BIOE 20B, Development and Physiology
BIOE 20C, Ecology and Evolution
Chemistry 1A, General Chemistry
Chemistry 1B, General Chemistry
Chemistry 1C, General Chemistry
Mathematics 11A, Calculus with Applications
Mathematics 11B, Calculus with Applications
Mathematics 19A, Calculus for Science, Engineering, and Mathematics
Mathematics 19B, Calculus for Science, Engineering, and Mathematics
Students will be assessed for disqualification after grades are submitted each quarter and at the end of each summer session.
Students may appeal their disqualification within the appeal period by writing a letter to the department chair. This appeal must be submitted to the advising office no later than the 15th day of the subsequent quarter. The advising office will subsequently notify the student, the college, and the Office of the Registrar of the decision no later than 15 days after the submission of the appeal.
A student who has been disqualified from the major may, no earlier than three months from the date of the disqualification, petition to be reinstated. This application will be considered only if there is substantial new evidence that the student is capable of making normal progress in the major.
Students will not be allowed to repeat a course more than once without approval of the student’s college (Academic Senate Regulation A9.1.8).
Academic Advising
Academic advising is available at the Physical and Biological Sciences Undergraduate Affairs office. Students should take full advantage of this opportunity and should keep in frequent touch with the office to stay informed about late announcements of courses, changes in scheduling, and opportunities for special study.
The undergraduate web site (http://undergrad.pbsci.ucsc.edu) serves as the program handbook containing advice and information pertinent to students’ most frequently voiced questions. Each student in the major should review the information posted on the web site; for further assistance, contact an academic advisor.
Transfer Students
The faculty encourages applications from transfer students in the biological sciences. It is imperative transfer students complete science prerequisite courses before they transfer, especially a complete sequence of calculus, general chemistry, and introductory biology. Students should also take organic chemistry, if possible. Students who transfer without having completed the prerequisite coursework may have difficulty enrolling in courses and may require more than two years to complete a biological sciences degree. Prospective transfer students should review the transfer preparation guidelines at http://undergrad.pbsci.ucsc.edu/advising/prep-trans.html or contact the Physical and Biological Sciences Undergraduate Affairs office for further information.
Honors
Honors in the biological sciences majors are awarded to graduating students whose academic performance demonstrates excellence at a grade point average (GPA) of 3.5 or above. Highest honors are awarded to those students whose performance demonstrates the highest level of excellence and results in a GPA of 3.8 or above.
Medical and Professional School Admission
Medical and professional school admissions requirements vary; students should verify that their coursework will satisfy the admissions requirements of the programs to which they plan to apply.
Education Abroad Opportunities
The UC Education Abroad Program (EAP) offers qualified students unique opportunities to broaden their educational horizons. The biological sciences departments encourage interested students to participate. Many programs are in English-speaking countries or use English for advanced courses. Many programs offer small classes, extensive laboratories, and/or field research experience.
There are excellent programs for biological science students in Costa Rica, Australia, New Zealand, the United Kingdom, Denmark, and Germany, among others. The Costa Rica Tropical Biology Program is of note to students interested in tropical biology and ecology. Held spring and fall quarters at the Monteverde research station, this program gives students experience with hands-on field research, offers a homestay program, and carries credit for two upper-division biology courses. The University of Queensland (Australia) offers an intensive, full-semester marine science program, which includes stays at research stations on the Great Barrier Reef and in sheltered mangrove and seagrass habitats near Brisbane.
Students interested in study abroad need to get an early start on their basic science requirements, including chemistry, mathematics, and introductory biology and must declare their major prior to applying to go abroad. Visit the EAP office as soon as possible to begin planning, and seek advice about your schedule from the biological sciences undergraduate adviser and/or faculty adviser.
General Biology Majors and Minor
The general biology majors permit flexibility, but demand careful attention to a student’s own interests and plans. Each student should select courses on the basis of up-to-date information in consultation with a biology faculty adviser whose interests reflect the student’s interests.
General Biology B.A. Major Requirements
Introductory Requirements
Introductory Biology: BIOL 20A, BIOE 20B, and 20C
General Chemistry: Chemistry 1A, 1B and 1C/N
Organic Chemistry: Chemistry 108A/L and 108B
Calculus: Mathematics 11A-B or 19A-B
Statistics: Applied Mathematics and Statistics 5 or 7/L
Physics: Physics 6A/L, and 6B or 6C
Advanced Requirements
A total of eight upper-division biology courses,
as follows:
Three core courses:
Biochemistry: BIOL 100/K
Genetics: BIOL 105
Evolution: BIOE 109
Students must fulfill the major distribution requirement, which includes one course from each of the following groups:
Cell/Developmental biology:
BIOL 110, Cell Biology
BIOL 111A, Immunology
BIOL 115, Eukaryotic Molecular Biology
BIOL 119, Microbiology
BIOL 120, Developmental Biology
Physiology:
BIOE 131/L, Animal Physiology/Laboratory
BIOE 135/L, Plant Physiology/Laboratory
BIOL 113, Endocrinology
BIOL 125, Introduction to Neuroscience
BIOL 130/L, Human Physiology/Laboratory
Ecology:
BIOE 107, Ecology
BIOE 108, Marine Ecology
Electives
Students must complete two additional upper-division biology electives chosen from Biological Sciences-EEB or Biological Sciences-MCDB.
Disciplinary Communication (DC) Requirement
Students of every major must satisfy that major's upper-division Disciplinary Communication (DC) Requirement. The DC Requirement for the biology bachelor of arts degree is satisfied by completing courses BIOE 107, Ecology, or BIOE 108, Marine Ecology, and BIOE 109, Evolution.
General Biology B.A. Sample Planners
http://undergrad.pbsci.ucsc.edu/programs/biol/biolba-sample.html
General Biology, Bioeducation Concentration, B.A.
The General Biology, Bioeducation Concentration, B.A. major is designed to meet the needs of students who plan careers as K-12 science teachers. It provides students with a rigorous education in biology through science breadth courses to prepare them for the state credentialing examinations (CSET) in biology/life sciences, and courses covering education theory and practical teaching experience through internships in local schools.
General Biology, Bioeducation Concentration, B.A. Requirements
Introductory Requirements
Introductory Biology: BIOL 20A, BIOE 20B, and 20C
General Chemistry: Chemistry 1A, 1B, and 1C/N
Organic Chemistry: Chemistry 108A/L and 108B
Calculus: Mathematics 11A-B or 19A-B
Statistics: Applied Mathematics and Statistics 5 or 7/L
Physics: Physics 6A/L, and 6B or 6C
Education: Education 50C
Earth Sciences: Earth Sciences 20/L (optional*)
Astronomy: Astronomy 2 (optional*)
*These courses are recommended for students interested in pursuing a credential to teach general science.
Advanced Requirements
A total of 10 upper-division biology and education courses,
as follows:
BIOL 100/K, Biochemistry/Laboratory
BIOL 105, Genetics
BIOE 109, Evolution
BIOE 107, Ecology
Students must fulfill the major distribution requirement, which includes one course from each of the following groups:
Cell/developmental biology:
BIOL 110, Cell Biology
BIOL 115, Eukaryotic Molecular Biology
BIOL 119, Microbiology
BIOL 120, Developmental Biology
Physiology:
BIOE 131, Animal Physiology
BIOE 135, Plant Physiology
BIOL 113, Endocrinology
BIOL 130, Human Physiology
Biology Laboratory:
One five-credit upper-division biology laboratory
course, or
BIOE 131L, Animal Physiology Laboratory
BIOE 135L, Plant Physiology Laboratory
BIOL 130L, Human Physiology Laboratory
(BIOL 135L cannot be used to satisfy the laboratory requirement in the bioeducation concentration.)
Disciplinary Communication (DC) Requirement
Students of every major must satisfy that major's upper-division Disciplinary Communication (DC) Requirement. The DC Requirement in the General Biology, Bioeducation Concentration is satisfied by completing courses BIOE 107, Ecology, and BIOE 109, Evolution.
General Biology, Bioeducation Concentration, B.A. Sample Planners
http://undergrad.pbsci.ucsc.edu/programs/biol/biolba-educ-sample.html
General Biology B.S. Major Requirements
Introductory Requirements
Introductory Biology: BIOL 20A, BIOE 20B, and 20C
General Chemistry: Chemistry 1A, 1B, and 1C/N
Organic Chemistry: Chemistry 108A/L and 108B
Calculus: Mathematics 11A-B or 19A-B
Statistics: Applied Mathematics and Statistics 5 or 7/L
Physics: Physics 6A/L, and 6B or 6C
Advanced Requirements
A total of nine upper-division biology courses; one must include laboratory or fieldwork:
Three core courses:
Biochemistry with Laboratory: BIOL 100/K
Genetics: BIOL 105
Evolution: BIOE 109
Students must fulfill the major distribution requirement, which includes one course from each of the following groups:
Cell/developmental biology:
BIOL 110, Cell Biology
BIOL 111A, Immunology
BIOL 115, Eukaryotic Molecular Biology
BIOL 119, Microbiology
BIOL 120, Developmental Biology
Physiology:
BIOE 131/L, Animal Physiology/Laboratory
BIOE 13/L, Plant Physiology/Laboratory
BIOL 113, Endocrinology
BIOL 125, Introduction to Neuroscience
BIOL 130/L, Human Physiology/Laboratory
Ecology:
BIOE 107, Ecology
BIOE 108, Marine Ecology
Electives
Students must complete three additional upper-division biology electives chosen from Biological Sciences-EEB courses or Biological Sciences-MCDB courses.
Disciplinary Communication (DC) Requirement
Students of every major must satisfy that major's upper-division Disciplinary Communication (DC) Requirement. The DC Requirement for the biology bachelor of science degree is satisfied by completing courses BIOE 107, Ecology, or BIOE 108, Marine Ecology, and BIOE 109, Evolution.
General Biology B.S. Sample Planners
http://undergrad.pbsci.ucsc.edu/programs/biol/biolbs-sample.html
General Biology Minor Requirements
In addition to the introductory biology, chemistry, mathematics, and physics (as listed above for the biology B.A.), students are required to take a total of five upper-division biology courses including courses BIOL 100/K, BIOL 105, and the three distribution requirement courses; one course must include a laboratory. There is no senior comprehensive requirement for the minor. Please contact the Physical and Biological Sciences Undergraduate Affairs office for further information.
Degree Programs Sponsored by Ecology and Evolutionary Biology
Ecology and Evolution Major
Program Description
The ecology and evolution major provides students with interdisciplinary skills necessary for understanding and solving complex problems in ecology, evolution, behavior, and physiology. While some of these disciplines focus on molecular or chemical mechanisms, they all address questions on larger spatial and temporal scales that can be applied to important environmental problems, including genetic and ecological aspects of conservation biology and biodiversity.
Students majoring in ecology and evolution will receive a B.S. degree based on an integrated series of courses providing breadth in fundamental areas of biology and allied sciences that enhance understanding of evolutionary and ecological processes. The capstone of this curriculum is a suite of field courses providing students unique opportunities to learn and conduct research in a host of ecological systems. Students are encouraged to take field courses in their areas of specialization. Other opportunities include participation in research projects with faculty sponsors and the intensive Education Abroad Programs (EAP) in Costa Rica (tropical biology) and Australia (marine sciences).
Ecology and Evolution B.S. Major Requirements
Introductory Requirements
Introductory Biology: BIOL 20A, BIOE 20B, and 20C
General Chemistry: Chemistry 1A, 1B and 1C/N
Calculus: Mathematics 11A-B or 19A-B
Biostatistics: Applied Mathematics and Statistics 7/L
Physics: Physics 6A/L, and 6B or 6C
Advanced Requirements
A total of eleven upper-division courses; two must include laboratory or fieldwork.
Three upper-division core courses:
Genetics: BIOL 105
Ecology: BIOE 107
Evolution: BIOE 109
One of the following physiology courses:
BIOE 131/L, Animal Physiology/Laboratory
BIOE 135/L, Plant Physiology/Laboratory
One of the following organism courses:
BIOE 112/L, Ornithology/Ornithology Field Studies
BIOE 114/L, Herpetology/Field Methods in Herpetological Research
BIOE 117/L, Systematic Botany of Flowering Plants/Laboratory
BIOE 120/L, Marine Botany/Laboratory
BIOE 122/L, Invertebrate Zoology/Laboratory
BIOE 127/L, Ichthyology/Laboratory
BIOE 129/L, Biology of Marine Mammals/Laboratory
BIOL 119/L, Microbiology/Laboratory
Elective list for Ecology and Evolution Major
Three topical electives chosen from the following:
BIOE 108, Marine Ecology
BIOE 112/L, Ornithology/Laboratory
BIOE 114/L, Herpetology/Laboratory
BIOE 117/L, Systematic Botany/Laboratory
BIOE 120/L, Marine Botany/Laboratory
BIOE 122/L, Invertebrate Zoology/Laboratory
BIOE 127/L, Ichthyology/Laboratory
BIOE 129/L, Biology of Marine Mammals/Laboratory
BIOE 131/L, Animal Physiology/Laboratory
BIOE 135/L, Plant Physiology/Laboratory
BIOE 140, Behavioral Ecology
BIOE 141L, Behavioral Ecology Field Course
BIOE 145, Plant Ecology
BIOE 145L, Field Methods in Plant Ecology
BIOE 147, Community Ecology
BIOE 149, Disease Ecology
BIOE 150, Ecological Field Methods
BIOE 150L, Ecological Field Methods Laboratory
BIOE 151ABCD, Ecology and Conservation in Practice
BIOE 155, Freshwater Ecology
BIOE 155L, Freshwater Ecology Laboratory
BIOE 158L, Marine Ecology Laboratory
BIOE 159ABCD, Marine Ecology Field Quarter
BIOE 161, Kelp Forest Ecology
BIOE 161L, Kelp Forest Ecology Laboratory
BIOE 163, Ecology of Reefs, Mangroves, and Seagrasses
BIOE 165, Marine Conservation Biology
BIOE 172/L, Population Genetics/Laboratory
BIOL 100/K, Biochemistry/Laboratory
BIOL 110, Cell Biology
BIOL 115, Eukaryotic Molecular Biology
BIOL 119, Microbiology
BIOL 119L, Microbiology Laboratory
BIOL 120, Development
BIOL 120L, Development Laboratory
Ocean Sciences 118, Marine Microbial Ecology
Three general electives chosen from the following:
Biological Sciences-EEB
any BIOE course
Biological Sciences-MCDB
BIOL 100/K, Biochemistry/Laboratory
BIOL 110, Cell Biology
BIOL 115, Eukaryotic Molecular Biology
BIOL 119, Microbiology
BIOL 119L, Microbiology Laboratory
BIOL 120, Development
BIOL 120L, Development Laboratory
Chemistry
CHEM 108A, Organic Chemistry
CHEM 108B, Organic Chemistry
Earth Sciences
EART 100/L, Vertebrate Paleontology
EART 102, Marine Geology
EART 105, Coastal Geology
EART 122, Paleoceanography
Economics
ECON 166A, Game Theory and Applications I
ECON 166B, Game Theory and Applications II
Environmental Studies (enrollment by permission of instructor)
ENVS 104A, Introduction to Environmental Field Methods
ENVS 108/L, General Entomology/Laboratory
ENVS 115A/L, GIS and Environmental Applications/Exercises in GIS
ENVS 120, Conservation Biology
ENVS 122, Tropical Ecology and Conservation
ENVS 123, Animal Ecology and Conservation
ENVS 129, Integrated Pest Management
ENVS 130A/L, Agroecology and Sustainable Agriculture/Laboratory
ENVS 130B, Principles of Sustainable Agriculture
ENVS 131/L, Insect Ecology/Laboratory
ENVS 138/L, Field Ethnobotany/Laboratory
ENVS 160, Restoration Ecology
ENVS 161A/L, Soils and Plant Nutrition/Laboratory
ENVS 162, Plant Physiological Ecology
ENVS 163/L, Plant Disease Ecology/Laboratory
ENVS 167, Freshwater and Wetland Ecology
ENVS 168, Biochemistry and the Global Environment
Ocean Sciences
OCEA 118, Marine Microbial Ecology
OCEA 130, Biological Oceanography
Psychology
PSYC 123, Behavioral Neuroscience
One of the following may also be used as an upper-division general elective:
Biological Sciences-EEB
BIOE 183L, Undergraduate Research in EEB
BIOE 195, Senior Thesis
BIOE 198, Independent Field Study
BIOE 199, Tutorial
Environmental Studies
ENVS 183, Environmental Studies Internship
Disciplinary Communication (DC) Requirement
Students of every major must satisfy that major's upper-division Disciplinary Communication (DC) requirement. The DC requirement in ecology and evolution is satisfied by completing courses BIOE 107, Ecology, and BIOE 109, Evolution.
Ecology and Evolution B.S. Sample Planners
http://undergrad.pbsci.ucsc.edu/programs/eeb/ecevbs-sample.html
Marine Biology Major
Program Description
UCSC is situated within five miles of Monterey Bay and its great diversity of coastal marine ecosystems; nature reserves; and state, federal, and private marine research institutions and resource management agencies. These resources, combined with on-campus computing and analytical facilities and the Long Marine Laboratory, make UCSC an exceptional campus for the study of marine biology and its application to coastal conservation and management. Descriptions of nearby environments, institutions, and facilities are available through the Ecology and Evolutionary Biology Department web site at http://www.eeb.ucsc.edu/.
The marine biology major is designed to introduce students to marine organisms and the biological and physical processes that affect these organisms, their populations, and their coastal and oceanic ecosystems. The emphasis is on basic principles that help in understanding the processes that shape life in marine environments. The marine biology major is a demanding program that offers a B.S. degree and requires several more courses than the general biology B.A. major.
Marine Biology B.S. Major Requirements
Introductory Requirements
Introductory Biology: BIOL 20A, BIOE 20B, and 20C
General Chemistry: Chemistry 1A, 1B and 1C/N
Calculus: Mathematics 11A-B or 19A-B
Biostatistics: Applied Mathematics and Statistics 7/L
Physics: Physics 6A/L, and 6B or 6C
Advanced Requirements
A total of 11 upper-division courses; two must include laboratory or fieldwork.
Two core courses:
Genetics: BIOL 105
Evolution: BIOE 109
One ecology course:
BIOE 107, Ecology
BIOE 108, Marine Ecology
One marine-environment course:
OCEA 101, Marine Environment
OCEA 130, Biological Oceanography
One marine course:
BIOE 120/L, Marine Botany/Laboratory
BIOE 122/L, Invertebrate Zoology/Laboratory
BIOE 127/L, Ichthyology/Laboratory
BIOE 129/L, Biology of Marine Mammals/Laboratory
Elective list for Marine Biology Major
Three topical electives chosen from the following:
BIOE 108, Marine Ecology
BIOE 120/L, Marine Botany/Laboratory
BIOE 122/L, Invertebrate Zoology/Laboratory
BIOE 127/L, Ichthyology/Laboratory
BIOE 129/L, Biology of Marine Mammals/Laboratory
BIOE 155, Freshwater Ecology
BIOE 155L, Freshwater Ecology Laboratory
BIOE 158L, Marine Ecology Laboratory
BIOE 159ABCD, Marine Ecology Field Quarter
BIOE 161, Kelp Forest Ecology
BIOE 161L, Kelp Forest Ecology Laboratory
BIOE 163, Ecology of Reefs, Mangroves, and Seagrasses
BIOE 165, Marine Conservation Biology
EART 102, Marine Geology
EART 105, Coastal Geology
EART 122, Paleoceanography
OCEA 118, Marine Microbial Ecology
OCEA 130, Biological Oceanography
Three general electives chosen from the following:
Biological Sciences-EEB
Any BIOE course
Biological Sciences-MCDB
BIOL 100/K, Biochemistry/Laboratory
BIOL 110, Cell Biology
BIOL 115, Eukaryotic Molecular Biology
BIOL 119, Microbiology
BIOL 119L, Microbiology Laboratory
BIOL 120, Development
BIOL 120L, Development Laboratory
Chemistry
CHEM 108A, Organic Chemistry
CHEM 108B, Organic Chemistry
Earth Sciences
EART 100/L, Vertebrate Paleontology
EART 102, Marine Geology
EART 105, Coastal Geology
EART 122, Paleoceanography
Economics
ECON 166A, Game Theory and Applications I
ECON 166B, Game Theory and Applications II
Environmental Studies (enrollment by permission of instructor)
ENVS 104A, Introduction to Environmental Field Methods
ENVS 108/L, General Entomology/Laboratory
ENVS 115A/L, GIS and Environmental Applications/Exercises in GIS
ENVS 120, Conservation Biology
ENVS 122, Tropical Ecology and Conservation
ENVS 123, Animal Ecology and Conservation
ENVS 129, Integrated Pest Management
ENVS 130A/L, Agroecology and Sustainable Agriculture/Laboratory
ENVS 130B, Principles of Sustainable Agriculture
ENVS 131/L, Insect Ecology/Laboratory
ENVS 138/L, Field Ethnobotany/Laboratory
ENVS 160, Restoration Ecology
ENVS 161A/L, Soils and Plant Nutrition/Laboratory
ENVS 162, Plant Physiological Ecology
ENVS 163/L, Plant Disease Ecology/Laboratory
ENVS 167, Freshwater and Wetland Ecology
ENVS 168, Biochemistry and the Global Environment
Ocean Sciences
OCEA 118, Marine Microbial Ecology
OCEA 130, Biological Oceanography
Psychology
PSYC 123, Behavioral Neuroscience
One of the following may also be used as an upper-division general elective:
Biological Sciences-EEB
BIOE 183L, Undergraduate Research in EEB
BIOE 195, Senior Thesis
BIOE 198, Independent Field Study
BIOE 199, Tutorial
Disciplinary Communication (DC) Requirement
Students of every major must satisfy that major's upper-division Disciplinary Communication (DC) Requirement. The DC Requirement in marine biology is satisfied by completing courses BIOE 107, Ecology, or BIOE 108, Marine Ecology, and BIOE 109, Evolution.
Marine Biology B.S. Sample Planners
http://undergrad.pbsci.ucsc.edu/programs/eeb/mabibs-sample.html
Plant Sciences Major
Program Description
UCSC has a strong program in the plant sciences (sometimes called botany). A fine natural environment, the campus Arboretum, the facilities under the Center for Agroecology and Sustainable Food Systems (especially the Farm and Garden), and an excellent greenhouse collection all enhance the resources that support UCSC’s botanical programs.
The plant sciences major is designed for students with an interest in plant biology and its associated curricular fields such as plant ecology, plant physiology, plant pathology, plant molecular biology, soils, and applied plant sciences. After completion of the core courses, students can proceed in one of several directions depending on their interest. For example, a more in-depth study of physiology and molecular biology courses can serve as preparation for work in the biotechnology field or for graduate school; further studies in plant ecology, tropical ecology, or restoration ecology can lead to careers such as resource ecologist or naturalist or to the pursuit of related fields in graduate school; upper-division training in agroecology can lead to careers in agriculture or food systems. There are many opportunities for internships both on the UCSC campus and in the community at large.
Plant Sciences B.S. Major Requirements
Introductory Requirements
Introductory Biology: BIOL 20A, BIOE 20B, and 20C
General Chemistry: Chemistry 1A, 1B and 1C/N
Calculus: Mathematics 11A-B or 19A-B
Biostatistics: Applied Mathematics and Statistics 7/L
Physics: Physics 6A/L, and 6B or 6C
Advanced Requirements
A total of 11 upper-division courses; two of which must include laboratory or fieldwork.
Three core courses:
Genetics: BIOL 105
Ecology: BIOE 107
Evolution: BIOE 109
One plant physiology course from the following:
BIOE 135/L, Plant Physiology/Laboratory
Environmental Studies 162, Plant Physiological Ecology
One botany course from the following:
BIOE 117/L, Systematic Botany/Laboratory
BIOE 120/L, Marine Botany/Laboratory
Elective list for Plant Sciences Major
Three topical electives chosen from the following:
Biological Sciences-EEB
BIOE 117/L, Systematic Botany/Laboratory
BIOE 120/L, Marine Botany/Laboratory
BIOE 135/L, Plant Physiology/Laboratory
BIOE 145, Plant Ecology
BIOE 145L, Field Methods in Plant Ecology
BIOE 149, Disease Ecology
BIOE 151ABCD, Ecology and Conservation in Practice
Biological Sciences-MCDB
BIOL 110, Cell Biology
BIOL 115, Eukaryotic Molecular Biology
Environmental Studies (enrollment by permission of instructor)
ENVS 104A, Introduction to Environmental Field Methods
ENVS 129, Integrated Pest Management
ENVS 130A/L, Agroecology and Sustainable Agriculture/Laboratory
ENVS 130B, Principles of Sustainable Agriculture
ENVS 131/L, Insect Ecology/Laboratory
ENVS 138/L, Field Ethnobotany/Laboratory
ENVS 160, Restoration Ecology
ENVS 161A/L, Soils and Plant Nutrition/Laboratory
ENVS 162, Plant Physiological Ecology
ENVS 163/L, Plant Disease Ecology/Laboratory
Three general electives chosen from the following:
Biological Sciences-EEB
Any BIOE course
Biological Sciences-MCDB
BIOL 100/K, Biochemistry/Laboratory
BIOL 110, Cell Biology
BIOL 115, Eukaryotic Molecular Biology
BIOL 119, Microbiology
BIOL 119L, Microbiology Laboratory
BIOL 120, Development
BIOL 120L, Development Laboratory
Chemistry
CHEM 108A, Organic Chemistry
CHEM 108B, Organic Chemistry
Earth Sciences
EART 100/L, Vertebrate Paleontology
EART 102, Marine Geology
EART 105, Coastal Geology
EART 122, Paleoceanography
Economics
ECON 166A, Game Theory and Applications I
ECON 166B, Game Theory and Applications II
Environmental Studies (enrollment by permission of instructor)
ENVS 104A, Introduction to Environmental Field Methods
ENVS 108/L, General Entomology/Laboratory
ENVS 115A/L, GIS and Environmental Applications/Exercises in GIS
ENVS 120, Conservation Biology
ENVS 122, Tropical Ecology and Conservation
ENVS 123, Animal Ecology and Conservation
ENVS 129, Integrated Pest Management
ENVS 130A/L, Agroecology and Sustainable Agriculture/Laboratory
ENVS 130B, Principles of Sustainable Agriculture
ENVS 131/L, Insect Ecology/Laboratory
ENVS 138/L, Field Ethnobotany/Laboratory
ENVS 160, Restoration Ecology
ENVS 161A/L, Soils and Plant Nutrition/Laboratory
ENVS 162, Plant Physiological Ecology
ENVS 163/L, Plant Disease Ecology/Laboratory
ENVS 167, Freshwater and Wetland Ecology
ENVS 168, Biochemistry and the Global Environment
Ocean Sciences
OCEA 118, Marine Microbial Ecology
OCEA 130, Biological Oceanography
Psychology
PSYC 123, Behavioral Neuroscience
One of the following may also be used as an upper-division general elective:
Biological Sciences-EEB
BIOE 183L, Undergraduate Research in EEB
BIOE 195, Senior Thesis
BIOE 198, Independent Field Study
BIOE 199, Tutorial
Environmental Studies
ENVS 183, Environmental Studies Internship
Disciplinary Communication (DC) Requirement
Students of every major must satisfy that major's upper-division Disciplinary Communication (DC) Requirement. The DC Requirement in plant sciences is satisfied by completing courses BIOE 107, Ecology, and BIOE 109, Evolution.
Plant Sciences B.S. Sample Planners
http://undergrad.pbsci.ucsc.edu/programs/eeb/plntbs-sample.html
Human Biology Major
Program Description
The B.S. major in human biology is designed for students interested in careers in medicine or biomedical research and satisfies the admission requirements for most U.S. medical schools. It is based on the existing B.S. degree in molecular, cell, and developmental biology, with similar course requirements in chemistry, physics, and mathematics. Students are required to take five courses directly relevant to human health in addition to genetics, biochemistry, and cell biology. Students in this program must also fulfill Spanish language and health care internship requirements.
Human Biology B.S. Major Requirements*
Introductory Requirements
Introductory Biology: BIOL 20A, BIOE 20B, and BIOL 20L
General Chemistry: Chemistry 1A, 1B/M and 1C/N
Organic Chemistry: Chemistry 108A/L and 108B/M, 108C recommended for pre-med students, or 112A/L, 112B/M, and 112C/N
Calculus: Mathematics 11A-B or 19A-B; and 22 (three quarters)
Statistics: Applied Mathematics and Statistics 5 or 7/L
Physics: Physics 6A/L, 6B/M, and 6C/N
Advanced Requirements
Four upper-division core courses to include:
Four core courses:
Biochemistry with Laboratory: BIOL 100/K or BIOC 100A, 100B, 100C, and BIOL 100K
Genetics: BIOL 105
Cell Biology: BIOL 110
Human Physiology with Laboratory: BIOL 130/L
Three of the following electives:
BIOL 111, Immunology
BIOL 113, Mammalian Endocrinology
BIOL 114, Cancer Cell Biology
BIOL 115, Eukaryotic Molecular Biology
BIOL 119, Microbiology
BIOL 120, Development
BIOL 125, Neuroscience
BIOL 126, Advanced Neural Development
BIOL 127, Neurodegenerative Disease
BIOL 135/L, Anatomy of the Human Body/Laboratory
BIOL 140, Biophysics
BIOL 178, Stem Cell Biology
BIOL 179, Biotechnology and Drug Development
Biol 182, Genomics
Internship Requirement: BIOL189, Health Sciences Internship. The student must participate in a community health care service activity approved by the health sciences internship coordinator. Credit may be earned over multiple quarters.
Language Requirement: Spanish 1–4 or the equivalent and one quarter of Spanish for health-care workers (Spanish 5M).
* Note: Medical and professional school admissions requirements vary; students should verify that their coursework will satisfy the admissions requirements of the programs to which they plan to apply.
Disciplinary Communication (DC) Requirement
Students of every major must satisfy that major's upper-division Disciplinary Communication (DC) requirement. The DC requirement in human biology is satisfied by completing courses BIOL 130L, Human Physiology Laboratory, and BIOL 189, Health Sciences Internship and BIOL 189W, Disciplinary Communication: Human Biology.
Human Biology B.S. Sample Planners
http://undergrad.pbsci.ucsc.edu/programs/eeb/hbiobs-sample.html
Molecular, Cell, and Developmental Biology Major
Program Description
The molecular, cell, and developmental (MCD) biology major is designed for students interested in medical or other professional graduate programs and those preparing for careers in biotechnology industries. This major is more structured than the general biology major and requires that students pay careful attention to the prerequisites required for upper-division biology courses.
Molecular, Cell, and Developmental Biology B.S. Major Requirements
Introductory Requirements
Introductory Biology: BIOL 20A, BIOE 20B, and 20C
General Chemistry: Chemistry 1A, 1B and 1C/N
Organic Chemistry: Chemistry 108A/L and 108B
Calculus: Mathematics 11A-B or 19A-B
Biostatistics: Applied Mathematics and Statistics 5 or 7/L
Physics: Physics 6A/L and 6B or 6C
Advanced Requirements
Four upper-division core courses:
Biochemistry with Laboratory: BIOL 100/K or the series BIOC 100A, 100B, 100C, and BIOL 100K (Upon completion of the series, BIOC 100C may be used to satisfy one lecture elective)
Genetics: BIOL 105
Cell Biology: BIOL 110
Eukaryotic Molecular Biology: BIOL 115
Three of the following electives:
BIOC 100C, Biochemistry
BIOL 111A, Immunology
BIOL 113, Mammalian Endocrinology
BIOL 114, Cancer Cell Biology
BIOL 118, Biology of Disease
BIOL 119, Microbiology
BIOL 120, Development
BIOL 125, Neuroscience
BIOL 126, Advanced Neural Development
BIOL 127, Neurodegenerative Disease
BIOL 130/L, Human Physiology/Laboratory
BIOL 140, Biophysics
BIOL 178, Stem Cell Biology
BIOL 178L, Protocols in Stem Cell Biology
BIOL 179, Biotechnology and Drug Development
BIOL 180/L, Research Programming for Biologists and Biochemists/Laboratory
BIOL 181, Computational Biology Tools
BIOL 182, Genomics
BIOE 109, Evolution
BIOE 135/L, Plant Physiology/Laboratory
One of the following laboratory courses:
BIOC 110, Biochemistry Laboratory
BIOL 100L, Advanced Biochemistry Laboratory
BIOL 105L, Eukaryotic Genetics Laboratory
BIOL 105M, Microbial Genetics Laboratory
BIOL 109L, Yeast Molecular Genetics Laboratory
BIOL 110L, Cell Biology Laboratory
BIOL 115L, Eukaryotic Molecular Biology Laboratory
BIOL 119L, Microbiology Laboratory
BIOL 120L, Development Laboratory
BIOL 121L, Environmental Phage Biology Laboratory
BIOL 186L, Undergraduate Research in MCD
BIOL 186R, Undergraduate Research in MCD Biology
BIOL 187L, Molecular Biotechnology Laboratory
BIOC 110L, Advanced Biochemistry Laboratory
BME 122, Environmental Virus Bioinformatics Laboratory
Disciplinary Communication (DC) Requirement
Students of every major must satisfy that major's upper-division Disciplinary Communication (DC) Requirement. The DC Requirement in molecular, cell, and developmental biology is satisfied by completing one of the following courses: BIOC 110L, BIOL 100L, 105L, 105M, 109L, 110L, 115L, 119L, 120L, 121L, 186L, 187L, or BME 122. Please refer to updated information at http://reg.ucsc.edu/catalog/html/disciplinarycommunicationchart.html.
Molecular, Cell and Developmental Biology B.S. Sample Planners
http://undergrad.pbsci.ucsc.edu/programs/mcdb/mcdbbs.html
Neuroscience Major
Program Description
Neuroscience, the study of the nervous system and behavior of animals, is a frontier area in biology, touching psychology on the one hand and computer science on the other. The neuroscience major provides students with rigorous preparation for graduate studies and research in the field of neuroscience. Rigorous course work is supplemented by opportunities for hands-on research.
Neuroscience B.S. Major Requirements
Introductory Course Requirements
Introductory Biology: BIOL 20A, BIOE 20B, and 20C
General Chemistry: Chemistry 1A, 1B and 1C/N
Organic Chemistry: Chemistry 108A/L and 108B
Calculus: Mathematics 11A-B or 19A-B
Biostatistics: Applied Mathematics and Statistics 7/L
Physics: Physics 6A/L, and 6C
Advanced Course Requirements
Five upper-division core courses:
Biochemistry: BIOL 100/K
Genetics: BIOL 105
Cell Biology: BIOL 110
Neuroscience: BIOL 125
Advanced Neuroscience: BIOL 126
Three of the following electives:
BIOE 131/L, Animal Physiology/Laboratory
BIOE 140, Behavioral Ecology
BIOL 113, Mammalian Endocrinology
BIOL 115, Eukaryotic Molecular Biology
BIOL 118, Biology of Disease
BIOL 120, Development
BIOL 127, Neurodegenerative Disease
BIOL 130/L, Human Physiology/Laboratory
BIOL 140, Biophysics
BIOL 178L, Protocols in Stem Cell Laboratory
BIOL 179, Biotechnology and Drug Development
BIOL 180/L, Research Programming for Biologists and Biochemists/Laboratory
BIOL 181, Computational Biology Tools
BIOL 182, Genomics
PSYC 121, Perception
PSYC 123, Behavioral Neuroscience
One of the following laboratory electives:
BIOE 141L, Behavioral Ecology Field Course
BIOE 183L, Undergraduate Research in EEB
BIOL 100L, Advanced Biochemistry Laboratory
BIOL 105L, Eukaryotic Genetics Laboratory
BIOL 109L, Yeast Molecular Genetics Laboratory
BIOL 110L, Cell Biology Laboratory
BIOL 115L, Eukaryotic Molecular Genetics Laboratory
BIOL 120L, Development Laboratory
BIOL 121L, Environmental Phage Biology Laboratory
BIOL 178L, Protocols in Stem Cell Laboratory
BIOL 186L, Undergraduate Research in MCD
BIOL 186R, Undergraduate Research in MCD Biology
BIOL 187L, Molecular Biotechnology Laboratory
BME 122, Environmental Virus Bioinformatics Laboratory
Disciplinary Communication (DC) Requirement
Students of every major must satisfy that major's upper-division Disciplinary Communication (DC) Requirement. The DC Requirement in neuroscience is satisfied by completing one of the following: BIOC 110L, BIOE 141L, 183L; BIOL 100L, 105L, 109L, 110L, 115L, 120L, 121L, 186L, 187L; or BME 122. Please refer to updated information at http://reg.ucsc.edu/catalog/html/disciplinarycommunicationchart.html.
Neuroscience B.S. Sample Planners
http://undergrad.pbsci.ucsc.edu/programs/mcdb/neurobs-sample.html
Degree Programs Sponsored by Ecology and Evolutionary Biology
Ecology and Evolutionary Biology
Ecology and Evolutionary Biology
A308 Earth and Marine Sciences
(831) 459-5358
http://www.eeb.ucsc.edu
The Ecology and Evolutionary Biology (EEB, courses BIOE) Graduate Program at UCSC reflects the remarkable local and global diversity of species and environments studied by the EEB faculty and students. The vision of the EEB graduate program is to provide a nurturing, creative, and intellectual environment conducive to the development of world-class scientists. The small size of the EEB graduate program encourages close working relations between students and faculty in an informal atmosphere advantageous to rapid learning and professional growth. Interdisciplinary collaborations with oceanographers, geologists, mathematicians, toxicologists, and others enable students to explore the conceptual connections between related fields as they acquire mastery in their areas of specialization.
The graduate program in Ecology and Evolutionary Biology at UCSC is one of the premier EEB programs in the country. EEB-UCSC graduate students regularly garner prestigious awards for their presentations at international meetings and publish their work in the best journals of their fields. In addition to taking advantage of local field sites and state-of-the-art departmental laboratories, more than two-thirds of the EEB faculty also participates in field studies throughout the world, especially in Africa, Latin America, and around the Pacific Rim.
A special strength of the EEB program is the integration of terrestrial and aquatic perspectives across all research tracks. The course requirements and examinations emphasize both breadth and depth.
Research in EEB comprises four core tracks
- Ecology
- Evolutionary biology
- Physiology
- Behavior
Degree Requirements
Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) Requirements
Courses
BIOE 200A, Scientific Skills
BIOE 200B, Advanced Organismal Biology
BIOE 279, Evolutionary Ecology
BIOE 293, Readings in Ecology and Evolution (or
equivalent)
BIOE 294, Ecology, Evolutionary Biology Seminar (taken each quarter when in residence)
BIOE 295, Advanced Ecology and Evolutionary Biology Seminar (may substitute for BIOE 293)
Each Ph.D. student should expect to complete at least two quarters as a teaching assistant during their graduate career.
During fall of the second year, students take a comprehensive examination. This is a two-part examination, written and oral, the goal of which is to examine the student’s breadth and depth of knowledge of evolution, ecology, physiology, behavior, organismal, and general biology.
Later in the second or third year, the student submits a dissertation proposal to the proposal committee and must defend it in an oral examination, followed by a seminar on his/her proposed research. The student advances to candidacy only after having completed all coursework, the comprehensive examination, the proposal defense, and the proposal seminar.
No sooner than 30 days after submitting the dissertation to a dissertation reading committee, the student defends the dissertation to the committee, followed by a public seminar. At least one chapter of the dissertation must be submitted to a refereed journal for publication before receipt of the Ph.D.
Master of Arts (M.A.) Requirements
Courses
BIOE 200B, Advanced Organismal Biology
BIOE 279, Evolutionary Ecology
BIOE 293, Readings in Ecology and Evolution (or equivalent): two quarters
BIOE 294, Ecology and Evolutionary Biology Seminar (taken every quarter)
Thirty days after submitting the master’s thesis to a thesis reading committee, the student defends the thesis to the committee, followed by a public seminar.
Degree Programs Sponsored by Molecular, Cell, and Developmental Biology
Molecular, Cell, and Developmental Biology
225 Sinsheimer Laboratories
(831) 459-4986
http://www.mcd.ucsc.edu/
Graduate Program Description
The program in molecular, cell, and developmental (MCD) biology (courses BIOL) leads to either the doctor of philosophy (Ph.D.) or the master of arts (M.A.) and is designed to prepare students for careers in research, teaching, and biotechnology. Current research in MCD biology focuses on such topics as the structure and function of RNA, gene expression, chromatin structure, epigenetics, signaling, cell division, development, nerve cell function, and stem cell biology. A unique focus of the department is the center for the molecular biology of RNA.
Degree Requirements
Ph.D. and master’s students complete the graduate core courses, BIOL 200A, 200B, and 200C, and 200D in the first year. Additional undergraduate courses required to strengthen the student’s background may be assigned by the advisory committee during the initial advising meeting. Typically, these courses are Biochemistry 100A and BIOL 115. Students are required to participate in laboratory research meetings and departmental seminar series every quarter.
First-year Ph.D. students complete three 10-week laboratory rotations. Students choose their rotation laboratories in consultation with the Graduate Advisory Committee. The laboratory rotations give students a chance to learn about the diverse fields and methods of inquiry and to interact with members of the department. At the end of each quarter, students present a short talk to the department on their rotation project. At the end of spring quarter, students consult with rotation faculty to identify a permanent thesis laboratory.
Second-year Ph.D. students are required to submit two proposals—one on their proposed thesis work and a second on an unrelated MCDB research topic. The Ph.D. qualifying examination, taken in spring quarter of the second year, is an oral examination before a committee comprised of three internal reviewers and one external reviewer.
Once the qualifying examination is passed, a student, with her/his faculty adviser, selects a thesis committee to consult with in the development of the student’s thesis. This committee monitors the student’s progress and ultimately approves the final draft of the student’s dissertation. The student must meet with the thesis committee at least once a year after passing the qualifying examination.
A students is advanced to candidacy following presentation of their research to the department in a seminar. This presentation takes place no later than spring of the third year.
Graduate students must take two approved advanced graduate electives. Students who enter the Ph.D. program with a master’s degree but without doing rotations must complete an additional two approved graduate elective courses.
Ph.D. Requirements
Complete the graduate core course
Complete the Practice of Science course
Complete an oral qualifying examination
Complete an advancement to candidacy seminar
Complete two advanced, graduate elective courses
Meet yearly with a thesis committee after the qualifying examination
Complete two quarters of service as a teaching assistant
Complete thesis research resulting in a dissertation of individual work
Present the thesis defense in departmental seminar
M.A. Requirements
Students apply to the master’s degree program through the same portal as for the Ph.D. degree program. However, since master’s students do not do research rotations, they must identify a research adviser at the outset of the training period.
Completion of the graduate core courses
Completion of the Practice of Science course
Write a master’s thesis based on original research
Presentation of thesis defense in departmental seminar
Revised: 8/13/12
