Edited By Barani Krishnan
Review & Contribution By Dr. Mia Roberts
The Online PhD Biology program prepares students to become scholars and independent researchers capable of applying biology principles and advanced analytical and experimental techniques to carry out new research. The Phd. in biology offers a broad background knowledge base and an in-depth study of a concentrated area within biology. By expanding their knowledge and giving them a broad base of research and process biology skills, the Online Phd Biology programs advances the professional development of seasoned biology graduates and professionals in the biology field and enables them to make a significant leadership contribution to the field they have specialized in. This guide expounds on the various aspects of the doctorate in biology, what students can expect, how long it takes to complete the program, the career options one would have upon graduation, and more.
Featured Online Programs
Best Online PhD Biology Programs
It may be difficult to locate the top Phd. biology programs that align with a prospective student’s interests and professional objectives. The program’s quality is determined by the institution’s reputation, comprehensive coursework, and other factors such as faculty experience, accreditation, research facilities, infrastructure, and so on. Find Best Degrees (FBD) has analyzed the best Phd. biology programs for students that are affordable, flexible, and should meet all their needs to make choosing one easier. The following are the top online Phd. biology programs:*
Univ | Address | Tuition | Grad Rate |
University of California–Berkeley(On-Campus) | 200 California Hall, Berkeley, California 94720 | $11,442 | 93% |
Universities and programs are ranked by various factors, such as affordability, curriculum and coursework, reputation and availability, program length, statistics, the potential of employment, and return on investment for the students. For a more in-depth analysis, please read about our rankings methodology page.
What to expect from the Online Phd Biology Programs
The online Phd. biology degree program focuses on developing outstanding college biology instructors from biologists who are experts in their fields. Completing coursework, a dissertation research project, and a supervised teaching experience contribute to this. Students must choose a potential faculty research mentor before starting their programs. They will create a research program with their chosen research mentor that focuses on their interests and utilizes the faculty’s expertise, leading to the completion of the Phd. dissertation. All dissertations are the result of in-depth biological or biological education research.
The online doctorate in biology is divided into 2 to 3 years of coursework followed by 2 to 3 years of research and dissertation work. All students take a set of core courses as well as field courses in their chosen specializations during their first year. They will study several topics in depth that will eventually help them in their research and writing of their dissertation. Of course, the exact program requirements and structure will vary by college and the chosen specialization. After completing the required coursework and field exams, students progress to the dissertation phase of the program. Every student is required to write and defend an original dissertation, either in the form of a single multi-chapter dissertation or a collection of separate but related papers. Read the Guide to Phd. Programs to understand more.
Here is the basic structure of Phd. in biological sciences programs:
(a) Coursework
The course selection for doctoral students is broad. Most of the time, students can choose their course plans from one branch of biology to fit their needs and professional objectives.
(b) Teaching
Although not always a requirement, at some colleges, teaching experience is strongly recommended for students who are not Graduate Teaching Assistants (GTAs) but want to become professors.
(c) Residency
In some cases, unless they have an assistantship, students are required to complete a certain number of prescribed credit hours of graduate-level coursework. The student is required to study full-time during this period. Residency is sometimes needed before taking the comprehensive exams.
(d) Comprehensive Exams
Students are eligible to take comprehensive examinations when they have completed all coursework. Most students choose to write a manuscript on a topic of their choice and defend it orally before a committee of departmental, school, and/or university faculty members.
(e) Dissertation
The Phd. candidate will collaborate with their advisor to choose a topic that will advance the field after passing the comprehensive exam.
(f) Field Experience
Doctoral students are encouraged to participate in independent study research courses to combine and relate classroom theory with field activities. They can engage with scientific communities through research and collate data from various sources for this purpose.
The courses one can expect in an online Phd. in biology degree would largely be the same for most programs but would be at advanced levels and would include:
Some of the specialty courses students can expect from the Phd. biology program include:
Conservation Biology
The Phd. program requirements at most universities would be:
Areas of Specializations in Online PhD Biology Programs
Students who choose to specialize in one of the many subfields of biology may find themselves with more job opportunities and a higher salary. Specializations narrow the scope of the study of biology to concentrate on a specific topic, which enables students to carry out research in that area and develop their expertise. Students pursuing a Phd. in biology have the option of specializing in a variety of areas, some of which are:
Area of Specialization | Description | Career Options |
---|---|---|
Human Biology | This area of study looks at human physiology, psychology, evolution, and biomedicine. Functional human biology, the molecular underpinnings of health and disease, infection and immunity, drugs and human health, nutrition and metabolism in human health, reproduction, and genetics and development are the main topics covered. | Various roles in government, research, academia, and industry |
Cell Biology | This specialty’s focus on cellular structure and function provides a foundation for research on tissues, organs, and the body. Students discover how cells reproduce by dividing, how they are the basic units of life, and how they keep their shape, move, transport material, and interact with the environment. | Various roles in government, research, academia, and industry |
Marine Biology | This area of study focuses on marine organisms, how they behave, and their interactions with their environment. Students study biological oceanography as well as chemical, physical, and geological oceanography | Various roles in government, research, academia, and industry |
Molecular Biology (Phd. in Molecular Biology) | With this specialization, students can investigate biological science at the microscopic and molecular levels. They will learn about the molecular and biochemical pathways that control cellular function. | Various roles in government, research, academia, and industry |
Biochemistry (Doctorate in Biochemistry) | Phd. biochemistry programs focus on the chemistry that underpins biological structure and function. Biochemistry Phd. programs stem from biology and chemistry subjects and are divided into three fields: structural biology, enzymology, and metabolism. | Various roles in government, research, academia, and industry |
Wildlife Biology | Students who choose this specialization are prepared for careers in research and conservation and the protection of plant and animal species as well as their habitats. The focus is on animal behavior and evolution, the impact of climate change on natural ecosystems, and the steps that must be taken to protect wildlife. | Various roles in government, research, academia, and industry |
Bioinformatics (Online Phd. Bioinformatics) | This specialization is an interdisciplinary study that combines biology, chemistry, computer science, physics, mathematics, statistics, and information engineering to analyze and interpret biological data. | Various roles in government, research, academia, and industry |
Computational Biology (Computational Biology Phd.) | Computational biology Phd. programs are about building models for various types of experimental data, such as sequences, concentrations, images, etc., and biological systems such as cells, organs, molecules, tissues, etc. by employing methods from a wide range of mathematical and computational fields, including algorithms, robotics, machine learning, complexity theory, etc. | Various roles in government, research, academia, and industry |
Anatomy | Phd. in anatomy online programs assist students in achieving an advanced understanding of specific knowledge related to human anatomic sciences. These fields of study include human embryology, gross medical anatomy, and human microscopic anatomy. | Various roles in government, research, academia, and industry |
Biotechnology (Phd. Program in Biological Sciences in Public Health) | Online Phd. Biotechnology programs study and research living cells to develop or manipulate products for specific purposes. They focus on humans, the environment, industry, animals, and plants to produce more safely, help fight hunger and disease, and reduce our ecological footprint to save energy. | Various roles in government, research, academia, and industry |
Genetics (Online Phd. Genetics) | This specialization includes identifying and analyzing gene therapy, molecular evolution, human disease genes, and statistical genetics. Students learn how to apply model organisms to problems in biology and medicine and use computational and experimental approaches to genome biology. | Various roles in government, research, academia, and industry |
Why should I get into Online Biology Programs?
Students of the online doctorate in biology gain knowledge of scientific concepts, reasoning, and skills, and knowledge of the principles and methods of teaching biology. Their education will give them the knowledge and skills to pursue a career as an independent scientist, a postsecondary biology teacher, or both. Most online Phd. Biology graduates have gone on to work in teaching and research and often receive multiple job offers even before completing their programs!
The Phd. in biological sciences degree is appropriate for curious and motivated students who already have a bachelor’s and/or master’s degree in the sciences and want to pursue a professional career in basic and applied research, teaching, advocacy, biotechnology, government, or other advanced scientific positions. Overall, this doctorate can lead to rich and rewarding careers and experiences in academic positions in higher education, postdoctoral positions in related fields, and advanced positions in government and private sectors.
Upon graduating, be it in research, teaching, or professional services, graduates of the online Phd. in biology would have the ability to:
- demonstrate effective oral and written scientific communication, as well as effective communication that is professionally acceptable;
- make original and significant contributions to scientific knowledge in their field;
- design and carry out observational and experimental studies while keeping replication and statistical design constraints in mind;
- engage in appropriate dialogue with other scientists about content, design, analysis, and techniques;
- analyze and interpret data and scientific literature and synthesize information and draw appropriate conclusions;
- explain how biological principles relate to global, economic, environmental, and societal issues;
- demonstrate understanding of core biological patterns and principles and be able to integrate and apply knowledge from multiple scientific disciplines; and
- demonstrate the ability to learn new skills and knowledge as the field changes.
Free Courses for Online Phd Biology Students
Free courses are always beneficial to online Phd. biology students researching specific topics. Although most free courses are not accredited and frequently do not lead to certification, they do provide additional knowledge and perspectives on the subject. Here are some free courses and platforms that offer free online Phd. biology courses:
Course | Description | Provided by |
---|---|---|
Medical Neuroscience | This course investigates the functional organization and neurophysiology of the human central nervous system, as well as provides a neurobiological framework for comprehending human behavior. | Coursera (Duke University) |
Various Topics Related to Biology | Udemy is one of the largest and most popular online course providers. The courses offered on this platform are well-known and are facilitated by experts and professionals. Numerous courses on Udemy are provided for free, but only 2 free ones are available for Phd.-level learners – Nervous Coordination Biology and Physics of Human Evolution. | Udemy |
Various Topics Related to Biology | edX offers several biology courses at the advanced level, many of which are free and provided by world-famous institutions. Topics include Cell Biology: Cell-Cell Interactions, Genetics: The Fundamentals, Principles of Synthetic Biology, etc. | edX |
How to get into the Online Phd Biology Programs?
In most cases, applicants must have a master’s degree from a regionally accredited institution or a foreign university that meets both the bachelor’s and master’s degree requirements to be admitted to online Phd. in biology programs. In addition, a Grade Point Average (GPA) of at least 3.2 on a 4.0 scale is typically required. At some colleges, prospective students may be required to find a suitable professor who will act as their advisor or mentor throughout their research. It is also not uncommon for some programs to require prerequisites to be fulfilled, such as coursework in calculus, organic chemistry, physics, genetics, and cell biology. Aside from these, the following are some of the most common Phd. in biology requirements for admission:
Online Application & Application Fee
Completing an online application and paying the prescribed application fee.
Official Academic Transcripts
An official copy of academic transcripts from each college/university attended.
Undergraduate/Graduate Degree + Grade Point Average
An undergraduate and/or graduate degree and Grade Point Average (GPA) of 3.2 or more.
Graduate Record Examination (GRE) or Graduate Management Admission Test (GMAT) Scores
An official copy of GRE scores no older than 5 years.
Graduate Résumé or Curriculum Vitae
The latest résumé or CV that provides personal information and work experience.
Personal Statement or Statement of purpose
A statement outlining how the program relates to the applicant’s career goals.
Letters of Recommendation
At least 3 letters of recommendation from those who can provide a thorough evaluation of the applicant’s abilities at the graduate level.
Proof of English proficiency
A document proving proficiency in English (for non-native English speakers).
Online Phd Biology No GRE Programs
The Graduate Record Examination (GRE) is a common component of the admissions process. However, admissions committees at many colleges are aware that there are many different parts to a student’s application and that GRE scores only have a small amount of predictive power when determining a candidate’s likelihood of long-term academic success. In most cases, strong academic progress and relatively high Grade Point Average (GPA) scores, coupled with some work experience (preferred by some colleges), are adequate to seek admission into online Phd. in biology programs. Nevertheless, many colleges offering Phd. in biology no GRE programs allow students to submit their GRE scores if they feel their scores will strengthen their application.
How Long does it take to complete the Online Phd Biology Program
How many years for a Phd. in biology? The Phd. in biology program takes 4 to 6 years to complete, with the first 2 to 3 years devoted to coursework and the last 2 to 3 years devoted to research and dissertation completion. It is also possible for students to pursue a biology Phd. part-time, but doing so would require a longer commitment – about 6 to 8 years to complete. Regardless of the full-time or part-time study, a student’s research in biology Phd. programs are typically very detailed and narrowly focused on their chosen specialization, determining the time it takes to graduate. Here’s a quick rundown of the online Phd. in biology program’s duration:
Accelerated Online Phd Biology Programs
Students can progress through their biology Phd. programs more quickly with an accelerated curriculum, which increases their likelihood of graduating earlier. Although some students might need an additional year to finish their doctoral dissertation in addition to the coursework years, fast-track and accelerated doctoral degrees allow students to earn their Phd. in biology in as little as 3 to 4 years. Of course, this would depend on the student’s course load, chosen specialization, and research duration. At some universities, students may start their Phd. programs while pursuing their master’s degrees. In these circumstances, the master’s thesis takes on greater significance and may be “upgraded” or expanded to serve as a Phd. dissertation.
Accreditation for Online Phd Biology Programs
Having a program accredited demonstrates that the school is committed to a student-centered approach to education. Accredited Phd. Colleges for biology prove to students and potential employers that they are constantly improving academic quality. Colleges can be accredited nationally or regionally by independent organizations recognized by the United States Department of Education (USDE) and/or the Council for Higher Education Accreditation (CHEA). Regional accreditation is the most common type of accreditation sought by colleges offering accredited online biology degrees in the United States, and it is granted by six independent bodies:
- New England Association of Schools and Colleges (NEASC)
- Middle States Commission on Higher Education (MSCHE)
- Higher Learning Commission (HLC)
- Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC)
- Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities (NWCCU)
- Western Association of Schools and Colleges (WASC) Senior College and University Commission (WSCUC)
Some universities provide programmatically accredited biology degree programs. Organizations such as the American Society for Biochemistry and Molecular Biology (ASBMB) typically provide biology degree accreditation at the program level and specific to a field of biology. The ASBMB may accredit a graduate-level program in biochemistry, molecular biology, or a closely related field if it meets high standards. Students should check the college or program accreditations on the institution’s or department’s official website.
How to Pay for Online Phd Biology Programs?
The cost of pursuing an online Phd. programs in biological sciences are typically very high. According to Education Data, the average cost of a Phd. a doctorate in the United States is $98,800. Prospective online students still must pay the high tuition fee and related research costs, which can be financially difficult for many, even though they are not required to meet additional transportation, meals, or campus-related expenses. Some outside funding choices for students pursuing an online Phd. in biology include:
Scholarships
Scholarships are an excellent mode of funding education because they are free and non-repayable. They are awarded to deserving and meritorious students, with academic achievement serving as the primary criterion for selection.
Grants
Like scholarships, grants have no repayment requirements. Grants are typically given based on the applicant’s financial need, as opposed to scholarships, which are frequently awarded based on academic performance.
Doctoral candidates can receive predoctoral fellowships, also referred to as Phd. fellowships. Phd. fellowship recipients typically must fulfill a future task or use the funds for a particular purpose to receive the money. The best students may be retained or drawn in with the help of a variety of awards and fellowships.
Work-study programs help students pay for school expenses by offering part-time employment. Many of these jobs are volunteer opportunities or are connected to the student’s academic program. Work-study programs are another way for students to pick up real-world experience.
Graduate Assistantships
Students who want to work as graduate teaching assistants in the classroom or as graduate research assistants in the lab can apply for graduate assistantships. Assistants are compensated for their work with reduced or waived tuition fees or a stipend.
Student Loans
Another choice for funding Phd. programs for students are student loans. The federal government, banks, and financial institutions all provide student loans. Because loans have interest attached to them, borrowing money will raise the overall cost of education. By reading about Donors for Student Loans and Grants for Student Loans, one can learn how to apply for loan forgiveness to avoid making loan payments.
The Free Application For Student Aid or FAFSA is an application for federal financial aid that all prospective and current college students must complete to check if they are eligible for aid and receive the best financial aid package possible. The FAFSA Student Aid guide explains more.
Discover what financial aid is and learn everything there is to know about college funding in the How to Pay for College guide.
Fully Funded Online Phd Biology Programs
Given that a Phd. in the United States costs, on average, $98,800, many Phd. aspirants would require outside financial assistance. Thankfully, some universities provide fully funded biology Phd. programs online. In general, fully funded Phd. biology programs will pay a student’s expenses for the three to five years they spend pursuing their doctorate (tuition, a living stipend, etc.). Some examples include:
University/College | Description |
---|---|
Boston University | Boston University guarantees five years of support to all Phd. biology students who perform satisfactorily in the program. Students can apply to Dean’s Fellowships, Teaching Fellowships, or Doctoral Research Fellowships. |
Georgetown University | Georgetown University provides a fully funded biology Phd. programs, including a stipend and tuition waiver for the entire five-year duration. Stipends are distributed to students in the program through a combination of research assistantships, teaching assistantships, university fellowships, and external fellowships. |
University of Michigan | The University of Michigan offers students in the Molecular, Cellular, and Developmental Biology Phd. program complete financial support for up to five years, which includes tuition, a full stipend, and health and dental insurance. |
FAQs Related to the Online Phd Biology Programs
How to get a Phd. in biology?
To get a Phd. in biology, one is required to go through the following steps:
Complete all required coursework
Select a specialization and research area
Conduct research in the chosen area
Approach a faculty advisor/mentor for direction & help
Complete and pass all comprehensive qualifying exams
Prepare the dissertation
Submit the dissertation and defend it
How long does it take to get a biology Phd.?
Can I do a Phd. part time?
What can you do with a Phd. in biology ?
How much does a Phd. in biology make?
Can you get a Phd. in biology online?
Can I do a Phd. in biology without a masters?
What are executive Phd. programs?
Career Opportunities and Salaries after Online Ph.D. Biology Programs
With an online Phd. biology, students will be ready for the highest academic and industrial research levels worldwide. The majority of doctoral graduates work as university professors, while others are in charge of research teams in their own labs or labs owned by governmental agencies or business corporations. Other biology doctoral graduates work for federal and state agencies in a variety of fields, including geology, healthcare, agriculture, wildlife, the environment, and more, by combining fieldwork and lab research.
The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) projects that employment in the biological, physical, and social science occupations is expected to grow 8% from 2020 to 2030, nearly as fast as the average for all occupations, and roughly 113,800 new positions will be created. Listed below are some examples of biology jobs, median annual salaries, and job growth, as reported by the BLS. It should be noted that the salaries mentioned are typically for those who have obtained their bachelors or masters in biology. Phd. holders are likely to earn higher salaries:
Occupation | Job Description | Skills Required | Median Annual Salary | Job Growth (up to 2030) |
---|---|---|---|---|
Environmental Scientists and Specialists | Environmental scientists and specialists use their understanding of the natural sciences to safeguard the environment and human health. They conduct analyses of the air, water, soil, food, and other materials and develop plans to prevent, lessen, or resolve environmental problems like air or water pollution. | Problem-solving skills, communication skills, analytical skills, interpersonal skills, self-discipline | $76,530 | 8% (as fast as average) |
Zoologists and Wildlife Biologists | Zoologists and wildlife biologists research the physical characteristics, behaviors, and interactions of various wildlife species with their respective ecosystems. Additionally, they look into how people affect wildlife and natural habitats. | Critical-thinking skills, outdoor skills, observation skills, emotional stamina and stability, communication skills, problem-solving skills, interpersonal skills | $64,650 | 5% (slower than average) |
Epidemiologists | Epidemiologists are specialists in public health who look into the patterns and causes of illness and injury. They try to lower the risk and occurrence of adverse health outcomes through research, community outreach, and health policy. | Leadership skills, critical-thinking skills, communication skills, math & statistical skills, detail-oriented | $78,830 | 30% (much faster than average) |
Microbiologists | Microbiologists research bacteria, viruses, algae, fungi, and parasites. They conduct intricate research projects like developing new drugs to treat infectious diseases or developing better sterilization methods in an effort to better understand how these species function, develop and interact with their environment. | Logical-thinking skills, problem-solving skills, time-management skills, communication skills, observation skills, math skills, interpersonal skills, detail-oriented, perseverance | $79,260 | 5% (slower than average) |
Medical Scientists | Medical scientists work to enhance the general health of people. To come to their conclusions, they frequently use clinical trials and other research techniques. They organize and research human illnesses and ways to prevent and treat them. | Data-analysis Skills, critical-thinking skills, communication skills, observation skills, decision-making skills | $95,310 | 17% (much faster than average) |
Certifications and Licensing for Online Ph.D. Biology Students
Certification in a given profession formally recognizes a person’s competency—their education, demonstrated knowledge, and experience. It is a formal process that improves one’s résumé and career opportunities and is carried out and completed by a group of knowledgeable, experienced, and skilled organization representatives. Each biology certification is specific to the biology discipline to which it applies, such as health, finance, petroleum, business, and so on. Online Phd. biology holders may be interested in the following certifications:
American Society of Clinical Pathology (ASCP) Certifications
The American Society of Clinical Pathology (ASCP) is one of the largest pathologists and laboratory professionals membership organizations. For molecular biologists, microbiologists, and laboratory technicians, the ASCP offers a variety of credentials. Highest Volume Certifications, Technician Certifications, Technologists Certifications, and Specialist Certifications are examples of certifications.
American Society for Biochemistry and Molecular Biology (ASBMB) Certification
The American Society for Biochemistry and Molecular Biology (ASBMB) Certification was created to assess students’ understanding and knowledge of fundamental concepts in biochemistry and molecular biology, established by the organization. The ASBMB certification exam, which is available to all students enrolled in ASBMB-accredited programs, assesses these idea domains at various levels of cognitive skills and abilities.
American Association of Bioanalysts (AAB) Certifications
The American Association of Bioanalysts (AAB) helps clinical laboratories and the people who work in them. The American Board of Bioanalysis (ABB) and the AAB Board of Registry (ABOR) are independent national certifying bodies for lab specialists. ABOR certifies bench-level laboratory personnel (technologist, laboratory scientist, technician), whereas ABB certifies directors, consultants, and supervisors.
American Board of Bioanalysis (ABB) Certifications include:
- Embryology Laboratory Director – ELD(ABB)
- Clinical Consultant – CC(ABB)
- High Complexity Clinical Laboratory Director – HCLD(ABB)
- Andrology Laboratory Director – ALD(ABB)
- Bioanalyst Clinical Laboratory Director – BCLD(ABB)
- Technical Supervisor – TS(ABB)
- Public Health Laboratory Director – PHLD(ABB)
Additional Resources for Online Ph.D. Biology Students
While studying and after completing an online Phd. biology program, students and professionals should always stay up to date on the latest developments in the field. Networking with others, reviewing peer journals, participating in conferences, and joining forums to share ideas are some of the ways to stay relevant and ahead of the competition. To that end, the following organizations and resources would be of immense help:
American Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)
The American Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS) is the world’s largest multidisciplinary scientific society, with individual members from over 91 countries. It also publishes cutting-edge research through its science family of journals. Membership in AAAS is open to anyone who believes that science, engineering, technology, and mathematics can help solve many of the world’s problems.
The Society for Integrative and Comparative Biology (SICB)
One of the world’s largest and most prestigious professional organizations is the Society for Integrative and Comparative Biology (SICB). Its primary goal has remained to integrate the numerous fields of specialization that exist within the broad field of biology. The SICB promotes the use of advanced technologies that enable scientists and researchers to improve their ability to collect and properly analyze new and complex data sets.
The Company of Biologists
The Company of Biologists is a non-profit organization run by distinguished professional scientists dedicated to supporting and inspiring the biological community. The organization publishes prestigious peer-reviewed journals, organizes scientific meetings and communities, provides travel grants to young researchers, and supports and funds research societies.
American Society for Biochemistry and Molecular Biology (ASBMB)
The American Society for Biochemistry and Molecular Biology (ASBMB) is one of the world’s largest molecular life science societies, with 11,000 members who are students, researchers, educators, and industry professionals. The society serves the scientific community by hosting scientific meetings, promoting career development and science education at all levels, publishing, and promoting diversity in the scientific workforce.
American Society of Plant Biologists (ASPB)
The American Society of Plant Biologists (ASPB) is a professional organization whose mission is to advance plant science and research, promote the growth and development of plant biology, encourage plant biology research, and promote the interests, growth, and education of plant scientists worldwide.