Graduate handbook information is updated and maintained by each program. Graduate handbooks are available within each program's office and online at https://utexas.box.com/v/UTAustinGraduateHandbooks. Please contact the program with concerns or questions.

Master of Arts

The master’s degree is only granted under special circumstances. The student must have the approval of the graduate advisor.

Doctor of Philosophy

The doctoral degree program requires the student to accomplish creative, independent research and to document the research in a scholarly dissertation. In preparation, the student must acquire a strong foundation in biochemistry, molecular genetics, and cell biology, and a working knowledge of the area of biology in which the student intends to conduct research. This preparation is provided by the core courses and electives required for the master’s degree. The student must earn a grade of at least B in each core course. To be admitted to candidacy for the degree, the student must formulate a feasible research program and pass a qualifying examination.