StudyQA — PhD: Biological and Environmental Sciences

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Description Contents Requirements

The Bachelor of Science in Biological and Environmental Sciences at Qatar University offers a comprehensive and interdisciplinary education designed to prepare students for careers in biology, environmental science, and related fields. The program emphasizes a strong foundation in the core principles of biological sciences, including genetics, ecology, microbiology, and physiology, alongside dedicated coursework in environmental sciences such as environmental management, conservation, and sustainability. Students engage in rigorous coursework that combines theoretical knowledge with practical laboratory and field experiences, facilitating the development of essential skills in scientific research, data analysis, and problem-solving.

Throughout the program, students are encouraged to explore the interconnections between biological systems and environmental processes, fostering an understanding of how human activities impact the natural world and how sustainable solutions can be implemented. The curriculum integrates cutting-edge topics such as biodiversity conservation, climate change, renewable energy, and environmental policy, ensuring graduates are well-equipped to address contemporary challenges facing our planet. Students also have opportunities for internships, research projects, and collaborations with local and international organizations, enhancing their practical experience and professional readiness.

The program aims to produce graduates who can contribute effectively to scientific research, environmental management, and policy formulation. Career prospects for graduates include roles in environmental consultancy, conservation agencies, research institutions, educational organizations, and government agencies focused on environmental regulation and sustainable development. The Bachelor of Science in Biological and Environmental Sciences at Qatar University is committed to fostering critical thinking, innovation, and a strong commitment to environmental stewardship, preparing students to become future leaders in addressing environmental and biological challenges worldwide.

The PhD Program in Biological and Environmental Sciences is composed of 4 concentrations in:

Cell and Molecular Biology
Environmental Sciences
Ecosystems and Marine Sciences
Biotechnology

It is emphasized on the development of core of required courses and electives of particular relevance to the needs in Qatar and the curriculum is developed in the context of the Benchmark Statement of the Quality Assurance Agency (QAA) of the United Kingdom as well as incorporating the Quality standards of the commission on colleges of the southern association colleges and schools(SACS).

A minimum of 75 credit hours are required to complete the PhD program in Biological and Environmental Sciences, including the followings:
A minimum of 30 credit hours of course work, including 12 credit hours of required courses and 18 credit hours of elective courses.
A minimum of 45 credit hours of research work

The anticipated completion time of the course of study for the PhD, assuming no academic probation(s), is 8 full semesters. There is no provision made for part-time graduate students.

Admission Criteria

In addition to the general requirements set forth by QU’s Office of Graduate Studies, applicants are required to:

Have A Master’s degree in biology, environmental science, or in a related field with minimum cumulative GPA of 3 out of 4 or equivalent from a university or college accredited by an international accrediting association or by the Ministry of Higher Education or comparable in that country.
Students are expected to be proficient in English. Thus, applicants are required to demonstrate their English proficiency as part of the admission process by satisfying either of the following:
(*) Earned a previous degree from an institution of higher education in a Program where English was the language of instruction.
OR
(**) Achieved a minimum score of 520 on the paper-based TOEFL or equivalent test taken within 2 years of the start of the intended semester of admission.
A satisfactory performance in the personal interview with the Admission committee.
GRE-General test score taken within less than 2 years prior to the start of the intended semester of admission, is not required but will strengthen the application.
During the admission process, students will be accepted in the desired concentration according to their former Master and Bachelor majors.

Requirements

All applicants to the PhD’s degree in Biological and Environmental Sciences program are required to submit the following documents to the Admissions Department:

Admissions Application and Signature Page
Final, official and certified university transcripts
Official TOEFL score report or equivalent score report
Official GRE score report [not required but will strengthen the application].
Three confidential recommendation letters from Graduate professors or employers (Recommendation Letters (using CAS template) should be sent by the professor to the following address: biology@qu.edu.qa ).
Curriculum Vitae (C.V.)
Health Certificate
Photocopy of the applicant’s Qatar ID card
(Non-Qatari applicants must provide a copy of their passport)
Two recent passport sized photographs
Application Fees: QR 350