Biological Sciences (Ph.D.) - Veterinary Microbiology Specialization

Location(s): Brookings Main Campus

Researcher looking through a microscope.

Program Coordinator/Contact

Angela Pillatzki, Department Head
Stephan Schmitz-Esser, Graduate Coordinator
Department of Veterinary and Biomedical Sciences
Animal Disease Research and Diagnostic Laboratory 1105, Box 2175
605-688-5171

Program Information

The Department of Veterinary and Biomedical Sciences offers graduate education that is focused on the One Health concept, with major emphasis in infectious diseases of food-producing domestic species and zoonotic diseases. Research projects range from basic (mechanistic) to applied science. The integration of service, research, and education within the department broadens students’ graduate program experience. The department has contemporary and well-equipped research laboratories and a state-of-the-art veterinary diagnostic laboratory. Graduate students participate in cutting edge research, obtaining a comprehensive knowledgebase which prepares them well for a variety of career paths focused on One Health and veterinary infectious disease.

Available Options for Graduate Degrees

Doctor of Philosophy

60 Credit Plan
90 Credit Plan

Core Requirements

For details see specific programs: Biological Sciences (Ph.D.) .

The student, major advisor and Advisory Committee select the discipline specific emphasis area of the biological sciences. The courses will be identified on the student’s Plan of Study no later than the end of the first year of study.

XXX 790 or 890 - Seminar Credits: 1 - Selected with advisory committee approval
GSR 601 - Research Regulations Compliance Credits: 1
Minimum of 3 credits of STAT courses numbered 500-level or higher
XXX 898D - Dissertation Credits: 30-40 - Students are required to present a seminar on their dissertation
Electives as needed to reach 60 or 90 credits

Research in pursuit of the dissertation requirement is expected to address a question of fundamental scientific importance and is expected to generate data of publication quality.

Additional Admission Requirements

GRE: Not required
TOEFL iBT: 4
TOEFL Essentials: 7.5
IELTS: 6.0
Duolingo: 100

Admission to the program is dependent upon admission to the SDSU Graduate School and identification of a suitable mentor. Applicants are not accepted into the program unless an assistantship can be provided. Funding for assistantships comes from a variety of sources including the South Dakota Agricultural Experiment Station, federal granting agencies, and the animal health product industry. Those interested are encouraged to contact the Department to identify opportunities.

General Requirements

Graduate students must consult with their advisor before registering for graduate coursework. For additional information, refer to the Doctor of Philosophy Degree Requirements .