PhD (Zoology) - School of Biological Sciences

OVERVIEW

The animal biology programme offers postgraduate training that prepares students for careers in conservation, management, biomedical, academic and a variety of other professional opportunities. Students are trained to do original and significant research in zoological science, to develop a broad understanding of the zoological literature, and to provide experience and training in the presentation and publication of scientific findings. The School of Biological Sciences offers special opportunities for animal research in zoological sub disciplines. In addition the broad range of biological sciences permits collaborative programmes in oceanography, wildlife and aquatic sciences. Some areas of study include wildlife ecology, water quality, habitat management, fishery science and conservation zoology. Postgraduate studies in wildlife and aquatic research are designed to provide training in ecological principles, field research technique, and the application of these tools for the management of all types of zoological resources. Modern research facilities (including molecular laboratories, specimen collections and a computer laboratory) are available and would be beneficial for in depth research in zoology and trans-disciplinary research. The animal biology group consists of members with diverse approaches, expertise, and subject organisms. Specialties include behavioural studies, population ecology, ecological genetics, phylogenetic systematic and population genetics. The group emphasizes lower invertebrates (fish, amphibians) and insects (cockroaches, ants) although postgraduate student research often involves other groups of organisms.

Research Thrust Areas

Zoology

• Animal Taxonomy
• Entomology
• Mammalogy
• Herpetology

Expertise available in the following School:
School of Biological Sciences
www.usm.my/bio/bioschool

ADMISSION REQUIREMENTS

• A Master’s degree in related area with CGPA 3.00/4; or
• A Master’s degree in related area with CGPA 2.50-2.99/4 with additional requirements; or
  Bachelor’s degree in related area with minimum CGPA 3.67/4 (fast-track to PhD)

LANGUAGE REQUIREMENTS

(Applicable for International Applicants Only)

• A minimum score of 40 for TOEFL (Internet-based); or
• A minimum of Band 7.5 for TOEFL Essentials (Online); or
• A minimum of Band 5 for IELTS; or
• A minimum score of 47 for PTE; or
• A minimum score of 154 for Cambridge English (CAE/CPE); or
• A minimum score of 154 for Linguaskill Online; or
• A minimum of Band 3.5 for MUET

Exemption is given to candidate if:

• English is the candidate’s mother tongue or National Language; or
• Candidate graduated from an Institution of Higher Learning in which the medium of instruction at Bachelor and/or Master degree level is English (statement of proof required)

DURATION

• Full-time : Min 4 semesters / Max 10 semesters
• Part-time: Min 6 semesters/ Max 15 semesters

FEES

** Fees are subject to change