PhD in Biology/Biological Sciences (PhD)

For PhD Biology/Biological Sciences, tuition is Applicants must submit a separate application for the Graduate School's Competitive Assistantships by the early deadline of November 15, 2026, to be considered for funding.; applications are accepted on a rolling basis.

This programme prepares students for research careers in biological sciences through advanced study and original investigation. Doctoral candidates conduct research in cellular and molecular biology or ecological, environmental, and systematic biology. Students gain hands-on experience in experimental design, statistical analysis, and lab or field observation. The programme emphasizes collaboration with faculty on grant-funded projects and participation in regular research seminars.

Focus areas include Immunology, Cellular and molecular biology, Genetics, Neurobiology, Ecology, Evolutionary biology.

The programme requires 72 credit hours of coursework, research, and dissertation work. Students complete core training and advanced research in their chosen specialization, with a focus on original dissertation research.

Graduates pursue research-related careers at universities, in private industry, and within government sectors.

Applicants must hold a bachelor's degree from an accredited institution with a minimum 3.0 GPA. Required materials include a statement of purpose, autobiographical statement, three letters of recommendation, official transcripts, and a CV. GRE scores are not required.

The programme totals about 72 credit hours. On-campus, full-time, typically lasting several years. For international students, tuition is well above the median for US programmes. The institution admits about 35% of applicants.

Howard University’s legacy is shaped by academic study, research, and service. Its community includes scholars, student researchers, athletes, artists, and entrepreneurs. The university carries the identity of an HBCU while preparing students for study and careers across a broad range of disciplines. Alumni stories include physicians, astrophysicists, educators, lawyers, public officials, and advocates whose work has reached beyond the campus.

Students can apply to more than 130 areas of study across 14 schools and colleges. Howard offers undergraduate, graduate, professional, and doctoral programs, with fields ranging from the humanities to scientific disciplines. Research and centers address health and medical issues, economic disparities, cybersecurity, nanotechnology, artificial intelligence and machine learning, drug abuse, energy systems, accounting and finance, women’s leadership, and journalism and democracy. The university has also launched an AI certificate program for undergraduate students.

Located in Washington, DC, Howard connects academic life with a city central to American government, public service, journalism, and cultural life. International students should review the university’s range of schools and degree levels carefully, since programs differ across undergraduate, graduate, professional, and doctoral study. Howard’s guiding phrase, “Excellence in Truth and Service,” reflects the university’s emphasis on student success and service to local and global communities.