Requirements for the Ph.D. degree include written and oral comprehensive examinations, research, a dissertation and satisfactory performance in a final oral defense. Although there is no required course work for the doctorate beyond 18 semester hours of research, breadth and depth of preparation in the life sciences are expected of each candidate. Laboratory research project in population dynamics complements theory. Review of current literature in zoology. Field measurements of parameters of the environment are undertaken, and laboratory studies furnish detailed knowledge of various physiological adaptations to these parameters.
Laboratory focuses on application of theory to actual field and laboratory research problems.
N Structure and function of ecological communities emphasizing description of natural communities and evolutionary rules by which they are organized. Laboratory applies theory to field problems. Special Problems, 1-4 cr. Research not related to thesis.