Animal Behavior, PhD

Program Overview

The Animal Behavior PhD program at ASU prepares students for research careers through a transdisciplinary approach, encompassing anatomy, ecology, evolution, neuroscience, and physiology. The program provides rigorous training in research methods, animal behavior theory, and ecological conservation, with a focus on applied scientific value in fields like veterinary science and human mental health. Students benefit from world-renowned faculty, a research-intensive environment, and individualized guidance, leading to careers in academia, government, non-governmental organizations, and other relevant fields.

Program Outline

Degree Overview:

• Objective: Prepare students for research careers in animal behavior through a transdisciplinary approach, encompassing anatomy, ecology, evolution, neuroscience, and physiology.
• Description: The program provides rigorous training in research methods, animal behavior theory, and ecological conservation.
Students gain expertise with applied scientific value in fields like veterinary science and human mental health. The ecological focus aligns with local, state, and global priorities in conservation and sustainability.

Outline:

• Required Core (8 credit hours):
• ANB 601 Research Strategies in Animal Behavior (4)
• ANB 602 Current Issues in Animal Behavior (1)
• Electives or Research (4)
• Electives and Research (64 credit hours):
• Determined in conjunction with the student's advisor.
• Culminating Experience (12 credit hours):
• ANB 799 Dissertation (12)

Assessment:

• Written and oral exams: Assessing knowledge and understanding of animal behavior research.
• Dissertation: An original research project demonstrating mastery of research skills and the ability to make a significant contribution to the field.

Teaching:

• World-renowned faculty: Leading experts in various areas of animal behavior research.
• Research-intensive environment: Nurturing a community of scholars dedicated to advancing knowledge and discovery.

Careers:

• Academic:
• Faculty positions at colleges and universities.
• Government:
• Careers in wildlife management and conservation with federal and state agencies.
• Non-governmental organizations:
• Conservation-related roles in NGOs.
• Other relevant fields:
• Animal scientist, biology professor, conservation biologist, postsecondary biology teacher, wildlife biologist.

Other:

• STEM-OPT extension: Up to 36 months for eligible international students on F-1 visas.
• Ecological focus: Addressing pressing issues in conservation and sustainability.
• It highlights the program's role in equipping students with valuable skills and knowledge applicable to various career paths beyond academia.