Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Veterinary Pathology

The Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in veterinary pathology requires a minimum of 72 graduate credits including at least 12 graduate credits earned outside the department. The preliminary examination, consisting of written and oral components, is comprehensive and not restricted to the content of graduate courses. The degree candidate must submit a dissertation, including at least two manuscripts suitable for publication, to the committee members and departmental chair at least two weeks prior to the final examination. The final examination is primarily a defense of the dissertation, but it may include questions on other areas of specialized knowledge. The department also offers a combined DVM/Ph.D. program designed for completion of courses for the Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Veterinary Pathology simultaneously with study in the professional curriculum in the College of Veterinary Medicine. Graduates have a broad understanding of the mechanistic basis of disease pathogenesis. They are able to communicate with clinicians, other scientists, and other colleagues on scientific matters, and with the general public on related science policy matters. Graduates are able to address complex problems facing the agricultural and biomedical sciences, and comparative medicine, and are able to make appropriate diagnoses and investigations of animal diseases. They consider ethical, social, legal and environmental issues, and are skilled at carrying out research, communicating research results, and writing concise and competitive grant proposals.