The Master of Science and doctoral programs include specializations in the areas of animal physiology, ecology, evolution and systematic biology, microbiology, plant physiology, plant biotechnology, and quantitative biology.

Once admitted to a master?s or doctoral degree program, students may be required by their advisory committee to take a preliminary, diagnostic examination that includes subject matter usually required of undergraduates. If the preliminary examination reveals serious weaknesses in the student?s subject-matter background, the student may be required to take remedial courses designated by the advisory committee.