Want to go to Grad School?
Is graduate school for me?
Want to work with animals, but aren't interested in a D.V.M.? You don't have to go to just Veterinary school to further your education. You can also attend graduate school and receive a Master's and/or Doctorate degree in Animal Biology! Visit the Animal Biology Graduate Studies page to learn more about UC Davis's graduate program and additional opportunities.
You can also check out the General Graduate Admissions page to discover other programs of interest.
Master's vs. Ph.D
| Master's Degree | Ph.D. | |
|---|---|---|
| Length | Approximately 2 years | 4-7 years (or more) |
| Depth of Knowledge | Advanced, in-depth course work on a focused subject | Expert level of knowledge on a focused subject |
| Preparation | Can help with upward mobility in your future profession | Prepared for a career in research (industry, government, academia) |
| Teaching Trajectory | Allows you to teach at community college level | Allow you to teach at a college/university level as a professor |
| Funding | Occasionally funded | Usually funded |
| Assessment | Assessed by exam or thesis project | Assessed by qualifying exams + dissertation |
| Outcome | Can be terminal or used as preparation for Ph.D. | Engage in original research |
Helpful Links
- List of Graduate Programs at UC Davis
- ABI Graduate Studies Information page
- UC Davis ABI Grad Admissions
- ABI Graduate Studies requirements
- ABI Graduate Studies Application
What is required?
For Graduate school, there are several components you are going to want included with your application:
- Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL)
- *Exemptions apply - see the UCD TOEFL section*
- Graduate Record Examination (GRE)
- Statement of purpose, personal history statement, diversity statement, and a writing sample
- Letters of recommendation
- Transcripts
- CV and/or resume
- Research and/or experience highly recommended
While it may seem overwhelming, you will complete and accumulate many of the listed requirements during your time as an undergraduate student.
For the official application to grad school, you will have to check the graduate studies page of the department you are interested in, as they will each have their own application.
How can I get the things Grad schools want?
Similarly to Vet schools, grad schools will want you to have experience in your area of interest. You can find opportunities in several areas, such as the Career Center, Handshake jobs, clubs aimed at helping you prepare for graduate school, volunteer work that fosters leadership, and more.