Key information
Duration
- Full-time — 84 months
Start dates & application deadlines
- Starting August 2027 — Apply before December 2026
Language
English
- TOEFL iBT: 77
- IELTS: 7
Delivered
On Campus
Campus Location
- Ithaca, United States
Disciplines
Biology
Overview
This Behavioral Biology programme offered by Cornell University investigates the biological foundations of behaviour across organisms and environments. Research explores how behavioural patterns arise, evolve, and function within ecological and social contexts, drawing on perspectives from behavioural ecology, ethology, neuroethology, sociobiology, and chemical ecology. Doctoral candidates conduct original research aimed at advancing understanding of behavioural mechanisms and their significance in the natural world.
Key Facts
The programme combines specialised research training, teaching experience, scholarly communication, and dissertation research. Students develop expertise in evaluating scientific literature, formulating innovative research questions, collecting and analysing original data, and interpreting findings within broader biological frameworks. Through independent investigation, collaboration, and dissemination of research findings, doctoral candidates contribute new knowledge to the study of behaviour and its ecological, evolutionary, and physiological foundations.
Programme Structure
Courses include:
- Behavioral Ecology
- Chemical Ecology
- Ethology
- Neuroethology
- Sociobiology
- Animal Behaviour
- Behavioural Adaptation
- Ecological Interactions
Admission requirements
Academic requirements
We are not aware of any specific GRE, GMAT or GPA grading score requirements for this programme.
English requirements
- TOEFL iBT: 77
- IELTS: 7
Other requirements
General requirements
- The field discourages the application of Cornell graduates and accepts such students only under special circumstances. Cornell graduates should consult with the Director of Graduate Studies.
- Required Tests
- Recommendations
- Academic Statement of Purpose
- Personal Statement
- Transcript Requirements
- English Language Proficiency Requirement
- International Degree Equivalencies
Fees and funding
Tuition Fees
Tuition fees are shown in AUD and the most likely applicable fee is shown based on your nationality.
- International (Non-residents): 29,209 AUD / year (≈ 20,800 USD / year)
- Out-of-State: 29,209 AUD / year (≈ 20,800 USD / year)
- Domestic (In-State): 29,209 AUD / year (≈ 20,800 USD / year)
Living costs
Ithaca, United States: 1,584-3,454 AUD / month. The living costs include the total expenses per month, covering accommodation, public transportation, utilities (electricity, internet), books and groceries.
Funding
Scholarships
Below you will find PhD's scholarship opportunities for Behavioral Biology.
