Doctor of Philosophy, Immunology and Microbial Pathogenesis, Ph.D - (Standard Track)

West Virginia University

The PhD in immunology and microbial pathogenesis will prepare students from diverse backgrounds to serve as professionals who are knowledgeable about the immune system of humans and other mammals, how the immune system functions, and the consequences of its malfunction on the health of the host. Knowledge of the immune system will be fully integrated with an excellent understanding of the diversity of microorganisms that cause disease in humans and other mammals and mechanisms of disease pathogenesis. Graduates will possess the laboratory skills and knowledge needed to assess the functional status of the immune system and to assess the mechanism used by microbial agents to cause disease in mammals. Graduates will be qualified to pursue several professional career paths in private industry, state and federal government, and academic institutions.