The subject matter of EEB is broad, and encompasses topics such as studies of human origins, the evolution of biodiversity over space and time, the origins of social systems, and the effects of climate change and biotic invasions on ecosystems. The research conducted through this program impacts many applied fields, such as conservation, bioremediation, or epidemiology, to name a few. This program is supported through the College of Arts and Sciences, and currently involves the participation of faculty from the Departments of Anthropology, Biological Sciences, Geography, Geology and Psychology.

Students acquire the advanced training to produce world-class researchers and scientists for the 21st Century. They will attain expertise in their research area and teaching required to pursue a career in academia, as well as the skills and qualifications needed to work in industry, government, and non-profits.

The PhD typically requires a minimum of four years to complete. The scope of the dissertation is larger than that required for a MS program, often encompassing several components to a research question. The PhD program also requires successful completion of a qualifying exam.