Dr. Cowles earned his medical degree at the University of Tennessee Health Science Center, and completed his graduate training at the University of Texas Health Science Center Houston and M.D. Anderson Cancer Center in the field of urology. He is published in numerous medical journals and books, and has been an expert medical analyst on national and local television programs. His urology office at the Cowles Clinic, where he continues to practice, has been named a NeoTract Center of Excellence in prostate surgery.

Having taught surgery in 29 countries, Dr. Cowles was named Prostate Educator of the Year by The American Foundation for Urological Disease. He is Chairman of Pharmagene Pharmaceutical Company, International Health Partners, and is past President of the Georgia Urological Association. Other positions held include the Georgia Department of Public Health Board, and Board Member of the Georgia Trauma Commission.

Dr. Cowles and his wife, Jacqui, along with their two children, Kate and Bass, live at Lake Oconee.