Biology, MS

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The biological sciences department offers a MS in Biology with both Thesis and Non-Thesis Options. Courses are available in biotechnology, molecular and cellular biology, microbiology, human biology, and ecology. Graduate level elective courses are offered in the Fall, Spring, and Summer semesters, making it possible to graduate with a non-thesis option in just three semesters. A diverse course schedule accommodates both full-time and part-time students. Our MS degree program provides an exceptional opportunity for professional development as well as a bridge to doctoral or health professional programs.

Degree Requirements and Plan of Study

A plan of study should be submitted to the Graduate School shortly after acceptance into the program. A Graduate Advisory Committee will work closely with the student to design a program suited to the student’s needs.

Non-Thesis Option

Twenty-nine credits in formal courses and special assignments (independent study, research and reading) and one credit in seminar. The special assignment credits (independent study, research and reading) cannot exceed six; and the reading credits cannot exceed three. Of the total of thirty credits, twenty-one credits must in the primary area of biology at 50000 and 60000 levels and 9 credits in supporting areas. The supporting areas include biology (outside of the primary area), statistics, computer science, mathematics, education, chemistry, and physics. For example, students interested in biology teaching would choose education courses for the supporting area. Up to six credits can be taken from 40000-level formal courses as a part of the supporting area requirement. Students exercising this option must pass a written comprehensive exam for the degree.

Thesis Option

Fifteen credits in formal courses, one credit in seminar, and up to 14 credits in thesis research. Up to three credits of thesis research can be substituted by special assignment (independent study, research and reading). Of the total of thirty credits, twenty-one credits must in the primary area of biology at 50000 and 60000 levels and nine credits in supporting areas. The supporting areas include biology (outside of the primary area), statistics, computer science, mathematics, chemistry, and physics. Up to six credits can be taken from 40000-level formal courses as a part of the supporting area requirement. Students exercising this option must submit a formal research proposal, conduct the research, write a thesis, and pass an oral defense before a faculty committee.

Required Cumulative Index

GPA of 3.0 or higher. A grade of “B-” or better is required in all courses in the primary area. The degree must be completed in 10 semesters within 5 years.

Transfer of Credit

A maximum of 9 credits taken from other accredited institutions completed within 10 years prior to completion of degree program may be accepted for supporting area. Only credit hours associated with graduate courses for which grades of B- or better were obtained will be eligible for transfer.