Mar 28, 2024  
2022-2023 Academic Bulletin 
    
2022-2023 Academic Bulletin [ARCHIVED CATALOG]

Biology MS


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The graduate program in biology equips students to pursue a career in biology or to advance to additional training in science or professional programs. This research thesis-based program serves students with interests in biology ranging from field-based to laboratory-based lines of biological study. Students that abide by the recommended timeline of study can complete the program in 2 years.

Total Credits - 30


Electives


Biology MS electives (15 credits), selected in consultation with an academic advisor, from any 500-level BIOL course to fulfill the remaining credits required.

  • BIOL 690 can be taken as an elective.
  • Graduate courses in other programs from BCHM, EDRM, FDNT, GDPC, and PBHL may be taken, upon consultation with a student’s academic advisor.

Admission Requirements


In addition to the general admission requirements under the School of Graduate Studies  , students must meet the following departmental requirements.

  • A bachelor’s degree with major in biology or an approved, related discipline, with appropriate upper division courses. The following courses are recommended: cell/molecular biology, organismal physiology, developmental biology, genetics, and ecology.
  • A minimum GPA of 3.00 (B) in the undergraduate major.
  • GRE scores are required in order to review the application for admission (see School of Graduate Studies  ).
  • Cognate sciences, including full-year courses in general chemistry, organic chemistry, and physics. Mathematics through calculus and a course in statistics are strongly recommended.

Student Learning Outcomes


At the end of the program, students should be able to:

  • Have a broad understanding of biology across many sub-disciplines, including population, organismal, cell and molecular, and philosophical biology.
  • Ask good biological questions and approach relevant answers through the use of the scientific method in rigorous biological research.
  • Exhibit growing comfort and skill in the communication of science to both specialists (scientists) and non-specialists (students and the general public).
  • Understand the relationship of science and faith and the critical role that each has in answering life’s most important questions.

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