Graduate Courses

Course work for the Master of Science degree is varied. We offer many graduate only courses (7000 level) and a very wide range of cross listed courses (5000G level) so that students can tailor their program to meet their career goals.

To degree paths exist: a traditional thesis option and a non- thesis option. The thesis option is by far the most common route in biology.  Here students conduct original work under the direction of a specific faculty member (advisor) and produce a thesis.  The non-thesis option is designed for individuals who desire to expand their biological knowledge via coursework alone. This option is well suited for those that are already in a professional setting such as teachers or persons in industry.

Thesis

The Thesis option in the Master of Science in Biology program requires 30 hours of course work. Required course work includes Biometry & Research Methods. Students have the option of taking one or more of the following specialty courses: Evolutionary Ecology, Molecular Biology, or Applied Biology. Other requirements include 2 hours of graduate seminar (BIOL 7610), 3 hours of research (BIOL 7895), and 3 hours of thesis (BIOL 7999). At least 15 hours must be at the 7000 level.

Non Thesis

The non-thesis program requires 36 hours of course work. Required course work includes two of the following specialty courses: Evolutionary Ecology, Molecular Biology, or Applied Biology. Other requirements include 2 hours of graduate seminar (BIOL 7610), 3 hours of directed individual study (BIOL 7890/7893), and elective courses at the 5000G level.

Last updated: 7/1/2020