Master of Science in Biology
The Department of Biology graduate program prepares students to become competent, confident, and compassionate professionals in their chosen careers. Faculty provide instructional and research experiences that build skills in inquiry, abstract and logical thinking, and critical analysis of natural science phenomena — with both professional and academic degree paths available to match your goals.
Degree Options
The M.S. in Biology is offered under two tracks. View the full program on the Biology Graduate Program page.
Non-Thesis Track
The Non-Thesis Track is a primarily coursework-based degree designed for students seeking advanced training across sub-disciplines of Biology without the emphasis on original research required by the Thesis Track.
Students complete 8 hours of required core courses and select 28–36 hours from a broad range of guided electives, for a total of 36 program hours.
View Non-Thesis Track requirements in the Graduate Bulletin
Thesis Track
The Thesis Track emphasizes original research, scientific writing, and oral communication. Students complete 14 hours of core requirements and 18–30 hours of elective coursework, for a total of 32 program hours.
In addition to coursework, Thesis Track students must:
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Submit a thesis based on an original scientific investigation conducted under the supervision of a thesis committee
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Present and defend their research in a public seminar
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Pass an oral thesis defense administered by the thesis committee
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Maintain a minimum GPA of 3.0 on all graduate coursework
With advisor approval, students develop a plan of study and identify two additional Biology Graduate Faculty to serve on the thesis committee by the end of their first semester.
Admission
For degree-specific admission requirements and details on the application process, visit the Biology Graduate Admissions page.