Biology Graduate Programs
Master of Science in Biology
Students must pass the written M.S. comprehensive examination (see "Departmental Graduate Examinations") in their respective areas of specialization: biochemistry, cell and molecular biology, or microbiology. Students in biotechnology may choose any of the three examinations.
This will include 25-29 credit hours of coursework and two credit hours of BIOL 595 Colloquium. Two options are available to complete the M.S. degree requirements:
Thesis Option
The thesis option is designed for individuals planning careers as experimental biologists, including those who may wish to pursue a Ph.D. Students choosing the thesis option must complete six credit hours of thesis research (BIOL 591). Students must also prepare a written thesis based on laboratory research.
Non-Thesis Option
The non-thesis option is intended as a terminal degree to meet the needs of teachers, science administrators, policymakers in the life sciences, patent attorneys and others.
Students who elect the non-thesis option must complete a library research project in one of the following courses: BIOL 572 (Literature in Biochemistry), BIOL 574 (Literature in Biotechnology), BIOL 576 (Literature in Cell and Molecular Biology), or BIOL 578 (Literature in Microbiology).
Required Courses
Biochemistry
Biotechnology
Cell and Molecular Biology
Microbiology