Biology (M.S.)

Master of Science. Majors in Biology and Neuroscience.

The M.S. program emphasizes research including (but not limited to) the departmental and multidisciplinary areas described above. Admission is based upon the compatibility of the student's research interests with the areas of concentration offered by the department and the availability of a faculty member to be the student’s mentor. An incoming student arranges a formal graduate program of at least 30 semester hours in consultation with their major professor and graduate committee. A laboratory research based thesis is required.

Please see the Biological Sciences graduate student handbook for details and program requirements on earning the Master of Science in Biology degree.

Biology Major

1. The student will develop and use knowledge in the sciences with disciplinary specialization and integrate that information across disciplines.
2. The student will be able to formulate hypotheses and conduct original research to test hypotheses.
3. The student will be able to use critical thinking to explore and understand real-world issues, solve problems, and make consequential decisions.
4. The student will be able to clearly communicate ideas, research findings, and conclusions using oral and written communication skills.
5. The student will be able to demonstrate awareness, understanding, sensitivity, tolerance, and respect for differences between individuals and societal groups in terms of their values, motivations, morals, and opinions.
6. The student will be able to apply high standards of ethical behavior in professional and personal interactions to advance knowledge, promote education, enhance a sense of community, and improve the general well being of others.

Neuroscience Major

1. The student will demonstrate in-depth knowledge of the degree subject matter, integrating and building upon the foundation provide by a relevant undergraduate degree.
2. The student will be able to do original research and to appropriately and accurately analyze the results.
3. The student will be able to communicate the results of their research in written and other appropriate formats.
4. The student will be able to apply principles of ethical leadership, collaborative engagement, socially responsible behavior, respect for diversity in an interdependent world, and a service-oriented commitment to advance and sustain local and global communities.
5. The student will be able to understand their responsibility to enhance the quality of life of the global community through research and/or professional practice.