30 credits -–Thesis option

31 credits — Non-thesis option

39 credits — Non-research option

Purpose of the M.S. Program

The purpose of the M.S. program in biology is to provide students with a comprehensive foundational knowledge in their area of specialty, coupled with a high degree of competence in research design, methodology, analysis, interpretation and communication.

Student Learning Outcomes

• Understand the standards of ethics and conduct in their profession and behave in a manner consistent with these standards
• Comprehend the impact of their professional decisions and actions upon society, their employer, their profession, and themselves and work diligently to achieve positive outcomes
• Be proficient in performing research
• Read, analyze, interpret and write in a manner consistent with the standards of their field
• Communicate effectively in a variety of modes using emerging technologies as required in a discipline specific professional setting
• Identify and understand critical issues
• Challenge and evaluate information
• Synthesize and integrate knowledge
• Demonstrate advanced knowledge and skills and be able to apply your expertise in academic, basic or applied research settings.
• Formulate new ideas.