Department of Biology

Master of Science in Biology: GENERAL Program

	.
	Biology Home
	Courses & Programs
	Journal
	Faculty
	Research Options
	Courses For Careers
	Clubs
	Portfolio Requirement
	Seminars
	Biology Links
	Contact Us
	.

The Master of Science in Biology: General Program is designed for biology teachers and others who wish to expand their background in the broad area of biology or who wish to specialize in a particular aspect of this discipline. Students who as undergraduates majored in areas other than biology may also pursue a master's degree in this program. The planned program will be developed by the student and advisor and will be based upon the student's undergraduate record and educational needs.

There are two Plans (Plan A and Plan B) leading to the Master of Science: Professional Education Program degree, each of which requires a total of 30 credits, made up of a Professional Education Component, a Biology Course Component and a Capstone Component.

Professional Education Component for Plan A or Plan B (6-9 credits)

EDF 500, Contemporary Educational Issues (3 cr)
Education electives (3-6 cr)

Biology Course Component (15-21 credits):

BIO 500, Seminar in Biology (1 cr)
BIO 540, Topics in Advanced Biology (3-4 cr)
BIO electives (11-16 cr in biology or related fields)

Capstone Component (6 credits):

for Plan A, one of two thesis options:
Option 1: BIO 599, Thesis (6 cr) and a thesis defense
Option 2: BIO 599, Thesis (3 cr) and a thesis defense plus BIO 598, Research in Biology (3 cr)
for Plan B, one option:
BIO 598, Research in Biology
Comprehensive Exam

Certification in Biology for Secondary Education
The Department of Biology also evaluates undergraduate and graduate preparation of applicants to the biology certification program in secondary education. This evaluation is done through interviews and/or review of transcripts of prospective candidates who have been admitted to the graduate program. Transcripts are forwarded to the department chair by the School of Education and Professional Studies. The chair of Biology or a departmental designate will make recommendations for courses to be completed in the biological area of the student's program. Admission to the professional program is contingent on recommendation by the Department of Biology in addition to completion of other requirements.