Sample Degree Plan
Biology, MS - Thesis Option Sample Degree Map
The Master of Science in Biology program requires completion of 30 credit hours of graduate-level courses. Thesis and Comprehensive Exam options are available.
Admission Requirements
- Cumulative GPA 2.75 (3.0 preferred)
- Online application
- Résumé
- Statement of Intent
- Recommendation letters (2)
- Undergraduate transcripts
Background Preparation
- Bachelor’s degree (or equivalent) in Life Science from an accredited institution
- Demonstrated motivation and training needed to succeed in graduate study
- Supporting science background includes physics, statistics, calculus and organic chemistry
Sample Degree Plan
First Semester
| Course | Credits | |
| BIOL 534 | Animal Behavior | 3 |
| BIOL 511 | Graduate Research Methods | 3 |
| BIOL 590 | Graduate Seminar | 1 |
| BIOL 690 | Thesis Research* | 0 |
| TOTAL | 7 |
Second Semester
| Course | Credits | |
| BIOL 550 | Developmental Biology | 3 |
| BIOL 521 | Graduate Science Communication | 3 |
| BIOL 590 | Graduate Seminar | 1 |
| BIOL 690 | Thesis Research* | 0 |
| TOTAL | 7 |
Third Semester
| Course | Credits | |
| BIOL 524 | Aquatic Biology | 3 |
| BIOL 550 | Biological Conservation | 3 |
| BIOL 690 | Thesis Research* | 0 |
| TOTAL | 6 |
Fourth Semester
| Course | Credits | |
| BIOL 547 | Evolution | 3 |
| BIOL 550 | Plant Taxonomy | 3 |
| BIOL 590 | Graduate Seminar | 1 |
| BIOL 690 | Thesis Research | 3 |
| TOTAL | 10 |
GRAND TOTAL: 30
* BIOL 690 can be taken from 0 to 2 credits. If more credits are taken, the program's total credits can range from 30 to 36 credit hours.