A student entering this program is normally expected to have an undergraduate degree in biology. Students without a degree in biology or students lacking certain background courses in biology and related sciences may be expected to complete undergraduate courses to compensate for deficiencies. All students must take the GRE general test.

Graduate students must select an advising committee by the first pre-registration period following admission on any basis, or one will be selected for them by the Department Chair.

There are two plans for degree completion. The first plan, the thesis track, is designed for students who plan to continue on with further graduate education or who plan to enter research-related careers. The second plan, the non-thesis track, is designed for students who do not plan to continue their education in biology. This plan is often preferred by secondary educators, persons interested in scientific sales, or those interested in laboratory management positions. In either case, the student, in consultation with her or his advising committee, will design a course of study to specifically meet the needs of the individual student. The specifics of the two degree programs are provided below.

Learning Outcomes

1. To develop a strong diversified background in modern biology appropriate to the individual student’s goals. The anticipated outcome will be a student with an appreciation for the areas of modern biology and the inter-relatedness of these areas.
2. To develop critical-thinking and problem based learning skills. The anticipated outcome will be a student with the ability to develop new ideas, to explore new areas of science or other academic endeavors, to design, implement, and evaluate scientific investigations, and to assess, interpret and understand data and its meaning.
3. To develop the ability to communicate scientific ideas in both written and oral formats. The anticipated outcome will be a student who can organize and present his or her scientific ideas in both written and oral formats.