Master of Science in Biological Sciences: General Program
30 credits
Program Rationale:
The General Program is for biology and science teachers and all 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. Other courses may be substituted for the professional education component with the advisor's approval.
The planned program of graduate study will be developed by a student and his or her advisor and will be based upon the student's undergraduate record and educational needs.
Program Learning Outcomes:
Graduate students will:
- demonstrate knowledge in general biology;
- describe scientific methodology and conduct experiments;
- demonstrate a thorough understanding of a specific area of biology;
- be able to read and comprehend primary literature;
- deliver effective oral presentations (poster or PowerPoint); and
- effectively communicate on research in written format.
| Course and Capstone Requirements: |
| Professional Education (6-9 credits): |
| One of the following: |
| EDF 500 |
Contemporary Educational Issues |
3 |
| EDF 516 |
School and Society |
3 |
| EDF 524 |
Foundations of Contemporary Theories of Curriculum |
3 |
| EDF 525 |
History of American Education |
3 |
| EDF 538 |
The Politics of Education |
3 |
| EDF 583 |
Sociological Foundations of Education |
3 |
| and |
| Additional course(s) as approved by advisor |
3 |
| Biology Requirements (4-5 credits): |
| BIO 500 |
Seminar in Biology |
1-2 |
| BIO 540 |
Topics in Advanced Biology |
3-4 |
| Directed Electives (10-17 credits): |
| In biology or related fields as approved by advisor |
| Research (3-6 credits): |
| Plan A: |
| BIO 599 |
Thesis |
(6 credits) |
| and thesis defense |
| or |
| BIO 598 |
Research in Biology |
3 |
| and |
| BIO 599 |
Thesis and thesis defense |
(3 credits) |
| or |
| Plan B: |
| BIO 598 |
Research in Biology |
3 |
| and comprehensive exam |
Note: Additional work, as described in the course syllabi, will be required for graduate credit in 400-level courses. Students may take no more than nine credits of 400-level courses.