As a foundation, all students study biology and biostatistics. From there, the journey is up to you: Plan A includes a thesis and prepares you for doctoral studies or a research career; B is a more coursework-oriented program; and C includes a minor in business administration, for students interested in the biological and pharmaceutical industries. We also offer a neuroscience track, requiring either a research or library thesis.

The Master of Science (M.S.) Program in the Department of Biological Sciences offers a challenging and current curriculum in the field of biological sciences. The program engages a diverse and responsive faculty with excellent teaching skills and scholarship activities. The mission of the M.S. program is to provide graduate students with broad, in-depth biological knowledge, advance their empirical skills, mentor them on how to integrate various scientific disciplines, enhance their ability to interpret research data using logic and reasoning, build on their communication skills, and allow them to understand the applications and limitations of science and research. The M.S. program offers an M.S. in Biology, with the option of a Neuroscience track or a minor in Business Administration, as well as an M.S. in Microbiology. The M.S. program trains students in teaching and research, preparing them for a career in biological-related fields. This program also provides a solid foundation for entry into the Ph.D. program. In conclusion, the M.S. program will encourage students to become life-long learners and to contribute to the greater good by developing and sustaining ethical values through their medical, biological, and/or environmental stewardship.

Goal 1: Expand Student Knowledge in the Field of Biological Sciences.

Objective 1: Cellular and Molecular Basis of Life

Students will learn in-depth complex biological concepts at the cellular and molecular level. Specifically, students will demonstrate their ability to explain and apply their knowledge of:

1. The molecular basis for the form and function of cells
2. The relationship between structure and function at the cellular and molecular level
3. The cellular basis of physiological and developmental processes.

Objective 2: Research methods and laboratory skills

Students will be required to take a wide range of courses that have a laboratory component. Through these courses, graduates will be exposed to a wide range of research techniques that will enhance their understanding of the applicability of science. In addition, students undertaking a research thesis will have the opportunity to develop and execute their own research ideas and construct their own experiments thus expanding their knowledge of research methods and laboratory skills. Specifically, students will demonstrate their ability to:

1. Select and use appropriate techniques and methodologies to do research
2. Successfully complete laboratory procedures
3. Successfully abide by laboratory rules and regulations.

Goal 2: Further Develop Skills Related to the Biological Sciences

Objective 1: Critical Thinking

Students will develop skills of observation and critical reading of texts and environments, interpret representations of data and models, understand hypotheses and conclusions, identify gaps in knowledge, formulate scientific questions, and recognize the synthesis of new ideas. Specifically, students will demonstrate their ability to:

1. Identify questions that can be addressed scientifically
2. Interpret data and draw conclusions scientifically
3. Demonstrate the ability to read, understand, and critically review scientific papers

Objective 2: Scientific Information and Technology Literacy

Students will excel in scientific literature search, develop proficiency in accurate data collection, conduct proper calibration and use of scientific instrumentation, and develop appropriate use of scientific techniques in experimental design. Specifically, students will demonstrate their ability to:

1. Select, use, and appropriately cite select articles from primary literature for the Introduction and Discussion sections of their written assignments and final thesis

Objective 3: Numeracy

Students will develop the ability to reason and apply complex numerical concepts and equations in their fields of study and research while drawing relevant scientific conclusions. More specifically, graduates are required to take Biostatistics which is important for correctly interpreting scientific data. Specifically, students will demonstrate their ability to:

1. Statistically analyze scientific data
2. Use mathematical equations to predict or explain biological phenomena.

Objective 4: Communication

Students will communicate scientific observations, analyses, and arguments in a written format typically required by their future professions. Furthermore, students undertaking a research thesis will have the opportunity to present their results in oral and written formats. Overall, students will develop oral communication skills from formal presentations and informal scientific discourse. Specifically, students will demonstrate their ability to:

1. Discuss biological processes using precise scientific terminology
2. Prepare written or oral reports in a standard scientific format using appropriate analytical tools and presentation software
3. Present at professional societies and conferences
4. Answer questions from the public or their committee following or during an oral presentation.

Goal 3: Apply Knowledge and Skills of Biological to the Greater Good of Society

Objective 1: Opportunities and Limitations in the Application of Biological Knowledge, Skills, and Research

Students will be able to integrate scientific, and biological knowledge within a social, political, and/or historical context while recognizing both the potential and limitations of scientific application. Specifically, students will demonstrate their ability to:

1. Apply scientific processes, including designing and conducting experiments and examining hypotheses
2. Place their research in a broader scientific context based on current literature
3. Evaluate the work of their peers

Objective 2: Professional and Career Development

Students will be able to implement the knowledge, skills, and values of biological sciences into occupational pursuits, making them attractive candidates in today's job market.