2015-2016 Undergraduate/Graduate Catalog

Biological Sciences: General Program M.S.

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

One of the following:

EDF 500Contemporary Educational Issues

3

EDF 516School and Society

3

EDF 524Foundations of Contemporary Theories of Curriculum

3

EDF 525History of American Education

3

EDF 538The Politics of Education

3

EDF 583Sociological Foundations of Education

3

and

Additional course(s) as approved by advisor

3

Biology Requirements

BIO 500Seminar in Biology

1 TO 2

BIO 540Topics in Advanced Biology

3 TO 4

Directed Electives

In biology or related fields as approved by advisor

Research

Plan A:

BIO 599Thesis

3 OR 6

and

Thesis defense

or

BIO 598Research in Biology

3

and

BIO 599Thesis

3 OR 6

or

Plan B:

BIO 598Research in Biology

3

and

a 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.