Biological Sciences, M.S., Research Concentration

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The program offers both Thesis and Research Project (non-Thesis) options that consist of core and elective classwork, research work, and a culminating Research Paper or Thesis for a total of 32 credit hours. The Thesis option is suitable for students who are interested in developing and conducting an independent research project. New students and students enrolled in the general M.S. program may apply to RES after identifying a faculty mentor.

Research Project (Non-Thesis) Option (32 hours)

Core Courses (5 hours)

BIOL 8900 - Topics in Microbiology 1 Credit Hours
2 hours of Biology Seminar
2 hours of Concept/Topic classes

Elective Courses (15 hours)

BIOL 6000- and 8000-level courses except for BIOL 6900 as specified in an Individual Development Plan (IPD) developed by the student with the faculty advisor and approved by the Graduate Director. BIOL 7000 level courses are not applicable.

Research Paper (12 hours)

To satisfy this requirement, the student must select a faculty advisor and enroll in:

8 hours of BIOL 8800 - Research 1 to 25 Credit Hours
BIOL 8888 - Non-Thesis Master’s Research 4 Credit Hours

Thesis Option (32 hours)

Core Courses (5 hours)

2 hours of Biology Seminar
2 hours Concept/Topic classes or Student Seminar (BIOL 8900 )

BIOL 8000 - Responsible Conduct in Research 1 Credit Hours

Elective Courses (7 hours)

BIOL 6000- and 8000-level courses except for BIOL 6900 as specified in an Individual Development Plan (IPD), developed by the student with the faculty advisor and approved by the Graduate Director. BIOL 7000-level courses are not applicable.

Thesis Research (20 hours)

Students register for BIOL 8800 before the thesis committee chaired by the faculty advisor approves the thesis proposal. Students register for BIOL 8999 after the proposal is approved.

BIOL 8800 - Research 1 to 25 Credit Hours
BIOL 8999 - Thesis Research 1 to 25 Credit Hours