2011-2012 Graduate Catalog 
    
    Nov 24, 2024  
2011-2012 Graduate Catalog [Archived Catalog]

Biology and Microbiology


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The Department of Biology and Microbiology provides students with a wide range of opportunities for advanced study. The graduate faculty offer expertise and graduate student advisement in subdisciplines from molecular biology through ecology. Faculty members are very successful in obtaining extramural funds to support graduate student projects. Graduate students have modern research laboratories, equipment and field research sites available to carry out their research projects. Alumni rate the learning environment, scholarly excellence and quality of teaching as areas of strength in the department’s Graduate Program.

Available Options for Graduate Degrees


 

Master of Science Option A
  Option B
Doctor of Philosophy 60 Credit Plan
  90 Credit Plan

 

 

Core Requirements


For details see specific programs: MS in Biological Sciences; or PhD in Biological Sciences.

Graduation requirements for Master’s and PhD for Biology and Microbiology.

MS graduation requirements

-  Yearly evaluation (research progress + coursework)
-  Presentation of Thesis/Paper (public) during last semester of program
-  Oral defense of Thesis (committee) during last semester of program
-  Thesis (Plan A) - OR - Research Paper (Plan B) completion

PhD graduation requirements

- Yearly evaluation (research progress + coursework)
- Comprehensive written exam (mid-program)
- Comprehensive oral exam (defense of written exam/research progress) (mid-program)
- Oral presentation of Dissertation (public) during last semester of program
- Oral defense of Dissertation (committee) during last semester of program
- Dissertation completion

Additional Admission Requirements


GRE: Scores ranking above the 50th percentile will strengthen the case for admission
TOEFL: Score of 575 paper-based, 233 computer-based, 90 Internet based, or 6.5 for IELTS.

At least two letters of reference or Personal References must be sent to the Department.  A personal statement that includes a description of the applicants involvement in research, the applicants research interest, and career goals is also required.

Retention in the program is dependent on formation of a committee and completion of review matrix by the end of the first year. In ensuing years, students must have a committee meeting and complete review annually.

General Requirements (Master’s and PhD)


Graduate students should consult with their advisor before registering for graduate work.

See Master’s Degree Requirements and Doctor of Philosophy Degree Requirements.

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