2019-2020 Graduate Catalog 
    
    Mar 19, 2024  
2019-2020 Graduate Catalog [Archived Catalog]

Biological Sciences (M.S.) - Natural Resource Management Specialization


Program Coordinator/Contact

Michele Dudash, Department Head
Department of Natural Resource Management
Edgar S. McFadden Biostress Laboratory 138, Box 2140B
605-688-6121

Program Information

The Natural Resource Management specialization will provide training in ecology, evolution, environmental sciences, and range areas of expertise with a focus on basic and applied research.

Student Learning Outcomes

Graduates of the Master of Science in Biological Sciences will:

  • Have a deep understanding and knowledge of biological principles related to the chosen discipline
  • Apply principles into practice in the field or industry setting
  • Have an appreciation and working knowledge of scientific research methods in the discipline
  • Demonstrate ability to interpret research findings and understand the implications
  • Write a coherent thesis or research paper and demonstrate the ability to write a scientific journal paper
  • Demonstrate competence in the major course topics covered by the student’s graduate plan of study
  • Demonstrate the ability to use ethics in decision making and planning
  • Demonstrate information literacy for science-based decision making and lifetime learning

Course Delivery Format

Biological Sciences courses are delivered face-to-face and enhanced with web-based instruction. Online delivery may be offered for specific courses.

Facilities and Services

The department is housed within the McFadden Biostress Laboratory at SDSU.

Available Options for Graduate Degrees


Master of Science Option A - Thesis 30 Credit Hours
  Option B - Research/Design Paper 32 Credit Hours

Core Requirements


  • Credits: 1 (2 credits required)
  • STAT courses numbered 500 level or higher Credits: 3
  • Additional course credits from BOT, EES, NRM, RANG, or WL numbered 500-level or higher Credits: 6

Select one of the following options


Option A - Thesis


Option B - Research/Design Paper


Total Required Credits: 30 (Option A), 32 (Option B)


Additional Admission Requirements


GRE:  Required
TOEFL:  Department Requirement of 525 paper-based, 71 Internet-based
IELTS: 5.5

General Requirements


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

For additional information refer to the Master’s Degree Requirements .