Master of Science in Biology (Thesis option)

The Master of Science in biology program is designed to prepare students to pursue careers in research, science education, industry, and government. The Department of Biology offers both thesis and non-thesis options. Courses are taught by award-winning, nationally recognized research and teaching faculty and cover a range of essential topics in contemporary biology.

Students pursuing a thesis have the option to conduct research leading to a thesis in a variety of specializations, including aquatic biology, ecology, genetics, evolutionary biology, genomics, microbiology, and cell biology. The thesis option is intended to prepare students for PhD programs and careers in research and industry by obtaining skills such as the collection and analysis of data, evaluation of primary literature, and essential laboratory techniques.