Bachelor of Science in Biology or Biomedical Science
The Department of Biological Sciences offers two distinct four-year curricula that lead to the baccalaureate degree. These are the Bachelor of Science in Biology and the Bachelor of Science in Biomedical Sciences. In addition, pre-professional programs are offered which include pre-medicine, pre-dentistry, pre-physical therapy, pre-optometry, and pre-pharmacy, pre-physician assistant, pre-chiropractic, and pre-veterinary.
Secondary teaching certificates may be obtained with biology as the major teaching field or in a science composite.
The graduate degree offered in the Department of Biological Sciences is intended to continue, enrich, and enhance education in the biological sciences. The Department of Biological Sciences offers the Master of Science degree with thesis and non-thesis tracks.
Students should have an undergraduate major in biology in order to gain full admission to the program. Those lacking the desired background will be required to complete appropriate leveling work. The departmental graduate advisor, in consultation with the department graduate faculty, will review the student's transcript and determine the nature and amount of leveling work. The departmental graduate advisor will assist students in establishing their advisory committee. The committee chair should be chosen by the end of the first semester of graduate work and will assume advising duties for the remainder of the program. The advisory committee should consist of a minimum of three members: at least two from the department graduate faculty and at least one from the graduate faculty of a department in which the student takes supporting work.
The MS in Biology requires 36 hours of approved course work. Biology 5983 (Research Design and Analysis) and Biology 5093 (CellularBiology) are required of all students.
Generally, students complete a minimum of 24 hours in biology in addition to supporting course work for a total of 36 hours. The student will consult with his/her advisory committee in determining courses to be taken.
Original research is required in the program if the thesis option is chosen. In this option, students are required to take 6 hours of Biology 5883 (Thesis). The student must prepare a thesis proposal, which describes the thesis research, for approval by the advisory committee and the College of Graduate Studies. The thesis, consisting of the written report of the research, must be the student's original work and must reflect his/her ability to express thoughts accurately and clearly. Both the thesis proposal and the thesis must be written according to guidelines and deadlines established by the College of Graduate Studies. A comprehensive examination on course work and the completion and successful defense of an acceptable thesis will conclude the program.
If the non-thesis option is chosen, a comprehensive written and oral examination on course work will conclude the program.