M.S. in Biological Sciences
The M.S. in Biological Sciences covers a broad array of ecological topics and serves the needs of students whose thesis research addresses basic, fundamental ecological principles or of those conducting applied research not involving fish or wildlife management. It may be a terminal degree leading to professional employment as an ecologist, but may also lead to a Ph.D. in Biological Sciences or other discipline. Coursework associated with this degree tends to emphasize fundamental principles of ecology. To learn more about applying for the program, please see the Ecology Graduate Admissions Information page.
The student's graduate committee will work with the student following a required oral qualifying exam during the second semester in attendance to finalize the following required plan of study. The committee may require additional electives for completing a Master's degree in the Department of Ecology. Statistics courses may be recommended as electives.
Courses
| Ecology Program | ||
| BIOE 554 | Foundations of Ecology & Mgmt | 1 |
| BIOE 555 | Communication in Ecol Sciences | 1 |
| Choose one | 3 | |
| Conservation Biology | ||
| Conservation Genetics | ||
| Physiological Plant Ecol | ||
| Applied Population Ecology | ||
| Choose one | 3-4 | |
| Community Ecology | ||
| Landscape Ecol & Mgmt | ||
| Ecosystem Biogeochemistry | ||
| Electives (minimum) | 11-12 | |
| Thesis | 10 | |
Program Learning Outcomes
- Produce and defend an original significant contribution to knowledge at the appropriate level for a master’s student.
- Demonstrate mastery of subject content knowledge and research/critical inquiry methodology
- Demonstrate effective written communication of substantive content
- Demonstrate effective oral communication of substantive content
- Conduct scholarly or professional activities in an ethical manner
- Publish thesis work in a peer reviewed journal.