Graduate Program Information
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Curriculum program plans shown reflect current degree requirements. Previous academic year requirements can be accessed from the catalog page by choosing the appropriate academic year.
Master of Science in Biological Sciences–Ecology
| Major Code: | 8021 | Degree Awarded: | Master of Science |
|---|---|---|---|
| Delivery Mode(s): | Classroom | Location(s): | Main Campus - Melbourne |
| Admission Status: | Graduate | Age Restriction: | No |
The Master of Science in Biology– Ecology prepares the student either for a professional career or for further graduate study. This goal is achieved through a balance of coursework and research activities.
Admission Requirements
General admission requirements and the process for applying are presented in the Academic Overview section of the university catalog. For this program, GRE scores (General Test only), three letters of recommendation and a statement of objectives are required. Admission decisions for fall semester enrollment are made by March 15, and for spring semester enrollment by October 1.
Degree Requirements
The master of science degree requires the successful completion of 34 credit hours, including formal coursework, presentation of a graduate thesis seminar, and preparation and oral defense of a thesis. The thesis involves the completion of original research of publishable quality.
The student’s thesis research and program of study reflect the emphasis of the option. All thesis research is conducted under the direction of an adviser and an advisory committee. The advisory committee is composed of at least three members: two from the department (including the adviser) and one from another academic unit.
Curriculum
The adviser assists the student in devising a program of study. The latter requires approval by the Graduate Academic Steering Panel and the department head. The student must complete courses appropriate for the option. These can be chosen from the offerings of any academic unit in the College of Science, College of Engineering and College of Psychology and Liberal Arts. Students wanting to acquire special research skills should enroll in Biological Research Rotation (BIO 5998). A master’s student must elect the Biological Sciences Seminar (BIO 5990) every semester it is offered, except for the semester in which the student presents a thesis seminar. During this semester, the student will register for both Thesis (BIO 5999) and Biological Research Seminar (BIO 5991). Each student must present a departmental thesis seminar before graduation.
Summary of Program Requirements
| Formal Coursework (minimum) | 18 | |
| Biological Research Seminar | 1 | |
| Biological Research or Biological Research Rotation | 0–9 | |
| Thesis (maximum) | 6 | |
| TOTAL CREDITS REQUIRED | 34 |