Biology (MS)
Overview
The Master of Science (MS) in Biology prepares students for advanced education (e.g., Ph.D.) and successful, life-long careers in Biology and related transdisciplinary fields via a combination of academic preparation. The School of Integrative Biological and Chemical Sciences (SIBCS) provides graduate students with opportunities for research and professional development through quality student mentoring.
The MS in Biology allows students to achieve a generalized knowledge base or focus on a specific field in biology. Current research field in SIBCS include, but are not limited to: ecology and evolutionary biology, organismic biology (entomology, herpetology, ornithology), bacterial genetics; cell, neuro and microbiology; genetics; plant biochemistry; and applied research (vector biology, climate change, vertebrate taphonomy). SIBCS encourages applicants to learn more about our faculty research.
This program provides two options for completing the MS in Biology: thesis option and non-thesis option. All MS Biology graduate students are expected to participate in SIBCS seminar series for two semesters. SIBCS also offers a Vector and Vector Borne Disease Biology Certificate for graduate students in the thesis option.
The student who pursues the thesis option must complete a total of 30 credits, 3 of which can be in related fields as prescribed electives in consultation with the MS Biology Graduate Program Coordinator, including the thesis. Students are required to have a Thesis Supervisor/Chair and form a Thesis Graduate Committee of at least three members, of which two must hold faculty appointments in SIBCS. The Thesis Supervisor/Chair and committee will provide coordination of coursework and mentoring regarding completion of a thesis reflective of scientific research. Students complete a written thesis proposal, thesis and an oral defense of their research. The thesis is expected to be worthy of submission, in whole or in part, for publication in a peer-reviewed scientific journal in the field of biology or related area.
The non-thesis student must complete a total of 30 credits, 3 of which can be in related fields as prescribed electives in consultation with the Biology Graduate Program Coordinator. Non-thesis students are supervised by the Biology Program Graduate Coordinator. Non-Thesis students must complete a capstone requirement and pass a comprehensive examination to graduate.
Admission Requirements
Admission to the MS in Biology is competitive, and multiple factors are considered in the decision to admit new graduate students. Meeting minimum entry requirements does not guarantee acceptance into the program. The MS Biology Graduate Program Committee of the School of Integrative Biological and Chemical Sciences conducts a holistic review of all applicants, which considers, but is not limited to, admission qualifications, academic ability and achievement, skills and experience, recommendations, and ability to contribute to the research of the School and University's goal of becoming an emerging research university.
To be considered for admission to the graduate program in biology, prospective candidates must first meet all requirements for graduate admission to the University of Texas Rio Grande Valley, as well as the other admission requirements listed below:
- Bachelor’s degree in biology or related field from an accredited institution in the United States or recognized international equivalent. Prospective students must have either (a) an undergraduate degree with major in biology or (b) 30 hours of undergraduate courses in biological sciences or closely related disciplines.
- Preferred undergraduate grade point average (GPA) of at least 3.0 in upper-level biology or related field coursework.
- Two letters of recommendation from professional or academic people who are familiar with the applicant’s undergraduate or higher scholastic record.
- Personal statement explaining (a) academic and professional goal(s) and objectives in pursuing the degree, (b) preparation for graduate studies, (c) research or other professional experience, and (d) area of interest in biology. The letter must state whether you are pursuing the thesis or non-thesis option.
- Applicants pursuing the thesis option must have a commitment from a faculty member to supervise the master's thesis at the time of application to be admitted. Students who do not have a commitment from a faculty member to supervise the master's thesis may be considered for the non-thesis option.
- A Curriculum Vitae or Resume.
Application for admission must be submitted prior to the published deadline. The application is available at www.utrgv.edu/gradapply. Incomplete applications from potential students will not be considered for review, and the student will not be admitted.
Program Requirements
Required Courses - 6 Hours
Non-thesis Option
Required - 12 Hours
Prescribed Electives - 9 Hours
BIOL Electives - 6 Hours
Any BIOL 5000 or 6000 level course.
Related Field Electives - 3 Hours
Any 5000 or 6000 level course in BIOL, CHEM, EEMS, ENVR, GELO, MARS, MATH, or PHYS.
It is recommended to consult with the Biology Graduate Program Coordinator prior to registering for a course.
Capstone Requirement - 3 Hours
Written Comprehensive Exam
Students on the non-thesis option must pass a comprehensive examination in their final semester of the program.
Thesis Option
Prescribed Electives - 18 Hours
BIOL Electives - 15 Hours
Any BIOL 5000 or 6000 level courses
Related Field Electives - 3 Hours
Any 5000 or 6000 level course in BIOL, CHEM, EEMS, ENVR, GELO, MARS, MATH, or PHYS.
It is recommended to consult with the Biology Graduate Program Coordinator prior to registering for a course.
Thesis - 6 Hours
Total Credit Hours: 30