General Biology, M.S.
Program Description
The master’s degree in general biology is an academic degree designed for working professionals. This program requires completion of either an original thesis or six (6) additional elective units and a comprehensive exam.
The thesis option is appropriate for those who wish to design and carry out an original research project in teaching and learning in biology. The comprehensive exam option is appropriate for those who wish to take more biology coursework to supplement their background knowledge.
Program Learning Outcomes
Candidates who complete the Master of Science in General Biology program will be able to:
- Discuss major concepts and theories in biology;
- Carry out and communicate various experimental methods and types of data analysis;
- Demonstrate knowledge and skills in critical thinking, such as analysis and synthesis, as applied to primary literature in the field of biology, as well as in science education or science leadership; and
- Distinguish between science and faith, and recognize the potential compatibility of the two domains.
Program Eligibility for the Master of Science in General Biology Program
- A completed application for admission to the biology program;
- Official transcripts from accredited institutions, one of which must indicate the completion of a baccalaureate degree;
- Successful completion of an undergraduate upper-division grade-point average of at least 2.7500;
- Two recommendation letters from any of the following:
- a principal
- department head
- former college/university professor
- other professional colleague
- Two recommendation letters from any of the following:
- A writing sample on assigned topics which indicates graduate-level ability;
- Test score on either the GRE subject test in biology or the biology Major Field Test; and
- An interview with the appropriate graduate director or coordinator.
| Code | Title | Units |
|---|---|---|
| Core Courses | ||
| BIO 6011 | Learning in Science | 3 |
| or BIO 6123 | Leadership in Science | |
| BIO 6033 | History/Philosophy of Science | 3 |
| BIO 6043 | Research Design in Science Education | 3 |
| BIO 6082 | Research Proposal and Pilot Study | 1 |
| Electives: Group A | ||
| Choose twelve (12) units from the following: | 12 | |
| Microbiology and Immunology | ||
| Ecology of Plants and Animals | ||
| Genetics and Molecular Biology | ||
| Cell Biology | ||
| Developmental Biology | ||
| Physiology of Plants and Animals | ||
| Marine Biology | ||
| Evolutionary Biology | ||
| Electives: Group B | 12 | |
| Choose one (1) of the following: | ||
| Thesis | ||
| Thesis | ||
or BIO 6084 | Comprehensive Examination in General Biology | |
Choose six (6) additional units | ||
| Comprehensive Exam | ||
| Comprehensive Examination in General Biology | ||
Choose 12 additional units | ||
| Additional Units | ||
| Graduate Internship in Biology | ||
| Learning in Science | ||
| Readings in Biology | ||
| Microbiology and Immunology | ||
| Ecology of Plants and Animals | ||
| Genetics and Molecular Biology | ||
| Cell Biology | ||
| Developmental Biology | ||
| Physiology of Plants and Animals | ||
| Marine Biology | ||
| Evolutionary Biology | ||
| Special Studies in Biology | ||
| Perspectives on Science | ||
| Leadership in Science | ||
| Methods of Teaching Secondary Science | ||
Other approved Biology courses | ||
Up to six (6) units of approved education or business coursework | ||
| Total Units | 34 | |
Note(s): Students will develop an academic plan within the first semester of enrollment to determine the appropriate electives based on bachelor’s degree coursework, teaching experience, and professional goals.
Graduation Requirements
In order to earn and receive a Master of Science in General Biology degree, a student must satisfy all of the following:
- A completed Application for Degree Candidacy (online or in the Office of Records, Point Loma campus);
- Completion of the approved graduate program of 34 units, including the thesis or comprehensive exam;
- A cumulative grade-point average of 3.000 or higher. A student may earn a maximum of two “C” grades in the program;
- Payment in full of all tuition, fees, and other financial obligations owed to the university, including a degree processing fee; and
- All requirements for graduate degrees must be completed within an eight-year period from the time of initial enrollment in the program.