Examples of Possible Careers*
Biological science teachers, postsecondary
- 9.3% much faster than the average
- 64,700 number of jobs
- $85,600 potential earnings
Biological scientists, all other
- 2.2% slower than the average
- 44,700 number of jobs
- $85,290 potential earnings
Environmental science teachers, postsecondary
- 3.7% about as fast as the average
- 7,600 number of jobs
- $84,740 potential earnings
Natural sciences managers
- 4.8% about as fast as the average
- 71,400 number of jobs
- $137,940 potential earnings
Contact Information
Fully Offered
Admission Terms
*Note
Source of occupation titles and labor data is from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics' Occupational Outlook Handbook. Data comprises projected percent change in employment over the next 10 years; nation-wide employment numbers; and the yearly median wage at which half of the workers in the occupation earned more than that amount and half earned less.
Description
The Master of Science degree in Biological Sciences—Ecology and Evolutionary Biology provides opportunities to study in areas such as animal behavior, entomology, limnology, microbial ecology, ornithology, systems ecology, systematic and evolutionary biology, environmental physiology, vertebrate ecology and population and community ecology. Although courses of study are tailored to students’ interests and needs, the program for all students normally includes training in population, community, ecosystems and evolutionary ecology and statistical theory. Because of the interdisciplinary nature of ecology, students are encouraged to take courses in geology, mathematics, chemistry and other disciplines.
Admission Requirements
- Bachelor's degree from an accredited college or university
- Undergraduate coursework roughly equivalent to the Biology minor
- Minimum 2.750 undergraduate GPA on a 4.000-point scale
- Official transcript(s) - copies of official transcripts can be submitted for initial review of application
- GRE scores (general test) effective for spring 2023 admissions, the GRE will no longer be required
- Résumé or curriculum vitae
- Personal statement that clearly explains why the applicant wishes to pursue an advanced degree and describes research experience and interest; statement must include a list of potential faculty mentors
- Three letters of recommendation that comment on chance of success in an advanced degree program, with minimum one from someone who can comment on research aptitude
- English language proficiency - all international students must provide proof of English language proficiency (unless they meet specific exceptions) by earning one of the following:
- Minimum 587 TOEFL PBT score (paper-based version)
- Minimum 94 TOEFL IBT score (Internet-based version)
- Minimum 82 MELAB score
- Minimum 7.0 IELTS score
- Minimum 65 PTE score
- Minimum 120 Duolingo English test score
For more information about graduate admissions, visit the graduate admission website. For more information on international admission, visit the Office of Global Education’s admission website.
Program Learning Outcomes
Graduates of this program will be able to:
- Understand advanced biological concepts beyond the scope of the typical undergraduate degree, and increase the depth of their knowledge through coursework and hands-on experiences
- Apply scientific principles and appreciate work outside of their particular field
- Effectively communicate about science with colleagues as well as those outside of the student's area of expertise
- Develop the necessary laboratory skills that will allow testing of hypotheses
Program Requirements
Major Requirements
Course List Code | Title | Credit Hours |
BSCI 60104 | BIOLOGICAL STATISTICS | 4 |
BSCI 60184 | RESPONSIBLE CONDUCT IN RESEARCH AND TEACHING-BIOLOGICAL SCIENCES 1 | 2 |
BSCI 60191 | SEMINAR IN BIOLOGY (repeated each semester) | 4-6 |
| 8-10 |
2 | |
| 6 |
| ECOLOGICAL AND EVOLUTIONARY GENETICS | |
| EVOLUTIONARY BIOLOGY | |
| COMMUNITIES AND ECOSYSTEMS | |
| POPULATION AND COMMUNITY ECOLOGY | |
BSCI 60199 | THESIS I 3 | 6 |
Minimum Total Credit Hours: | 32 |
Graduation Requirement
Students must complete a minimum 14 credit hours of graduate courses beyond BSCI 60198 toward their degree.