Biological Science, M.S.

Learning Goals and Student Learning Outcomes

The following goals and learning outcomes have been established for students pursuing the MS degree in Biological Science

The aim of the Master of Science (MS) Program in Biology is to graduate students who:

  • Develop the skills, experiences and qualifications necessary to enter and be successful in careers in biology-related fields or academic and professional programs;
  • Can investigate a problem in depth by combining sound scholarship with contemporary research approaches to make meaningful contributions to our knowledge of biology;
  • Become ethical citizens who are scientifically and computationally literate, and who understand and can communicate the role of biology and research in a complex, changing world.

To meet this aim, the following goals and learning outcomes have been established for students pursuing a Master of Science (MS) in Biology. Graduating students will be able to:

Content Knowledge

  • Demonstrate knowledge in a primary area of expertise and place the thesis research in the context of the current state of knowledge of the field.
  • Critically evaluate the primary and secondary literature in a primary area of expertise.
  • Gain an appreciation for the diversity and multidisciplinary nature of biological science through participation in coursework, seminars, small working groups and conferences.

Information Literacy Skills

  • Use library and electronic resources to obtain the relevant literature sources published in a primary area of expertise in biology.
  • Cite the information gathered appropriately in all forms of communication.

Scientific Research Skills

  • Work independently to conduct and complete original research. 
  • Demonstrate mastery of research approaches and techniques appropriate to a primary area of expertise.
  • Demonstrate mastery of key elements of research and study design and apply them to an independent research project.
  • Analyze and interpret data appropriately and present results properly in written, tabular and graphical formats.

Communication Skills

    • Write a thesis proposal that contains the key elements of a competitive grant proposal.
    • Prepare and give high-quality, professional presentations (oral and poster) about the results of independent research.
    • Write a scholarly thesis containing key elements of a published article in a primary area of expertise.