Biological Sciences: Health Sciences Specialization M.S.
30-31 credits
Program Rationale:
The MS Biological Sciences: Health Sciences Specialization is for those who wish to expand their background in the areas of human biology in preparation for research or work at the doctoral level or in health professions, as well as for teachers wishing to specialize or update their knowledge in the area of human biology.
Program Learning Outcomes:
Graduate students will:
- demonstrate knowledge in general biology;
- describe scientific methodology and conduct experiments;
- demonstrate a thorough understanding of a specific area of biology;
- be able to read and comprehend primary literature;
- deliver effective oral presentations (poster or PowerPoint); and
- effectively communicate on research in written format.
Admission Requirements:
Applicants must hold a bachelor’s degree from a regionally accredited institution of higher education. Applicants must also have a minimum cumulative undergraduate GPA of 2.70 on a 4.00 point scale (where A is 4.00), or its equivalent, and good standing (3.00 GPA) in all post-baccalaureate course work.
Additional Materials Required:
• Narrative statement
• Letters of recommendation by three college instructors familiar with your ability and
record in biology and the related sciences
The graduate application, application fee, and official transcripts are to be submitted to the Graduate Recruitment and Admissions Office. Official transcripts must be sent directly to the Graduate Recruitment and Admissions Office from each institution attended except Central Connecticut State University. Instructions for uploading the statement and for obtaining and submitting the recommendation letters will be found within the online application.
Contact: 860-832-2645
Course and Capstone Requirements:
Major Field Requirements
| BIO 412/BMS 412 | Human Physiology | 3 |
| BIO 413/BMS 413 | Human Physiology Laboratory | 1 |
| BIO 500 | Seminar in Biology | 1 TO 2 |
| BIO 518 | Advanced Pathophysiology and Applied Physiology | 3 |
| BIO 528 | Advanced Pharmacology | 4 |
| BMS 506 | Cellular Metabolism and Energetics | 3 |
| or | |
| CHEM 550 | Basic Organic and Biological Chemistry | 3 |
| and | |
| BIO or BMS Electives as approved by Health Sciences Advisor or Department Chair | |
No more than 7 credits may be taken as BMS courses.
(This 7 credit limit does not include BIO/BMS 412/413).
Research
Plan A: Thesis capstone (Two Options)
Plan A requires a thesis defense seminar for both options.
Plan A requires a total of 6 credits for both.
Plan B: Comprehensive exam capstone
Plan B requires a Comprehensive Exam.
Note: Additional work, as described in the course syllabi, will be required for graduate credit in 400-level courses. Students may take no more than nine credits of 400-level courses.