Biological Sciences: General Program M.S.
30 credits
Program Rationale:
The General Program is for biology and science teachers and all others who wish to expand their background in the broad area of biology or who wish to specialize in a particular aspect of this discipline. Students who as undergraduates majored in areas other than biology may also pursue a master's degree in this program. Other courses may be substituted for the professional education component with the advisor's approval.
The planned program of graduate study will be developed by a student and his or her advisor and will be based upon the student's undergraduate record and educational needs.
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:
In your narrative statement, please include whether you would like to pursue a thesis or non-thesis version of your degree (if applicable). If you wish to do a thesis, please identify a potential faculty member you might like to work with in our department. It may be helpful to view our faculty web pages or contact potential faculty members by phone or email to discuss your interests. You could also include in the narrative statement your interests in biology and how they developed, your career goals, and how you think a degree in the Biology Department at CCSU will further your education and prepare you for your career.
- Letters of recommendation by two college instructors familiar with your ability and record in biology and the related sciences. In cases where acquiring letters from college instructors creates undue hardship for an applicant, it may be acceptable to use letters from past or present supervisors. Please email the Chair of the Biology Department Graduate Studies Committee if you require further clarification or feel this applies to your situation.
The Biology Department also recommends the following items;
- Graduate Record Examination scores for the aptitude and advanced biology tests are recommended but not required.
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:
Professional Education
One of the following:
| EPS 500 | Contemporary Educational Issues | 3 |
| EPS 516 | School and Society | 3 |
| EPS 524 | Foundations of Contemporary Theories of Curriculum | 3 |
| EPS 525 | History of American Education | 3 |
| EPS 538 | The Politics of Education | 3 |
| EPS 583 | Sociological Foundations of Education | 3 |
| and | |
| Additional course(s) as approved by advisor | 3 |
Biology Requirements
| BIO 500 | Seminar in Biology | 1 TO 2 |
| BIO 540 | Topics in Advanced Biology | 3 TO 4 |
Directed Electives
In biology or related fields as approved by advisor
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 options.
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.