匹茲堡州立大學

There are three options available to students interested in obtaining a MS in Biology from PSU (. Typically, MS degrees are obtained within two years of matriculation. Individual master's programs are developed by the student in consultation with her or his faculty advisor and a graduate committee. Areas of study depend on the research interests of individual faculty. A limited number of graduate teaching assistantships become available each year in the Department. These provide a small stipend and valuable teaching experience. Assignments are usually made into the laboratory sections of undergraduate courses. If accepted as a graduate student, you will receive an application for an assistantship with your admission packet of information.

Option I - Thesis. A minimum of 30 credit hours including BIOL 801 Introduction to Research, at least one hour in BIOL 800 Seminar and BIOL 890 Research and Thesis (4-6 hours) is required. With the approval of the advisor and chairperson, up to nine hours may be taken outside the Department of Biology. All full-time graduate students are required to attend graduate seminar when offered.

Option II - Problem. A minimum of 32 credit hours including BIOL 801 Introduction to Research, at least one hour of BIOL 800 Seminar and BIOL 891 Research Problems (3-6 hours) is required. With the approval of the advisor and chairperson, up to nine hours may be taken outside the Department of Biology. All full-time graduate students are required to attend graduate seminar when offered.

Option III - Professional Masters. This option is intended for science professionals (e.g. those entering or currently serving as in-service teachers, and those in environmental/ ecological/ biotechnological careers) who need more experience in their areas of biological science and more focused preparation for work outside of their academic advancement. Requirements: A minimum of 36 credit hours. BIOL 800 Seminar (1 hour), BIOL 801 Introduction to Research (3 hours) with a grade of B or better, BIOL 803 Biometry (3 hours), BIOL 892 Professional Experience (3 hours) is required.