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. 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.
Contact: 860-832-2645
Instructions for uploading the statement and for obtaining and submitting the recommendation letters will be found within the online application.
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/BIO 414 | Advanced Pathophysiology and Applied Physiology | 3 |
| 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.