Master of Science in Biology Degree Program
The Master of Science in Biology program at Shippensburg University has an emphasis in Ecology and Environmental Science that focuses on:
- Increasing the knowledge of biological processes governing the relationships among organisms
- Organisms and their environment
- Organisms and humans
This program prepares future professionals to understand, predict, and/or manage environmental responses brought about by natural and man-made events. Human disturbances of any kind produce unforeseen and often detrimental environmental consequences. The subject of protection of environmental resources and the techniques for their evaluation, management, and restoration are prime interests in modern society. Our classes are small with opportunities to work with peers and faculty. Successful students are poised to seek new fields of endeavor, advance in their current professions, or prepare themselves for continuing academic training or education.
MS in Biology Admission Requirements
To be eligible for admission to the MS in Biology program, you must have the following:
- A baccalaureate degree from an accredited college or university
- A minimum undergraduate cumulative grade point average of 2.75*
- Completed at least 33 semester hour credits of undergraduate biology or biology related courses (e.g., forestry, horticulture, environmental studies)
- Completed three physical science courses including at least one 4-credit chemistry course with a lab
We strongly recommended that applicants have completed math through Calculus I and a semester of statistics.
*We may consider applicants with a lower GPA who have significant related accomplishments, such as paid or volunteer work or research publications.
MS in Biology Degree Requirements
The Master of Science in Biology program requires the completion of 31 semester hour credits. At least 25 credits must be earned in biology courses (including biology-numbered courses offered by the Marine Science Consortium at Wallops Island). BIO515: Scientific Communication in Biology and BIO593: Biometry are required. In addition, students must either complete a thesis or a capstone experience consisting of three semester hours of Internship (BIO 609) or Graduate Research (BIO 605-606). The remaining courses are chosen with advisement.
A maximum of six credits may be selected, with advisement, from courses such as chemistry, physics, mathematics, computer science, or geography/earth science. Up to 9 transfer credit hours may count towards this degree. A maximum of 12 credits may be earned in 400-level courses.
For a complete list of courses, see the most current graduate catalog. For a more detailed description of graduation requirements, see the Biology Department Graduate Policy Manual.