The M.S. degree program offers students the opportunlity to conduct original research under the guidance of a Biological Sciences faculty member (i.e., the major professor).

Five optional Sequences allow for additional specialization within the M.S. degree program.
Approximately 30-40 M.S. students are currently enrolled.
Teaching Assistantships (TAs) and Research Assistantships (RAs) are available for qualified students.
TAs in the M.S. Program currently receive $1150/month for 9 months plus tuition waivers. Opportunities for up to 3 months/year of additional support are available.
Most students complete their degree in 2-3 years.

Faculty members carrying out research in your areas of interest will be happy to give you additional information about how you can join their research team. Visit faculty web pages and contact those whose research interests you.

Plans of Study

Students design their own plan of study in consultation with their major professor and thesis committee.

Students who wish to formalize additional specialization within the M.S. degree Program may chose to pursue one of five Sequences, each of which has specific requirements.

Sequence in Behavior, Ecology, Evolution, and Systematics (BEES) for students who wish to focus on topics in organismal biology (see specific Sequence description, left sidebar)
Sequence in Bioenergy for students who wish to focus on topics in the production of bio-fuels (see specific Sequence description, left sidebar)
Sequence in Biomathematics for students who wish to focus on cross-disciplinary topics in biology and mathematics (see specific Sequence description, left sidebar)
Sequence in Biotechnology for students who wish to focus on biotechnology (see specific Sequence description, left sidebar)
Sequence in Conservation Biology for students who wish to focus on environmental and conservation issues may elect to pursue the (see specific Sequence description, left sidebar)

All students completing Program requirements will graduate with an M.S. in Biological Sciences. Completion of a Sequence appears on the transcript, not the diploma.

Curriculum

The M.S. degree requires 30 credit hours (24-26 hours of course work and 4-6 hours of thesis reseach). Students choose from among over 30 different graduate (300- or 400-level) courses. Two credit hours of BSC 420, Graduate Seminar in Biology, are required.

Student Impressions of Faculty

Click here to learn more about former students' impressions of the Graduate Programs and faculty members.

Research Areas

Course Listing

To view a list of courses currently being taught and their professors, please visit the course listing

How to Apply

Click here to learn more about how to apply

Application Web Site: http://www.admissions.ilstu.edu/apply/