The Department of Biology at Middle Tennessee State University (MTSU) offers a comprehensive graduate program designed to provide students with advanced knowledge and skills in the field of biology. The graduate program in biology at MTSU is tailored to meet the needs of students who wish to pursue a career in research, teaching, or industry. With a strong focus on hands-on research experience, the program enables students to develop a deeper understanding of biological principles and their applications.
Graduate Programs in Biology at MTSU
MTSU offers two graduate degree programs in biology: the Master of Science (M.S.) and the Master of Arts (M.A.) in Biology. The M.S. program is designed for students who wish to pursue a career in research or academia, while the M.A. program is geared towards students who want to teach biology at the secondary or community college level. Both programs require a minimum of 30 semester hours of graduate credit, including coursework, research, and thesis preparation.
Master of Science (M.S.) in Biology
The M.S. program in biology at MTSU is a research-based program that provides students with advanced training in biological research and experimentation. The program requires students to complete a minimum of 24 semester hours of coursework, including core courses in cell and molecular biology, genetics, and evolution, as well as elective courses in areas such as biochemistry, microbiology, and ecology. Students are also required to complete a thesis research project under the guidance of a faculty advisor, which involves designing, conducting, and presenting original research in biology.
| Course Category | Required Courses |
|---|---|
| Core Courses | Cell and Molecular Biology, Genetics, Evolution |
| Elective Courses | Biochemistry, Microbiology, Ecology, Plant Physiology |
Master of Arts (M.A.) in Biology
The M.A. program in biology at MTSU is designed for students who want to teach biology at the secondary or community college level. The program requires students to complete a minimum of 30 semester hours of graduate credit, including core courses in biology education, as well as elective courses in areas such as biology content, education, and pedagogy. Students are also required to complete a comprehensive exam or a research paper on a topic related to biology education.
Research Opportunities in Biology at MTSU
MTSU offers a wide range of research opportunities in biology, including faculty-led research projects, graduate research assistantships, and internships. Students can work with faculty members on research projects in areas such as molecular biology, ecology, and conservation biology, and can also participate in research conferences and workshops to present their research and learn from other experts in the field.
Faculty Research Areas
The faculty members in the Department of Biology at MTSU have a wide range of research interests and expertise, including molecular biology, ecology, conservation biology, and biology education. Students can work with faculty members on research projects in these areas, and can also pursue their own research interests with the guidance of a faculty advisor.
- Molecular Biology: faculty members study the structure, function, and regulation of biological molecules, including DNA, RNA, and proteins.
- Ecology: faculty members study the interactions between organisms and their environment, including the effects of climate change, habitat destruction, and invasive species.
- Conservation Biology: faculty members study the preservation and management of threatened and endangered species, including the development of conservation plans and policies.
What are the admission requirements for the graduate program in biology at MTSU?
+To be admitted to the graduate program in biology at MTSU, students must have a bachelor’s degree in biology or a related field, with a minimum GPA of 3.0. Students must also submit official transcripts, letters of recommendation, and a personal statement, as well as take the Graduate Record Examination (GRE) and submit their scores.
How long does it take to complete the graduate program in biology at MTSU?
+The graduate program in biology at MTSU typically takes two years to complete, although this can vary depending on the student’s background, research interests, and career goals. Students can complete the program on a full-time or part-time basis, and can also pursue a graduate certificate in biology education or conservation biology.
