masters in biology non thesis

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Non-Thesis Masters Program

If you have the talent, we have the opportunity., the program.

The non-thesis M.S. in Biology degree program in the Department of Biological Sciences is designed for students who wish to pursue advanced studies in professional and graduate school or various vocational opportunities in biological sciences and related areas. The non-thesis track is designed for students whose career goals require graduate education, but not formal research experience, such as teaching at the community college/regional college level. The program provides the opportunity for broad training as well as specialization in areas of particular interest through the Molecular, Cellular and Developmental Biology (MCD) concentration and the Ecology, Evolution and Environmental Biology (E3B) concentration. Students should consult with their major advisor and Supervisory Committee when choosing a concentration and selecting a plan of study.

Early Entry Master’s Program In this program up to 12 credit hours of graduate level 5000/6000 BIOL courses may taken as an undergraduate and also be credited toward the Master’s degree. In other words, graduate work will be “double-counted” for both your undergraduate and graduate degrees. An additional 3 credit hours may be taken during your undergraduate program for the undergraduate tuition rate and then subsequently applied to the MS degree.

DEGREE REQUIREMENTS AT A GLANCE

• Total of 30 credit hours to include 4 courses core curriculum, minimum 6 electives, and 2 credits tutorial
• Core required curriculum includes BIOL8101 Hypothesis Testing, BIOL8102 Cellular and Molecular Biology, BIOL8140 Evolutionary Biology, BIOL 8260 Careers in Bioscience: Professional Development
• Oral qualifying examination.
• Capstone project or paper to be submitted and approved by the mentor and supervisory committee for graduation.
• Average time to completion of the Master’s degree in the program currently is 2 years.
• Need-based tuition assistance determined by FASFA filings may be made by the Graduate School; however, non-thesis Master’s students are not typically eligible for teaching or research assistantships.

Teaching and Research Assistantships North Carolina Residency

M.S. Students

Directory Publications

Graduate Faculty

For more information contact:

Adam Reitzel, Ph.D. [email protected]

Professor and MS and Ph.D. Graduate Programs Director Department of Biological Sciences, Woodward Hall 381A 9201 University City Blvd., Charlotte NC 28223

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• Degrees & Programs

Biology, Non-thesis option - Master of Science (M.S.)

The non-thesis Master of Science in Biology is offered in the Department of Biology.

The Department of Biology offers three tracks for non-thesis masters degrees: a standard track, an educator track, and a pre-professional track.

Understanding the standard non-thesis option

The standard non-thesis M.S. degree in Biology requires 30 credit hours of study beyond the baccalaureate level. Students from non-thesis M.S. programs have been able to secure higher level positions within their current employment. This option is most frequently chosen by students who hold full-time positions elsewhere. This option can be pursued on a part-time or full-time basis, but it requires enrollment in three or more semesters.

Understanding the non-thesis for educators option

This non-thesis M.S. degree program serves the needs of Indiana high school biology teachers, combining 12 credit hours of the Transition to Teaching (T2T) program with 18 credit hours of graduate biology courses. Students will earn a master’s degree in biology and obtain necessary coursework that will allow them to teach Advanced Placement or Dual Credit courses in Indiana high schools. This program is ideally suited for students who completed undergraduate studies in biological sciences and would like to become high school biology teachers. It’s also a great option for current teachers wishing to enhance their credentials.

Understanding the pre-professional non-thesis option

The pre-professional non-thesis M.S. degree in Biology is an intensive one-year program that prepares students for the rigors of professional school and produces students with better sophistication in their understanding of biological sciences. After earning the degree, you’ll be prepared to apply to one of the following professional programs:

• Allopathic Medicine
• Osteopathic Medicine
• Veterinary Medicine
• Genetic Counseling
• Physician's Assistant

Entry into a reputable medical, dental or veterinary program is a highly competitive process. Good academic performance and experience may not be enough for admission, but if you can benefit from a year of intensive coursework, this one-year program could be just what you need to make that challenging next step in your career. The program provides excellent preparation and demonstrates your ability to withstand the rigors associated with professional degree programs.

Requirements

Read the requirements in the academic bulletin. Choose the bulletin year corresponding to your first term.

• 2023–2024
• 2022–2023
• 2021–2022
• 2020–2021
• 2019–2020
• 2018–2019

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Non-Thesis Program (NTMB)

• Cell and Molecular Biology
• Ecological and Evolutionary Biology

NON-THESIS MASTERS PROGRAM (NTMB)

Two-year non-thesis masters degree programs can prepare you for:.

• Science reporting and writing
• Technical jobs in industry or university research
• Teaching primary or secondary school science
• Field research or management positions

The Department of Biology now has a two-year program in graduate studies to introduce students to exciting graduate courses in two areas of specialization: 

- Cell and Molecular Biology and

- Ecological and Evolutionary Biology

Students complete a minimum of 30 graduate course credits and take a comprehensive examination to complete the new NTMB degree.  Throughout the process, students are guided by a faculty  advisory committee in select classes as well as prepare for the comprehensive examination.

The NTMB has two specialization areas:

Prerequisites and application requirements for the NTMB program:

• Completed a B.S or B.A in Biology or related studies
• Two letters of recommendation
• Official transcripts from all institutions of higher education attended
• Application fee ($50, non-refundable)

Apply to the graduate program online .

The NTMB degree is a self-funded.  Masters program that requires the completion of 30 graduate credits, with a cumulative GPA of 3.0 or higher, over the course of 18 to 24 months. There are no teaching or research assistantships available to MS students, and tuition for the 2019-2020 academic year is $2,100 per credit.

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M.s. non-thesis programs, ms-biology-non-thesis.

In brief, the curriculum is the same as MS-Bio Thesis but with the exception of taking 9 additional hours and the qualifying exam.

Curriculum Requirements

The Master’s Degree Requirements should be completed in two to three years. Students must choose a specific concentration in the M.S. degree that will be completed within either the MBS or IB Department.

Total Minimum Hours - 30 post-bachelor’s

• Core Requirements - 6 credit hours
• Concentration (required) - 15 credit hours minimum
• Non-Thesis (electives) - 9 credit hours minimum

Core Requirements (6 Credit Hours)

• BSC 6393 Advances in Life Sciences Credit Hours: 1 (Taken 3 times)
• BSC 6930 Lectures in Contemporary Biology Credit Hours: 1(Taken 3 times)

Concentration Requirements

Cell Biology and Molecular Biology (15 credit hours minimum)

Students select courses from the following (15 Credit hours minimum), or other graduate course approved by the supervisory committee.

• BMS 6300 Principles of Immunology and Infectious Diseases Credit Hours: var.
• BSC 6939 Selected Topics in Cancer Biology Credit Hours: 1-4
• BSC 5931 Selected Topics in Biology Credit Hours: 1-4
• Eukaryotic Genomics (3 credit hours)
• Molecular Microbial Ecology (3 credit hours)
• Advanced Bacterial Genetics (3 credit hours)
• BSC 5425 Genetic Engineering and Recombinant DNA Technology Credit Hours: 3
• MCB 5655 Applied and Environmental Microbiology Credit Hours: 3
• PCB 6107 Advanced Cell Biology Credit Hours: 4
• PCB 6525 Molecular Genetics Credit Hours: 3  

Non-Thesis (9 credit hours) For students enrolled in the non-thesis program a minimum of 9 hours of elective courses taken beyond the concentration and core requirements, and a review paper of a topic approved by the supervisory committee is required as well as successful completion of the comprehensive oral qualifying exam after all course work has been completed. For non-thesis master’s students, this exam will occur at the end of the program of study.

MS-MICROBIOLOGY-NON-THESIS

In brief, the curriculum is the same as MS-Micro Thesis but with the exception of taking 14 additional hours of electives and the qualifying exam.

Total Minimum Hours: 30 Credit Hours

• Core Requirements - 6 Credit Hours
• Additional Required Courses - 3 Credit Hours Minimum
• Electives - 7 Credit Hours Minimum
• Non-Thesis - 14 Credit Hours 
• MCB 6305 Advanced Bacterial Genetics Credit Hours: 3
• MCB 6205 Bacterial Pathogenesis Credit Hours: 3 

Additional Required Courses (3 Credit Hours)

• BSC 6930 Lectures in Contemporary Biology Credit Hours: 1 (Taken three times)

Electives (7 credit Hours Minimum)

Select from the following or other graduate courses approved by the supervisory committee:

• BSC 5931 Selected Topics in Biology Credit Hours: 1-4 (3 credits for this program) (Molecular Microbial Ecology)
• BSC 5931 Selected Topics in Biology  Selected Topics in Biology Credit(s): 1-4 (3 credits for this program) (Bacterial Pathogenesis)
• PCB 6930 Current Topics in Cancer Biology Credit Hours: 2 Principles of Immunology Credit(s): 3 (Proposed as PCB 5335)
• PCB 6525 Molecular Genetics Credit Hours: 3
• BSC 5425 Genetic Engineering and Recombinant DNA Technology Credit Hours: 3 Note: Additional courses not on the list may be substituted with the approval of the thesis committee and CMMB Graduate Director.  

Lab Rotations

Where appropriate, students must complete three laboratory rotations during their first semester of residency.

Comprehensive Examination

A final comprehensive oral examination is required for all master’s students. This examination is open to all departmental faculty. Students must take their comprehensive exam within two years of matriculation and the exam is normally taken after the completion of all formal course work. For non-thesis students, the comprehensive qualifying exam is taken after all course work has been completed at the end of the program of study.  Thesis students must take the examination at least one semester before the thesis is presented.   The examination is administered and evaluated by the student’s graduate committee.

Non-Thesis Option (14 Credit Hours)

Students in the non-thesis option complete an additional fourteen (14) hours of electives.  

For students enrolled in the non-thesis option, 21-hours of elective courses (7 hours of electives and 14 hours of additional electives) and a review paper of a topic approved by the supervisory committee are required, as well as successful completion of the comprehensive oral qualifying exam after all course work has been completed. For non-thesis master’s students, this exam will occur at the end of the program of study.

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Master of Science (M.S.) Major in Biology (Non-thesis Minor Option)

Program overview.

Graduate study in biology integrates classroom and field or laboratory experience to help meet the current and future scientific needs of society.  The Biology department offers students opportunities to study in the field or in modern facilities with up-to-date instrumentation and resources, including a DNA-sequencing unit, an integrated microscopy facility, high-speed digital networks and computing centers, a GIS lab, greenhouses, wet labs and extensive plant, animal and paleobotanical collections.

Application Requirements

The items listed below are required for admission consideration for applicable semesters of entry during the current academic year. Submission instructions, additional details, and changes to admission requirements for semesters other than the current academic year can be found on The Graduate College's website . International students should review the International Admission Documents page for additional requirements.

• completed online application
• $55 nonrefundable application fee

          or

• $90 nonrefundable application fee for applications with international credentials
• baccalaureate degree in biology or a related field from a regionally accredited university  (Non-U.S. degrees must be equivalent to a four-year U.S. Bachelor’s degree. In most cases, three-year degrees are not considered. Visit our  International FAQs  for more information.)
• official transcripts from  each institution  where course credit was granted
• a 3.0 overall GPA or a 3.0 GPA in the last 60 hours of undergraduate course work (plus any completed graduate courses)
• GRE not required
• statement of purpose describing professional aspirations and rationale for pursuing graduate study in biology
• three letters of recommendation addressing the substance and quality of the student’s preparation for graduate study

Approved English Proficiency Exam Scores

Applicants are required to submit an approved English proficiency exam score that meets the minimum program requirements below unless they have earned a bachelor’s degree or higher from a regionally accredited U.S. institution or the equivalent from a country on our  exempt countries list .

• official TOEFL iBT scores required with a 78 overall
• official PTE scores required with a 52 overall
• official IELTS (academic) scores required with a 6.5 overall and minimum individual module scores of 6.0
• official Duolingo scores required with a 110 overall
• official TOEFL Essentials scores required with an 8.5 overall

Degree Requirements

The Master of Science (M.S.) degree with a major in Biology requires 36 semester credit hours. 

Course Requirements

Non-thesis students.

Students pursuing a non-thesis degree are required to have a major professor by the end of their first long term of enrollment in the graduate program. The major professor will normally be a faculty member specializing in an area of particular interest to the student and is often the individual who supervises the required independent study project. Prior to the final term of enrollment the non-thesis student must, in consultation with the major professor, select a committee that will administer the final comprehensive examination. 

Comprehensive Examination Requirement

All master’s students are required to take a final, comprehensive examination. In the Biology Department this exam is administered by the student’s committee. Students on academic probation or conditional status are not permitted to take the final, comprehensive examination.

Grading of the final exam is “pass” or “fail.” In order to pass, a student must receive votes of confidence from the major professor and a majority of the committee members (including the major professor). A student can be failed over the advisor’s positive vote if the majority of the committee votes not to pass. Such outcomes may be appealed to the Graduate Committee, whose decision is final.

Non-thesis students may choose to take an oral or written comprehensive exam; this option should be discussed by the student and the supervising professor and a decision made at least two weeks prior to the examination date . This exam should be administered in the final semester after most course work has been completed. The exam performance is graded by the committee as “pass” or “fail.” In the event a student fails this exam, the committee may allow a re-examination if time permits before the end of the semester; may recommend additional course work and re-examination after the course work is successfully completed; or may recommend the student be removed from the Biology graduate program. Only one re-examination is permitted.

Master's level courses in Biology: BIO

Courses Offered

Biology (bio).

BIO 5100. Professional Development.

This course is seminar-based and covers topics related to teaching, research, and employment responsibilities. Completion of the course is required as a condition of employment for graduate assistants. This course does not earn graduate degree credit. Repeatable with different emphasis. Graded on a credit (CR), no-credit (F) basis.

BIO 5110. Seminar in Biology.

Interactive discussion of timely issues and problems, designed to expose students to the current literature in their fields of interest and its critical analysis. This course is repeatable for credit.

BIO 5114. Collaborative Research.

This course allows master’s level graduate students to initiate, conduct, and participate in research in collaboration with graduate faculty of the Department of Biology that is in addition to thesis research conducted under BIO 5399A or BIO 5399B . This course recognizes the collaborative nature of scientific investigation. See also BIO 5214 and BIO 5314 .

BIO 5166. Medical Microbiology Laboratory.

This graduate laboratory-based course will cover pathogenic bacteria emphasizing identification of selected groups of pathogens and the biological basis for virulence. Prerequisites: BIO 2400 and BIO 2450 both with grades of "C" or better.

BIO 5176. Microbial Biotechnology Laboratory.

This laboratory-based course will cover use of microbes for biotechnological applications and is designed to provide practical explorations into fields of biotechnology. Topics include laboratory techniques for recombinant protein purification, fermentation, identification of markers in genetically modified food and bio-remediation of pollutants. Corequisite: BIO 5376 .

BIO 5199B. Thesis.

This course represents a student’s continuing thesis enrollments. The student continues to enroll in this course until the thesis is submitted for binding. Cannot be taken unless a Thesis Proposal has been submitted. Students working toward the M.A. or M.S. with a thesis are expected to enroll in thesis each semester in which faculty supervision is received or laboratory facilities are utilized.

BIO 5214. Collaborative Research.

This course allows master’s level graduate students to initiate, conduct, and participate in research in collaboration with graduate faculty of the Department of Biology that is in addition to thesis research conducted under BIO 5399A or BIO 5399B . This course recognizes the collaborative nature of scientific investigation. See also BIO 5314 .

BIO 5295. Fundamentals of Research.

Designed to acquaint the beginning graduate student with materials and methods of research in the biological sciences. It is recommended that a graduate student take this course the first semester in residence.

BIO 5299B. Thesis.

BIO 5300. Neurobiology.

This course presents the biology of the nervous system with emphasis on the human nervous system. Topics presented in lecture include neuroanatomy, cellular neurobiology, neurophysiology, developmental neurobiology, and neuronal plasticity.

BIO 5301. Evolution.

Basic genetic principles applied to natural selection, adaptation, populations, and speciation. Consideration is given to the origin of life, nature of chromosomal variation, evolution of genetic systems, and certain other selected topics.

BIO 5304. Wildlife and Recreation: Impact and Management.

Students will be introduced to the impact human recreational activities have on wildlife habitats and populations. Management practices to enhance human-wildlife encounters or to minimize detrimental effects on wildlife populations will be presented.

BIO 5305. Methods of Nature Study for Teachers.

This course provides a comprehensive survey of natural events. It includes laboratory and field work emphasizing observation, collection and discovery of relationships. It is creditable only for those seeking elementary or middle school certification and is required for those seeking grade 4-8 Science or Science/Mathematics teaching certification. This course must be taken the semester immediately prior to student teaching.

BIO 5307. Ecology of Rarity.

This course will examine the ecology of rarity and its ability to inform public awareness and environmental policy. This course will explore how we define rarity, persistence and viability. Is rarity more or less common than might be expected, and is there anything we can or should do about it?.

BIO 5311. Cancer Biology.

Cancer Biology provides a foundation for understanding the complex molecular, biochemical, and cellular processes associated with cancer development. Topics include the role of tumor suppressor genes, oncogenes, DNA repair, apoptosis, ECM, cell-cycle control, cell signaling pathways, immune function and cancer-causing viruses. Emerging diagnostics and/or therapeutics will also be discussed.

BIO 5314. Collaborative Research.

This course allows master’s level graduate students to initiate, conduct, and participate in research in collaboration with graduate faculty of the Department of Biology that is in addition to thesis research conducted under BIO 5399A or BIO 5399B . This course recognizes the collaborative nature of scientific investigation.

BIO 5317. Interpretive Biology Programming and Design.

In this course, students will explore the methods and principles used by the National Park Service, museums, environmental centers, and state park systems to interest a variety of audiences as well as interpret biology and natural environments effectively. Students will practice skills in both personal and non-personal interpretation by creating science outreach programs, interpretive literature, brochures, path waysides, and other interpretive media.

BIO 5319C. Ecotoxicology.

Topics to be covered include sources, types, and fates of toxicants, organism response to toxicants, toxicant effects at the population, community, and ecosystem levels, and monitoring and risk assessment. Examination of current literature will form the core of the course.

BIO 5319F. Watershed Management Frameworks and Applications.

Introduction to integrated watershed assessment and management tools for identifying programmatic water quality and quantity issues and their root causes and solutions, and their practical application. The scientific and socio-economic elements are considered within the context of planning and developing watershed protection plans and programs. Prerequisite: Instructor approval.

BIO 5324. Natural History and Conservation of Large Mammals.

This course will introduce students to advanced details of natural history, research, and conservation of large mammals. Topics considered will include natural history, range and population status (historic and current), importance to and interaction with humans, research design and analysis, and the development of conservation and management plans.

BIO 5327. Issues in Irish Biodiversity and Conservation.

In this course, students will learn about Irish flora and fauna, ecosystems, conservation strategies in areas of high ecological concern, and public involvement. Emphasis will be placed on case studies and service-learning opportunities. Prerequisite: Instructor approval.

BIO 5328. Field Biology of Ireland.

In this course, students will use multiple techniques to explore biodiversity across multiple ecosystems in Ireland. Prerequisite: Instructor approval.

BIO 5329. Raptor Ecology.

This course will examine the evolution, taxonomy, ecology, behavior, anatomy, physiology, and conservation of birds of prey of the world with emphasis on diurnal raptors, including those from Texas. Field trips will include at least two overnight visits to significant migration and overwintering areas.

BIO 5331. Human Dimensions of Wildlife and Fisheries Conservation.

Humans play a role in nearly every aspect of wildlife and fisheries conservation. This course will provide students with principles, concepts, and case studies to understand how the human experience (e.g., culture, politics, economics) influences conservation outcomes. Students will also have an opportunity to integrate human dimensions into local decision-making.

BIO 5332. Biology in Film and Television: An Analysis of the Biology in Fiction and Non-Fiction Film and TV.

This course explores how biology is portrayed in popular motion pictures with an emphasis on analyzing biological accuracy, misconceptions perpetuated or portrayed, and investigating the rationale behind motion picture directors' and writers' decisions about how they portray biological content in the final product. As part of this course students will watch and discuss a curated list of films and television shows and write an analysis of each film or TV episode.

BIO 5350G. Medical Microbiology.

This lecture-based course will cover pathogenic bacteria and their ability to cause disease, emphasizing the biological basis for virulence, and research strategies for investigating infectious diseases. Students may take only one of BIO 5350G or BIO 5445 for credit. Prerequisite: BIO 2400 with a grade of "C" or better.

BIO 5350I. Emerging Infectious Diseases.

Current topics in the emergence of viral and bacterial diseases in humans. This course will include new diseases, diseases previously seen and increasing in incidence, and diseases not previously seen in this country. This course will be of interest to students who are pursing advanced degrees and courses in microbiology, biochemistry, and cell and molecular biology.

BIO 5350J. Environmental Physiology of Animals.

This course is a study of how animals respond physiologically to changes in environmental temperature, moisture, salinity, partial pressure of gases, and toxins. Prerequisites: Instructor approval.

BIO 5350K. Genomics.

The course is a lecture course in modern genomics, including principles of genome function, the human genome, comparative genomics, genome sequencing, evolution and genomic change, databases and medicine, ethical, legal and social issues. The course also includes discussion of transcriptomics, proteomics, metabolomics, directed evolution, protein design, and systems biology.

BIO 5350M. Wildlife Policy and Law in North America.

This course provides the student with a historical and cultural context within which wildlife policy and law (federal treaties, statutes, case law, and regulations) have developed in North America, particularly in the United States. Graduate students will research the development of Wildlife law in representative states as well.

BIO 5350O. Tropical Ecology and Conservation.

Students will obtain a first-hand knowledge of the ecology, biodiversity, conservation, and culture of tropical ecosystems. It is an immersive and intensive study abroad course combining traditional lecture and field-based laboratory instruction in tropical ecosystems.

BIO 5350P. Tropical Ecology and Conservation Lab.

This laboratory course complements the lecture course BIO 5350O , in which students will obtain a first-hand knowledge of the ecology, biodiversity, conservation, and culture of tropical ecosystems. It is an immersive and intensive study abroad course combining traditional lecture and field-based laboratory instruction in tropical ecosystems. Corequisite: BIO 5350O .

BIO 5350Z. Diversity and Cultural Impact of Geoparks.

Students will explore biological differences in diversity across Geoparks in the United States and Ireland. Additionally, students will study the cultural impact that Geoparks have on the local community and national policy by focusing on differences between science communication strategies and community engagement practices conducted at the parks. Prerequisite: Instructor approval.

BIO 5351G. Omics Approach to Microbiology.

This course covers contemporary approaches, techniques and bioinformatic tools used to study function and ecology in microbial communities. Topics covered will include microbiome, next-generation sequencing, metaproteomics, and their applications to clinical, agricultural, environmental and industrial needs.

BIO 5351I. Global Change Biology.

This course will give an in-depth analysis of the major global changes occurring in present day biological systems. The focus of the course will be on climate change, invasive species, eutrophication, land use change and biodiversity loss. Emphasis will be placed on peer-reviewed literature to better understand how biologists study processes at the global scale. Potential solutions to these global challenges will also be discussed.

BIO 5351J. Comparative Immunology.

While most textbooks would present the immune system of animals as a monolith with little variation between species, we are quickly learning that this is not the case. Indeed animal immune systems are immensely diverse. This class will consist of a taxonomic survey of metazoan immune systems, focusing on the evolutionary causes and ecological consequences of this diversity in immune systems across animals.

BIO 5351P. Ecology and Conservation Abroad.

The purpose of this course is to provide a first-hand understanding of the natural history, biodiversity, ecology, and conservation of ecosystems that do not occur in the United States. It is an immersive and intensive study abroad course combining traditional lecture and field-based instruction in the field. Corequisite: BIO 5351Q with a grade of "C" or better.

BIO 5351Q. Ecology and Conservation Abroad Lab.

The purpose of this course is to provide a first-hand understanding of the natural history, biodiversity, ecology, and conservation of ecosystems that do not occur in the United States. It is an immersive and intensive study abroad course combining traditional lecture and field-based instruction in the field. Corequisite: BIO 5351P with a grade of "C" or better.

BIO 5356. Plant Physiology.

Basic principles of plant physiology are studied in lecture and laboratory. Previous courses in biochemistry and genetics are strongly recommended.

BIO 5363. History of Medicine.

This course covers significant concepts, developments, individuals, and events in the history of medicine from antiquity to modern day. Topics include the impact of disease on medical practice, the development of hospitals as sites for care, teaching, and research, how medical science and technology are continuously defined by social, cultural, and political ideas, and the historical roots of several themes in medical ethics. This course will be delivered as an Education Abroad course.

BIO 5364. Explorations in Physiology.

This course will cover the basic principles of physiological systems and the function of organ systems with an emphasis on humans and other mammals. The focus will be on the interplay between and among multiple organ systems and holistic systems integration. Other topics include the pathophysiology underlying common diseases, drug therapies and treatments, and emerging physiological research. This course will also provide the opportunity for experiential learning gained in diverse cultural settings.

BIO 5366. Medical Microbiology.

This lecture-based course will cover pathogenic bacteria and their relationship to disease, emphasizing critical evaluation of research literature, disease transmission and the biological basis for virulence. Prerequisites: BIO 2400 and BIO 2450 both with grades of "C" or better.

BIO 5374. Principles of Zoo Management.

This course is designed to introduce the principles of captive animal management within conservation and education-based zoos. Zoo management requires a broad understanding of the life history and biological needs of many different species; we will explore the ways modern zoos address these needs and the ways in which future zoos could address them more effectively. Specific topics will include animal husbandry, welfare, nutrition, and behavior as well as environmental enrichment, captive breeding, conservation, zoo regulatory frameworks, ethical concerns, and zoo careers.

BIO 5376. Microbial Biotechnology.

This course provides an overview of how microbes (e.g., bacteria, viruses and yeast) are manipulated to solve practical problems through biotechnology. This course design is based on topics of applied microbiology as recommended by American society of Microbiology.

BIO 5377. Genome Informatics.

The course will cover basic knowledge on genomics and its bioinformatics tools. Students will learn current topics on genomics and bioinformatics, and will analyze genomic data using statistical software. All the analyses will be performed using a personal and a cluster computer.

BIO 5388. Habitat Ecology.

The course will emphasize and reinforce in students an appreciation for the importance of habitat in understanding a wide range of processes and patterns in Ecology. Course will explore the process of habitat selection, in the context of animal behavior, population dynamics, and modeling. Students will learn and apply methods and techniques of statistically analyzing the habitat associations of species. The central role of habitat in species conservation will also be discussed.

BIO 5390. Problems in the Biological Sciences.

Open to graduate students on an individual basis by arrangement with the faculty member concerned.

BIO 5399A. Thesis.

This course represents a student’s initial thesis enrollment. No thesis credit is awarded until student has completed the thesis in BIO 5399B . Students working toward the M.A. or M.S. with a thesis are expected to enroll in thesis each semester in which faculty supervision is received or laboratory facilities are used.

BIO 5399B. Thesis.

BIO 5400. Plants Important for Wildlife.

This course explores plant and plant part (specifically gall, fruit, seed, and twig) identification, phylogenetics, co-evolution of plant defenses, economic and ecological impacts of plant uses by wildlife.

BIO 5402. Earth Science I.

A study of astronomy and meteorology through observation, description, and interpretation of earth phenomena. Includes field observations, methods of measurement and interpretation of data related to the physical environment and space technology. Requires independent scientific and science education research and presentation of findings in a professional context.

BIO 5403. Earth Science II.

The description and interpretation of earth phenomena considered from the standpoint of geology and oceanography. Includes field observations, methods of sampling and interpretation of data related to the physical environment. Requires independent scientific and science education research and presentation of findings in a professional context.

BIO 5408. Science Processes and Research.

Students will analyze scientific research design, design research, interpret data, and communicate results. Stress will be placed on broad-field structure and integration of major science concepts and research-based science pedagogy. This course must be taken the semester prior to student teaching and is required for those seeking 7-12 Life Science or Science teacher certification. This course may not count as one of the four upper-level Biology courses required of general Biology majors, or one of the three upper-level Biology courses required of Biology minors.

BIO 5410. Field Biology of Plants.

Ecological relationships and natural history of plants, including historical geology, geography, soils, and vegetational regions of Central Texas.

BIO 5411. Morphology of the Vascular Plants.

A phylogenetic survey of living and fossil vascular plants that focuses on external morphology and reproductive biology. Topics include phylogenetic reconstruction, the origin of vascular plants, seed reproduction, and the origin of angiosperms. Emphasis is on broad-scale evolutionary patterns and origin of major taxonomic groups.

BIO 5412. Plant Anatomy.

A descriptive and functional analysis of seed plants that focuses on internal structure. Topics include recognition and characterization of plant tissues, the structure of plant organs, and organ development. Emphasis is on pattern of tissue organization common to all seed plants and the functional basis for anatomical structure.

BIO 5413. Parasitology.

The biology and biological significance of the common parasites of man and animals.

BIO 5415. Ichthyology.

An introduction to the morphology, taxonomy, natural history, and evolution of fishes. Field trips will be made to collect specimens, and laboratory periods will be devoted to morphological and systematic analyses.

BIO 5418. Field Ornithology.

This course is designed to introduce and provide an advanced knowledge of the application of various field, laboratory, and statistical methods and techniques in the study of avian species. The course will include topics related to survey methodology, sampling design, marking/banding, measurement/sample extraction, and aging/sexing of avian species.

BIO 5420. Natural History of the Vertebrates.

Environmental relationships and natural history of vertebrates. Emphasis is on evolution taxonomy, speciation, behavior, and morphology. Laboratory will include field trips for the study and collection of vertebrates in their natural habitats. Students will assemble a representative collection of vertebrates.

BIO 5421. Ornithology.

Introduction to anatomy, behavior, ecology, and identification of the birds of Texas. Laboratory will emphasize field studies of birds and their habitat requirements.

BIO 5422. Mammalogy.

The taxonomy, distribution, ecology, behavior, and evolution of mammals with particular emphasis on wild mammals of the Southwest. Laboratory will emphasize anatomy, identification, preparation of specimens, and field exercises in methods of population analysis. Students may assemble representative mammal collection.

BIO 5423. Wildlife Management.

Application of ecological principles and natural history concepts to the management of wildlife habitats and populations. Laboratory will involve demonstrations and practice exercises with wildlife management techniques and instrumentation, and field trips to observe wildlife management projects.

BIO 5424D. Vertebrate Endocrinology.

This course teaches function and organization of the endocrine system. It describes the major endocrine glands, the synthesis and release of their hormone products, and the interaction with target tissues. Endocrine control of digestion, growth, reproduction, and homeostasis will be compared between mammals and other vertebrate groups.

BIO 5432. Bacterial Genomics.

The course will offer hands-on training on contemporary approaches, techniques, and bioinformatic tools used to study bacterial genomes. Topics covered include DNA sequencing, assembling and annotating genomes, all with a strong emphasis on computational biology. At the end of this course, students will be familiar with bioinformatics tools used to analyze genes and genomes.

BIO 5435. Techniques in Wildlife Management.

The basic methodology of practical wildlife management. This involves techniques in monitoring and data collection related to population dynamics and habitat parameters of wildlife species as well as field research.

BIO 5436. Tropical Biology.

This course entails an analysis and evaluation of the governing principles of tropical ecosystems, including wildlife ecologies, geological processes, and environmental-cultural interactions. In the laboratories, students will compare ecological relationships that influence tropical biology, discuss peer-reviewed literature and examine tropical flora and fauna during field trips to regional sub-tropical areas.

BIO 5441. Cellular Physiology.

Advanced cellular biology, including membrane physiology, thermodynamics, energy transduction and distribution, and cellular movement in non-muscle and muscle cells. Laboratory includes discussion of current research and exercises in cellular physiology.

BIO 5443. Fish Physiology.

This course examines the primary physiological functions in fish including how fish sense and interact with the environment, maintain their energetic metabolism (respiration, digestion and excretion), reproduce and maintain water balance. Students will learn about the diverse adaptions fish use to cope with environmental and physiological challenges.

BIO 5448. Bacterial Genetics.

This course will cover concepts and mechanisms involved in the genetics of Archaea and Bacteria. Graduate students will learn current strategies dealing with traditional molecular genetics including post-transcriptional regulation involving small non-coding RNA. In addition graduate students will also write a critical review on a research article from relevant topic.

BIO 5454. Plant Ecology.

Functional ecology of terrestrial plants, plant populations, and communities. Laboratory emphasizes quantitative and experimental approaches to plant ecology and the use of field and laboratory physiology equipment.

BIO 5465. General Entomology.

Principles of morphology, physiology, and taxonomy of insects. Laboratory time will be devoted to a taxonomic study of the common orders and families of insects.

BIO 5466. Phylogenetic Methods.

Reconstructing phylogenies is important in most fields of biology. Course emphasis is on practical data collection, management, and analysis. Laboratory exercises will introduce phylogenetic and DNA analysis software, and WWW resources. Students will learn how to address questions in their own research using phylogenetic methodologies.

BIO 5470. Limnology.

Physical, chemical, and biological factors affecting productivity in lakes, ponds, and streams. Limnology sampling methods, chemical and biological analysis of samples, and hydrographic surveying are included in the laboratory.

BIO 5472. Animal Behavior.

This course presents all the major facets of the study of animal behavior, giving special attention to its evolution and ecological significance. We will discuss major conceptual models guiding past and present research in the field. Laboratories will emphasize experimental techniques and statistical analysis.

BIO 5480. Cytology and Micro-technique.

Study of cellular ultra-structure and electron micro technique. Lecture portion of course will cover cytology of all cell types and theoretical aspects of light microscopy and electron microscopy. Laboratory portion will train students to proficiency in microscopy.

BIO 5481. Internship in Biological Laboratory Technologies.

The student will participate in the work of a selected biology unit (private, commercial, or governmental). A research paper reporting the internship experience conducted at the biological unit under the supervision of a faculty member will be required. This course may be credited toward a biology major with prior approval of the graduate advisor and department chair.

BIO 5490. Principles of Developmental Biology.

This course will cover basic principles of developmental biology in both plant and animal systems. The course will mainly address cell, molecular and genetic mechanisms underlying the development of model organisms, mainly focusing on Drosophila (animal) and Arabidopsis (plant).

BIO 5599B. Thesis.

BIO 5999B. Thesis.

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Information For

Biology (M.S.) Non-Thesis Track

The master’s in biology with a non-thesis track is designed for students who want a broad background in biology and less research training.  

Why Choose the Non-Thesis Track?

The master’s degree in biology with the non-thesis track   requires 30 units of coursework. It is intended for students who do not need a great deal of research training. 

• The non-thesis track is ideal for students taking time between undergraduate and pre-professional programs such as medical, dental or veterinary school.
• The track is also chosen by secondary school teachers, and individuals interested in positions in industry or government where intense, independent research is not required.
• Courses are offered in the late afternoon and evening, at convenient times for students who work full time. 
• Research opportunities are available but not required for the degree. 

Degree Requirements

View all degree requirements for the master’s degree in biology with the non-thesis track   in the Graduate Catalog .

Admission Requirements and Deadlines

View  admission requirements and deadlines  to apply to the program.

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Contact Information

Program director.