Introduction

The graduate program in biological sciences leads to a research-based Master of Science (M.S.) degree. The program provides the opportunity for participants to receive advanced training in biological sciences and to pursue independent research investigations in specialized areas of interest. Laboratory and/or field research is an integral component of the program, which emphasizes a “hands-on” approach with close faculty mentoring. Research experience also enables students to hone investigative skills relating to experimental design, implementation, data analysis, and interpretation. Another important feature of the program is the Teaching Assistantship requirement, which is designed to give students the opportunity to discuss and implement pedagogical strategies  employed in science education.

Graduates with an M.S. in Biological Sciences will be prepared, not only to continue study at the Ph.D. level, but also to successfully pursue careers in private industry or government affiliated labs and agencies, and to teach at the college level.

Our program fosters the integration of many disciplines. A wide range of faculty expertise and research interests enables the department to offer a curriculum that spans the fields of molecular genetics and development, aquatic biology, evolution, ecology, physiology, biotechnology, microbiology, immunology, and molecular cell biology. Students may develop a program of courses and research tailored to their individual needs within the areas of faculty expertise. In addition, students may choose a research supervisor outside of the Biological Sciences Program, allowing them to pursue interdisciplinary studies, special field research, or industrial projects. Seminar courses focus on the primary literature and are presented as a forum for open interchange and  dissemination of scientific knowledge.

The available research areas in this degree cover a wide spectrum of biology and include both laboratory and field study. The department has sophisticated research laboratories equipped with state-of-the-art instrumentation. Facilities include a vivarium, greenhouse, tissue culture laboratory, elemental analysis equipment, environmental growth chambers, a 21 foot boat, numerous aquaria, and equipment for radioisotope and modern molecular biology work. Excellent computer facilities and GIS software are also available. The close proximity of the campus to marine, chaparral, and desert environments provides many opportunities for field studies.