Biology Graduate Programs
The Biological Sciences graduate program offers an advanced and rigorous education tailored for students eager to deepen their knowledge and expertise in the biological sciences. Our program provides a comprehensive curriculum that covers a wide range of disciplines, including molecular biology, ecology, evolution, genetics, physiology, and biotechnology.
Students will benefit from close mentorship by our distinguished faculty, engaging in cutting-edge research projects that address real-world challenges. With access to state-of-the-art laboratories and facilities, you'll develop advanced technical skills and critical thinking abilities essential for scientific discovery and innovation.
Our program emphasizes interdisciplinary collaboration and provides opportunities for internships, fieldwork, and international research experiences, preparing graduates for successful careers in academia, industry, healthcare, and environmental management. Join us to become part of a vibrant community of scholars and contribute to the forefront of biological research and applications.
Biological Sciences (Masters of Science)
Our thesis-based Masters of Science (M.S.) program consists of taking master's level courses (30 credits) and may include research experience from a faculty advisor as part of this coursework. The final culminating project of the M.S. program can be a comprehensive exam, starred paper, or thesis. This program does not require a GRE exam.
To choose the thesis option as the culminating project, you first need to identify an individualized research project in the lab of a faculty member willing to sponsor you. To graduate with the thesis option, students write a thesis (typically 75-150 pages) about their research findings and present their research in an oral presentation to the department in a public defense followed by a short oral exam (private defense) pertaining to their project conducted by their committee.
Follow this link for information on relevant forms and to learn more about the timeline of being a master student and progress towards your degree.
- Biological Sciences (M.S.) Program Information
- Graduate Student Forms and Timeline of Degree Progress
- Degree Requirements
- Faculty Advisors for M.S. Program
- Culminating Projects in Biological Sciences
Biology for Educators (Certificate)
The Biology for Educators graduate certificate is designed for teachers to enhance their knowledge and training through advanced content in biology. Completion of the certificate fulfills the path-to-18 requirement to teach Senior-to-Sophomore or College-in-the-Schools courses in biology. Candidates for this certificate must either hold a master's degree or pair the certificate as an elective path with an initial master's degree. The certificate is also beneficial to community college instructors to strengthen their credentials and expand fields of teaching.
Graduate Student Teaching Assistantships
Follow this link to learn more about graduate assistantships. To apply, please complete the teaching assistantship application (PDF) and return it to the Department of Biological Sciences Graduate Director (mpdavis@stcloudstate.edu) electronically. Apply by May 1 for Fall positions and by December 1 for Spring positions. Graduate and Teaching Assistantships include 9 credits of tuition remission each semester as well as a paid stipend. Once you are awarded a T.A. position the contract will typically cover two semesters of support with opportunity of renewal based on performance for an additional two semesters.