Master of Science in Biology

Total Credits
36

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Mission

The Master of Science (MS) in Biology program at Notre Dame University-Louaize (NDU) equips graduates with comprehensive expertise in advanced biological topics. Through a combination of coursework and thesis research, the program trains students to become independent thinkers capable of identifying and investigating key research problems in biology.

Program Educational Objectives

1.Prepare students for better careers in biology by extending their knowledge, skills and experience.
2.Train students to be independent and critical thinkers, capable of solving basic problems in biology by employing appropriate experimental methodology and design.
3.Develop students’ communication skills and leadership abilities.
4.Accentuate the value of biology in our society.

Program Learning Outcomes

Upon graduation, students will be able to:

1.Explain fundamental concepts in the different basic areas of biology.
2.Design a study, follow the proper experimental procedures, and apply the appropriate laboratory techniques to investigate scientific problems.
3.Troubleshoot experimental procedures.
4.Analyze critically primary scientific literature; apply the appropriate statistical tools for data analysis.
5.Write scientific papers which require literature search, selection of relevant papers, interpretation of scientific data, and synthesis of a coherent scientific review.
6.Communicate effectively scientific ideas and findings in written and oral formats.

Admission Requirements

In addition to the University graduate admission requirements, students holding a BS in Biology with a cumulative GPA of at least 3.0 (or equivalent) will be accepted, while those with a GPA between 2.7 and 2.99 (or equivalent) will be conditionally accepted. Conditionally accepted students may take up to 6 credits (two 3-credit courses) during their first semester, and conditional status will be removed once they earn a minimum of a “B” grade in each 3-credit course.

Students may also be accepted with undergraduate remedial courses in Biology. A minimum average grade of 2.7/4.0 (“B-”) must be achieved across these remedial courses. However, these supplementary credits do not count toward the 36 credits required for the MS degree.

A maximum of nine transfer credits from previous graduate work completed at another accredited institution may be transferred at the discretion of the Faculty Graduate Committee.

Graduation Requirements

To fulfill the requirements for the MS in Biology degree, students must complete a total of 36 credits, which includes 6 credits of thesis work. The minimum passing grade is 'C.' A cumulative GPA of at least 3.0/4.0 is required, with no more than 2 grades of 'C.'

Based on the chosen elective courses within the major, students have the option to specialize in either Molecular Biology or Ecology/Organismal Biology. The advisor must approve the selected elective courses.

Thesis work is designed to provide students with the necessary background and research experience, particularly for those planning to pursue a Ph.D. and engage in scientific research activities.

Courses

Major Courses (15cr.)

Elective Major Courses (9cr.)

Free Electives (6cr.)

Courses not selected from the categories listed above.

Thesis (6cr.)

The Faculty of Natural and Applied Sciences has established specific regulations and guidelines for master's thesis courses, covering aspects such as the jury composition, oral defense procedures, grading criteria, manuscript submission, and other relevant details. Upon registering for their master's thesis courses, each graduate student will be provided with comprehensive information regarding these regulations and guidelines.

3 BIO 692 Master Thesis I

3 BIO 693 Master Thesis II

GRADUATION REQUIREMENTS

Major Courses

15 Cr

Elective Major Courses

9 Cr

Free Electives

6 Cr

Thesis

6 Cr

Minimum Cumulative GPA

3.0

4.0

Total 36 Credits