Master of Science in Conservation Biology

Minimum Admissions Requirements

1. Graduation from an accredited college or university with a bachelor's degree with a minimum of 2.5 grade point average (four-point scale).
2. Submission of an official score on the Graduate Record Exam (GRE).
3. On-time application packet that contains the application form, all student transcripts, GRE scores, a Statement of Purpose, and a list of three academic references with full names, titles/positions, school names, current telephone numbers and email addresses.

Achievement of the minimum requirements does not guarantee admission into the degree program. The admissions committee will review the application packets based on minimum requirements and capacity of the faculty members in the program.

For priority consideration, applications must be submitted by February 15 for fall admission, and July 15 for spring admission.

This program includes two basic options - the Thesis Option and the Non-Thesis Option.

Thesis Option

The Master of Science in Conservation Biology (Thesis Option) draws on the strengths of our faculty to provide current and future students with a degree program suited to their needs.  The degree provides the required coursework to establish a foundation for research in biology, yet allows flexibility for the inclusion of elective hours to support a student's research interest.  The program culminates in a research thesis, conducted under the mentorship of a faculty member who is expert in the field.  For students wishing to pursue careers in the biological sciences, a research-based program provides experiences to prepare them for the job market.  Students interested in pursuing Ph.D. study will be able to build a strong, research-based program to enhance their chances of acceptance into a doctoral program.

Non-Thesis Option

The non-thesis track of the Master of Science in Conservation Biology is designed to provide a preparation for students who wish to pursue masters-level study but are unable to engage in on-campus research.  The program is rich in theory and case study, and provides a strong preparation for students who wish to pursue careers in conservation that are not actively engaged in research activity.  In addition, this track provides a strong preparation for students who wish to pursue teaching at the community college level.  Finally, this track provides the further advantage of allowing online delivery to meet the needs of students who cannot travel to campus.