2022-2023 Course Catalog
Master of Science in Biology (MS)
As of January 1, 2022, the MSBIO program is no longer accepting applications. All currently enrolled students will progress through the program to completion. Students interested in this program should explore our Master of Arts in Biomedical Studies program.
In many professions, the master’s degree is now the minimum requirement for either employment or advancement. To meet this need, Chatham has developed two options for the MS biology program. The non-thesis option can be completed in one calendar year, and different tracks are available focusing on different areas of biology. The thesis option includes a research component and typically takes one and a half to two years.
Non-Thesis Option:
The MS Biology non-thesis track is flexible program that allows student to pursue interests in varied biological disciplines. Scientific inquiry is an essential component of this program, but not at the level of research required for a thesis. Students will complete a total of thirteen courses (36-40 credits) in their degree plan.
Thesis Option:
The MS Biology thesis track is flexible program that allows student to pursue interests in varied biological disciplines. Scientific research is an essential component of this program, which students can expect will require two years to complete. Students complete thirteen courses (36-40 credits) in their degree plan.
The focal point of the program is human biology. This program is designed primarily for students who wish to improve their credentials and/or complete requirements for advanced programs in medicine, dentistry, pharmacy, optometry, etc.
Important Program Information:
In the MS Biology graduate program, you must be registered for a minimum of 9 credits per long semester (i.e. fall & spring) to achieve full-time status. 6 credits is generally sufficient to qualify for financial aid during the summer semester; please check with the financial aid office to confirm the requirements of your funder. Thesis track students cannot register for an independent study intended for research, in addition to thesis credits.
You may count one internship or independent study course (2-3 credits) as an elective in this program. Internships require 40 hours of on-site activity per credit, as well as additional academic responsibilities. It is the student’s responsibility to identify the site and the internship supervisor. Chatham’s Career Services department and your academic advisor will provide assistance and complete details on academic internship rules and responsibilities.
All BIO classes at the 500- and 600-levels not designated as core courses in the program may serve as approved program electives. Graduate level courses in other academic programs may also be accepted as program electives. A list of pre-approved courses is provided below. Other courses may be approved on an individual basis if they are consistent with the structure of the biology program, and well suited to the specific aims of the student. Full-time students may cross-register for ONE course per semester at nearby institutions including Pitt, CMU, and Duquesne. Cross-registration is not permitted in the summer. These courses are not automatically accepted, so please consult with your program director when pursuing this option.
Admission Requirements
If a Student has below a 3.0 GPA, please feel free to apply if you show extreme promise through other achievements. Additional Admissions documents may be requested.Learning Outcomes
- Goal 1 Enhances students' intellectual growth and development of practical and transferable skills.
- PSLO 1 Students demonstrate knowledge and skills in human biology.
- Goal 2 Create a venue for students to gain transferable scientific skills to assist them in their future career endeavors.
- PSLO 2 Students demonstrate knowledge and skill in research principles, research ethics, and scientific writing.
- PSLO 3 Students demonstrate knowledge and skill in analysis of biological data.
- Goal 3 Enhance the transferable skills of students along specific intra-discipline lines, including research and biomedical training.
- PSLO 4 Thesis track students demonstrate mastery of the scientific method
- PSLO 5 Thesis track students demonstrate skill in oral communication of scientific research
- PSLO 6 Medical track students demonstrate interdisciplinary skill in the Medical College Admissions Test