Zoology and Physiology, M.S.

Print Degree Planner (opens a new window) |

Advanced-degree students in Zoo/Phys experience collaborative, interdisciplinary approaches to basic and applied questions. Work spans molecules to ecosystems, with training in fields including physiology, ecology, evolution, fisheries, and wildlife.

Plan A (Thesis)

Includes 26 hours of coursework and 4 hours of thesis research.

Applicants should have at least 20 semester hours of undergraduate work in zoology, physiology, or other areas of the biosciences and have completed introductory courses in mathematics, chemistry, and in at least one other natural or physical science. Early in the second semester the student must file a program of study with the university and have a graduate committee appointed. Plan A candidates shall orally defend the thesis before the graduate committee.

All M.S. candidates will be required to complete credit in two graduate seminars. A student may enroll in more than one of these required seminars during one semester or academic year.

After two semesters in the department, a Plan A master’s candidate may request permission from the department’s graduate advisory board to proceed directly to the Ph.D. degree; however, such a bypass is granted only by the department head after considering recommendations from the graduate advisory board.

Zoology and physiology may be used as a field by a candidate working for the interdisciplinary master of science in natural science in the College of Arts and Sciences and the College of Education.

Plan B (Non-Thesis)

Includes 30 hours of coursework.

The program for the Plan B is established by the student and a faculty adviser and must be approved by the department head during the student’s second semester or summer session.

The graduate committee will require the candidate to take a written examination. An oral examination may also be required. The final examination is comprehensive, covering all areas of zoology, but emphasizing one major area.