An all-encompassing laboratory

The University is surrounded by relatively untouched biological habitats that provide a wealth of challenging opportunities for study at the Master’s level by the aspiring Biologist, Botanist or Zoologist. These habitats are home to hundreds of different animals, plants, and fungi, many of which are unique to northwestern California.

The department has facilities and faculty expertise that allow Master's students to complete their programs in almost any area of biology. Laboratories on the main campus are equipped for biotechnology, scanning and transmission electron microscopy, mammalogy, genetic analysis (including DNA sequencing), and computer modeling. Field opportunities include the marine laboratory 14 miles from the main campus, a university forest, and a 90-ft ocean going research vessel, RV Coral Sea.

With a strong emphasis now being placed on the training of secondary school teachers in California, an M. S. Degree in Biological Sciences can be combined with a California Teaching Credential for increased depth of learning and job preparation that will allow graduates to compete for jobs on both the national and international level.

Program highlights

Currently, the Biological Sciences Graduate Program has approximately 58 actively enrolled students. Students begin their program by taking both required courses and courses specifically in their area of thesis research. A total of 30 units at the upper-division and graduate level are required to complete the program. Most students complete their Master’s program in two years, but completion in one year is possible under exceptional circumstances. Some areas of study may require a longer period of enrollment depending on the complexity of study and data availability. A written thesis and oral thesis defense is also required to complete the degree.

Each Graduate Student accepted into the program automatically becomes a member of the Biology Graduate Student Association (BGSA). The Association actively participates with the Department in sponsoring a lecture series featuring widely respected university teachers and researchers from throughout the country. Another highlight of the year is the annual mini-symposium where students, faculty, and staff alike share their research interests with informative presentations. A spirit of both social and intellectual interaction is fostered each fall semester by a traditional potluck BBQ where students, staff, and faculty join together for an evening of relaxation and conversation.

There are a number of Teaching Associate positions available to Graduate Students through the Department of Biological Sciences. Assignments typically average teaching 1 lab (3-6 hours) each semester. There is also a fee-waiver program for 1 or 2 qualified out-of-state students per semester (depending on available University funding).

Other financial aid opportunities should be explored through the Office of Financial Aid at 707-826-4321.