The Master of Science degree in biology is primarily for students with a strong undergraduate preparation in biology who desire to prepare for advanced study, to teach at the college level, or to pursue a career in research. Students entering this program are encouraged to undertake thesis research as a means of satisfying the degree requirements. 

A student desiring admission must offer an undergraduate major in biology consisting of a minimum of 50 credits in science, including a minimum of 30 credits in biology, 6 credits of chemistry, and one semester of college mathematics. Upon acceptance by the department, the student is assigned an interim adviser who assists him in arranging a program of study.