Fifth Year M.S. Program - Biology

     The Department of Biology offers an opportunity to earn a B.S. and an M.S. degree in a total of five years. This program offers qualified students mentorship during undergraduate study and supplements professional degrees such as medicine, dentistry, and optometry. The student works closely with a faculty member in an area of intensive research which prepares the student for a Ph.D. degree program in the biological sciences or a future health professions career.  It also builds teaching skills for academic careers. Admission to the program requires a minimum 3.25 grade point average; three letters of recommendation; an interview with the admissions committee; and a satisfactory score on the Graduate Record Examination by fall of the senior year. For additional information, please contact Dr. Stephen Watts, Graduate Program Director, at (205) 934-2045.

Fifth Year M.S. Program - Bioinformatics Specialization (BS-Biology; MS-Computer Science)

    Through a collaborative program with the Department of Computer and Information Sciences, biology majors have an opportunity to complete a B.S degree in Biology and an M.S. degree in Computer and Information Sciences with a specialization in Bioinformatics. This program prepares individuals for a career in the high-demand bioinformatics job market.  Biology undergraduate majors can satisfy the undergraduate background in computer science required by taking the following computer science courses (equivalent to a  minor): CS 201, CS 250, CS 302, CS 303, CS 330, and CS 350.  At least one course in molecular biology is highly recommended. Biology majors are then qualified to begin the bioinformatics specialization within the M.S. in Computer and Information Sciences degree.  For additional information, contact the departmental office at (205) 934-8308.