Master of Science in Biology
Department
Department of Biological Sciences
College
College of Science and Technology
Overview of the program
The Department of Biological Sciences offers two master's programs: thesis and non-thesis. The requirements for each of these programs are different and are described on the departmental webpage. The thesis program offers stipends and tuition wavers for students admitted to the program. Click on the link below for descriptions of our thesis and non-thesis programs and for information on the application procedure, deadlines, and requirements for each.
Note: These programs are different and are described in the General Catalogue and on the departmental webpage.
Graduate Degrees in the Biology Department
Strengths of the program
The Department of Biological Sciences is composed of 44 full-time faculty, including 19 Graduate Faculty. Their research interests span a wide range of disciplines, including cell and molecular biology, immunology, neurophysiology, microbiology, systematics, evolutionary biology, population and wetland ecology, parasitology, plant and animal physiology, vertebrate anatomy, forensic entomology, and conservation biology. Since 2002, the faculty have published over 98 scholarly papers, several books, and have generated nearly $5,000,000 in extramural funds.
Preparing for a job in the program
- Have a solid background in biology and related fields.
- Be able to conduct independent research.
- Develop independent, critical-thinking skills.
- Be able to formulate scientific questions and execute scientific research that addresses that specific question.
- Be able to present research to the scientific community at large both through oral presentation and publications in peer-reviewed journals.
Careers in the program
Completing a Masters in Biology will potentially lead to a wide range of career opportunities throughout the broad field of biology. In addition, it can provide excellent training leadingtoward obtaininga Ph.D. in biology or related fields.
Continue to pursue a Ph.D. in biology
- Industry (e.g. biotechnology, water quality control, consulting)
- Conservation (e.g. Nature Conservancy, World Wildlife Fund)
- Education (e.g. college or high school biology teacher)
- Government (e.g. LDWF, USDA, EPA, DOE, USFWS).
Starting Salaries after completing the program (estimates only)
With Masters: $25,000-$50,000
After obtaining Ph.D.: $45,000-$75,000
Campus organizations and activities affiliated with the program
Biology Graduate Student Organization (BGSO)
Related fields that might interest you
- Biochemistry
- Statistics
- Chemistry
- Medicine
How do I know this is the degree for me?
Common Strengths and interests of students in the program
A position in biology can be lead to a satisfying career for the following reasons:
- Ability to work independently
- Variety in the work you do
- Solve challenging problems
- Collaborate with interesting people
Contact Information
Dr. Kyle R. Piller, Graduate Coordinator
Department of Biological Sciences
SLU 10736
Hammond, LA 70402
On campus: Biology Building, Room 421
Telephone: 985-549-2191
Fax: 985-549-3851
