Biological Sciences, Ecology and Evolution Concentration, MS
Program Overview
The Master's program in Biological Sciences with a concentration in Ecology and Evolution provides rigorous training in ecological and evolutionary processes. Students specialize in a specific area and develop critical thinking, problem-solving, and communication skills. Graduates are well-prepared for doctoral programs and careers in academia, research, environmental consulting, and conservation.
Program Outline
Degree Overview:
The Master's program in Biological Sciences with a concentration in Ecology and Evolution offers rigorous scientific investigation training with an emphasis on ecological and evolutionary processes. Students specialize in botany, entomology, zoology, or conservation biology through faculty advisor selection, committee, coursework, and thesis or project. Graduates gain a comprehensive understanding of ecological and evolutionary principles and develop critical thinking, problem-solving, research methodology, and communication skills. Alumni have successfully pursued doctoral degrees and attained high-level positions in both private and public sectors.
Outline:
Core Courses (15 units):
- BIOL 201 - Graduate Seminar in Biological Sciences (1 unit)
- BIOL 202 - Graduate Studies in Biology (3 units) (GWAR)
- BIOL 220 - Science Communication (3 units)
- BIOL 297 - Graduate Research (1-4 units) (Students take a total of 8 core units of this class.)
Concentration Courses (9 units):
- BIOL 218 - Advanced Evolution (3 units)
- BIOL 256 - Advanced Experimental Design and Analysis (3 units)
- BIOL 255E - Advanced Topics: Ecology and Evolution (1-4 units) (3 units required)
Electives (5 units):
- BIOL 255E - Advanced Topics: Ecology and Evolution (1-4 units)
- BIOL 255L - Advanced Biology Laboratory (1-4 units)
- BIOL 255M - Advanced Topics: Molecular & Microbiology (1-4 units)
- BIOL 255P - Seminar in Advanced Biology: Physiology (1-4 units)
- 100- or 200-level courses chosen with advisor consent
Culminating Experience (1 unit):
- Plan A (Thesis): BIOL 299 - Master's Thesis (1-4 units) (1 unit required)
Careers:
Graduates are prepared for doctoral programs and high-level positions in both the private and public sectors, including academia, research institutions, environmental consulting, and conservation organizations.
San Jose State University
Overview:
San Jose State University (SJSU) is a public university located in San Jose, California. It is known for its strong academic programs, particularly in business, engineering, and nursing. SJSU is also recognized for its commitment to student success and its location in the heart of Silicon Valley, providing students with access to numerous career opportunities.
Services Offered:
SJSU offers a wide range of services to its students, including:
Academic Support:
King Library, tutoring services, academic advising, and career counseling.Student Life:
Housing options, health and wellness services, campus safety, and student organizations.Research and Innovation:
Opportunities for student-faculty collaborations, research centers and institutes, and partnerships with industry leaders.Online Learning:
SJSU Online offers flexible and affordable programs for students with busy lifestyles.Student Life and Campus Experience:
Students at SJSU can expect a vibrant and diverse campus community. The university offers a variety of events, traditions, and student organizations to foster a sense of belonging and engagement. The campus is located in close proximity to Silicon Valley, providing students with access to numerous cultural and entertainment options.
Key Reasons to Study There:
Location in Silicon Valley:
Provides access to numerous career opportunities and industry connections.Strong Academic Programs:
Offers a wide range of programs, particularly in business, engineering, and nursing.Affordable Education:
Provides a high-quality education at a relatively affordable cost.Commitment to Student Success:
Offers a variety of support services to help students succeed academically and professionally.Academic Programs:
SJSU offers a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs across nine colleges:
- Business
- Education
- Engineering
- Graduate Studies
- Health and Human Sciences
- Humanities and the Arts
- Professional Education
- Science
- Social Sciences
Other:
SJSU is a highly ranked university, consistently recognized for its value, innovation, and social mobility. The university is committed to sustainability and has received numerous awards for its environmental initiatives.
Entry Requirements:
Candidates must meet all the university admission requirements. In addition, applicants must upload a personal statement, resume, and two letters of recommendation in the Cal State Apply admissions portal. Applicants must also be accepted by a tenured or tenure-track faculty member in the Department of Biological Sciences prior to acceptance by the program. It is the student’s responsibility to contact any potential faculty advisors.
Language Proficiency Requirements
Applicants from countries in which the native language is not English must achieve a minimum English-language proficiency test score as indicated on the Graduate Program Test Requirements webpage at GAPE.
