282060 - Biological Science Education (MS)
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Application Deadline
Fall: January 15th
Contact Information
4102 LSB, Provo, UT 84602-5181
801-422-7137
biogradmanager@byu.edu
ADMISSION REQUIREMENTS
Required Tests
English language proficiency exam for non-native English speakers
The GRE is not required.
Additional Requirements
Find an advisor: Prior to applying, applicants must identify and contact individual faculty member(s) whose research aligns with the applicant’s long-term goals. Applicants that have not previously consulted with a faculty member before applying to our program will not be considered. Click here for recommended steps to select and contact a potential advisor.
Baccalaureate degree or equivalent
Unofficial transcripts
Indicate in the application your desired research area and your desired advisor(s).
3 letters of recommendation: These letters should be from mentors, research advisors, faculty, associates, etc., who have an understanding of the applicant’s abilities in relationship to the requirements of the graduate program. Preference will be given to letters that are written by those with a scientific background and/or those with advanced degrees with whom the applicant has worked closely.
Statement of intent: Write a carefully constructed statement of your background and academic preparation, field of interest and experience in it, faculty member(s) you’d like to work with and why, and academic and long-term career goals, including how graduate work fits into those goals. Also answer the following questions:
What motivates you to apply to our program?
Share an example that demonstrates your approach to dealing with difficult academic or personal problems with determination and maturity.
Share 1 to 2 examples that capture your approach to working in collaborative teams and in mentor/mentored environments.
Using an academic or personal example, describe how you exhibit independence, curiosity, and an ability to solve problems.
We welcome and value the contributions of graduate students from diverse backgrounds and lived experiences. However, BYU's Aims, Mission, and Honor Code differ from other universities. Please describe your perceptions of how you will thrive in and contribute to this unique environment.
Apply here
PROGRAM REQUIREMENTS
The MS degree in biological science education is designed to prepare students with advanced skills and knowledge for teaching in high schools and colleges. Students opting for this degree pursue original research and present results in formal thesis format. Since all research for this degree is expected to be of publication quality, theses are usually prepared in a form suitable for immediate submission for review by an appropriate scholarly journal. This degree is not an alternative teacher certification program.
Requirements for MS Degree Program in Biological Science Education:
Credit hours (30): Minimum 24 course work hours plus 6 thesis hours; 20 hours must be in the 500-level series and above (can include course, course, etc.).
Required courses: course (Graduate Orientation, 1.0 credit) or equivalent; course (Graduate Seminar, 1.0 credit, 2 semesters). Additional courses as determined by student's advisory committee and approved by department graduate coordinator.
Annual progress reviews by advisory committee and graduate committee.
Presentation of research prospectus to advisory committee.
Thesis: Standard university thesis or journal publication format.
Examinations: (A) Comprehensive oral examination, (B) oral defense of research, and (C) oral defense of thesis.
