Master of Science - Biology

An M.S. degree in biology is intended for students seeking to gain experience in scientific research with professional goals such as pursuing graduate education, working for a federal or state agency or non-governmental organization, securing employment in industry, or teaching in secondary and higher education. The master's degree offers both a general track and a specialization in conservation and biodiversity. With the guidance of 15 full-time expert faculty members who are dedicated to their students, participants will have the opportunity to collaborate with the Sanford School of Medicine, the USD Missouri River Institute, the USD Sustainability Program, South Dakota State University, and other institutions nationally and internationally.

Students will research, explore, and experience the study of life from the molecular level to the landscape. Due to the wide scope of the field, they can tailor their degree to align with their personal interests in areas such as aquatic and terrestrial ecology, conservation biology, sustainability, ecotoxicology, plant and animal physiology, molecular biology, neuroscience, cell biology, developmental biology, genetics, and evolution.

A master's in biology prepares students for careers in conservation, terrestrial ecology, sustainability, neuroscience, and other professions studying biology around the world. The suggested timeline for completion is two years or 30-32 credit hours, depending on whether students choose the thesis or non-thesis track.