Program of Study for the Master of Science in Biology

Admission Requirements: Baccalaureate degree from an accredited college or university; complete application to the Graduate School ; letter of intent; completion an interview (on-campus preferred, although video interview is acceptable) with the potential faculty adviser(s) and the graduate program director; commitment from a Biology faculty member to chair the applicant’s thesis committee.

Additional Admission Requirements: Recommendations for the application should be written by persons familiar with the applicant’s academic performance. At least one letter must be from a faculty member at the applicant’s undergraduate degree-granting institution. Applicants are encouraged to contact the program director as early as possible regarding thesis research interests. 

To be considered for admission, applicants must meet the criteria for admission to the Graduate School . Meeting these criteria does not guarantee admission.

Location: Boone Campus

Accelerated Master’s Program

This program offers an Accelerated Master’s  option for undergraduate students with a 3.2 or higher currently enrolled at Appalachian State University.

Course Requirements for the Master of Science in Biology

Concentration Requirements (21 or 25 Hours)

• BIO 5777 - Biostatistics (4)
• 17-21 hours of graduate elective courses chosen in consultation with the major advisor

Other Requirements for the MS in Biology

• Thesis: Required
• Proficiency: Not required
• Candidacy: Required; awarded upon approval of thesis committee and prospectus
• Comprehensive: A written comprehensive examination and an oral defense of the thesis
• Product of Learning: Not required