OVERVIEW

The Department of Biological Sciences offers four master's degrees with both thesis and non-thesis options, and one research-based doctorate degree that culminates in a dissertation. Research strengths in the department include animal physiology, discipline-based biology education, ecology, evolution and systematic biology, microbiology, plant biology and biotechnology, and quantitative biology. We have over 100 graduate students and many students are supported by teaching assistant opportunities.

Please contact the graduate advisor Lou Densmore by email by clicking his name or by phone at (806) 834-6479 if you require any further information about the application process.

DEGREE OPTIONS

The department offers two distinct biology master's level tracks: thesis and non-thesis options. In partnership with the College of Arts and Sciences, we also offer the Professional Science Master's (PSM) degree. The PSM track offered by biological sciences is the ecology and environmental sustainability track. 

The department also offers a Ph.D. in biology where students can choose their preferred specialization in coordination with their academic advisor.

Please read on to learn more about each degree. 

PROSPECTIVE STUDENTS

To be admitted into the Department of Biology's thesis-based M.S. and Ph.D. graduate programs, you will need to, firstly, identify a professor in your area of interest who is willing to serve as your Major Advisor. It is your responsibility to make initial contact with prospective Major Advisors. A faculty member who agrees to serve as your Major Advisor must verify this commitment in writing to the departmental Graduate Student Selection Committee before your completed application is evaluated, or else you will not be admitted.

Please read about our degree options and application procedures and due dates.

APPLY TO GRADUATE SCHOOL

CURRENT STUDENTS

To help promote camaraderie and scientific interaction among graduate students within the department and other universities, graduate students have the opportunities to present their research at local conferences (TTABSS and Graduate Student Research Poster Competition), as well as travel to regional, state and international conferences.

Current graduate students have the opportunity to participate in one of three graduate student organizations. Many of these organizations offer travel funding, publication support, and leadership development. Read more about our graduate organizations.