Biological Sciences: Ecology and Environmental Science M.S.

Program is pending final approval by the Board of Regents.

Program Rationale:

The Ecology and Environmental Science M.S. is a specialization within the biological sciences integrating field skills with laboratory analyses. This applied field provides students an opportunity to study how organisms interact and thrive in their environment and understand the forces that affect them (e.g., humans, climate change, natural selection, etc.). Graduates work in a variety of fields, such as environmental consulting, conservation, education, and/or continue to doctoral programs.

Program Learning Outcomes:

Graduate students will:
• demonstrate knowledge in general biology;
• describe scientific methodology and conduct experiments;
• demonstrate a thorough understanding of a specific area of biology;
• be able to read and comprehend primary literature;
• deliver effective oral presentations (poster or PowerPoint); and
• effectively communicate on research in written format.

Admission Requirements:

Applicants must hold a bachelor’s degree from a regionally accredited institution of higher education. A minimum cumulative undergraduate GPA of 2.70 on a 4.00 point scale (where A is 4.00), or its equivalent, and good standing (3.00 GPA) in all post-baccalaureate course work is required.

Additional Materials Required:

• Narrative statement. In your narrative statement, please include whether you would like to pursue a thesis or non-thesis version of your degree (if applicable). If you wish to do a thesis, please identify a potential faculty member you might like to work with in our department. It may be helpful to view our faculty web pages or contact potential faculty members by phone or email to discuss your interests. You could also include in the narrative statement your interests in biology and how they developed, your career goals, and how you think a degree in the Biology Department at CCSU will further your education and prepare you for your career.

• Letters of recommendation by two college instructors familiar with your ability and record in biology and the related sciences. In cases where acquiring letters from college instructors creates undue hardship for an applicant, it may be acceptable to use letters from past or present supervisors. Please email the Chair of the Biology Department Graduate Studies Committee if you require further clarification or feel this applies to your situation.

The Biology Department also recommends the following items;

• Graduate Record Examination scores for the aptitude and advanced biology tests are recommended but not required.

The graduate application, application fee, and official transcripts are to be submitted directly to Graduate Recruitment and Admissions Office from each institution attended except Central Connecticut State University.

Instructions for uploading the statement and for obtaining and submitting the recommendation letters will be found within the online application.

When an applicant’s admission folder is complete, it will be forwarded to the department chair. The Departmental Graduate Committee will make a recommendation for acceptance. Students who are accepted will be assigned an advisor at the time of acceptance. If applicable, a thesis advising committee will be assigned after the student begins the program of study.

Contact: 860-832-2645

Total Credit Hours: 30