Students will develop the skills necessary to complete professional projects common to the field of biology.
Objective
Ability To Review, Critique And Analyze Literature In The Biological Sciences
Students will be able to demonstrate their ability to read, comprehend, and summarize articles from scientific journals within their field of study
Indicator
Professional Aspects Course
All students are required to complete a professional aspects course in which they: 1) Prepare a mock grant proposal based on their research prospectus; 2) Deliver oral presentations of results in a simulated conference setting; 3) Prepare and edit manuscripts for publication. Student assignments are reviewed by 3 - 5 faculty members including their director.
Criterion
Professional Aspects Course
All graduate students will perform at a level deemed acceptable by the committee members.
Finding
No Student Activity - Prof Aspects
The department had no MA students during this period.
Action
Increase Activity - Prof Aspects
The department will begin evaluating options for increasing MA activity in Biology.
Goal
Develop Students' Scientific Skills And Knowledge
Students will learn scientific skills and knowledge relevant to the field of biology.
Objective
General Knowledge In Biological Sciences
Students completing the master's degree will possess sufficient knowledge in the general biological sciences to teach freshmen and sophomore level courses.
Indicator
Mastery Of Knowledge - Oral Exam
All graduate students will demonstrate mastery of graduate course content through an oral graduate comprehensive exam, administered by a faculty committee. The examination consists of questions in three areas of concentration, depending on the student's emphasis and research area. While questions are originally posed by the faculty member who taught the respective courses, all members of the committee or faculty who are present may probe the student's understanding of the material through further questions.
Criterion
Mastery Of Knowledge - Oral Exam
Each student is required to pass all three areas addressed in the examination as determined by a consensus of the entire committee. In the event that a student does not pass a portion(s) of the oral exam, the committee may choose to offer the student a written examination. The student MUST pass the written exam to continue in the program.
Finding
No Student Activity - Oral Exams
The biology department had no MA students during this period.
Action
Increase Activity - Oral Exams
The department will begin evaluating options for increasing MA activity in Biology.