A student entering the Masters in Science in Biology is normally expected to have an undergraduate degree in biology. Students without a degree in biology, or students lacking certain background courses in biology and related sciences may be expected to complete undergraduate courses to compensate for deficiencies. There are two plans for degree completion; the thesis track and the non-thesis track. The thesis track is designed for students who plan to continue on with further graduate education, or who plan to enter research-related careers. The non-thesis track is designed for students who do not plan to continue their education in biology. This plan is often preferred by secondary educators, persons interested in scientific sales, or those interested in laboratory management positions. The flexibility of the MS in Biology program allows the student to design a course of study that meets the needs of the individual student. The Department of Biology also offers a National Institutes of Health (NIH) Masters Degree/Ph.D. Bridge Program. NIH Bridge Partners include:MS in Biology - State University of West Georgia Department of BiologyPh.D. - Georgia State University Department of BiologyPh.D. - University of Georgia (Biochemistry/Molecular Biology, Genetics, and Microbiology) Ph.D.- Medical College of GeorgiaThe NIH Bridge Program is designed to encourage students to be admitted into doctoral programs at one of the institutions listed above after completion of the MS in Biology at the State University of West Georgia. To be a participant in this program, a student must make a commitment to continue their graduate education in a doctoral program. Funding is available for those who are admitted to the Masters in Science program at West Georgia and for those who are admitted to one of the doctoral programs at one of the aforementioned institutions.

Faculty Research Interests: Animal Behavior, Aquatic Ecology, Bacteriology, Biotechnology, Biochemistry, Bioreme