State University Of New York, College At Brockport

Program Information

Degree Offered

M.S. in Biological Sciences

Format: Campus

Program Description:

The graduate program provides students with a solid and comprehensive background in the field of biological sciences, including molecular biology, cell biology, physiology, genetics, microbiology, human biology and developmental biology.
The program offers rigorous master's-level study for part- and full-time students, featuring small classes and thesis research projects under the supervision of experienced faculty mentors. Graduates have obtained employment with government agencies, private industry, and non-governmental organizations. Others have pursued advanced training in medicine or other health professions, or entered doctoral programs at leading universities.
The MS in Biological Science may be obtained under two separate plans. Plan I is a traditional program requiring a thesis based on original research. Students considering further graduate study or employment in government or private laboratories are encouraged to enroll in this plan. Plan II is a non-thesis program with a more flexible course of study, requiring an independent research experience typically performed in one semester.
We are proud of our faculty and their balanced commitment to scholarship and teaching. Graduate faculty hold PhDs from major research institutions and have an excellent record in teaching and scholarship. In recent years they have published in leading scientific journals and received funding from agencies such as the National Science Foundation and National Institutes of Health.
The graduate program’s teaching and research facilities allow students to use current methodologies and modern equipment that would be found in biotechnology research centers. Experience with these techniques in laboratory courses and independent research projects is valuable in today’s market.
Seven teaching assistantships are currently awarded each year on a competitive basis. Teaching assistants serve as instructors in laboratory sections of undergraduate biology courses.

Eligibility Requirements:

1. A written statement of the applicant’s objectives for graduate study and main area of interest within the biological sciences.
2. Two letters of recommendation.
3. A writing sample of at least three pages illustrating the applicant’s technical writing skills.
4. Graduate Record Examination scores on the General Test, the Biology Subject Test or the Biochemistry, Cell and Molecular Biology Subject Test are required. In lieu of the GRE, the MCAT or DCAT also will be accepted at the discretion of the department.
5. It is important that applicants contact potential advisors during the application process. Applicants should list potential major advisors (including those faculty members they already have contacted) in a cover letter accompanying their application materials.

International Student Requirements:

1. Official or true certified copies of post-secondary academic records (transcripts, examination scores, mark sheets, etc.) in both English and original language. 2. Official or true certified copies of diploma, degree, or certification, in both English and original language. 3. TOEFL exam results. Required minimum scores are: 550 on paper-based version, 213 on computerized version or 79-80 on iBT. 4. A statement of objectives in English that gives reasons for selecting the field of study (see application for details). 5. An original bank statement (issued in the last six months) in your name or that of your sponsor showing a current balance of at least US $23,870. 6. An original letter written, signed and dated by your sponsor, stating the amount of US dollars allocated for your education each year while attending The College at Brockport. This is not required if the financial/bank statement is in applicant's name. 7. Letters of recommendation (see application).

Tuition & Financial Aid

Financial Aid Offered: No

Classification: Master's Colleges & Universities I

Institution Sector: Public

Locale: Fringe Rural Area

Size & Settings: 5,000 - 9,999