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Biological Sciences graduate programs

Introduction

Biological Sciences encompass a variety of disciplines that involve the study of living matter in all of its wonderfully diverse forms. The graduate programs offered by Western Michigan University’s Department of Biological Sciences reflect the broad spectrum of these disciplines, giving students the opportunity to receive advanced training in specialties ranging from cellular and molecular biology to ecology and evolution. The department’s primary goals are to provide an environment that will foster excitement and curiosity about the life sciences and to prepare students to function as productive members of the academic, private, and public scientific communities.

The department offers a Doctor of Philosophy degree in Biological Sciences and a Master of Science degree in Biological Sciences. In addition, two specialized programs granting a Graduate Certificate in Electron Microscopy and Master of Science degree in High Throughput Molecular Biotechnology are also available. The diversity of graduate faculty permits students to tailor a program that meets their individual needs and career goals. In addition, the department works closely with local industry and local hospitals, to provide its graduates with specific training that will help them attain their career goals.

Why should you pursue graduate work at WMU?

There are many compelling reasons to pursue graduate work in Biological Sciences at Western Michigan University, including:

• WMU has recently been ranked in the highest category of research institutions by the Carnegie Foundation, along with Michigan State University, the University of Michigan, and Wayne State University;
• WMU has recently been rated as one of the nation’s 90 best public universities by US News and World Report, and among America’s 100 best college buys;
• The Department of Biological Sciences has a young, energetic faculty with a very high rate of external funding;
• Graduate students in the Department of Biological Sciences receive extensive hands-on training from their research advisors;
• Graduate students conduct their research in the new Haenicke Hall science building with state-of-the-art laboratory facilities;
• Graduates from the program have a high job placement rate; and WMU and Kalamazoo offer a wide range of cultural opportunities, from a world-class classical piano competition to a semi-professional hockey team.

Research specializations

Our Doctoral programs allow students to specialize in the following areas:

• Biological Imaging
• Cellular Biology
• Cellular Physiology
• Chemical Ecology
• Ecology and Evolution
• Entomology
• Genetics
• Global Change Biology
• Molecular Biology
• Microbial Ecology
• Microbial Genetics
• Neuroscience
• Plant Pathology
• Plant Physiology
• Virology and Immunology

Master's and Doctoral programs

The Master of Science in Biological Sciences enhances students' abilities to plan, conduct, analyze, and report original research. Required course work enhances students' scientific preparation and supports their research. With the guidance of the major advisor, students choose additional courses to meet individual needs and interests. The degree may serve as preparation for continued graduate or professional study or for positions in the private or public sector. Thesis and non-thesis options are offered.

The Doctor of Philosophy in Biological Sciences at WMU offers a unique combination of traditional rigorous research experience, breadth of course work, and training in effective communication of scientific concepts. This program is specifically designed for students who wish to pursue careers in the biological sciences that require excellence in both teaching and research. The pedagogy requirements also provide excellent training for careers in government and industry. Additional information may be obtained from the Departmental Graduate Advisor.
Our Master's and Doctoral programs allow students to specialize in the following areas:*
Cellular Biology

Brief description on doctoral program (Visit Ph.D. program page for details)

The Doctor of Philosophy in Biological Sciences at WMU offers a unique combination of traditional research experience, breadth of course work, and training in effective communication of scientific concepts. This program is specifically designed for students who wish to pursue careers in the biological sciences that require excellence in both teaching and research. In addition, the pedagogy requirements also provide excellent training for careers in government and industry. Additional information may be obtained from the Departmental Graduate Secretary or Graduate Advisor.
Admission Requirements
Individuals admitted to the Master's program will be considered for admission to the Ph.D. program. Applications for admission to the Ph.D. program can be obtained from the Department at (269) 387-5600 and the Office of Admissions and Orientation at (269) 387-2000.