Department of Biology

The objectives of this program are to prepare students for doctoral studies and for professional careers in biology. The program emphasis is ecology and environmental science but open to any area within biology. Program quality is particularly enhanced by the facilities, opportunities for study, and research activities at the Biological Field Station in Cooperstown NY. This site provides students with a research complex that contains several multipurpose and analytical laboratories, two lakefront docks, boats, sampling equipment and access to over 2,600 acres of woodlands, bogs, marshes and ponds.

Degree Requirements: M.S. in Biology – Thesis Option

• At least 32 s.h. of approved courses beyond the baccaureate degree including: a minimum of 18 s.h. of approved graduate course work in Biology excluding thesis, seminar, independent/directed study, and internship. A minimum of 3 credits of Biol 698 Thesis, and up to a maximum of 12 credits of thesis, seminar, independent/directed study, or internship must be completed.
• Minimum GPA of 3.0.
• Diagnostic Examination.
• Research Thesis, with an Oral Presentation and Defense.

Degree Requirements: M.S. in Biology – Non-Thesis Option

• At least 32 s.h. of approved courses beyond the baccaureate degree including: a minimum of 26 s.h. of approved graduate course work in Biology excluding thesis, independent study, seminar and directed research. A minimum of 3 credits of seminar or independent/directed study must be completed.
• Minimum GPA of 3.0.
• Diagnostic Examination.
• Project Report with Oral Presentation.
• Comprehensive Examination.

Admission Requirements:

All students applying for admission to degree status are required to:

• Submit a completed application and the non-refundable fee. Application Fee Waived for SUNY Oneonta Alumni
• Evidence of completion of a Bachelor’s degree in biology or a functionally related area. With at least 25 s.h. in biology and 6 s.h. in chemistry. Students not meeting these requirements may be admitted on the condition that undergraduate deficiencies be made up.
• Submit three letters of recommendation.
• Submit a written statement explaining the purpose/goal for seeking the degree.
• Application deadline: March 15 for fall & summer admission or October 15 for spring admission.
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