Master of Science (M.S.)
During the first semester the student selects an advisor, and with the help of the advisor forms an Advisory Committee with the approval by the program's Graduate Education Committee. By the end of the second semester with the advice of the Advisory Committee, the student files a proposed schedule of course work including at least one credit of seminar (VMSC 698). A minimum of 24 semester with hours of graduate courses and six hours of thesis research credit (VMSC 799) is required for the degree. No less than 12 credits should be from courses 600 level or higher; no less than 12 credits earned in the major subject. Three credits of graduate biometrics or biochemistry and one seminar credit (VMSC 698) are required. No more than two credits of special problem (VMSC 699) are acceptable as part of the 24 required course credits. Students must maintain an overall GPA of 3.0 or better in courses taken for graduate credit. The committee may require remedial courses if the student enters with inadequate prerequisites or deficiencies in undergraduate program. By the end of the second semester, a thesis research proposed must be approved and filed. The student must present the thesis in a public seminar and pass a final oral examination given by the Advisory Committee. A final copy of the thesis must be submitted to the Program Office. Students with adequate undergraduate training usually complete the master's degree within two years.