The non-thesis option is designed for students interested in the field of medicine, education at the elementary, middle and high school level, or those who simply wish to further their knowledge of biology. Non-thesis students are required to complete a minimum of 36 semester hours of course work and complete a written comprehensive examination, administered by a minimum of three-faculty members with interests in the student’s field of specialization (typically, organismal or molecular biology). Although not required for the non-thesis option, the faculty encourages independent research.
