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R. James Kirkpatrick, Jr., DEAN
We have entered a new and exciting era of scientific understanding that has taken concepts like genetic engineering, nanoscience and biotechnology out of the realm of science fiction and into everyday life. New applications of science will continue to have profound effects. Thus, graduates with training in any of the biological, mathematical, or physical sciences offered in the College of Natural Science are finding new employment opportunities with industries on the cutting edge of high technology, as well as in teaching, communications, professional and environmental fields, and many other areas.
The mission of the College of Natural Science closely parallels the mission of the University as defined by the Boldness by Design imperatives: a commitment to research, education, and service. The College of Natural Science is one of the largest colleges within the University, overseeing academic programs in the departments of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Chemistry, Geological Sciences, Mathematics, Microbiology and Molecular Genetics, Neuroscience, Physics and Astronomy, Physiology, Plant Biology, Statistics and Probability, and Zoology. It also administers the Biomedical Laboratory Diagnostics Program and the W. K. Kellogg Biological Station, a world–class biological research center. All departments within the College offer both undergraduate and graduate students experience conducting research in laboratories. Students in the College of Natural Science have access to a range of research and laboratory facilities on campus, in addition to unique research opportunities in facilities like the MSU/DOE Plant Research Laboratory, the National Superconducting Cyclotron Laboratory, and the W. K. Kellogg Biological Station. A special on–site research and science teaching program for both undergraduate and graduate students is offered at the Station during the summer session, including the SpartaNature seminar for incoming freshmen. Graduate students may also choose to enter one of the college's interdisciplinary research programs in Genetics; Cell and Molecular Biology; Mathematics Education, Neuroscience; or Ecology, Evolutionary Biology and Behavior; or Quantitative Biology.
Promoting science literacy—opening up the world of science to our youth—is the key to comprehending the total impact of new scientific developments in our lives. Already our environment is threatened by such things as insecticides, food additives, and toxic wastes. Our future leaders must have an appreciation of the sciences in order to make informed decisions regarding the preservation of our environment. To that end, the College of Natural Science offers credit courses in communities throughout Michigan in cooperation with University Outreach and Engagement programs.
Undergraduate students in the College of Natural Science may opt for either a Bachelor of Science or a Bachelor of Arts degree program.
The college offers programs of study culminating in a bachelor's degree with either a departmental or an interdepartmental major. All programs are liberal in character and involve a specified minimum of nonscience credits in addition to those needed to meet integrative studies requirements. Electives in both major and nonmajor areas make it possible to mold a program of interest and challenge for each student.
The departmental major features study in a single discipline and is generally considered the proper choice for concentrated study in a limited area. A departmental major consists of not fewer than 27 nor more than 79 credits in courses recognized by the college as applicable to the major. Specific major requirements are given in the sections that follow. Departmental majors are available through Lyman Briggs College as coordinate majors.
The interdepartmental major features study in several disciplines with no single discipline being dominant and is generally considered the proper choice if breadth of background in several fields of the natural sciences is desired. The college offers interdepartmental majors: biological science–interdepartmental, earth science–interdepartmental, human biology, and physical science. In addition, the College of Education, in cooperation with the College of Natural Science, offers an integrated science teaching major for students accepted in elementary education, as well as an integrated science endorsement for secondary education science majors. For further information, refer to the section on MSU SUBJECT MATTER TEACHING MAJORS AND MINORS FOR TEACHER PREPARATION AND CERTIFICATION in the Department of Teacher Education section of the catalog. The interdepartmental major consists of a minimum of 45 credits (biological science) or 36 credits (earth science) and 50 credits (physical science) and not more than 67 credits in courses recognized by the college as applicable toward the major. Interdepartmental majors are available through Lyman Briggs College as coordinate majors. Interdisciplinary majors are also available through Lyman Briggs College.
Students who meet the general requirements for admission to the University shown in the Undergraduate Education section of this catalog and who are not enrolled in Lyman Briggs College are enrolled in the Undergraduate University Division but may declare a major preference in the College of Natural Science and be assigned an academic advisor in this college. All programs in the biological sciences, physical sciences, and mathematics presume a minimum of two and one–half entrance units in mathematics (one and one–half units of algebra and one unit of geometry).
- Completion of at least 56 credits acceptable to the College with an academic record which at least meets the requirements of Academic Standing of Undergraduate Students.
- Acceptance as a major in one of the academic programs of the College.
- The University requirements for bachelor's degrees as described in the Undergraduate Education section of this catalog.
Students who are enrolled in majors leading to Bachelor of Science and Bachelor of Arts degrees in the College of Natural Science may complete an alternative track to Integrative Studies in Biological and Physical Sciences that consists of:- One course in Biological Science, Entomology, Microbiology, Physiology, Plant Biology, or Zoology.
- Chemistry 141 or 151 or 181H.
- Two credits of laboratory experience in biological or physical science.
Credits earned in courses in the alternative track may also be counted toward College and major requirements for Bachelor of Science and Bachelor of Arts degrees.
- The requirements of the College of Natural Science for the Bachelor of Science and Bachelor of Arts degrees that are listed below:
- The requirements for either a departmental major or an interdepartmental major of 27 to 79 credits. For specific requirements, see the sections that follow.
- A minimum grade–point average of 2.00 in courses in the student's major; i.e., in all courses that are required for the major and that are not counted toward College and University requirements.
- The following credit distribution requirements:
- A minimum of 30 credits in courses numbered 300 and above.
- A maximum of 67 credits in courses offered in a single curriculum division of the College; i.e., Biological Science or Mathematical Science or Physical Science.
- Only credits in courses graded on the numerical or Pass–No Grade system may be counted toward College and major requirements for Bachelor of Science and Bachelor of Arts degrees in the College of Natural Science. College of Natural Science students may not enroll in courses that are to be counted toward College and major requirements, including courses in other colleges, on a Credit–No Credit basis.
- The requirements of the College of Natural Science for either the Bachelor of Science degree or the Bachelor of Arts degree that are listed below:
- Requirements for the Bachelor of Science degree:
- One semester of calculus.
- A second semester of calculus or one semester of statistics and probability.
- Two semesters of chemistry including at least one laboratory experience.
- Two semesters of physics.
- One semester of biological science.
- Requirements for the Bachelor of Arts degree:
- One semester of calculus.
- A second semester of calculus or one semester of statistics and probability.
- One semester each of biological science, chemistry, and physics including at least one laboratory experience.
- Six credits in courses in the arts and humanities or the social, behavioral, and economic sciences beyond the credits that are counted toward the University's Integrative Studies requirement.
Many major programs which lead to a Bachelor of Science degree require a proficiency greater than the College established minimum in one, or more, of the following fields: chemistry, physics, and mathematics. Also, for either the Bachelor of Arts or the Bachelor of Science degree, when two or more options exist for the fulfillment of any College— established requirement, one of the options may be specified as a major requirement. The specific requirements for each major program are given in the sections that follow.
Chemistry and mathematics requirements should be completed to the fullest extent possible during the freshman and sophomore years. Bachelor of Science candidates with a major in a physical science should complete the physics requirement during the sophomore year. Students with a major in a biological science may postpone completion of the physics requirement until the junior year, but should complete Biological Science 110, 111 by the end of the sophomore year. The biology courses should be completed during the freshman year because they are prerequisites to most of the courses offered by the departments in the biological sciences. All students should complete the University's Tier I writing requirement during the freshman year.
The College of Natural Science encourages honors students to develop distinctive undergraduate programs in their chosen fields. All qualified students in the College may also be members of the Honors College. A member of the faculty is selected to serve as advisor to Honors College students in each major field, and it is the advisor's responsibility to help the student plan a rigorous and balanced program which will also reflect the student's special interests and competencies.
The departments of the college annually offer numerous honors opportunities at both introductory and advanced levels. At the introductory level these consist chiefly of regularly offered honors courses. Honors options are also available in many other courses. At the advanced level honors students are encouraged to undertake faculty–guided independent research in their fields of specialization. These honors experiences are provided mainly, but not exclusively, for Honors College students. In addition, honors undergraduates are encouraged, when appropriate, to undertake work at the graduate level.
The Charles Drew Science Scholars program was created to help students currently underrepresented in the sciences achieve the best possible preparation for pursuing their educational goals in science and mathematics. The program is designed to: a) assist students with the transition from high school to college and b) to expose them to the vast number of career opportunities in the sciences.
These goals are attained, in part, through problem-solving courses, specially designed courses in mathematics, and designated sections of biology and chemistry courses. In addition, tutoring is available and students are exposed to both successful undergraduate and graduate role models.
The purpose of this program is, through advising and focused academic support, to help interested and motivated students develop the foundation for successful careers in science. Students are encouraged to contact the College of Natural Science for additional information about this program.
All professional colleges have established minimum requirements in selected areas of knowledge for admission (hereafter referred to as admission requirements). Although fulfilling these requirements does not in itself guarantee admission, their fulfillment is a necessary first step for those who aspire to enter a professional college.
At Michigan State University students may select programs of study which help to prepare them for enrollment in professional colleges. Since the admission requirements of various professional colleges vary, it is not feasible to establish a single program that satisfies the admission requirements of all colleges in a given profession. However, in the fields of dentistry, allopathic and osteopathic medicine, podiatry, and optometry, the College of Natural Science does have suggested programs of study. These programs satisfy the minimum admission requirements of most professional colleges. It is the student's responsibility to determine whether or not the proposed program meets the minimum admission requirements of a particular professional college.
There are a number of programs of study which may be completed in the normal four years and which provide both the academic preparation for admission to a professional school and fulfill the requirements for a bachelor's degree. The preprofessional programs as outlined do not in themselves lead to a bachelor's degree.
Students who meet the requirements for admission to the University as freshmen and sophomores, as shown in the Undergraduate Education section of this catalog, may select the predental program in the College of Natural Science as their major preference. Students who are enrolled in the predental program are enrolled in the Undergraduate University Division, but receive academic advising through the college.
University regulations require that a student who has arrived at junior standing must select a major leading to a baccalaureate degree. The College of Natural Science does not offer a bachelor's degree program for predental students. Therefore, upon reaching junior standing, students who have been enrolled in the predental program must be admitted to a major in either the College of Natural Science or in another college in order to complete the requirements for a bachelor's degree, regardless of whether they have completed the requirements for the predental program.
Requirements for the Predental Program
| 1. | A total of 60 credits in courses in the natural sciences, mathematics, social sciences, humanities, and writing, including courses that are used to satisfy the University requirements and the courses that are listed below: | ||||||
| a. | All of the following courses (30 credits): | ||||||
| BS | 110 | Organisms and Populations | 4 | ||||
| BS | 111 | Cells and Molecules | 3 | ||||
| BS | 111L | Cell and Molecular Biology Laboratory | 2 | ||||
| CEM | 141 | General Chemistry | 4 | ||||
| CEM | 161 | Chemistry Laboratory I | 1 | ||||
| CEM | 251 | Organic Chemistry I | 3 | ||||
| CEM | 252 | Organic Chemistry II | 3 | ||||
| CEM | 255 | Organic Chemistry Laboratory | 2 | ||||
| PHY | 231 | Introductory Physics I | 3 | ||||
| PHY | 232 | Introductory Physics II | 3 | ||||
| PHY | 251 | Introductory Physics Laboratory I | 1 | ||||
| PHY | 252 | Introductory Physics Laboratory II | 1 | ||||
| Some dental colleges do not require Chemistry 252. | |||||||
| b. | 3 additional credits in general chemistry selected from the following courses: Chemistry 142, 152, and 162. | ||||||
| c. | 3 credits in a biological science course in addition to Biological Science 110, 111, and 111L. | ||||||
| 2. | Students who are enrolled in the predental program should complete the University requirements for bachelor's degrees as described in the Undergraduate Education section of this catalog. | ||||||
| Students who are enrolled in the Predental Program in the College of Natural Science may complete an alternative track to Integrative Studies in Biological and Physical Sciences that consists of the following courses: Biological Science 110, 111, and 111L and Chemistry 141. The completion of Biological Science 110 and 111L satisfies the laboratory requirement. Biological Science 110, 111, and 111L and Chemistry 141 may be counted toward both the alternative track and the requirements for the predental program referenced in item 1. a. above. | |||||||
| A Tier I writing course is included in the University requirements. Students who are enrolled in the predental program are required to meet the Tier II writing requirement approved for the student's major leading to the bachelor's degree. | |||||||
Students who meet the requirements for admission to the university as freshmen and sophomores, as shown in the Undergraduate Education section of the catalog, may select the premedical program in the College of Natural Science as their major preference. Students who are enrolled in the premedical program are enrolled in the Undergraduate University Division, but receive academic advising through the college.
University regulations require that a student who has arrived at junior standing must select a major leading to a baccalaureate degree. The College of Natural Science does not offer a bachelor's degree program for premedical students. Therefore, upon reaching junior standing, students who have been enrolled in the premedical program must be admitted to a major in either the College of Natural Science or in another college in order to complete the requirements for a bachelor's degree, regardless of whether they have completed the requirements for the premedical program.
Requirements for the Premedical Program (including Pre–Osteopathy, Pre–Podiatry, Pre-Pharmacy, and Pre-Physician's Assistant)
| 1. | A total of 90 credits in courses in the natural sciences, mathematics, social sciences, humanities, and writing, including courses that are used to satisfy the University requirements and the courses that are listed below: | |||||||
| a. | All of the following courses (30 credits): | |||||||
| BS | 110 | Organisms and Populations | 4 | |||||
| BS | 111 | Cells and Molecules | 3 | |||||
| BS | 111L | Cell and Molecular Biology Laboratory | 2 | |||||
| CEM | 141 | General Chemistry | 4 | |||||
| CEM | 161 | Chemistry Laboratory I | 1 | |||||
| CEM | 251 | Organic Chemistry I | 3 | |||||
| CEM | 252 | Organic Chemistry II | 3 | |||||
| CEM | 255 | Organic Chemistry Laboratory | 2 | |||||
| PHY | 231 | Introductory Physics I | 3 | |||||
| PHY | 232 | Introductory Physics II | 3 | |||||
| PHY | 251 | Introductory Physics Laboratory I | 1 | |||||
| PHY | 252 | Introductory Physics Laboratory II | 1 | |||||
| b. | 3 additional credits in general chemistry selected from the following courses: Chemistry 142, 152, and 162. | |||||||
| c. | One 300–400 level course in biology with laboratory (3 credits) and another course in biology (3 credits). | |||||||
| d. | One additional course in biology, chemistry, or physics (3 credits). | |||||||
| NOTE: | Higher level equivalent biological science, chemistry, and physics course sequences may be substituted for the sequences listed above. Courses in biochemistry and genetics are highly recommended. | |||||||
| 2. | Students who are enrolled in the premedical program should complete the University requirements for bachelor's degrees as described in the Undergraduate Education section of this catalog. | |||||||
| Students who are enrolled in the Premedical Program (including Pre–Osteopathy, Pre–Podiatry, Pre-Pharmacy, and Pre-Physician's Assistant) in the College of Natural Science may complete an alternative track to Integrative Studies in Biological and Physical Sciences that consists of the following courses: Biological Science 110, 111, and 111L and Chemistry 141. The completion of Biological Science 110 and 111L satisfies the laboratory requirement. Biological Science 110, 111, and 111L and Chemistry 141 may be counted toward both the alternative track and the requirements for the premedical program referenced in item 1. a. above. | ||||||||
| A Tier I writing course is included in the University requirements. Students who are enrolled in the premedical program are required to meet the Tier II writing requirement approved for the student's major leading to the bachelor's degree. | ||||||||
Students who meet the requirements for admission to the university as freshmen and sophomores, as shown in the Undergraduate Education section of this catalog, may select the preoptometry program in the College of Natural Science as their major preference. Students who are enrolled in the preoptometry program are enrolled in the Undergraduate University Division, but receive academic advising through the college.
University regulations require that a student who has arrived at junior standing must select a major leading to a baccalaureate degree. The College of Natural Science does not offer a bachelor's degree program for preoptometry students. Therefore, upon reaching junior standing, students who have been enrolled in the preoptometry program must be admitted to a major in either the College of Natural Science or in another college in order to complete the requirements for a bachelor's degree, regardless of whether they have completed the requirements for the preoptometry program.
Requirements for the Preoptometry Program
- Specific courses are not listed since admission requirements of the colleges of optometry vary greatly and can be met in several ways. The common pattern of admission requirements is a total of 90 semester credits of which 6 to 8 credits are elected from each of the following areas: English, physics, mathematics, biological science, chemistry, psychology, and social science. Courses that are used to satisfy University, college, and major requirements may be counted toward the admission requirements of colleges of optometry.
- Students who are enrolled in the preoptometry program should complete the University requirements for bachelor's degrees as described in the Undergraduate Education section of this catalog.
A Tier I writing course is included in the University requirements. Students who are enrolled in the preoptometry program are required to meet the Tier II writing requirement approved for the student's major leading to the bachelor's degree.
The following disciplinary majors leading to bachelor's degrees in the College of Natural Science are available for teacher certification: biological science–interdepartmental, chemistry, earth science–interdepartmental, mathematics, physical science–interdepartmental, and physics.
The following disciplinary minors in the College of Natural Science are also available for teacher certification: biological science, chemistry, earth science, mathematics, and physics.
Students interested in elementary teacher certification in science should reference the section on MSU SUBJECT MATTER TEACHING MAJORS AND MINORS FOR TEACHER PREPARATION AND CERTIFICATION in the Department of Teacher Education section of this catalog.
Students who elect the biological science–interdepartmental or the physical science–interdepartmental disciplinary major, or the biological science disciplinary minor, must contact the Center for Integrative Studies in General Science in the College of Natural Science.
Students who elect a chemistry disciplinary major or the chemistry disciplinary minor must contact the Department of Chemistry.
Students who elect the earth science–interdepartmental disciplinary major or the earth science disciplinary minor must contact the Department of Geological Sciences.
Students who elect a mathematics disciplinary major or the mathematics disciplinary minor must contact the Department of Mathematics.
Students who elect a physics disciplinary major or the physics disciplinary minor must contact the Department of Physics and Astronomy.
For additional information, refer to the statements on the disciplinary majors referenced above and to the statement on TEACHER CERTIFICATION in the Department of Teacher Education section of this catalog.
The dual degree program provides an opportunity for academically talented undergraduate students who are enrolled in Bachelor of Science degree programs in the College of Natural Science to enroll in graduate courses and conduct research toward the Master of Science degree while completing the last two years of their bachelor's degree programs.
All of the Bachelor of Science and Master of Science degree programs in the College of Natural Science are available for inclusion in the dual degree program. Although most of the Bachelor of Science and Master of Science degree programs are administered by departments and schools within the college, a few such programs are administered by the college. During the second semester of the sophomore year, the student should contact the unit or units that administer the Bachelor of Science and Master of Science degree programs that the student plans to pursue while enrolled in the dual degree program and apply for admission to those programs.
A student who is accepted into the dual degree program can be admitted to both the Bachelor of Science degree program and the Master of Science degree program as early as the beginning of the junior year. Upon completion of the requirements for both the Bachelor of Science degree and the Master of Science degree, both degrees are awarded simultaneously. The Master of Science degree will not be awarded until the student has completed the requirements for the Bachelor of Science degree.
To be admitted to the dual degree program, an applicant must:
- Have a grade–point average of 3.00 or higher in all undergraduate course work.
- Have a grade–point average of 3.00 or higher in all courses in the College of Natural Science.
- Be accepted for admission by the graduate admissions committee of the College or department or school.
Departments and schools may specify additional requirements for admission to the dual degree program. The student should contact the appropriate department or school for additional information.
Within the first semester of enrollment in the dual degree program, the student's master's advisor must be identified and the student's master's guidance committee must be established. The advisor and the committee assist the student in developing a program of study for the Master of Science degree.
The student's program of study must be approved by the committee.
A student who is admitted to the dual degree program must:
- Satisfy all of the requirements for the Bachelor of Science degree program to which the student was admitted.
Although a minimum of 120 credits is required for the Bachelor of Science degree, more than 120 credits may be required for a given degree program. - Satisfy all of the requirements for the Master of Science degree program to which the student was admitted after being admitted to that program.
Although a minimum of 30 credits is required for the Master of Science degree, more than 30 credits may be required for a given degree program.
The credits and courses that are used to satisfy the requirements for the Bachelor of Science degree may not be used to satisfy the requirements for the Master of Science degree.
Departments and schools may specify additional requirements for the dual degree program. The student should contact the appropriate department or school for additional information.
The graduate programs of the College of Natural Science provide for advanced study with emphasis either in a single discipline or in the multidisciplinary areas of the biological sciences and the physical sciences. The graduate programs are designed to develop independent effort, encourage creative thinking, and educate the student in the fundamentals of basic research.
The programs of study lead to one of the following degrees: Master of Arts, Master of Science, Master of Arts for Teachers, and Doctor of Philosophy. The specific degrees available and the programs leading to them for each discipline are given in the departmental or program listing.
Each student's program of study is arranged to suit individual needs, the only restriction being that the final program must conform to one of the general patterns approved by the faculty. The general university requirements for these degrees are given in the Graduate Education section of this catalog. A department or college may specify additional requirements. Most of the departments in the college require participation in teaching during the course of the graduate program.
Students who are enrolled in doctoral degree programs in departments and programs emphasizing environmental science and policy may elect the Graduate Specialization in Environmental Science and Policy. For additional information, refer to the Graduate Specialization in Environmental Science and Policy statement in the College of Social Science section of this catalog.
Students who are enrolled in master’s and doctoral degree programs in the College of Agriculture and Natural Resources, the College of Natural Science, and the College of Veterinary Medicine may elect the Graduate Specialization in Fish and Wildlife Disease Ecology and Conservation Medicine. For additional information, refer to the statement on Graduate Specialization in Fish and Wildlife Disease Ecology and Conservation Medicine in the College of Agriculture and Natural Resources section of this catalog.
Students who are enrolled in Master of Science degree programs in the departments of Entomology, Microbiology and Molecular Genetics, and Plant Pathology may elect a Specialization in Food Safety. For additional information, refer to the statement on the specialization in the College of Veterinary Medicine section of this catalog.
Students seeking a doctoral degree in biochemistry and molecular biology, cell and molecular biology, genetics, microbiology and molecular genetics, pharmacology and toxicology, or physiology should apply through the BioMolecular Science Gateway - First Year for admission to any of these Ph.D. programs. Students should select the Ph.D. program in which they have the greatest interest. During the first two semesters of enrollment, students will have the opportunity to choose and complete at least four courses in appropriate disciplinary subjects. In the spring semester of the first year, they will have the opportunity to continue with the Ph.D. program initially selected or change to one of the other five programs which aligns most closely with their educational goals. For additional information about the individual Ph.D. programs, refer to the statements on the Departments of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Microbiology and Molecular Genetics, and Physiology in the College of Natural Science section of this catalog, statements on the programs in Cell and Molecular Biology and Genetics in the College of Natural Science section of this catalog, and statement on the Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology in the College of Osteopathic Medicine section of this catalog.
The Master of Arts for Teachers degree is designed to provide an enriching educational experience for teachers who are interested in a program of graduate study with less specialization in a science area than is common in most master's degree programs. The degree is for teachers who wish to take graduate work in a subject–matter area but who do not anticipate continuation of graduate study beyond the master's level. However, the student who holds the Master of Arts for Teachers degree may, upon the satisfactory completion of additional work as recommended by the appropriate academic unit, become eligible for admission to a doctoral program.
The degree may be earned with a major in chemistry, general science, geological sciences, or mathematics.
In addition to meeting the requirements of the University as described in the Graduate Education section of this catalog, students must meet the requirements specified below.
Admission
An applicant for admission to the Master of Arts for Teachers program must be a senior in or a graduate of an institution having substantially the same requirements for the bachelor's degree as Michigan State University, and possess, or be a candidate for, a teacher's certificate. Admission is recommended by the director of the program in which admission is sought, with approval of the Dean of the College of Natural Science.
Requirements for the Master of Arts for Teachers Degree
An appropriate course of study is planned with the candidate by an advisor from the academic unit in the College of Natural Science to which the candidate has been admitted. The minimum number of credits required for the degree is 30, in addition to any credits which must be taken to complete requirements for provisional teacher certification. A comprehensive written or oral examination may be required. A thesis is usually not required, but should one be required, a maximum of 10 semester credits may be allotted for it. The student must complete the requirements for provisional teacher certification before the degree may be granted.
Academic Standards
The minimum standard is a 3.00 grade–point average. Standards may be set higher than the minimum by the academic unit responsible for the degree program. The accumulation of grades below 3.0 in more than three courses of 3 or more credits each, or deferreds in more than three courses of 3 or more credits each at any given time, or a combination of the above in excess of four courses may remove the student from candidacy for the degree. A student who fails to meet the academic standards for any program may, on recommendation of the director, be required by the dean to withdraw at the end of the semester.
Residence
The minimum residence requirement is 8 credits on campus. Some programs may require more.
Time Limit
The time limit for the completion of the Master of Arts for Teachers degree is six years from the beginning of the first semester in which credit was earned toward the degree.
The Master of Science is the conventional degree for all majors in the College of Natural Science. The Master of Arts may be conferred upon student request and College approval in the Department of Statistics and Probability.
In addition to meeting the requirements of the University as described in the Graduate Education section of this catalog, students must meet the requirements specified below.
Admission
Admission to provisional status may be used to indicate incomplete records, incomplete interpretation of available records, a grade–point average below 3.00 but with other evidence of good capacity, or minor deficiencies in subject matter.
Students may be transferred from one classification to another at any time by the dean, normally upon the recommendation of the department.
The college as a whole does not require an entrance examination. However, all departments expect students to provide Graduate Record Examination General Test scores.
Requirements for the Master of Science or Master of Arts Degree
For Plan A, a maximum of 15 credits of master's thesis research may be permitted.
Academic Standards
The minimum standard is a 3.00 grade–point average. Standards may be set higher than the minimum by the academic unit responsible for the degree program. The accumulation of grades below 3.0 in more than three courses of 3 or more credits each, or deferreds in more than three courses of 3 or more credits each at any given time, or a combination of the above in excess of four courses automatically removes the student from candidacy for the degree. A student who fails to meet the academic standards for any program may, on recommendation of the director, be required by the dean to withdraw at the end of any semester.
Residence
The minimum residence requirement is 8 credits on campus. A program may require more.
Time Limit
The time limit for completion of the master's degree is six years from the beginning of the first semester in which credit was earned toward the degree.
The Doctor of Philosophy degree is awarded for an original contribution to scientific knowledge and high attainment of scholarship in the mathematical or natural sciences. This degree, with its emphasis on research in the frontiers of science, is the traditional terminal degree in the College of Natural Science.
In addition to meeting the requirements of the university as described in the Graduate Education section of this catalog, students must meet the requirements specified below.
Admission
Admission may be granted to a student who has a record of high scholastic attainment and demonstrated research potential acceptable to the department or program and to the college. A master's degree in an appropriate subject–matter field may be required, but the completion of a master's degree is not a guarantee of admission. Most programs require the applicant to submit Graduate Record Examination General Test scores; many also require the Graduate Record Examination Subject Test in the area of specialization.
Admission to provisional status may be used to indicate incomplete records, incomplete interpretation of available records, grade–point average below 3.00 but with additional evidence of good capacity, or minor deficiencies in subject matter.
Students may be transferred from one classification to another at any time by the dean, normally upon the recommendation of the department.
Academic Standards
The minimum standard is a 3.00 grade–point average. Standards may be set higher than the minimum by the academic unit responsible for the degree program. The accumulation of grades below 3.0 in more than three courses of 3 or more credits each, or deferreds in more than three courses of 3 or more credits each at any given time, or a combination of the above in excess of four courses automatically removes the student from candidacy for the degree.
A student who fails to meet the academic standards for any program may, on recommendation of the director, be required by the dean to withdraw at the end of any semester.
Residence
In some programs a student may be permitted to enter the doctoral program without taking a master's degree. In such cases 30 semester credits of approved work are considered the equivalent of the master's degree, and the minimum residence requirement for the combined program is three semesters, involving at least 4 credits of graduate work each semester.
The Master of Science and Doctor of Philosophy degrees in Mathematics Education are administered jointly by the College of Natural Science and the College of Education. The College of Natural Science is the primary administrative unit.
The Master of Science Degree in Mathematics Education is designed for persons who show promise of becoming researchers and leaders in state, national, and international mathematics education communities. The program prepares researchers and leaders to address critical questions about mathematics education. Students will have opportunities to develop analytical perspectives on current issues in mathematics education.
Students who may be interested in this program include the following: (1) graduates of undergraduate mathematics or mathematics education programs who are interested in research-based academic careers; (2) K-12 teachers who intend to return to the classroom with strong, research-oriented knowledge and experience in mathematics education; (3) graduates of undergraduate mathematics or mathematics education programs who are interested in the application of knowledge to curriculum or policy development, curriculum development, policy, assessment, etc., not necessarily with a focus on research; and (4) graduates of master’s or doctoral programs in mathematics who wish to become mathematics education faculty in a college or university mathematics or education department.
Students will have opportunities to acquire an understanding and experience in various aspects of the mathematics education field including investigation of mathematical learning and teaching, the development of instructional materials, participation in policy formation and analysis, development and use of assessment, and integration of technology into mathematics learning and teaching.
In addition to meeting the requirements of the university, students must meet the requirements specified below.
Admission
The program admits students with a variety of backgrounds. Some students will have equally strong backgrounds in education and mathematics. Others may have more extensive prior preparation in one of these two disciplines. Candidates should have the equivalent of an undergraduate major in mathematics or satisfactory completion of course work in mathematics appropriate to the applicant’s program of study and approved by an Admissions Committee of the Mathematics Education Faculty Group, with the expectation of completing additional mathematics study if necessary. In such cases, the guidance committee will help the candidate design a program that includes appropriate course work in mathematics. Applicants with deficiencies in academic preparation may be admitted provisionally. These collateral courses will not count toward the degree. In addition, K-12 teaching experience is strongly encouraged, but not required. The Graduate Record Examination (GRE) General Test is required of all applicants.
Students will be admitted to the program by an Admissions Committee composed of members of the Mathematics Education Faculty Group. All admitted students will be assigned an academic advisor.
Candidates will apply directly to the Mathematics Education Graduate Program, and must have three letters of recommendation sent to the Director of the Mathematics Education Graduate Program.
Requirements for the Master of Science Degree in Mathematics Education
The student must complete a minimum of 31 credits for the degree under Plan A (with thesis). The student’s program of study must be approved by the student’s academic advisor and must include:
| 1. | Both of the following courses (6 credits): | ||||||
| MTHE | 926 | Proseminar in Mathematics Education I | 3 | ||||
| MTHE | 927 | Proseminar in Mathematics Education II | 3 | ||||
| 2. | One of the following courses (3 credits): | ||||||
| CEP | 913 | Psychology and Pedagogy of Mathematics | 3 | ||||
| MTHE | 997 | Special Topics in Mathematics Education | 3 | ||||
| TE | 950 | Mathematical Ways of Knowing | 3 | ||||
| 3. | One of the following courses (3 credits): | ||||||
| MTHE | 840 | Critical Content of School Mathematics: Numbers and Operations | 3 | ||||
| MTHE | 841 | Critical Content of School Mathematics: Algebra | 3 | ||||
| MTHE | 842 | Critical Content of School Mathematics: Geometry | 3 | ||||
| 4. | The following course (3 credits): | ||||||
| MTHE | 954 | Design and Methods in Mathematics Education Research | 3 | ||||
| 5. | One of the following courses (3 credits): | ||||||
| CEP | 931 | Introduction to Qualitative Methods in Educational Research | 3 | ||||
| CEP | 932 | Quantitative Methods in Educational Research I | 3 | ||||
| CEP | 933 | Quantitative Methods in Educational Research II | 3 | ||||
| CEP | 934 | Multivariate Data Analysis I | 4 | ||||
| CEP | 935 | Advanced Topics in Multivariate Data Analysis II | 4 | ||||
| STT | 430 | Introduction to Probability and Statistics | 3 | ||||
| STT | 441 | Probability and Statistics I: Probability | 3 | ||||
| STT | 442 | Probability and Statistics II: Statistics | 3 | ||||
| STT | 801 | Design of Experiments | 3 | ||||
| STT | 825 | Sample Surveys | 3 | ||||
| STT | 843 | Multivariate Analysis | 3 | ||||
| STT | 861 | Theory of Probability and Statistics I | 3 | ||||
| STT | 862 | Theory of Probability and Statistics II | 3 | ||||
| 6. | One 3-credit course in general education foundations, policy, or learning and development, selected from a list of approved courses available from the student’s academic advisor . | ||||||
| 7. | Six credits in the Department of Mathematics at a level appropriate to the student’s program of study and career goals at the 400-level or above, excluding Mathematics 443. | ||||||
| 8. | At least 4 credits of MTHE 899 Master's Thesis Research and completion of a research thesis. |
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| 9. | Successfully pass an oral defense of the research thesis. |
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The Doctor of Philosophy degree in Mathematics Education is designed for persons who show promise of becoming leaders in local, state, national, and international mathematics education communities. The program prepares researchers and leaders to address critical issues in mathematics education by developing analytical perspectives for research, engaging in reflective teaching, and deepening mathematical knowledge.
Students who may be interested in the program include the following: (1) graduates of undergraduate mathematics or mathematics education programs with interests in research and academic careers; and (2) K-12 teachers, intending to return to the classroom or to leadership in schools and districts, who desire strong, research-oriented knowledge and experience in mathematics education.
Students will have opportunities to acquire an understanding and experience in various aspects of the mathematics education field including investigation of mathematical learning and teaching, the development of instructional materials, participation in policy formation, development and use of assessment, and the integration of technology into mathematics learning and teaching. Students will address issues of research ethics in the Proseminar in Mathematics Education.
A career at any level in mathematics education requires substantive knowledge of the core discipline of mathematics. Each student will plan with his or her guidance committee a set of courses in mathematics that, together with the student’s prior course work and teaching experiences, are appropriate for the student’s career plans.
In addition to meeting the requirements of the University and of the College of Natural Science, students must meet the requirements specified below.
Admission
The program admits students with a variety of backgrounds. Some students will have equally strong backgrounds in education and mathematics. Others may have more extensive prior preparation in one of these two disciplines. Candidates should have the equivalent of an undergraduate major in mathematics or satisfactory completion of course work in mathematics appropriate to the applicant’s program of study and approved by the Admissions Committee, with the expectation of completing additional mathematics study if necessary. In such cases, the guidance committee will help the candidate to design a program that includes appropriate course work in mathematics. Applicants with deficiencies in academic preparation may be admitted provisionally. These collateral courses will not count toward the degree. In addition, K-12 teaching experience is strongly encouraged, but not required. The Graduate Record Examination (GRE) General Test is required of all applicants.
Admissions decisions will be made by an Admissions Committee composed of members of the Mathematics Education Faculty Group. A student who shows promise for success at doctoral study but who needs additional background to be eligible for admission to the Ph.D. program will be provided with specific conditions to be met before admission. Upon successful completion of these requirements, the student may reapply.
Requirements for the Doctor of Philosophy Degree in Mathematics Education
The student must complete the requirements listed below. The student’s program of study must be approved by the student’s academic advisor and must include:
| 1. | Both of the following courses (6 credits): | ||||||||||||
| MTHE | 926 | Proseminar in Mathematics Education I | 3 | ||||||||||
| MTHE | 927 | Proseminar in Mathematics Education II | 3 | ||||||||||
| 2. | Three courses from the following, with at least one course from each area (9 credits): |
||||||||||||
| Pedagogy Courses | |||||||||||||
| CEP | 913 | Psychology and Pedagogy of Mathematics | 3 | ||||||||||
| MTHE | 997 | Special Topics in Mathematics Education | 3 | ||||||||||
| TE | 950 | Mathematical Ways of Knowing | 3 | ||||||||||
| Content Courses |
|||||||||||||
| MTHE | 840 | Critical Content of School Mathematics: Numbers and Operations | 3 | ||||||||||
| MTHE | 841 | Critical Content of School Mathematics: Algebra | 3 | ||||||||||
| MTHE | 842 | Critical Content of School Mathematics: Geometry | 3 | ||||||||||
| 3. | One of the following courses (2 or 3 credits): | ||||||||||||
| MTHE | 879 | Teaching College Mathematics | 3 | ||||||||||
| TE | 994 | Laboratory and Field Experience in Curriculum, Instruction, and Teacher Education | 2 | ||||||||||
| 4. | The following course (3 credits): | ||||||||||||
| MTHE | 954 | Design and Methods in Mathematics Education Research | 3 | ||||||||||
| 5. | Two of the following courses (6 credits): | ||||||||||||
| CEP | 931 | Introduction to Qualitative Methods in Educational Research | 3 | ||||||||||
| CEP | 933 | Quantitative Methods in Educational Research II | 3 | ||||||||||
| EAD | 955B | Field Research Methods in Educational Administration | 3 | ||||||||||
| STT | 801 | Design of Experiments | 3 | ||||||||||
| STT | 825 | Sample Surveys | 3 | ||||||||||
| STT | 843 | Multivariate Analysis | 3 | ||||||||||
| 6. | One 3-credit course in general education foundations, policy, teacher education, or learning and development, selected from a list of approved courses available from the student’s guidance committee. | ||||||||||||
| 7. | Twelve credits in the Department of Mathematics or Department of Statistics and Probability at a level appropriate to the student’s program of study and career goals at the 400-level or above, excluding Mathematics 443. | ||||||||||||
| 8. | Nine credits in a cognate selected in consultation with the guidance committee. The cognate must be at least three courses appropriate to the student’s program of study. | ||||||||||||
| 9. | The following course (3 credits): MTHE 995 Research Practicum |
3 |
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| 10. |
|
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| 11. | Twenty-four credits of Mathematics Education 999 Doctoral Dissertation Research. | ||||||||||||
| 12. | Successful oral defense of the dissertation. | ||||||||||||
Gabriel Ording, Director
Integrative Studies is Michigan State University’s unique approach to liberal general education, offering a core curriculum that complements specialized work by students in their majors. Integrative Studies courses integrate multiple ways of knowing and modes of inquiry and introduce students to important ways of thinking in the three core knowledge areas: the Arts and Humanities, the Biological and Physical Sciences, and the Social, Behavioral, and Economic Sciences. They assist students early during their study to develop as more critical thinkers. They also encourage appreciation of our humanity and creativity, human cultural diversity, the power of knowledge, and our responsibilities for ourselves and for our world.
Courses in Michigan State University’s Integrative Studies Program are aimed at developing intellectual abilities, including critical thinking and interpretive skills. They help increase knowledge about other times, places, and cultures, key ideas and issues in human experience, and the scientific method and its usefulness in understanding the natural and social worlds. They are expected to enhance appreciation of the role of knowledge, and of values and ethics, in understanding human behavior and solving social problems. Finally, they help students recognize responsibilities and opportunities associated with democratic citizenship and with living in an increasingly interconnected, interdependent world.
The Center for Integrative Studies in the Arts and Humanities in the College of Arts and Letters has primary responsibility for the Arts and Humanities area of Integrative Studies at Michigan State University.
The Center for Integrative Studies in General Sciences in the College of Natural Sciences has primary responsibility for Integrative Studies courses in the Biological and Physical Sciences at Michigan State University.
The Center for Integrative Studies in the Social Sciences in the College of Social Science has primary responsibility for Integrative Studies courses in the Social, Behavioral, and Economic Sciences at Michigan State University.
The College of Natural Science offers interdepartmental degree programs in biological science–interdepartmental; cell and molecular biology; earth science–interdepartmental; ecology, evolutionary biology and behavior; general science; genetics; genetics–environmental toxicology; human biology; neuroscience; and physical science–interdepartmental. These programs are designed to serve students who wish to develop a broad background in the natural sciences. Students who desire academic preparation in the natural sciences with emphasis in a single discipline should enroll in a departmental major. The interdepartmental programs are not intended for this purpose.
Students interested in elementary education who wish to major in science should reference the section on MSU SUBJECT MATTER TEACHING MAJORS AND MINORS FOR TEACHER PREPARATION AND CERTIFICATION in the Department of Teacher Education section of this catalog.
The biological science–interdepartmental major, which leads to the Bachelor of Science degree, is designed for persons who want a broad background in fields that comprise biological sciences and who want to understand the interrelationships among such fields. This major is designed primarily for persons who plan to teach biological sciences in middle and secondary schools.
Requirements for the Bachelor of Science Degree in Biological Science–Interdepartmental
- The University requirements for bachelor's degrees as described in the Undergraduate Education section of this catalog; 120 credits, including general elective credits, are required for the Bachelor of Science degree in Biological Science–Interdepartmental.
The University's Tier II writing requirement for the Biological Sciences—Interdepartmental major is met by completing NSC 401. That course is referenced in item 3.a. below.
Students who are enrolled in the College of Natural Science may complete the alternative track to Integrative Studies in Biological and Physical Sciences that is described in item 1. under the heading Graduation Requirements in the College statement. Certain courses referenced in requirement 3. below may be used to satisfy the alternative track. - The requirements of the College of Natural Science for the Bachelor of Science degree.
The credits earned in certain courses referenced in requirement 3. below may be counted toward College requirements as appropriate. - The following requirements for the major:
a. All of the following courses (30 credits): CEM 251 Organic Chemistry I 3 CEM 252 Organic Chemistry II 3 CEM 255 Organic Chemistry Laboratory 2 CEM 262 Quantitative Analysis 3 ISE 401 Science Laboratories for Secondary Schools (W) 4 PSL 250 Introductory Physiology 4 ZOL 341 Fundamental Genetics 4 ZOL 355 Ecology 3 ZOL 355L Ecology Laboratory (W) 1 ZOL 445 Evolution (W) 3 b. One of the following groups of courses (9 or 10 credits): (1) BS 161 Cell and Molecular Biology 3 BS 162 Organismal and Population Biology 3 BS 171 Cell and Molecular Biology Laboratory 2 BS 172 Organismal and Population Biology Laboratory 2 (2) BS 181H Honors Cell and Molecular Biology 3 BS 182H Honors Organismal and Population Biology 3 BS 191H Honors Cell and Molecular Biology Laboratory 2 BS 192H Honors Organismal and Population Biology Laboratory 2 (3) LB 144 Biology I: Organismal Biology 4 LB 145 Biology II: Cellular and Molecular Biology 5 c. One of the following groups of courses (9 to 12 credits): (1) CEM 141 General Chemistry 4 CEM 142 General and Inorganic Chemistry 3 CEM 161 Chemistry Laboratory I 1 CEM 162 Chemistry Laboratory II 1 (2) CEM 151 General and Descriptive Chemistry 4 CEM 152 Principles of Chemistry 3 CEM 161 Chemistry Laboratory I 1 CEM 162 Chemistry Laboratory II 1 (3) CEM 181H Honors Chemistry I 4 CEM 182H Honors Chemistry II 4 CEM 185H Honors Chemistry Laboratory I 2 CEM 186H Honors Chemistry Laboratory II 2 d. One of the following pairs of courses (6 or 7 credits): (1) MTH 132 Calculus I 3 MTH 133 Calculus II 4 (2) MTH 132 Calculus I 3 STT 201 Statistical Methods 4 (3) MTH 124 Survey of Calculus I 3 MTH 126 Survey of Calculus II 3 (4) MTH 124 Survey of Calculus I 3 STT 201 Statistical Methods 4 (5) MTH 152H Honors Calculus I 3 MTH 153H Honors Calculus II 3 e. One of the following pairs of courses (6 or 8 credits): (1) PHY 183 Physics for Scientists and Engineers I 4 PHY 184 Physics for Scientists and Engineers II 4 (2) PHY 193H Honors Physics I–Mechanics 3 PHY 294H Honors Physics II–Electromagnetism 3 (3) PHY 231 Introductory Physics I 3 PHY 232 Introductory Physics II 3 f. One of the following pairs of courses (2 credits): (1) PHY 191 Physics Laboratory for Scientists, I 1 PHY 192 Physics Laboratory for Scientists, II 1 (2) PHY 251 Introductory Physics Laboratory I 1 PHY 252 Introductory Physics Laboratory II 1 g. One of the following, either (1) or (2) (8 credits): (1) Two of the following courses: BMB 401 Comprehensive Biochemistry 4 ZOL 408 Histology 4 ZOL 425 Cells and Development (W) 4 (2) Both of the following courses: MMG 301 Introductory Microbiology 3 MMG 302 Introductory Laboratory for General and Allied Health Microbiology 1 One of the following courses: BMB 401 Comprehensive Biochemistry 4 ZOL 408 Histology 4 ZOL 425 Cells and Development (W) 4 h. One of the following courses (3 or 4 credits): PLB 301 Introductory Plant Physiology 3 PLB 418 Plant Systematics 3 PLB 434 Plant Structure and Function 4 PLP 405 Plant Pathology 3
The Department of Geological Sciences administers the earth science—interdepartmental major, which leads to the Bachelor of Science degree. The major is designed for persons who want a broad background in geology, meteorology, oceanography, and astronomy and who want to understand the interrelationships among these fields. The general earth science concentration is designed primarily for persons who plan to teach earth science in middle and secondary schools. The meteorology/atmospheric sciences concentration is designed primarily for persons who plan to enter a graduate program in meteorology/atmospheric sciences.
Requirements for the Bachelor of Science Degree in Earth Science—Interdepartmental
- The University requirements for bachelor's degrees as described in the Undergraduate Education section of this catalog; 120 credits, including general elective credits, are required for the Bachelor of Science degree in Earth Science—Interdepartmental.
The University's Tier II writing requirement for the Earth Science—Interdepartmental major is met by completing Geological Sciences 401 for the General Earth Science concentration and Geography 403 for the Meteorology/Atmospheric Sciences concentration. Those courses are referenced in item 3. c. below.
Students who are enrolled in the College of Natural Science may complete the alternative track to Integrative Studies in Biological and Physical Sciences that is described in item 1. under the heading Graduation Requirements in the College statement. Certain courses referenced in requirement 3. below may be used to satisfy the alternative track. - The requirements of the College of Natural Science for the Bachelor of Science degree.
The credits earned in certain courses referenced in requirement 3. below may be counted toward College requirements as appropriate. - The following requirements for the major:
a. All of the following courses (21 credits): AST 207 The Science of Astronomy 3 GEO 203 Introduction to Meteorology 3 GLG 201 The Dynamic Earth 4 GLG 303 Oceanography 4 GLG 304 Physical and Biological History of the Earth 4 MTH 132 Calculus I 3 b. One of the following groups of courses (8 credits): (1) CEM 141 General Chemistry 4 CEM 142 General and Inorganic Chemistry 3 CEM 161 Chemistry Laboratory I 1 (2) CEM 151 General and Descriptive Chemistry 4 CEM 152 Principles of Chemistry 3 CEM 161 Chemistry Laboratory I 1 c. One of the following concentrations (28 to 38 credits): General Earth Science (28 to 30 credits) (1) Both of the following courses: GLG 321 Mineralogy and Geochemistry 4 GLG 401 Plate Tectonics 4 (2) One of the following courses: MTH 133 Calculus II 4 STT 200 Statistical Methods 3 STT 201 Statistical Methods 4 STT 231 Statistics for Scientists 3 STT 421 Statistics I 3 (3) One of the following groups of courses: (a) PHY 231 Introductory Physics I 3 PHY 232 Introductory Physics II 3 PHY 251 Introductory Physics Laboratory I 1 PHY 252 Introductory Physics Laboratory II 1 (b) PHY 183 Physics for Scientists and Engineers I 4 PHY 184 Physics for Scientists and Engineers II 4 (4) One of the following courses: GEO 306 Environmental Geomorphology 3 GLG 412 Glacial and Quaternary Geology 4 (5) A minimum of 6 credits from the following courses: AST 303 Planetary System Astronomy 3 AST 312 Observational Astronomy 1 ENT 319 Introduction to Earth System Science 3 GEO 402 Agricultural Climatology 3 GEO 405 Weather Analysis and Forecasting 4 GEO 409 Global Climate Change and Variability 3 GEO 424 Advanced Remote Sensing 4 GLG 411 Hydrogeology 3 GLG 421 Environmental Geochemistry 4 GLG 422 Aquatic and Marine Organic Geochemistry (W) 3 GLG 434 Evolutionary Paleobiology 4 PLB 335 Plants Through Time 3 Meteorology/Atmospheric Sciences (35 to 38 credits): (1) All of the following courses: GEO 403 Dynamic Meteorology (W) 3 GEO 405 Weather Analysis and Forecasting 4 MTH 133 Calculus II 4 MTH 234 Multivariable Calculus 4 MTH 235 Differential Equations 3 PHY 183 Physics for Scientists and Engineers I 4 PHY 184 Physics for Scientists and Engineers II 4 (2) One of the following courses: GEO 402 Agricultural Climatology 3 GEO 409 Global Climate Change and Variability 3 The course selected to meet this requirement may also satisfy requirement (3) below. (3) Three of the following courses: GEO 324 Remote Sensing of the Environment 4 GEO 402 Agricultural Climatology 3 GEO 409 Global Climate Change and Variability 3 GLG 411 Hydrogeology 3 GLG 412 Glacial and Quaternary Geology 4 GLG 421 Environmental Geochemistry 4 Geography 402 or 409 may also be used to satisfy requirement (2) above.
The human biology major, which leads to the Bachelor of Science degree, is designed for persons who want a broad background in fields that comprise biological sciences and who want to understand the interrelationships among such fields. This program is for persons who plan to pursue careers in the health care professions and for students who are interested in the biological sciences, but are not interested in a teaching option.
Requirements for the Bachelor of Science Degree in Human Biology
- The University requirements for bachelor's degrees as described in the Undergraduate Education section of this catalog; 120 credits, including general elective credits, are required for the Bachelor of Science degree in Human Biology.
The University's Tier II writing requirement for the Human Biology major is met by completing NSC 495. That course is referenced in item 3. a. below.
Students who are enrolled in the College of Natural Science may complete the alternative track to Integrative Studies in Biological and Physical Sciences that is described in item 1. under the heading Graduation Requirements in the College statement. Certain courses referenced in requirement 3. below may be used to satisfy the alternative track. - The requirements of the College of Natural Science for the Bachelor of Science degree.
The credits earned in certain courses referenced in requirement 3. below may be counted toward College requirements as appropriate. - The following requirements for the major:
a. All of the following courses (24 credits): BS 161 Cell and Molecular Biology 3 BS 162 Organismal and Population Biology 3 BS 171 Cell and Molecular Biology Laboratory 2 BS 172 Organismal and Population Biology Laboratory 2 CEM 251 Organic Chemistry I 3 CEM 252 Organic Chemistry II 3 CEM 255 Organic Chemistry Laboratory 2 NSC 495 Capstone in Human Biology (W) 2 ZOL 341 Fundamental Genetics 4 b. One of the following, either (1) or (2) (4 or 6 credits): (1) PSL 310 Physiology for Pre-Health Professionals 4 (2) PSL 431 Human Physiology I 3 PSL 432 Human Physiology II 3 c. One of the following, either (1) or (2) (4 or 6 credits): (1) BMB 401 Comprehensive Biochemistry 4 (2) BMB 461 Advanced Biochemistry I 3 BMB 462 Advanced Biochemistry II 3 d. One of the following groups of courses (9 to 12 credits): (1) CEM 141 General Chemistry 4 CEM 142 General and Inorganic Chemistry 3 CEM 161 Chemistry Laboratory I 1 CEM 162 Chemistry Laboratory II 1 (2) CEM 151 General and Descriptive Chemistry 4 CEM 152 Principles of Chemistry 3 CEM 161 Chemistry Laboratory I 1 CEM 162 Chemistry Laboratory II 1 (3) CEM 181H Honors Chemistry I 4 CEM 182H Honors Chemistry II 4 CEM 185H Honors Chemistry Laboratory I 2 CEM 186H Honors Chemistry Laboratory II 2 e. One of the following groups of courses (6 or 7 credits): (1) MTH 132 Calculus I 3 MTH 133 Calculus II 4 (2) MTH 132 Calculus I 3 STT 201 Statistical Methods 4 or STT 231 Statistics for Scientists 3 (3) MTH 124 Survey of Calculus I 3 MTH 126 Survey of Calculus II 3 (4) MTH 124 Survey of Calculus I 3 STT 201 Statistical Methods 4 or STT 231 Statistics for Scientists 3 (5) MTH 152H Honors Calculus I 3 MTH 153H Honors Calculus II 3 f. One of the following pairs of courses (6 or 8 credits): (1) PHY 183 Physics for Scientists and Engineers I 4 PHY 184 Physics for Scientists and Engineers II 4 (2) PHY 193H Honors Physics I–Mechanics 3 PHY 294H Honors Physics II–Electromagnetism 3 (3) PHY 231 Introductory Physics I 3 PHY 232 Introductory Physics II 3 g. One of the following pairs of courses (2 credits): (1) PHY 191 Physics Laboratory for Scientists, I 1 PHY 192 Physics Laboratory for Scientists, II 1 (2) PHY 251 Introductory Physics Laboratory I 1 PHY 252 Introductory Physics Laboratory II 1 h. One of the following courses (3 credits): BLD 434 Clinical Immunology 3 MMG 409 Eukaryotic Cell Biology 3 MMG 413 Virology 3 MMG 451 Immunology 3 i. At least 12 credits from the following courses: ANP 441 Osteology and Forensic Anthropology 4 BLD 204 Mechanisms of Disease 3 BLD 324 Fundamentals of Hematology, Hemostatis, and Urinalysis 3 BLD 416 Clinical Chemistry II: Pathophysiology and Body Fluid Analysis 4 BLD 434 Clinical Immunology 3 EPI 390 Disease and Society 4 KIN 310 Physiology Bases of Physical Activity 3 KIN 330 Biomechanics of Physical Activity 3 MMG 301 Introductory Microbiology 3 MMG 302 Introductory Microbiology Laboratory 1 MMG 404 Human Genetics 3 MMG 409 Eukaryotic Cell Biology 3 MMG 413 Virology 3 MMG 431 Microbial Genetics 3 MMG 451 Immunology 3 MMG 461 Molecular Pathogenesis 3 MMG 463 Medical Microbiology 3 NSC 496 Directed Study in Human Biology 1 to 3 NSC 497 Internship in Human Biology 1 to 3 NSC 498 Research in Human Biology 1 to 3 PHM 350 Introductory Human Pharmacology 3 PHM 431 Pharmacology of Drug Addiction 3 PHM 450 Introduction to Chemical Toxicology 3 ZOL 402 Neurobiology 3 ZOL 408 Histology 4 ZOL 425 Cells and Development (W) 4 ZOL 450 Cancer Biology (W) 3 ZOL 483 Environmental Physiology (W) 4 With the approval of the director of the human biology major, credits in research or independent study courses may be used to satisfy this requirement. Courses used to fulfill requirement 3. h. may not be used to fulfill requirement 3. i. j. One of the following courses (3 or 4 credits): ANTR 350 Human Gross Anatomy and Structural Biology 3 ZOL 320 Developmental Biology 4 ZOL 328 Comparative Anatomy and Biology of Vertebrates 4
Requirements for the Bachelor of Science Degree in Neuroscience
- The University requirements for bachelor’s degrees as described in the Undergraduate Education section of this catalog; 120 credits, including general elective credits, are required for the Bachelor of Science degree in Neuroscience.
The University’s Tier II writing requirement for the Neuroscience major is met by completing Neuroscience 311L. That course is referenced in item 3. below.
Students who are enrolled in the College of Natural Science may complete the alternative track to Integrative Studies in Biological and Physical Sciences that is described in item 1. under the heading Graduation Requirements in the College statement. Certain courses referenced in requirement 3. below may be used to satisfy the alternative track. - The requirements of the College of Natural Science for the Bachelor of Science degree.
The credits earned in certain courses referenced in requirement 3. below may be counted toward College requirements as appropriate. - The following requirements for the major:
| a. | One of the following pairs of courses (5 or 6 credits): | |||||||
| (1) | CEM | 141 | General Chemistry | 4 | ||||
| CEM | 161 | Chemistry Laboratory I | 1 | |||||
| (2) | CEM | 151 | General and Descriptive Chemistry | 4 | ||||
| CEM | 161 | Chemistry Laboratory I | 1 | |||||
| (3) | CEM | 181H | Honors Chemistry I | 4 | ||||
| CEM | 185H | Honors Chemistry Laboratory I | 2 | |||||
| (4) | LB | 171 | Principles of Chemistry I | 4 | ||||
| LB | 171L | Introductory Chemistry Laboratory I | 1 | |||||
| b. | One of the following pairs of courses (6 credits): | |||||||
| (1) | CEM | 251 | Organic Chemistry I | 3 | ||||
| CEM | 252 | Organic Chemistry II | 3 | |||||
| (2) | CEM | 351 | Organic Chemistry I | 3 | ||||
| CEM | 352 | Organic Chemistry II | 3 | |||||
| c. | One of the following pairs of courses (6 or 8 credits): | |||||||
| (1) | PHY | 231 | Introductory Physics I | 3 | ||||
| PHY | 232 | Introductory Physics II | 3 | |||||
| (2) | PHY | 183 | Physics for Scientists and Engineers I | 4 | ||||
| PHY | 184 | Physics for Scientists and Engineers II | 4 | |||||
| (3) | PHY | 193H | Honors Physics I-Mechanics | 4 | ||||
| PHY | 294H | Honors Physics II-Electromagnetism | 4 | |||||
| (4) | LB | 273 | Physics I | 4 | ||||
| LB | 274 | Physics II | 4 | |||||
| d. | One of the following courses (3 or 4 credits): | |||||||
| MTH | 124 | Survey of Calculus I | 3 | |||||
| MTH | 132 | Calculus I | 3 | |||||
| MTH | 152H | Honors Calculus I | 3 | |||||
| LB | 118 | Calculus I | 4 | |||||
| e. | One of the following courses (3 or 4 credits): | |||||||
| STT | 201 | Statistical Methods | 4 | |||||
| STT | 231 | Statistics for Scientists | 3 | |||||
| STT | 421 | Statistics I | 3 | |||||
| f. | Both of the following courses (8 credits): | |||||||
| BMB | 401 | Comprehensive Biochemistry | 4 | |||||
| PSY | 101 | Introductory Psychology | 4 | |||||
| g. | One of the following groups of courses (8 or 9 credits): | |||||||
| (1) | BS | 161 | Cell and Molecular Biology | 3 | ||||
| BS | 162 | Organismal and Population Biology | 3 | |||||
| BS | 171 | Cell and Molecular Biology Laboratory | 2 | |||||
| (2) | BS | 181H | Honors Cell and Molecular Biology | 3 | ||||
| BS | 182H | Honors Organismal and Population Biology | 3 | |||||
| BS | 191H | Honors Cell and Molecular Biology Laboratory | 2 | |||||
| (3) | LB | 144 | Biology I: Organismal Biology | 4 | ||||
| LB | 145 | Biology II: Cellular and Molecular Biology | 5 | |||||
| h. | One of the following groups of courses (4 or 6 credits): | |||||||
| (1) | PSL | 310 | Physiology for Pre-Health Professionals | 4 | ||||
| (2) | PSL | 431 | Human Physiology I | 3 | ||||
| PSL | 432 | Human Physiology II | 3 | |||||
| i. | All of the following courses (8 credits): | |||||||
| NEU | 301 | Introduction to Neuroscience I | 3 | |||||
| NEU | 302 | Introduction to Neuroscience II | 3 | |||||
| NEU | 311L | Neuroscience Laboratory (W) | 2 | |||||
| j. | One course from each of the following groups of courses (6 credits): | |||||||
| (1) | PHM | 350 | Introductory Human Pharmacology | 3 | ||||
| PHM | 431 | Pharmacology of Drug Addiction | 3 | |||||
| PHM | 480 | Special Problems | 3 | |||||
| (2) | MMG | 404 | Human Genetics | 3 | ||||
| MMG | 409 | Eukaryotic Cell Biology | 3 | |||||
| k. | Complete 15 credits in courses from one of the following concentrations: | |||||||
| Cellular and Developmental Neuroscience | ||||||||
| BMB | 400 | Introduction to Bioinformatics | 3 | |||||
| MMG | 404 | Human Genetics | 3 | |||||
| MMG | 409 | Eukaryotic Cell Biology | 3 | |||||
| NEU | 420 | Neurobiology of Disease | 3 | |||||
| NEU | 490 | Special Problems in Neuroscience | 1 to 3 | |||||
| NEU | 492 | Special Topics in Neuroscience | 1 to 3 | |||||
| ZOL | 341 | Fundamental Genetics | 4 | |||||
| ZOL | 343 | Genetics Laboratory | 3 | |||||
| ZOL | 402 | Neurobiology | 3 | |||||
| ZOL | 425 | Cells and Development (W) | 4 | |||||
| Microbiology and Molecular Genetics 404 or 409 may not be used for requirement 3. j. (2) and this concentration. No more than 3 credits each of NEU 490 and NEU 492 may count towards this requirement. | ||||||||
| Behavioral and Systems Neuroscience | ||||||||
| NEU | 420 | Neurobiology of Disease | 3 | |||||
| NEU | 490 | Special Problems in Neuroscience | 1 to 3 | |||||
| NEU | 492 | Special Topics in Neuroscience | 1 to 3 | |||||
| PHM | 431 | Pharmacology of Drug Addiction | 3 | |||||
| PHM | 480 | Special Problems | 1 to 3 | |||||
| PSY | 209 | Brain and Behavior | 3 | |||||
| PSY | 310 | Psychology and Biology of Human Sexuality | 3 | |||||
| PSY | 402 | Sensation and Perception (W) | 3 | |||||
| PSY | 409 | Psychobiology of Behavioral Development (W) | 3 | |||||
| PSY | 410 | Neurobiology of Learning and Memory (W) | 3 | |||||
| PSY | 411 | Hormones and Behavior (W) | 3 | |||||
| PSY | 413 | Laboratory in Behavioral Neuroscience (W) | 4 | |||||
| PSY | 493 | Issues in Psychology (W) | 3 | |||||
| ZOL | 313 | Animal Behavior | 3 | |||||
| ZOL | 403 | Integrative Neurobiology | 3 | |||||
| Pharmacology and Toxicology 431 may not be used for requirement 3. j. (1) and this concentration. No more than 3 credits each of NEU 490 and NEU 492 may count towards this requirement. | ||||||||
| Cognitive Neuroscience |
||||||||
| ENG | 492H | Honors Seminar in English | 3 | |||||
| LIN | 455 | Neurolinguistics | 3 | |||||
| LIN | 463 | Introduction to Cognitive Science | 3 | |||||
| NEU | 490 | Special Problems in Neuroscience | 1 to 3 | |||||
| NEU | 492 | Special Topics in Neuroscience | 1 to 3 | |||||
| PHL | 200 | Introduction to Philosophy | 3 | |||||
| PHL | 462 | Philosophy of Mind | 3 | |||||
| PSL | 429 | Biomedical Imaging Methods | 3 | |||||
| PSY | 200 | Cognitive Psychology | 3 | |||||
| PSY | 209 | Brain and Behavior | 3 | |||||
| PSY | 301 | Cognitive Neuroscience | 3 | |||||
| PSY | 401 | Memory and Skill (W) | 3 | |||||
| PSY | 402 | Sensation and Perception (W) | 3 | |||||
| PSY | 410 | Neurobiology of Learning and Memory (W) | 3 | |||||
| PSY | 493 | Issues in Psychology (W) | 3 | |||||
| No more than 3 credits each of NEU 490 and NEU 492 may count towards this requirement. | ||||||||
The physical science–interdepartmental major, which leads to the Bachelor of Science degree, is designed for persons who want a broad background in both physics and chemistry and to understand the interrelationships between these disciplines. This major is designed primarily for persons who plan to teach physics, chemistry and/or physical science in secondary schools.
Requirements for the Bachelor of Science Degree in Physical Science–Interdepartmental
- The University requirements for bachelor's degrees as described in the Undergraduate Education section of this catalog; 120 credits, including general elective credits, are required for the Bachelor of Science degree in Physical Science–Interdepartmental.
The University's Tier II writing requirement for the Physical Science—Interdepartmental major is met by completing Science and Mathematics Education 401. That course is referenced in item 3. a. below.
Students who are enrolled in the College of Natural Science may complete the alternative track to Integrative Studies in Biological and Physical Sciences that is described in item 1. under the heading Graduation Requirements in the College statement. Certain courses referenced in requirement 3. below may be used to satisfy the alternative track. - The requirements of the College of Natural Science for the Bachelor of Science degree.
The credits earned in certain courses referenced in requirement 3. below may be counted toward College requirements as appropriate. - The following requirements for the major:
a. One of the following courses (4 credits): CEM 141 General Chemistry 4 CEM 151 General and Descriptive Chemistry 4 b. One of the following courses (3 credits): CEM 142 General and Inorganic Chemistry 3 CEM 152 Principles of Chemistry 3 c. All of the following courses (57 credits): CEM 161 Chemistry Laboratory I 1 CEM 162 Chemistry Laboratory II 1 CEM 251 Organic Chemistry I 3 CEM 252 Organic Chemistry II 3 CEM 255 Organic Chemistry Laboratory 2 CEM 262 Quantitative Analysis 3 CEM 383 Introductory Physical Chemistry I 3 ISE 401 Science Laboratories for Secondary Schools (W) 4 MTH 132 Calculus I 3 MTH 133 Calculus II 4 MTH 234 Multivariable Calculus 4 MTH 235 Differential Equations 3 PHY 183 Physics for Scientists and Engineers I 4 PHY 184 Physics for Scientists and Engineers II 4 PHY 191 Physics Laboratory for Scientists, I 1 PHY 192 Physics Laboratory for Scientists, II 1 PHY 215 Thermodynamics and Modern Physics 3 PHY 431 Optics I 3 PHY 440 Electronics 4 An approved elective in chemistry or physics 3 d. One of the following courses (3 or 4 credits): BS 161 Cell and Molecular Biology 3 ENT 205 Pests, Society and Environment 3 PLB 105 Plant Biology 3 PSL 250 Introductory Physiology 4 ZOL 141 Introductory Human Genetics 3
The biological science–interdepartmental disciplinary major leading to the Bachelor of Science degree is available for teacher certification.
A biological science disciplinary minor is also available for secondary teacher certification.
Students who elect the biological science–interdepartmental disciplinary major or the biological science disciplinary minor must contact the College of Natural Science.
The earth science–interdepartmental disciplinary major leading to the Bachelor of Science degree is available for teacher certification.
An earth science disciplinary minor is also available for secondary teacher certification.
Students who elect the earth science–interdepartmental disciplinary major or the earth science disciplinary minor must contact the Department of Geological Sciences.
The physical science–interdepartmental disciplinary major leading to the Bachelor of Science degree is available for secondary teacher certification.
Students who elect the physical science–interdepartmental disciplinary major must contact the College of Natural Science.
For additional information, refer to the statement on TEACHER CERTIFICATION in the Department of Teacher Education section of this catalog.
The Master of Science degree program with a major in Biological Science–Interdepartmental is designed for science teachers who wish to pursue graduate study in the biological sciences. To meet the needs of practicing teachers, the courses that are required for the program are offered in the summer and on weekends.
In addition to meeting the requirements of the university and of the College of Natural Science, students must meet the requirements specified below.
Admission
Requirements for admission to the master's degree program in biological science–interdepartmental include a bachelor's degree in biology, teacher certification for grades 7–12, at least 1 year of teaching experience, and current employment as a teacher of biology or related disciplines at the middle or secondary school level.
Requirements for the Master of Science Degree in Biological Science—Interdepartmental
The program is available under either Plan A (with thesis) or Plan B (without thesis). For a student under Plan A, a thesis committee that consists of the student’s faculty advisor, the student’s program director, and one other faculty member must approve the student’s program of study.
The student must complete at least 30 credits distributed as follows:
| Requirements for Both Plan A and Plan B | |||||||
| 1. | All of the following courses (20 credits): | ||||||
| ISE | 871 | Biochemistry and Cell Biology for Teachers | 7 | ||||
| ISE | 874 | Field Ecology for Teachers | 7 | ||||
| ISE | 901 | Frontiers in Biological Science | 6 | ||||
| Additional Requirements for Plan A | |||||||
| 1. | ISE | 899 | Master’s Thesis Research | 10 | |||
| Research for the thesis involves developing laboratories and demonstrations as part of a new teaching unit and teaching that unit, collecting and analyzing relevant data. | |||||||
| Additional Requirements for Plan B | |||||||
| 1. | ISE | 889 | Research for Inservice Teachers | 10 | |||
| Research for inservice teachers requires a curriculum-based project and implementation report. | |||||||
This program provides theoretical and practical training in cell and molecular biology to prepare students for a variety of professional positions in academia, industry or government.
Admission
Most students enter the Master of Science degree program in cell and molecular biology with the goal of eventually obtaining a Ph.D. degree. However, students with limited research experience or specific deficiencies in their undergraduate training may be admitted to this program to obtain additional experience. Applicants will be considered by the Cell and Molecular Biology admissions committee, and in general the criteria for admission are similar to those of the Ph.D. program (an undergraduate major in biological science, acceptable GPA and GRE scores, and letters of recommendation).
In addition to meeting the requirements of the university and the College of Natural Science, students must meet the requirements specified below.
Requirements for the Master of Science Degree in Cell and Molecular Biology
Students in the M.S. program in Cell and Molecular Biology must complete a total of 30 credits for the degree under either Plan A (with thesis) or Plan B (without thesis). These credits must include core courses in molecular biology, cell biology, and genetics. Detailed course and other requirements are specified in the cell and molecular biology graduate manual.
For a Plan A master’s degree, students must complete a minimum of 4 and a maximum of 10 credits of Cell and Molecular Biology 899, Master’s Research. They must also prepare a written thesis, complete a final research seminar, and pass an oral examination.
For a Plan B master’s degree, student may complete a maximum of 8 credits of Cell and Molecular Biology 890, Independent Study. They must also complete a final report and pass an oral examination.
The interdepartmental Doctor of Philosophy degree program with a major in cell and molecular biology is administered by the College of Natural Science. Students may elect to complete the requirements for a second major, in addition to the requirements for the Doctor of Philosophy degree in cell and molecular biology.
The educational objectives of the program are to provide doctoral students with fundamental knowledge and research skills so that they may become independent and self–educating scholars.
In addition to meeting the requirements of the university and of the College of Natural Science, students must meet the requirements specified below.
Admission
To be considered for admission to the Doctor of Philosophy degree program with a major in cell and molecular biology, an applicant must have taken the Graduate Record Examination General Test.
To be admitted to the doctoral program in cell and molecular biology, it is recommended that an applicant have:
- Completed a Bachelor of Science or Bachelor of Arts degree with a minimum grade–point average of 3.00.
- A broad background in biology, including courses in biochemistry, genetics, cell biology, and molecular biology.
- Completed at least one year of study in each of the following fields: physics, inorganic chemistry, organic chemistry, and mathematics through integral calculus.
- A grade of 3.0 or above in each science and mathematics course completed.
- Acceptable scores on the Graduate Record Examination General Test.
Applicants with deficiencies in academic preparation may be admitted provisionally, in which case they will be required to complete collateral courses.
Requirements for the Doctor of Philosophy Degree in Cell and Molecular Biology
The student must:
| 1. | Complete all of the following courses (15 credits): | ||||||
| BMB | 801 | Molecular Biology and Protein Structure | 4 | ||||
| BMB | 825 | Cell Structure and Function | 3 | ||||
| CMB | 800 | Cell and Molecular Biology Seminar | 3 | ||||
| CMB | 892 | Research Forum | 4 | ||||
| One graduate course in scientific ethics | 1 | ||||||
| 2. | Complete one of the following courses (3 credits): | ||||||
| MMG | 833 | Microbial Genetics | 3 | ||||
| MMG | 835 | Eukaryotic Molecular Genetics | 3 | ||||
| 3. | Complete a minimum of two additional graduate courses of at least 3 credits each that are related to the student's research. | ||||||
| 4. | Complete a 10–week research rotation in the laboratory of each of three different members of the cell and molecular biology faculty during the first year of enrollment in the program. | ||||||
| 5. | Pass the preliminary examination given at the end of the second year of graduate study. | ||||||
| 6. | Successfully complete a minimum of two semesters as a teaching assistant in a department represented on the cell and molecular biology faculty. The student's teaching assignment must be approved by the director of the doctoral program in cell and molecular biology. | ||||||
For additional information, contact the director of the doctoral program in cell and molecular biology, 153 Giltner Hall, Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI 48824.
Students are encouraged to apply for admission to the Ph.D. program through the BioMolecular Science Gateway – First Year, where students choose a doctoral major from any of six Ph.D. programs: biochemistry and molecular biology, cell and molecular biology, genetics, microbiology and molecular genetics, pharmacology and toxicology, or physiology. For additional information refer to the College of Natural Science section of this catalog.
For information about the Doctor of Philosophy degree program in cell and molecular biology—environmental toxicology, refer to the statement on Doctoral Program in Environmental and Integrative Toxicological Sciences in the Graduate Education section of this catalog.
The interdepartmental dual major in ecology, evolutionary biology and behavior is administered by the College of Natural Science. The dual major is available only to those students who plan to complete a Ph.D. degree program that involves ecology, evolutionary biology and behavior and who have a graduate major at Michigan State University. The student does not have the option of completing a dual major in ecology, evolutionary biology and behavior alone.
The educational objectives of the interdepartmental program are to:
- provide an opportunity for doctoral students to obtain a comprehensive and contemporary academic experience in the field of ecology, evolutionary biology and behavior.
- stimulate doctoral students with an interest in ecology, evolutionary biology and behavior to become sensitive to their professional obligations and responsibilities.
- develop an intellectual environment which will foster the growth of research and teaching in the area of ecology, evolutionary biology and behavior.
Students who are enrolled in the dual major in Ecology, Evolutionary Biology and Behavior may elect an Interdepartmental Specialization in Cognitive Science. For additional information, refer to the statement on Interdepartmental Graduate Specializations in Cognitive Science in the College of Social Science section of this catalog. For additional information, contact the College of Natural Science.
In addition to meeting the requirements of the University and of the College of Natural Science, students must meet the requirements specified below.
Admission
In order to enroll in the dual major in ecology, evolutionary biology and behavior a student must also have been admitted to a major at Michigan State University. A minimum undergraduate grade-point average of 3.0 and undergraduate mathematics through calculus are required for admission to the dual major.
The Graduate Admissions Committee, composed of members of the ecology, evolutionary biology and behavior faculty reviews applications for admission and recommends acceptance of applicants for admission. In special cases an applicant who has deficiencies in background courses may be admitted to the dual major on a provisional basis.
Guidance Committee
During the first year of enrollment in the dual major, the student and a member of the ecology, evolutionary biology and behavior faculty who will serve as the student’s major professor will constitute a guidance committee that will assist in planning the student’s program of study. At least two members of the ecology, evolutionary biology and behavior faculty shall be members of the committee. The student’s program of study will involve ecology, evolutionary biology and behavior and a major in the student's department. The program shall be planned in accordance with the statement on Dual Major Doctoral Degrees in the Graduate Education section of this catalog.
Students in the dual major in ecology, evolutionary biology and behavior are expected to attend weekly seminars and to participate in the graduate student-organized research colloquium.
Requirements for the Dual Major in Ecology, Evolutionary Biology and Behavior
- One 3-credit course in ecology at the 800-900 level from a list of approved courses available from the office of the ecology, evolutionary biology and behavior program.
- One 3-credit course in evolution at the 800-900 level from a list of approved courses available from the office of the ecology, evolutionary biology and behavior program.
- One 3-credit course in quantitative methods at the 800-900 level from a list of approved courses available from the office of the ecology, evolutionary biology and behavior program.
- Twenty-four credits in Doctoral Dissertation Research (course number 999) from the student's departmental major.
- Pass a comprehensive examination that will be defined by the requirements of the student's major department and that will include a written examination in which the student demonstrates a knowledge of ecology, evolutionary biology and behavior as determined by the guidance committee.
- Submit a dissertation that, in the judgment of the student’s guidance committee, represents the integration of ecology, evolutionary biology and behavior and the student’s departmental major.
The Master of Arts for Teachers degree program with a major in general science is designed for elementary and middle school teachers who wish to pursue graduate study in the broad area of teaching science. To meet the needs of practicing teachers, the courses that are required for the program are offered in the summer, and after school hours.
In addition to meeting the requirements of the University and of the College of Natural Science, students must meet the requirements specified below.
Admission
The requirements for admission to the master's degree program in general science include a bachelor's degree, teacher certification for grades K–8, at least 3 years of teaching experience, and current employment as a teacher in an elementary or middle school.
Requirements for the Master of Arts for Teachers Degree in General Science
The program is available only under Plan B (without thesis). A total of 30 credits is required for the degree. The student's program of study must be approved by the student's academic advisor. The student must meet the requirements specified below.
| 1. | All of the following courses (21 credits): | ||||||
| ISE | 828 | Physical Science I | 3 | ||||
| ISE | 829 | Physical Science II | 3 | ||||
| ISE | 832 | Earth Science I | 3 | ||||
| ISE | 833 | Earth Science II | 3 | ||||
| ISE | 838 | Life Science I | 3 | ||||
| ISE | 839 | Life Science II | 3 | ||||
| ISE | 889 | Research for Inservice Teachers | 3 | ||||
| An approved school-based project that involves either developing new science instruction or a project that is designed to transform science teaching in the student's school is required for Integrated Science Education 889. | |||||||
| 2. | One of the following courses (3 credits): | ||||||
| TE | 860 | Practice and Inquiry in Science Education | 3 | ||||
| TE | 861A | Teaching Science for Understanding | 3 | ||||
| 3. | Six credits of approved electives including at least one course from the Department of Teacher Education. | ||||||
The primary purpose of the Master of Science in Genetics is to train students for a variety of careers in areas of genetics and genomics. The program also seeks to provide graduate students who are seeking the Ph.D. degree, state-of-the-art knowledge and skills to prepare them for careers in research and teaching.
Admission
Applicants will be considered for admission by the Genetics Admissions Committee. The criteria for admission include an undergraduate major in the biological sciences, acceptable grade-point average and GRE scores, a statement of objectives and three letters of recommendation. The Genetics Admissions Committee will also consider requests for students to transfer from the Doctor of Philosophy in Genetics to this program.
In addition to meeting the requirements of the university and the College of Natural Science, students must meet the requirements specified below.
Requirements for the Master of Science Degree in Genetics
All students in the Master of Science in Genetics must earn at least 30 credits, of which a minimum of 20 credits must consist of course work and must include the core courses specified for the Ph.D. program. Detailed course work and other requirements are specified in the Student Handbook of the Genetics Program. For a Plan A (with thesis) degree, students must complete 4 to 10 credits of Genetics 899, Master’s Thesis Research, submit a written thesis, present a final research seminar and pass a final oral examination. For a Plan B (without thesis) degree, students must have earned at least 26 credits through course work, may receive a maximum of 4 credits for work completed in Genetics 899, Master’s Thesis Research, submit a final report and pass an oral examination.
The interdepartmental Doctor of Philosophy degree program with a major in genetics is administered by the College of Natural Science. The objectives of the program are (1) to prepare the student for independent research and teaching, (2) to help the student to understand the nature and significance of genetics as a whole and to gain strength in related sciences, such as molecular biology and biochemistry, and (3) to enable the student to keep in the forefront of this continuously changing field.
Students may specialize in one area of genetics, but are required to familiarize themselves with all major areas of the discipline. Students may elect to complete the requirements for a second major, such as biochemistry, in addition to the requirements for the doctoral degree in genetics.
In addition to meeting the requirements of the university and of the College of Natural Science, students must meet the requirements specified below.
Admission
For regular admission a student must have a bachelor's degree with a grade–point average of 3.30, appropriate background in the biological and physical sciences, and approval of the Genetics Program Admissions Committee. In special cases an applicant who fails to meet the grade–point average requirement, or who has deficiencies in background courses, i.e., organic chemistry, physics, calculus, or biology, may be admitted on a provisional basis. Applicants admitted on a provisional basis must remove these deficiencies within one year of admission to the genetics program.
Requirements for the Doctor of Philosophy Degree in Genetics
The program of study is planned by the student in consultation with the major professor and a guidance committee. Specific courses in genetics, as well as courses in other areas considered relevant to the student's interests and chosen research area, are included in the program. Students in the program will write and defend a research dissertation which shows original treatment of an important research problem. A detailed description of the genetics program and of the research interests of the genetics faculty may be obtained by writing the Director of the Genetics Program, Michigan State University, Plant Biology Laboratories, 612 Wilson Road, Room S–352, East Lansing, MI 48824.
Students are encouraged to apply for admission to the Ph.D. program through the BioMolecular Science Gateway – First Year, where students choose a doctoral major from any of six Ph.D. programs: biochemistry and molecular biology, cell and molecular biology, genetics, microbiology and molecular genetics, pharmacology and toxicology, or physiology. For additional information refer to the College of Natural Science section of this catalog.
For information about the Doctor of Philosophy degree program in genetics—environmental toxicology, refer to the statement on Doctoral Program in Environmental and Integrative Toxicological Sciences in the Graduate Education section of this catalog.
Several colleges and departments within Michigan State University cooperate in offering the interdepartmental Master of Science and Doctor of Philosophy degree program with a major in neuroscience, which is administered by the College of Natural Science. Students may elect to complete the requirements for a second major, in addition to the requirements for the Master of Science and Doctor of Philosophy degree in neuroscience.
Students who are enrolled in the master’s or doctoral degree program with a major in Neuroscience may also elect an Interdepartmental Specialization in Cognitive Science. For additional information, refer to the statement on Interdepartmental Graduate Specializations in Cognitive Science in the College of Social Science section of this catalog. For additional information, contact the College of Natural Science.
The major objective of the M.S. program is to provide sufficient theoretical and practical training in neuroscience to allow students to obtain professional level positions in academic, industrial, or governmental institutions.
Admission
Admission to graduate study in neuroscience is primarily to the doctoral program. Students are generally accepted for graduate study in neuroscience only if judged by a program committee to be qualified to complete the doctoral degree. However, under certain circumstances, the program may consider applications for admission to the Master of Science in Neuroscience from students who wish to earn a master’s degree in preparation for the doctoral degree. For consultation, contact the program director.
To be considered for admission to the Master of Science degree in Neuroscience an applicant should:
- have taken a broad spectrum of basic science courses.
- have a grade-point average of at least 3.0 in science and mathematics courses.
To be eligible for regular admission to the Master of Science degree in Neuroscience, an applicant must:
- have completed an undergraduate degree in a biological or physical science or a related discipline.
- have earned an overall grade-point average of 3.0.
- have the results of the Graduate Record Examination (GRE) General Test forwarded to the College of Natural Science.
Laboratory research experience is recommended, but not required. Applicants with deficiencies in academic preparation may be admitted provisionally, with the requirement that they complete collateral science courses during the first year of study; these collateral courses will not count toward the degree.
Admission decisions are made by the Neuroscience Program Graduate Affairs Committee.
In addition to meeting the requirements of the university and the College of Natural Science, students must meet the requirements specified below.
Requirements for the Master of Science Degree in Neuroscience
The program is available under either Plan A (with thesis) or Plan B (without thesis). A total of 30 credits is required for the degree under either Plan A or Plan B. The student’s program of study must be approved by the student’s guidance committee. The student must meet the requirements specified below:
| Requirements for Plan A and Plan B | |||||||
| 1. | Complete all of the following courses (17 credits): | ||||||
| NEU | 804 | Molecular and Developmental Neurobiology | 3 | ||||
| NEU | 806 | Advanced Neuroscience Techniques Laboratory | 3 | ||||
| NEU | 839 | Systems Neuroscience | 4 | ||||
| PHM | 827 | Physiology and Pharmacology of Excitable Cells | 4 | ||||
| PSY | 811 | Advanced Behavioral Neuroscience | 3 | ||||
| 2. | Complete one of the following courses (3 credits): | ||||||
| PHM | 830 | Experimental Design and Data Analysis | 3 | ||||
| PSY | 815 | Quantitative Research Design and Analysis in Psychology | 3 | ||||
| 3. | Complete a minimum of 6 credits in Neuroscience 800 or 899. Plan A students must complete 4 credits of Neuroscience 899. | ||||||
| 4. | Complete an additional 4 credits of elective courses related to the student’s research and approved by the student’s guidance committee. These credits may be earned in Neuroscience 800 or 899 if the student chooses. | ||||||
| 5. | Complete a one semester laboratory rotation with each of two neuroscience faculty in the first year of study. Students will select the two laboratories in which they will rotate at the beginning of fall Semester based on discussions and mutual agreement with neuroscience faculty members. | ||||||
Additional Requirements for Plan A
Successful completion and defense of a thesis based on original research on an important problem in neuroscience in a seminar-based public forum.
Additional Requirements for Plan B
Successful completion and presentation of a research-based paper.
The program provides an opportunity for doctoral students to acquire both a broad and in-depth knowledge of the function of the nervous system. The program is designed to:
- Make it possible for a doctoral student to obtain a comprehensive and contemporary academic experience in the field of neuroscience.
- Prepare students for their future professional obligations and responsibilities as scholars.
- Develop an intellectual environment that will foster the growth of research and teaching in the area of neuroscience.
In addition to meeting the requirements of the university and of the College of Natural Science, students must meet the requirements specified below.
Admission
To be considered for admission to the Doctor of Philosophy degree program with a major in neuroscience, an applicant should have:
- Completed a broad spectrum of basic science courses.
- A grade-point average of at least 3.0 in science and mathematics courses.
- Experience in laboratory research.
To be eligible for regular admission to the Doctor of Philosophy degree program with a major in neuroscience, an applicant must have:
- Completed an undergraduate degree in a biological, psychological, or physical science or in a related discipline.
- An overall grade-point average of at least 3.0.
- Satisfactory scores on the Graduate Record Examination General Test as judged by the faculty.
Admission decisions are made by the Neuroscience Program Admissions Committee. Applicants with deficiencies in academic preparation may be admitted provisionally, with the requirement that they complete collateral science courses during the first year of study; these collateral courses will not count toward the degree.
Requirements for the Doctor of Philosophy Degree in Neuroscience
The student must:
| 1. | Complete all of the following courses: | ||||||
| NEU | 800 | Neuroscience Research Forum | 4 | ||||
| NEU | 804 | Molecular and Developmental Neurobiology | 3 | ||||
| NEU | 806 | Advanced Neuroscience Techniques Laboratory | 3 | ||||
| NEU | 839 | Systems Neuroscience | 4 | ||||
| NEU | 890 | Independent Study in Neuroscience | 4 | ||||
| NEU | 999 | Doctoral Dissertation Research | 24 | ||||
| PHM | 827 | Advanced Neurobiology | 4 | ||||
| PSY | 811 | Advanced Behavioral Neuroscience | 3 | ||||
| 2. | Complete one of the following courses (3 credits): | ||||||
| PHM | 830 | Experimental Design and Data Analysis | 3 | ||||
| PSY | 815 | Quantitative Research Design and Analysis in Psychology | 3 | ||||
| 3. | Complete in the first year of enrollment in the program a one-semester laboratory rotation (NEU 890) with each of two members of the faculty. Each rotation is established by mutual agreement of the faculty member and the student. | ||||||
| 4. | Pass the written comprehensive examination given at the end of the second year of enrollment in the program. | ||||||
| 5. | Complete and orally defend a dissertation research proposal. | ||||||
| 6. | Complete and defend a dissertation based on original research on an important problem in neuroscience. | ||||||
| 7. | All students must complete Responsible Conduct of Research Training. | ||||||
The colleges and departments that are listed below cooperate in offering the interdepartmental Doctor of Philosophy degree program with a major in neuroscience:
Colleges
Human Medicine
Osteopathic Medicine
Social Science
Veterinary Medicine
Departments
Anatomy (Division of)
Biochemistry and Molecular Biology
Pathobiology and Diagnostic Investigation
Pharmacology and Toxicology
Physiology
Psychology
Zoology
A detailed description of the Doctor of Philosophy degree program with a major in neuroscience and of the research interests of participating faculty may be obtained upon request from the Neuroscience Program Administrative Office, Giltner Hall, 293 Farm Lane, Room 108, Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI 48824-1317, or by visiting the Web site at http://www.neuroscience.msu.edu.
For information about the Doctor of Philosophy degree program in neuroscience—environmental toxicology, refer to the statement on Doctoral Program in Environmental and Integrative Toxicological Sciences in the Graduate Education section of this catalog.
The Master of Science degree program with a major in Physical Science–Interdepartmental is designed for science teachers who wish to pursue graduate study in the physical sciences. To meet the needs of practicing teachers, the courses that are required for the program are offered in the summer and on weekends.
In addition to meeting the requirements of the University and of the College of Natural Science, students must meet the requirements specified below.
Admission
Requirements for admission to the master's degree program in physical science–interdepartmental include a bachelor's degree in physics, chemistry, earth science, or physical science; teacher certification for grades 7–12; at least 3 years of teaching experience; and current employment as a teacher of physics, chemistry, earth science, or physical science at the middle or secondary school level.
Requirements for the Master of Science Degree in Physical Science–Interdepartmental
The program is available under either Plan A (with thesis) or Plan B (without thesis). For a student under Plan A, a thesis committee that consists of the student’s faculty advisor, the student’s problem director, and one other faculty member must approve the student’s program of study.
The student must complete at least 30 credits distributed as follows:
| Requirements for Both Plan A and Plan B | |||||||
| 1. | All of the following courses (20 credits): | ||||||
| ISE | 861 | Chemistry for Teachers | 2 | ||||
| ISE | 862 | Physics for Teachers | 2 | ||||
| ISE | 863 | Earth Science for Teachers | 2 | ||||
| ISE | 865 | Technology for Teachers | 2 | ||||
| ISE | 866 | Integrated Science for Secondary Teachers | 3 | ||||
| ISE | 902 | Frontiers in Physical Science | 6 | ||||
| Additional Requirements for Plan A | |||||||
| 1. | ISE | 899 | Master’s Thesis Research | 10 | |||
| Research for the thesis involves developing laboratories and demonstrations as part of a new teaching unit and teaching that unit. | |||||||
| Additional Requirements for Plan B | |||||||
| 1. | ISE | 889 | Research for Inservice Teachers | 10 | |||
| Research for inservice teachers requires a curriculum based project and implementation report. | |||||||
The interdepartmental dual major in quantitative biology is administered by the College of Natural Science. The dual major is available only to those students who plan to complete a Ph.D. degree program that involves a research project and course work in quantitative biology and a major in one of the following departments that are affiliated with the interdepartmental program: Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Cell and Molecular Biology, Chemical Engineering and Materials Science, Chemistry, Civil and Environmental Engineering, Computer Science and Engineering, Electrical and Computer Engineering, Epidemiology, Genetics, Mathematics, Mechanical Engineering, Microbiology and Molecular Genetics, Pharmacology and Toxicology, Physics and Astronomy, Physiology, Plant Biology, Statistics and Probability, and Zoology. The student does not have the option of completing a major in quantitative biology alone.
The educational objectives of the interdepartmental program are to:
- provide an opportunity for doctoral students to obtain an interdisciplinary and contemporary academic experience in the field of quantitative biology.
- stimulate doctoral students with an interest in biological sciences to develop skills in chemical/physical or mathematical/computational approaches while encouraging doctoral students in the chemical, physical, mathematical, and computational sciences to apply their skills to solve biological problems.
- develop an intellectual environment that will foster the growth of research and teaching in the area of quantitative biology.
In addition to meeting the requirements of the university and of the department and college in which the student is enrolled, the student must meet the requirements specified below.
Admission
In order to enroll in the dual major in quantitative biology a student must also have been admitted to a major in one of the affiliated departments. A minimum undergraduate grade-point average of 3.0 and undergraduate mathematics through calculus are required for admission to the dual major. Students may apply to the quantitative biology program at any time prior to their preliminary exam.
Admission to the quantitative biology dual major is by approval of the quantitative biology recruiting committee and the graduate program director. In special cases, an applicant who has deficiencies in background courses may be admitted to the dual major on a provisional basis.
Guidance Committee
The student must select two mentors, typically one from a biological discipline and one from a chemical, physical, mathematical, computational, or engineering discipline. Both of these mentors will serve on the guidance committee. At least two members of the student’s guidance committee must be members of the quantitative biology faculty. At least one member of the committee must be from a department or disciplinary program other than the one that administers the student’s disciplinary major. The student’s program of study will be planned in accordance with the statement on Dual Major Doctoral Degrees in the Graduate Education section of this catalog.
Requirements for the Dual Major in Quantitative Biology
| 1. |
At least two courses totaling a combined minimum of 5 credits that provide graduate training in biology to students in chemical/physical or mathematical/computational disciplines or that provide graduate training in chemical, physical, mathematical, or computational methods to those in the biological disciplines. The courses should be complementary to the student’s research, relevant to the goals of the quantitative biology program, and must be approved by the program director. Approved concentration areas include: molecular biophysics, systems biology, ecological and evolutionary modeling, or genomics, bioinformatics, and computational biology. |
||||||
| 2. | Twenty-four credits in Doctoral Dissertation Research (course number 999) from one of the departments referenced above. | ||||||
| 3. | Pass a comprehensive examination that will be defined by the requirements of the participating primary department and that will demonstrate appropriate knowledge of quantitative biology as determined by the guidance committee. | ||||||
| 4. | Submit a dissertation that, in the judgment of the student’s guidance committee, represents the area of quantitative biology. | ||||||
| 5. | Regularly attend and participate in quantitative biology sponsored seminars. | ||||||
The Specialization in Environmental Studies is available as an elective to all students who are enrolled in bachelor's degree programs in the College of Agriculture and Natural Resources, the College of Communication Arts and Sciences, the College of Engineering, the College of Natural Science, and the College of Social Science. The specialization is administered jointly by the five colleges referenced above. The College of Natural Science is the primary administrative unit.
The Specialization in Environmental Studies is designed to:
- provide knowledge essential for understanding the physical environment that is inhabited and influenced by humans.
- explain the way in which direct and indirect policy–making by social, economic, and political institutions affects environmental issues.
Students who elect the specialization are encouraged to complete Integrative Studies in Social, Behavioral, and Economic Sciences 225 in partial fulfillment of the University Integrative Studies requirement. Students who elect the specialization may complete an optional environmental studies project of 1 to 3 credits during the sophomore year.
Freshmen who have either declared the intent to complete the Specialization in Environmental Studies or who have declared a major preference for one of the bachelor's degree programs that are related to environmental studies may elect the two–year Residential Initiative on the Study of the Environment (RISE). Students who elect this option will be housed in Hubbard Hall, where several of the courses that are required for the specialization will be taught. This integrated living–learning environment will allow students from the several colleges and disciplines to develop a sense of community and will promote a team approach to solving environmental problems.
Requirements for the Specialization in Environmental Studies
The student must meet the requirements specified below:
| 1. | Biological and Physical Dimensions of the Environment (14 or 15 credits): | ||||||
| a. | Both of the following courses (8 credits): | ||||||
| GLG | 201 | The Dynamic Earth | 4 | ||||
| ISS | 310 | People and Environment (I) | 4 | ||||
| Integrative Studies in Social, Behavioral, and Economic Sciences 310 may be used to satisfy both the requirements for the Specialization in Environmental Studies and University requirements. | |||||||
| b. | One of the following courses (3 credits): | ||||||
| BS | 162 | Organismal and Population Biology | 3 | ||||
| ISB | 201 | Insects, Globalization, and Sustainability | 3 | ||||
| ISB | 202 | Applications of Environmental and Organismal Biology | 3 | ||||
| c. | One of the following two options (3 or 4 credits): | ||||||
| (1) | Both of the following courses: | ||||||
| ZOL | 355 | Ecology | 3 | ||||
| ZOL | 355L | Ecology Laboratory (W) | 1 | ||||
| (2) | One of the following courses: | ||||||
| CSS | 210 | Fundamentals of Soil Science | 3 | ||||
| CSS | 455 | Pollutants in the Soil Environment | 3 | ||||
| ENE | 280 | Principles of Environmental Engineering and Science | 3 | ||||
| ESA | 324 | Water Resource Management | 3 | ||||
| FOR | 404 | Forest Ecology | 3 | ||||
| FW | 207 | Great Lakes: Biology and Management | 3 | ||||
| FW | 364 | Ecological Problem Solving | 3 | ||||
| FW | 444 | Conservation Biology | 3 | ||||
| GEO | 203 | Introduction to Meteorology | 3 | ||||
| GEO | 206 | Physical Geography | 3 | ||||
| GLG | 421 | Environmental Geochemistry | 4 | ||||
| 2. | Social–Environmental Interactions (6 or 7 credits): | ||||||
| a. | One of the following courses (3 or 4 credits): | ||||||
| EEP | 255 | Ecological Economics | 3 | ||||
| EEP | 260 | World Food, Population and Poverty | 3 | ||||
| EEP | 320 | Environmental Economics | 3 | ||||
| ENT | 205 | Pests, Society and Environment | 3 | ||||
| ESA | 201 | Environmental and Natural Resources | 3 | ||||
| ESA | 460 | Natural Resource Economics | 3 | ||||
| FOR | 464 | Forest Resource Economics (W) | 3 | ||||
| FW | 211 | Introduction to Gender and Environmental Issues | 3 | ||||
| PHL | 342 | Environmental Ethics | 3 | ||||
| PKG | 370 | Packaging and the Environment | 3 | ||||
| PLS | 342 | Comparative Political Economy | 3 | ||||
| PRR | 302 | Environmental Attitudes and Concepts | 3 | ||||
| SOC | 452 | Environment and Society | 3 | ||||
| UP | 353 | Land Use Planning | 4 | ||||
| WRA | 341 | Writing Nature and the Nature of Writing | 3 | ||||
| b. | One of the following courses (3 credits): | ||||||
| ESA | 430 | Environmental and Natural Resource Law | 3 | ||||
| ESA | 440 | Environmental and Natural Resource Policy in Michigan | 3 | ||||
| FOR | 466 | Natural Resource Policy | 3 | ||||
| PLS | 301 | American State Government | 3 | ||||
| PLS | 310 | Public Bureaucracy in the Policy Process | 3 | ||||
| PLS | 313 | Public Policy Analysis | 3 | ||||
| PLS | 324 | American Legislative Process | 3 | ||||
| PLS | 331 | Political Parties and Interest Groups | 3 | ||||
| ZOL | 446 | Environmental Issues and Public Policy | 3 | ||||
| 3. | Seminars. Both of the following courses (3 credits): | ||||||
| NSC | 192 | Environmental Issues Seminar | 1 | ||||
| NSC | 292 | Applications in Environmental Studies | 2 | ||||
With the prior written approval of the RISE Coordinator who administers a course in the specialization, another course may be substituted for that course. Before a student requests a substitution, the student should consult with his or her academic advisor to ensure that the substitution will not adversely affect the requirements for his or her degree program.
The interdepartmental graduate Specialization in Ecology, Evolutionary Biology and Behavior is available for students who are enrolled in master's degree programs at Michigan State University whose course of study involves ecology, evolutionary biology and behavior. The College of Natural Science administers the specialization.
The interdepartmental graduate Specialization in Ecology, Evolutionary Biology and Behavior is designed to:
- provide an opportunity for master’s students to obtain a comprehensive and contemporary academic experience in the field of ecology, evolutionary biology and behavior.
- help graduate students with an interest in ecology, evolutionary biology and behavior to become sensitive to their professional obligations and responsibilities.
- develop an intellectual environment which will foster the growth of research and teaching in the area of ecology, evolutionary biology and behavior.
A student who is enrolled in a master's degree program who wishes to complete the requirements for the interdepartmental Graduate Specialization in Ecology, Evolutionary Biology and Behavior should have a minimum grade–point average of 3.00 and have grades of 3.0 or higher in quantitative science courses.
Requirements for the Interdepartmental Graduate Specialization in Ecology, Evolutionary Biology and Behavior
During the first year of study toward a master's degree, the student and the major professor select a guidance committee that will assist in planning the student's program of study for both the degree and the specialization. At least one member of the student's guidance committee shall be a member of the Ecology, Evolutionary Biology and Behavior faculty.
The specialization consists of the completion of the ecology, evolutionary biology and behavior required core courses listed below. Credits that are used to meet the requirements for the specialization may also be counted toward the requirements for the student's major at the discretion of the department.
Required Core Courses
- One 3-credit course in ecology at the 800-900 level from a list of approved courses available from the office of the ecology, evolutionary biology and behavior program.
- One 3-credit course in evolution at the 800-900 level from a list of approved courses available from the office of the ecology, evolutionary biology and behavior program.
The College of Natural Science, the College of Agriculture and Natural Resources, the College of Engineering, and the College of Veterinary Medicine administer the Graduate Specialization in Environmental Toxicology. The College of Agriculture and Natural Resources is the primary administrative unit. For additional information, refer to the Graduate Specialization in Environmental Toxicology statement in the College of Agriculture and Natural Resources section of this catalog.
Thomas D. Sharkey, Chairperson
The Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology is administered jointly by the colleges of Natural Science, Human Medicine, and Osteopathic Medicine.
Biochemistry is the discipline focused on studying the molecular basis of life. In addition to defining the chemical nature of the molecules of life, biochemists seek to understand the processes involved in their formation and degradation and how these processes are regulated. Such knowledge is a prerequisite for understanding normal biological functions and for adapting or modifying them for useful purposes. It is also fundamental to understanding abnormal functions that underlie biochemical disorders, ultimately leading to their treatment. Thus, biochemistry is a field with significance and applications across the biological spectrum, from the microbial through the plant and animal kingdoms. The potential significance of new discoveries in biochemistry, coupled with the rapid pace of conceptual and methodological advances in the field, make modern biochemistry a most exciting area for study and research.
The Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology offers a program leading to the Bachelor of Science degree. The undergraduate program coexists with an extensive graduate program for students seeking the M.S. or Ph.D. degrees. Both undergraduate and graduate students have ready access to a large and diverse faculty representing expertise in the various areas of modern biochemistry.
Biochemists have many career opportunities that make use of the knowledge gained during study at the undergraduate or graduate level. These include research in industrial, academic, or government laboratories; teaching at the high school or higher levels; and marketing, management, or administrative responsibilities in enterprises where training in biochemistry is an asset.
The Bachelor of Science program in Biochemistry and Molecular Biology for students in the College of Natural Science combines the elements of a liberal education with thorough preparation in biochemistry and molecular biology and the underlying principles of biology, chemistry, physics, and mathematics. It is intended primarily for those students who wish to pursue a career in which a sound knowledge of biochemistry and molecular biology is necessary, or for students who plan further studies at the graduate or professional level. With suitable choice of electives, the B.S. program offers the option of merging rigorous training in biochemistry and molecular biology with development of writing or pedagogical skills, leading to career options in science writing or teaching.
Undergraduate students are taught by professors who are familiar with the changing directions and emphases in the field of biochemistry and molecular biology. Each student has as an academic advisor a professional biochemist who is aware of current problems and opportunities in the field. In addition, a departmental undergraduate student affairs office is available to provide students with up–to–date information on university curriculum changes, career opportunities, and program development. Interested undergraduates are encouraged to participate, along with graduate students and postdoctoral fellows, in the on–going research of one of the faculty members.
Students seeking admission to the program should complete the high school science or college preparatory curriculum, ensuring that their programs include courses required for admission to the university.
Requirements for the Bachelor of Science Degree in Biochemistry and Molecular Biology
- The University requirements for bachelor's degrees as described in the Undergraduate Education section of this catalog; 120 credits, including general elective credits, are required for the Bachelor of Science degree in Biochemistry and Molecular Biology.
The University's Tier II writing requirement for the Biochemistry and Molecular Biology major is met by completing Biochemistry and Molecular Biology 471. That course is referenced in item 3. b. below.
Students who are enrolled in the College of Natural Science may complete the alternative track to Integrative Studies in Biological and Physical Sciences that is described in item 1. under the heading Graduation Requirements in the College statement. Certain courses referenced in requirement 3. below may be used to satisfy the alternative track. - The requirements of the College of Natural Science for the Bachelor of Science degree.
The credits earned in certain courses referenced in requirement 3. below may be counted toward College requirements as appropriate. - The following requirements for the major:
| a. | The following courses outside the Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology (63 to 72 credits): | |||||||
| (1) | All of the following courses (7 credits): | |||||||
| CEM | 262 | Quantitative Analysis | 3 | |||||
| CEM | 355 | Organic Laboratory I | 2 | |||||
| CEM | 356 | Organic Laboratory II | 2 | |||||
| (2) | One of the following groups of courses (8 or 9 credits): | |||||||
| (a) | BS | 161 | Cell and Molecular Biology | 3 | ||||
| BS | 162 | Organismal and Population Biology | 3 | |||||
| BS | 171 | Cell and Molecular Biology Laboratory | 2 | |||||
| (b) | BS | 181H | Honors Cell and Molecular Biology | 3 | ||||
| BS | 182H | Honors Organismal and Population Biology | 3 | |||||
| BS | 191H | Honors Cell and Molecular Biology Laboratory | 2 | |||||
| (c) | LB | 144 | Biology I: Organismal Biology | 4 | ||||
| LB | 145 | Biology II: Cellular and Molecular Biology | 5 | |||||
| (3) | One course from each of the following groups of courses (7 or 8 credits): | |||||||
| (a) | CEM | 141 | General Chemistry | 4 | ||||
| CEM | 151 | General and Descriptive Chemistry | 4 | |||||
| CEM | 181H | Honors Chemistry I | 4 | |||||
| LB | 171 | Principles of Chemistry I | 4 | |||||
| (b) | CEM | 142 | General and Inorganic Chemistry | 3 | ||||
| CEM | 152 | Principles of Chemistry | 3 | |||||
| CEM | 182H | Honors Chemistry II | 4 | |||||
| LB | 172 | Principles of Chemistry II | 3 | |||||
| (4) | One course from each of the following groups of courses (2 or 4 credits): | |||||||
| (a) | CEM | 161 | Chemistry Laboratory I | 1 | ||||
| CEM | 185H | Honors Chemistry Laboratory I | 2 | |||||
| LB | 171L | Introductory Chemistry Laboratory I | 1 | |||||
| (b) | CEM | 162 | Chemistry Laboratory II | 1 | ||||
| CEM | 186H | Honors Chemistry Laboratory II | 2 | |||||
| LB | 172L | Introductory Chemistry Laboratory II | 1 | |||||
| (5) | One course from each of the following groups of courses (6 credits): | |||||||
| (a) | CEM | 251 | Organic Chemistry I | 3 | ||||
| CEM | 351 | Organic Chemistry I | 3 | |||||
| (b) | CEM | 252 | Organic Chemistry II | 3 | ||||
| CEM | 352 | Organic Chemistry II | 3 | |||||
| (6) | One of the following courses (3 or 4 credits): | |||||||
| CSE | 101 | Computing Concepts and Competencies | 3 | |||||
| CSE | 131 | Technical Computing and Problem Solving | 3 | |||||
| CSE | 231 | Introduction to Programming I | 4 | |||||
| (7) | One course from each of the following groups of courses (6 to 8 credits): | |||||||
| (a) | MTH | 132 | Calculus I | 3 | ||||
| MTH | 152H | Honors Calculus I | 3 | |||||
| LB | 118 | Calculus I | 4 | |||||
| (b) | MTH | 133 | Calculus II | 4 | ||||
| MTH | 153H | Honors Caluculus II | 3 | |||||
| LB | 119 | Calculus II | 4 | |||||
| (8) | One course from each of the following groups of courses (6 credits): | |||||||
| (a) | CEM | 383 | Introductory Physical Chemistry I | 3 | ||||
| CEM | 484 | Molecular Thermodynamics | 3 | |||||
| (b) | CEM | 384 | Introductory Physical Chemistry II | 3 | ||||
| CEM | 483 | Quantum Chemistry | 3 | |||||
| (9) | One of the following groups of courses (8 or 10 credits): | |||||||
| (a) | PHY | 183 | Physics for Scientists and Engineers I | 4 | ||||
| PHY | 184 | Physics for Scientists and Engineers II | 4 | |||||
| (b) | PHY | 231 | Introductory Physics I | 3 | ||||
| PHY | 232 | Introductory Physics II | 3 | |||||
| PHY | 233B | Calculus Concepts in Physics I | 2 | |||||
| PHY | 234B | Calculus Concepts in Physics II | 2 | |||||
| (c) | LB | 273 | Physics I | 4 | ||||
| LB | 274 | Physics II | 4 | |||||
| (10) | Ten additional credits in approved advanced biology courses at the 300-400 level. | |||||||
| b. | The following courses in the Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology (13 credits): | |||||||
| All of the following courses: | ||||||||
| BMB | 101 | Frontiers in Biochemistry | 1 | |||||
| BMB | 461 | Advanced Biochemistry I | 3 | |||||
| BMB | 462 | Advanced Biochemistry II | 3 | |||||
| BMB | 471 | Biochemistry Laboratory (W) | 3 | |||||
| BMB | 472 | Biochemistry Laboratory | 3 | |||||
| c. | One of the following capstone courses (2 to 8 credits): | |||||||
| BMB | 495 | Undergraduate Seminar | 2 | |||||
| BMB | 499 | Senior Thesis | 2 to 8 | |||||
| LB | 492 | Senior Seminar (W) | 4 | |||||
The Bachelor of Science program in Biochemistry and Molecular Biology/Biotechnology is intended primarily for those students who plan to pursue careers in industry, veterinary medicine, or related health sciences, or for students who plan advanced study in biotechnology and molecular biology.
The core curriculum in the Biochemistry and Molecular Biology/Biotechnology program is identical to that of the Biochemistry and Molecular Biology program. Additional course work introduces the student to the chemical engineering and microbiological aspects of biotechnology and allows for specialization through a broad range of approved biotechnology courses in the junior and senior years.
Requirements for the Bachelor of Science Degree in Biochemistry and Molecular Biology/Biotechnology
- The University requirements for bachelor's degrees as described in the Undergraduate Education section of this catalog; 120 credits, including general elective credits, are required for the Bachelor of Science degree in Biochemistry and Molecular Biology/Biotechnology.
The University's Tier II writing requirement for the Biochemistry and Molecular Biology/Biotechnology major is met by completing Biochemistry and Molecular Biology 471. That course is referenced in item 3 b. below.
Students who are enrolled in the College of Natural Science may complete the alternative track to Integrative Studies in Biological and Physical Sciences that is described in item 1. under the heading Graduation Requirements in the College statement. Certain courses referenced in requirement 3. below may be used to satisfy the alternative track. - The requirements of the College of Natural Science for the Bachelor of Science degree.
The credits earned in certain courses referenced in requirement 3. below may be counted toward College requirements as appropriate. - The following requirements for the major:
| a. | The following courses outside the Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology (70 to 80 credits): | |||||||
| (1) | All of the following courses (10 credits): | |||||||
| CHE | 201 | Material and Energy Balances | 3 | |||||
| CEM | 262 | Quantitative Analysis | 3 | |||||
| CEM | 355 | Organic Laboratory I | 2 | |||||
| CEM | 356 | Organic Laboratory II | 2 | |||||
| (2) | One of the following groups of courses (8 or 9 credits): | |||||||
| (a) | BS | 161 | Cell and Molecular Biology | 3 | ||||
| BS | 162 | Organismal and Population Biology | 3 | |||||
| BS | 171 | Cell and Molecular Biology Laboratory | 2 | |||||
| (b) | BS | 181H | Honors Cell and Molecular Biology | 3 | ||||
| BS | 182H | Honors Organismal and Population Biology | 3 | |||||
| BS | 191H | Honors Cell and Molecular Biology Laboratory | 2 | |||||
| (c) | LB | 144 | Biology I: Organismal Biology | 4 | ||||
| LB | 145 | Biology II: Cellular and Molecular Biology | 5 | |||||
| (3) | One course from each of the following groups of courses (7 or 8 credits): | |||||||
| (a) | CEM | 141 | General Chemistry | 4 | ||||
| CEM | 151 | General and Descriptive Chemistry | 4 | |||||
| CEM | 181H | Honors Chemistry I | 4 | |||||
| LB | 171 | Principles of Chemistry I | 4 | |||||
| (b) | CEM | 142 | General and Inorganic Chemistry | 3 | ||||
| CEM | 152 | Principles of Chemistry | 3 | |||||
| CEM | 182H | Honors Chemistry II | 4 | |||||
| LB | 172 | Principles of Chemistry II | 3 | |||||
| (4) | One course from each of the following groups of courses (2 or 4 credits): | |||||||
| (a) | CEM | 161 | Chemistry Laboratory I | 1 | ||||
| CEM | 185H | Honors Chemistry Laboratory I | 2 | |||||
| LB | 171L | Introductory Chemistry Laboratory I | 1 | |||||
| (b) | CEM | 162 | Chemistry Laboratory II | 1 | ||||
| CEM | 186H | Honors Chemistry Laboratory II | 2 | |||||
| LB | 172L | Introductory Chemistry Laboratory II | 1 | |||||
| (5) | One course from each of the following groups of courses (6 credits): | |||||||
| (a) | CEM | 251 | Organic Chemistry I | 3 | ||||
| CEM | 351 | Organic Chemistry I | 3 | |||||
| (b) | CEM | 252 | Organic Chemistry II | 3 | ||||
| CEM | 352 | Organic Chemistry II | 3 | |||||
| (6) | One of the following courses (3 or 4 credits): | |||||||
| CSE | 131 | Technical Computing and Problem Solving | 3 | |||||
| CSE | 231 | Introduction to Programming I | 4 | |||||
| (7) | One course from each of the following groups of courses (6 to 8 credits): | |||||||
| (a) | MTH | 132 | Calculus I | 3 | ||||
| MTH | 152H | Honors Calculus I | 3 | |||||
| LB | 118 | Calculus I | 4 | |||||
| (b) | MTH | 133 | Calculus II | 4 | ||||
| MTH | 153H | Honors Calculus II | 3 | |||||
| LB | 119 | Calculus II | 4 | |||||
| (8) | One of the following courses (3 credits): | |||||||
| CEM | 383 | Introductory Physical Chemistry I | 3 | |||||
| CEM | 484 | Molecular Thermodynamics | 3 | |||||
| (9) | One of the following groups of courses (8 or 10 credits): | |||||||
| (a) | PHY | 183 | Physics for Scientists and Engineers I | 4 | ||||
| PHY | 184 | Physics for Scientists and Engineers II | 4 | |||||
| (b) | PHY | 231 | Introductory Physics I | 3 | ||||
| PHY | 232 | Introductory Physics II | 3 | |||||
| PHY | 233B | Calculus Concepts in Physics I | 2 | |||||
| PHY | 234B | Calculus Concepts in Physics II | 2 | |||||
| (c) | LB | 273 | Physics I | 4 | ||||
| LB | 274 | Physics II | 4 | |||||
| (10) | One of the following courses (3 credits): | |||||||
| BMB | 472 | Biochemistry Laboratory | 3 | |||||
| CSS | 451 | Biotechnology Applications for Plant Breeding and Genetics | 3 | |||||
| MMG | 408 | Advanced Microbiology Laboratory (W) | 3 | |||||
| (11) | One of the following courses (3 or 4 credits): | |||||||
| CSS | 350 | Introduction to Plant Genetics | 3 | |||||
| ZOL | 341 | Fundamental Genetics | 4 | |||||
| (12) | Eleven additional credits in approved advanced biotechnology courses at the 300-400 level. | |||||||
| b. | All of the following courses in the Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology (10 credits): | |||||||
| BMB | 101 | Frontiers in Biochemistry | 1 | |||||
| BMB | 461 | Advanced Biochemistry I | 3 | |||||
| BMB | 462 | Advanced Biochemistry II | 3 | |||||
| BMB | 471 | Biochemistry Laboratory (W) | 3 | |||||
| c. | One of the following capstone courses (2 to 8 credits): | |||||||
| BMB | 495 | Undergraduate Seminar | 2 | |||||
| BMB | 499 | Senior Thesis | 2 to 8 | |||||
| LB | 492 | Senior Seminar (W) | 4 | |||||
The Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology is administered jointly by the colleges of Natural Science, Human Medicine, and Osteopathic Medicine. Study for the Master of Science or Doctor of Philosophy degree with a major in biochemistry and molecular biology may be administered by any one of the three colleges referenced above. Study for the Doctor of Philosophy degree with a major in biochemistry and molecular biology—environmental toxicology is administered by the College of Natural Science. In addition, students may pursue dual majors with the Departments of Chemistry, Computer Science and Engineering, or Physics and Astronomy.
Areas of active research in the department are extensive and diverse. Such areas include protein structure, molecular biophysics, plant biochemistry, biochemistry of gene expression, metalloenzymology, biochemical instrumentation, eukaryotic and prokaryotic molecular biology, intermediary metabolism, metabolic regulation, and membrane biochemistry. Opportunities are also available for joint programs or research in genetics, neuroscience, toxicology, biotechnology, microbial ecology, and plant sciences.
The major objectives of the graduate programs in biochemistry are to help students to develop their creative potential and to prepare them for careers in research and teaching in the biochemical sciences. Students' programs of study are designed to develop independent thought as well as broad knowledge and technical skills, through formal and informal courses, laboratory experience, seminars, individual study, and, foremost, through original research that forms the basis for the student's thesis or dissertation.
In addition to meeting the requirements of the university and of the College of Natural Science, Human Medicine, or Osteopathic Medicine, students must meet the requirements specified below.
Admission
Persons with bachelor's degrees in chemistry, biochemistry, or any of several biological, physical, medical, or agricultural sciences are invited to apply for admission. Undergraduate preparation should include courses in general, organic, analytical, and physical chemistry, and in physics, general biology, basic biochemistry, and mathematics through calculus. Minor deficiencies may be rectified by taking appropriate undergraduate courses concurrently with graduate courses.
Requirements for the Master of Science Degree in Biochemistry and Molecular Biology
A total of 30 credits is required for the degree under either Plan A (with thesis) or Plan B (without thesis). Most students earn the degree under Plan A. A student may pursue Plan B only with the approval of the department's Director of Graduate Studies and chairperson. Such approval is granted only in exceptional cases. The program of study is planned by the student and the major professor. Specific courses in biochemistry, as well as courses in other areas considered relevant to the student's interests and chosen research area, are included in the program.
In addition to meeting the requirements of the university and of the College of Natural Science, Human Medicine, or Osteopathic Medicine, students must meet the requirements specified below.
Admission
Persons with a bachelor's or master's degree in chemistry, biochemistry, or any of several biological, physical, medical, or agricultural sciences are invited to apply for admission. Undergraduate preparation should include courses in general, organic, analytical, and physical chemistry, and in physics, general biology, basic biochemistry, and mathematics through calculus. Minor deficiencies may be rectified by taking appropriate undergraduate collateral courses concurrently with graduate courses.
Requirements for the Doctor of Philosophy Degree in Biochemistry and Molecular Biology
The program of study is planned by the student in consultation with the major professor and a guidance committee. Specific courses in biochemistry, as well as courses in other areas considered relevant to the student's interests and chosen research area, are included in the program.
It is expected that the dissertation will show original treatment of an important research problem, will give evidence of independent thought, and will be clearly, logically, and carefully written. It is also expected that the research on which the dissertation is based will be published in the scientific literature.
Students are encouraged to apply for admission to the Ph.D. program through the BioMolecular Science Gateway – First Year, where students choose a doctoral major from any of six Ph.D. programs: biochemistry and molecular biology, cell and molecular biology, genetics, microbiology and molecular genetics, pharmacology and toxicology, or physiology. For additional information refer to the College of Natural Science section of this catalog.
For information about the Doctor of Philosophy degree program in biochemistry and molecular biology—environmental toxicology, refer to the statement on Doctoral Program in Environmental and Integrative Toxicological Sciences in the Graduate Education section of this catalog.
Laboratory testing to diagnose, monitor, and treat human disease is a critical component of modern health care. The Biomedical Laboratory Diagnostics Program offers three undergraduate degree programs to assist students in entering the exciting, hi-tech world of the clinical laboratory. Clinical laboratory science, traditionally called medical technology, is the health profession focused on the provision of high quality medical laboratory tests on blood and body fluids. Diagnostic molecular science is a related laboratory profession specializing in DNA testing. Based in the sciences of chemistry, biology, mathematics, and physics, the profession provides challenging careers for individuals interested in the medical applications of these sciences. Clinical laboratory scientists and diagnostic molecular scientists manage the testing process from the selection of high quality tests to the reporting of results to the health care provider. This includes method selection and development, assay performance, and results analysis in a highly automated and computerized environment. Clinical laboratory scientists and diagnostic molecular scientists also manage laboratory operations including quality assurance, marketing, personnel management, regulatory compliance, and financial management. Students desiring these careers should plan to gain national certification as a Medical Laboratory Scientist (MLS). Biomedical Laboratory Diagnostics Program advisors will assist students in this process.
The curricula in the Biomedical Laboratory Diagnostics Program build on a foundation of basic science. Courses such as hematology, immunology, immunohematology, hemostasis, clinical microbiology, molecular laboratory diagnostics, and clinical chemistry have a diagnostic medical emphasis. As a result, many students preparing for graduate professional education in medicine, dentistry, veterinary sciences, forensics, and other health professions select a Biomedical Laboratory Diagnostics Program major.
Employment in medical diagnostic laboratories is just one of the many opportunities available to graduates. The skills applicable to a medical laboratory translate readily into research and industrial settings. Graduates also find employment in pharmaceutical and medical supply sales. Alumni successfully compete for admission to graduate and graduate professional schools.
Three undergraduate programs that lead to the Bachelor of Science degree are available: biomedical laboratory science, clinical laboratory sciences and diagnostic molecular science. These programs are designed to meet the professional needs of graduates entering a highly regulated and rapidly changing technological environment and to prepare students for continuing professional education and advanced study beyond the bachelor’s degree.
The biomedical laboratory science major is designed to prepare students for careers as laboratorians in a variety of settings or to pursue graduate or advanced professional education. The clinical laboratory experience required for national certification as a laboratory professional is not included in this program. Students desiring certification are responsible for securing accredited clinical experiences subsequent to completion of the degree requirements. The Biomedical Laboratory Diagnostics Program will assist students in seeking and gaining placements.
Admission as a Junior
Students must meet the requirements for admission to the College of Natural Science.
Requirements for the Bachelor of Science Degree in Biomedical Laboratory Science
- The University requirements for bachelor's degrees as described in the Undergraduate Education section of this catalog; 120 credits, including general elective credits, are required for the Bachelor of Science degree in Biomedical Laboratory Science.
The University's Tier II writing requirement for the Biomedical Laboratory Science major is met by completing Biomedical Laboratory Diagnostics 455. That course is referenced in item 3. b. below.
Students who are enrolled in the College of Natural Science may complete the alternative track to Integrative Studies in Biological and Physical Sciences that is described in item 1. under the heading Graduation Requirements in the College statement. Certain courses referenced in requirement 3. below may be used to satisfy the alternative track. - The requirements of the College of Natural Science for the Bachelor of Science degree.
The credits earned in certain courses referenced in requirement 3. below may be counted toward College requirements as appropriate. - The following requirements for the major:
a. Courses outside Biomedical Laboratory Science (43 to 48 credits): (1) All of the following courses (26 credits): BS 161 Cell and Molecular Biology 3 BS 171 Cell and Molecular Biology Laboratory 2 CEM 141 General Chemistry 4 CEM 161 Chemistry Laboratory I 1 CEM 162 Chemistry Laboratory II 1 CEM 251 Organic Chemistry I 3 CEM 252 Organic Chemistry II 3 MMG 463 Medical Microbiology 3 PHY 231 Introductory Physics I 3 PHY 232 Introductory Physics II 3 (2) One of the following courses (3 credits): MTH 124 Survey of Calculus I 3 MTH 132 Calculus I 3 (3) One of the following courses (3 or 4 credits): STT 200 Statistical Methods 3 STT 201 Statistical Methods 4 STT 231 Statistics for Scientists 3 STT 351 Probability and Statistics for Engineering 3 STT 421 Statistics I 3 (4) One of the following, either (a) or (b) (4 or 6 credits): (a) BMB 401 Comprehensive Biochemistry 4 (b) BMB 461 Advanced Biochemistry I 3 BMB 462 Advanced Biochemistry II 3 (5) One of the following, either (a), (b), or (c) (4 or 6 credits): (a) PSL 250 Introductory Physiology 4 (b) PSL 310 Physiology for Pre-Health Professionals 4 (c) PSL 431 Human Physiology I 3 PSL 432 Human Physiology II 3 (6) One of the following courses (3 credits): MMG 201 Fundamentals of Microbiology 3 MMG 301 Introductory Microbiology 3 b. All of the following Biomedical Laboratory Diagnostics courses (31 credits): BLD 204 Mechanisms of Disease 3 BLD 213 Application of Clinical Laboratory Principles 2 BLD 220 Preparing for a Health Professions Career 1 BLD 324 Fundamentals of Hematology, Hemostasis and Urinalysis 3 BLD 414 Clinical Chemistry Analysis and Practice 3 BLD 416 Clinical Chemistry 4 BLD 424 Advanced Hematology, Hemostasis, and Urinalysis 2 BLD 430 Molecular Laboratory Diagnostics 2 BLD 434 Clinical Immunology 3 BLD 435 Transfusion and Transplantation Medicine 3 BLD 450 Eukaryotic Pathogens 3 BLD 455 Integrating Clinical Laboratory Science Discipline (W) 2
The clinical laboratory sciences major is designed to prepare students for certification in medical technology/clinical laboratory science. The program includes courses in the biomedical laboratory sciences, communications, mathematics and statistics, and clinical laboratory sciences coupled with clinical practicum experiences. It is designed to prepare graduates for certification and immediate employment in clinical laboratories upon graduation by including a six-month hospital laboratory experience. Admission to this program is limited. Students seeking admission must complete the admission procedure outlined below.
The Bachelor of Science degree program in clinical laboratory sciences has been accredited by the National Accrediting Agency for Clinical Laboratory Sciences, 5600 N. River Road, Suite 720, Rosemont, Illinois 60018.
Admission as a Junior
Enrollment in the clinical laboratory sciences major is limited. A new class is admitted at the junior level each fall semester. Students beyond junior standing may be considered for admission contingent upon the projected schedule for completion of the degree requirements and availability of clinical placement sites. Applications for admission are accepted at any time.
To be considered for admission, the applicant must meet the following minimal criteria, in addition to the College of Natural Science admission requirements:
- Have an overall grade-point average of 2.5 or better including courses taken at other institutions.
- Have completed Biological Science 161 and 171; Chemistry 251 and 252; and Biomedical Laboratory Diagnostics 213.
Students may apply before attainment of the above criteria in order to demonstrate their intentions to major in clinical laboratory sciences, however their applications will not be processed until all requirements are fulfilled. Students who present other exceptional credentials but do not meet the grade-point criterion noted above may be considered for admission on a probationary basis.
Applications for admission to the clinical laboratory sciences major are reviewed by a committee of faculty. Factors considered by the Admission Committee in the applicant’s review and admission action are (1) academic record including grade-point averages in science and non-science courses, (2) grades for selected preclinical courses, (3) laboratory science exposure, (4) interview, and (5) compositions.
Academic Standards
To progress to the clinical phase of the curriculum, students must earn a grade-point average of 2.0 or higher in Microbiology and Molecular Genetics 463 and Biomedical Laboratory Diagnostics 324, 417, and 435.
A specific statement of the policies for the clinical phase is provided in the Student Policies for Clinical Laboratory Science Students. These policies are provided to all students upon acceptance to the major, but may be obtained earlier from the Biomedical Laboratory Diagnostics Program, 322 N. Kedzie Hall. Admitted students are responsible for knowing and adhering to these program policies.
Requirements for the Bachelor of Science Degree in Clinical Laboratory Sciences
- A minimum of 136 credits is required for the Bachelor of Science degree in Clinical Laboratory Sciences.
- The University requirements for bachelor's degrees as described in the Undergraduate Education section of this catalog.
The University's Tier II writing requirement for the Clinical Laboratory Sciences major is met by completing Biomedical Laboratory Diagnostics 455. That course is referenced in item 4. b. below.
Students who are enrolled in the College of Natural Science may complete the alternative track to Integrative Studies in Biological and Physical Sciences that is described in item 1. under the heading Graduation Requirements in the College statement. Certain courses referenced in requirement 4. below may be used to satisfy the alternative track. - The requirements of the College of Natural Science for the Bachelor of Science degree.
The credits earned in certain courses referenced in requirement 4. below may be counted toward College requirements as appropriate. - The following requirements for the major:
a. Courses outside Biomedical Laboratory Diagnostics (48 to 50 credits): (1) All of the following courses (31 credits): BS 161 Cell and Molecular Biology 3 BS 171 Cell and Molecular Biology Laboratory 2 CEM 141 General Chemistry 4 CEM 161 Chemistry Laboratory I 1 CEM 162 Chemistry Laboratory II 1 CEM 251 Organic Chemistry I 3 CEM 252 Organic Chemistry II 3 CEM 333 Instrumental Methods and Applications 3 MMG 463 Medical Microbiology 3 MMG 464 Diagnostic Microbiology Laboratory 2 PHY 231 Introductory Physics I 3 PHY 232 Introductory Physics II 3 (2) One of the following courses (3 credits): MTH 124 Survey of Calculus I 3 MTH 132 Calculus I 3 (3) One of the following courses (3 or 4 credits): STT 200 Statistical Methods 3 STT 201 Statistical Methods 4 STT 231 Statistics for Scientists 3 STT 351 Probability and Statistics for Engineering 3 STT 421 Statistics I 3 (4) One of the following, either (a) or (b) (4 or 6 credits): (a) BMB 401 Comprehensive Biochemistry 4 (b) BMB 461 Advanced Biochemistry I 3 BMB 462 Advanced Biochemistry II 3 (5) One of the following, either (a), (b), or (c) (4 or 6 credits): (a) PSL 250 Introductory Physiology 4 (b) PSL 310 Physiology for Pre-Health Professionals 4 (c) PSL 431 Human Physiology I 3 PSL 432 Human Physiology II 3 (6) One of the following courses (3 credits): MMG 201 Fundamentals of Microbiology 3 MMG 301 Introductory Microbiology 3 b. All of the following Biomedical Laboratory Diagnostics courses (53 credits): BLD 204 Mechanisms of Disease 3 BLD 213 Application of Clinical Laboratory Principles 2 BLD 220 Preparing for a Health Professions Career 1 BLD 324 Fundamentals of Hematology, Hemostasis and Urinalysis 3 BLD 324L Introductory Laboratory in Hematology, Hemostasis and Urinalysis 1 BLD 416 Clinical Chemistry 4 BLD 417 Quality Processes in Diagnostic Laboratory Testing 2 BLD 424 Advanced Hematology, Hemostasis, and Urinalysis 2 BLD 424L Advanced Laboratory in Hematology, Hemostasis, and Urinalysis 1 BLD 430 Molecular Laboratory Diagnostics 2 BLD 433 Clinical Immunology and Immunohematology Laboratory 1 BLD 434 Clinical Immunology 3 BLD 435 Transfusion and Transplantation Medicine 3 BLD 442 Education and Management in the Clinical Laboratory 2 BLD 450 Eukaryotic Pathogens 3 BLD 455 Integrating Clinical Laboratory Science Discipline (W) 2 BLD 471 Advanced Clinical Chemistry Laboratory 3 BLD 472 Advanced Clinical Chemistry 1 BLD 473 Advanced Clinical Hematology and Body Fluids Laboratory 3 BLD 474 Advanced Clinical Hematology and Body Fluids 1 BLD 475 Advanced Clinical Immunology and Immunohematology Laboratory 2 BLD 476 Advanced Clinical Immunology and Immunohematology 1 BLD 477 Advanced Clinical Microbiology Laboratory 3 BLD 478 Advanced Clinical Microbiology 1 BLD 498 Focused Problems in Clinical Laboratory Science 2 BLD 498L Infectious Disease Diagnostic Laboratory 1 During the clinical practicum, usually two semesters, the student may be required to relocate and/or commute to a clinical laboratory in an affiliated clinical facility.
Diagnostic molecular science is the allied health profession whose practitioners specialize in performing medical laboratory tests on DNA and RNA. These tests are used to diagnose and monitor hereditary conditions and acquired diseases such as leukemia and infectious diseases. The diagnostic molecular science major is a professional program designed to prepare students for national certification in diagnostic molecular science qualifying them to work in medical laboratories performing molecular testing. Graduates will also be prepared for positions in research and industrial laboratories. The program includes courses in mathematics and statistics, molecular biology, genetics, chemistry, biochemistry, and clinical laboratory sciences and includes a semester-long practicum experience in clinical and other laboratories. The first phase of the program is the pre-professional and preparatory courses that include the university and college requirements as well as prerequisites to the major courses. The second phase is the on-campus professional (major) courses. The third phase is a clinical practicum in clinical and other laboratories.
Admission as a Junior
Enrollment in the diagnostic molecular science major is limited. A new class is admitted at the junior level each calendar year. Applications for admission must be received by December 1 in the year in which admission is sought.
To be considered for admission, the applicant must meet the following minimal criteria, in addition to the College of Natural Science requirements:
- Have an overall grade-point average of 2.5.
- Have completed a minimum of 56 credits which must include the following courses:
- Biomedical Laboratory Diagnostics 213.
- Chemistry 162, 251, and 252.
- Mathematics 116 or equivalent.
- Biological Science 161 and 171.
Applications for admission to the diagnostic molecular science major are reviewed by a committee of the faculty. Factors considered by the admission committee in the applicant’s review and admission action are (1) grade-point average in science and non-science courses, (2) grade-point average for selected preclinical laboratory science courses, (3) diagnostic laboratory exposure, (4) interview, and (5) written compositions.
Academic Standards
To progress to the clinical phase of the curriculum, students must earn a 2.0 or higher in Zoology 341, and Biomedical Laboratory Diagnostics 436 and 438.
A specific statement of the policies for the clinical phase is provided in the Student Policies for Diagnostic Molecular Science Students. These policies are provided to all students upon acceptance to the major, but may be obtained earlier from the Biomedical Laboratory Diagnostics Program, 322 N. Kedzie Hall. Admitted students are responsible for knowing and adhering to these program policies.
Requirements for the Bachelor of Science Degree in Diagnostic Molecular Science
- The University requirements for bachelor’s degrees as described in the Undergraduate Education section of this catalog; 120 credits, including general elective credits, are required for the Bachelor of Science degree in Diagnostic Molecular Science.
The University’s Tier II writing requirement for the Diagnostic Molecular Science major is met by completing Biomedical Laboratory Diagnostics 455. That course is referenced in item 3. b. below.
Students who are enrolled in the College of Natural Science may complete the alternative track to Integrative Studies in Biological and Physical Sciences that is described in item 1. under the heading Graduation Requirements in the College statement. Certain courses referenced in requirement 3. below may be used to satisfy the alternative track.
The completion of Statistics 200 or 201 referenced in item 3. a. (4) may also satisfy the University mathematics requirement. - The requirements of the College of Natural Science for the Bachelor of Science degree.
The credits earned in certain courses referenced in requirement 3. below may be counted toward College requirements as appropriate. - The following requirements for the major:
a. Courses outside biomedical laboratory diagnostics (46 or 47 credits): (1) All of the following courses (33 credits): BMB 461 Advanced Biochemistry I 3 BMB 462 Advanced Biochemistry II 3 BS 161 Cell and Molecular Biology 3 BS 171 Cell and Molecular Biology Laboratory 2 CEM 141 General Chemistry 4 CEM 161 Chemistry Laboratory I 1 CEM 162 Chemistry Laboratory II 1 CEM 251 Organic Chemistry I 3 CEM 252 Organic Chemistry II 3 PHY 231 Introductory Physics I 3 PHY 232 Introductory Physics II 3 ZOL 341 Fundamental Genetics 4 (2) One of the following courses (3 credits): MTH 124 Survey of Calculus I 3 MTH 132 Calculus I 3 (3) One of the following courses (4 credits): PSL 250 Introductory Physiology 4 PSL 310 Physiology for Pre-Health Professionals 4 (4) One of the following courses (3 or 4 credits): STT 200 Statistical Methods 3 STT 201 Statistical Methods 4 STT 231 Statistics for Scientists 3 STT 421 Statistics I 3 (5) One of the following courses (3 credits): STT 371 Statistical Biology 3 STT 422 Statistics II 3 STT 464 Statistics for Biologists 3 b. All of the following biomedical laboratory diagnostics courses (29 credits): BLD 204 Mechanisms of Disease 3 BLD 213 Application of Clinical Laboratory Principles 2 BLD 220 Preparing for a Health Professions Career 1 BLD 414 Clinical Chemistry Analysis and Practice 3 BLD 436 Principles of Diagnostic Molecular Science 2 BLD 437 Clinical Applications of Diagnostic Molecular Science 2 BLD 438 Molecular Diagnostic Laboratory 2 BLD 442 Education and Management in the Clinical Laboratory 2 BLD 455 Integrating Clinical Laboratory Science Discipline (W) 2 BLD 482 Advanced Diagnostic Molecular Science 2 BLD 483 Molecular Diagnostic Experience in Hematopathology and Oncology 2 BLD 484 Molecular Diagnostic Experience in Infectious Disease 2 BLD 485 Molecular Diagnostic Experience in Inherited and Predictive Genetics 2 BLD 486 Molecular Diagnostic Experience in Genotyping and Individual Identification 2 c. At least two of the following courses (5 to 7 credits): BLD 324 Fundamentals of Hematology, Hemostasis, and Urinalysis 3 BLD 416 Clinical Chemistry 4 BLD 424 Advanced Hematology, Hemostasis, and Urinalysis 2 BLD 434 Clinical Immunology 3 MMG 301 Introductory Microbiology 3 MMG 431 Microbial Genetics 3 MMG 433 Microbial Genomics 3 MMG 445 Microbial Biotechnology (W) 3 MMG 463 Medical Microbiology 3 ZOL 450 Cancer Biology (W) 3
Three master's degree programs are available. The biomedical laboratory science program for working professionals is available online in a non-thesis option. The clinical laboratory science program is a traditional science-oriented degree with both thesis and non-thesis options. The non-thesis option is also available online. The biomedical laboratory operations program is a master's degree blending business management with the science needed to prepare managers for positions in research, industry and medical settings.
The Master of Arts degree in Biomedical Laboratory Science is administered by the Biomedical Laboratory Diagnostics Program. The program is designed to enhance the student’s knowledge base and broaden their perspectives across the profession. In addition to meeting the requirements of the university and of the College of Natural Science, students must meet all requirements specified below.
Admission
Regular admission to the Master of Arts degree in Biomedical Laboratory Science requires completion of a bachelor of science degree, with a minimum grade-point average of 3.0. Applicants must submit official transcripts, three letters of recommendation, a letter of intent or purpose statement, a brief resume, and the General GRE (Graduate Record Exam) score. For applicants in which English is not their first language, the Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) must be taken. Scholastic record, experience, personal qualifications and career goals are taken into consideration to determine the applicant’s acceptability.
Applicants who fail to meet the criteria for regular admission, may apply for provisional admission if they have demonstrated a high probability of success and will be provided other options to obtain a post-baccalaureate clinical laboratory education.
Complete information regarding the admission process can be found at www.bld.msu.edu.
Requirements for the Master of Arts Degree in Biomedical Laboratory Science
The program is available online and only under Plan B (without thesis). The student must complete a total of 30 credits from the following:
| 1. | All of the following courses (8 or 9 credits): | ||||||
| BLD | 801 | Biomedical Laboratory Diagnostics Seminar | 1 | ||||
| BLD | 811 | Fundamentals of Scientific Research | 1 | ||||
| BLD | 821 | Advanced Clinical Laboratory Practice | 1 | ||||
| BLD | 890 | Selected Problems in Clinical Laboratory Science | 2 or 3 | ||||
| PHM | 830 | Experimental Design and Analysis | 3 | ||||
| 2. | Complete at least 16 credits from the following courses: | ||||||
| BLD | 815 | Cell Biology in Health and Disease I | 2 | ||||
| BLD | 816 | Cell Biology in Health and Disease II | 2 | ||||
| BLD | 830 | Concepts in Molecular Biology | 2 | ||||
| BLD | 831 | Clinical Application of Molecular Biology | 2 | ||||
| BLD | 835 | Hemostasis, Thrombosis and Effective Resource Management | 3 | ||||
| BLD | 836 | Adverse Transfusion Outcomes: Detection, Monitoring and Prevention | 2 | ||||
| BLD | 837 | Transfusion Service Operations and Management | 1 | ||||
| BLD | 842 | Managing Biomedical Laboratory Operations | 2 | ||||
| BLD | 844 | Topics in Biomedical Laboratory Operations | 1 | ||||
| BLD | 846 | Decision Processes for Biomedical Laboratory Operations | 2 | ||||
| BLD | 850 | Concepts in Immunodiagnostics | 2 | ||||
| BLD | 851 | Clinical Application of Immunodiagnostic Principles | 2 | ||||
| 3. | Complete 5 credits of electives as approved by the guidance committee. | ||||||
| 4. | Successfully complete a capstone project. | ||||||
The graduate program in clinical laboratory sciences leads to the Master of Science degree. The program emphasizes the multidisciplinary nature of the laboratory sciences, encourages research that crosses traditional laboratory disciplines, and promotes innovative thinking.
The curriculum is customized to the student's interests and to supporting the project each student identifies. Students may conduct research projects with both resident and adjunct faculty.
In addition to meeting the requirements of the university and of the College of Natural Science, students must meet the requirements specified below.
Admission
Certification as a medical technologist/clinical laboratory scientist is preferred, but not required, for admission to the master's degree program in clinical laboratory sciences.
For additional information on admission, contact the Graduate Program Director, North Kedzie Hall, 354 Farm Lane, Room 322, Michigan State University, East Lansing, Michigan 48824–1031.
Requirements for the Master of Science Degree in Clinical Laboratory Sciences
A total of 30 credits is required for the degree under either Plan A (with thesis) or Plan B (without thesis). The student's program of study must be approved by the student's academic advisor.
| Requirements for Both Plan A and Plan B: | |||||||
| 1. | Both of the following courses: | ||||||
| BLD | 801 | Medical Technology Seminar | 2 | ||||
| BLD | 811 | Fundamentals of Scientific Research | 1 | ||||
| 2. | At least 4 credits of 800-level Biomedical Laboratory Diagnostics courses approved by the student's academic advisor. | ||||||
| 3. | One course in biochemistry or cell biology. | ||||||
| 4. | One 400-level or above course in statistics | ||||||
| 5. | Not more than 9 credits in 400–level courses. | ||||||
| Additional Requirements for Plan A: | |||||||
| BLD | 899 | Master's Thesis Research | 7 | ||||
| Additional Requirements for Plan B: | |||||||
| BLD | 890 | Selected Problems in Clinical Laboratory Science | 3 | ||||
The master’s degree program in biomedical laboratory operations (BLMO) is designed for individuals with previous clinical laboratory experience who seek career advancement as managers, administrators, researchers, entrepreneurs and policymakers in the field. The core of this program resides in three major components: science, management and practice. The science component focuses on post-baccalaureate courses planned to develop a high level of competence within the student’s chosen biomedical laboratory discipline. The management component provides a solid foundation in general business including resource management, communication skills, organizational structures, decision making, and essential aspects of working in a regulated industry; it includes courses which specifically emphasize the management of a biomedical laboratory. The practice component requires participation in an industrial/clinical internship. This experience is intended to expose individuals to real-life problems with an expectation of generating positive, realistic solutions. Internships are conducted in a closely coordinated manner among non-academic industrial or clinical partners, Michigan State University faculty members and the student.
The program of study can be planned to meet individual interests and career paths, while providing a structured sequence useful for personal and professional development. For select students, opportunities are available for acquisition of professional credentials.
In addition to meeting the requirements of the University and the College of Natural Science, students must meet the requirements specified below.
Admission
Regular admission to the Master of Science degree in Biomedical Laboratory Operations requires completion of a bachelor of science degree, with a minimum grade-point average of 3.0, in a field of study directly related to the focus of this program and a minimum of two years’ experience in a clinical laboratory setting. Applicants with certification in a clinical laboratory profession may apply their clinical education or internship experience towards the two-year experience requirement. Scholastic record, experience, personal qualifications and career goals are taken into consideration to determine the applicant’s acceptability.
Applicants who fail to meet the criteria for regular admission, may apply for provisional admission if they have demonstrated a high probability of success. The decision regarding conversion to regular status will be made after completion of 9 credit hours of science-based courses. Students who are admitted provisionally will be required to complete 9 credits in prescribed science courses with a 3.0 grade-point average. These collateral courses will not count toward the degree.
Requirements for the Master of Science Degree in Biomedical Laboratory Operations
The student must complete 31 credits under Plan B (without thesis). The specific program of study, including an internship in collaboration with an industrial partner, and competence in statistics must be approved by the student’s guidance committee. The final oral examination, which covers both course work and research, is administered by the student’s guidance committee.
| 1. | The following courses (6 credits): | ||||||
| BLD | 801 | Biomedical Laboratory Diagnostics | 1 | ||||
| BLD | 842 | Managing Biomedical Laboratory Operations | 2 | ||||
| BLD | 844 | Topics in Biomedical Laboratory Operations | 1 | ||||
| BLD | 846 | Decision Processes for Biomedical Laboratory Operations | 2 | ||||
| 2. | Complete a minimum of 5 credits in courses with a business or management focus. | ||||||
| 3. | Complete a minimum of 17 credits in courses with a science focus. | ||||||
| 4. | Complete a minimum of 3 credits of an internship with an industrial partner. | ||||||
| 5. | Pass a final oral examination. | ||||||
Robert E. Maleczka, Chairperson
Chemistry is the science concerned with the properties, composition, structure, and reactivity of matter. Synthesis of new organic and inorganic compounds and materials is central to chemistry and is complemented by efforts to develop analytical methods and instrumentation needed to identify and characterize these substances. Studies of reaction rates, thermodynamics, and molecular structure contribute to a deeper understanding of chemical transformations, providing a basis for optimization of known reactions and discovery of new reactions. The work of chemists is not limited to laboratory experiments. Computational approaches are increasingly important tools in understanding molecular structure and reactivity, designing new materials, and discovering new drugs. The molecular-level understanding provided by chemistry plays an important role in interdisciplinary research to solve complex problems in medicine, energy capture and storage, advanced materials, and environmental science. Chemists find employment in education, government, and diverse industries including but not limited to pharmaceuticals, agrichemicals, consumer products, paper, electronics, and plastics. Study of chemistry at the undergraduate and graduate level also provides an excellent foundation for post-graduate study in medicine, public policy and patent law.
The degree Bachelor of Science with a major in chemistry is designed to provide a thorough foundation in the various fields of chemistry and the related sciences, as well as a proper educational balance in the liberal arts. The program is for students planning careers in the chemical industries or in governmental laboratories and for those planning graduate study in chemistry. The Bachelor of Science degree program in chemistry has been accredited by the American Chemical Society.
The completion of one or more semesters of independent research (Chemistry 400H or 420) is strongly recommended for students in this program.
A detailed description of this program may be obtained from the department.
Requirements for the Bachelor of Science Degree in Chemistry
- The University requirements for bachelor's degrees as described in the Undergraduate Education section of this catalog; 120 credits, including general elective credits, are required for the Bachelor of Science degree in Chemistry.
The University's Tier II writing requirement for the Chemistry major is met by completing Chemistry 355, 395, 415, and 435. Those courses are referenced in items 3. b. (3) and 3. b. (4) below.
Students who are enrolled in the College of Natural Science may complete the alternative track to Integrative Studies in Biological and Physical Sciences that is described in item 1. under the heading Graduation Requirements in the College statement. Certain courses referenced in requirement 3. below may be used to satisfy the alternative track. - The requirements of the College of Natural Science for the Bachelor of Science degree.
The credits earned in certain courses referenced in requirement 3. below may be counted toward College requirements as appropriate. - The following requirements for the major:
a. The following courses outside the Department of Chemistry (31 to 34 credits): (1) One of the following courses (3 or 4 credits): BS 161 Cell and Molecular Biology 3 BS 162 Organismal and Population Biology 3 ENT 205 Pests, Society and Environment 3 PLB 105 Plant Biology 3 PSL 250 Introductory Physiology 4 ZOL 141 Introductory Human Genetics 3 (2) All of the following courses (24 credits): MTH 132 Calculus I 3 MTH 133 Calculus II 4 MTH 234 Multivariable Calculus 4 MTH 235 Differential Equations 3 PHY 183 Physics for Scientists and Engineers I 4 PHY 184 Physics for Scientists and Engineers II 4 PHY 191 Physics Laboratory for Scientists, I 1 PHY 192 Physics Laboratory for Scientists, II 1 (3) One of the following courses (4 or 6 credits): BMB 401 Comprehensive Biochemistry 4 Or BMB 461 Advanced Biochemistry I 3 And BMB 462 Advanced Biochemistry II 3 b. The following courses in the Department of Chemistry (43 or 44 credits): (1) One of the following pairs of courses (7 or 8 credits): (a) CEM 151 General and Descriptive Chemistry 4 CEM 152 Principles of Chemistry 3 (b) CEM 181H Honors Chemistry I 4 CEM 182H Honors Chemistry II 4 (2) One of the following pairs of courses (4 credits): (a) CEM 162 Chemistry Laboratory II 1 CEM 262 Quantitative Analysis 3 (b) CEM 185H Honors Chemistry Laboratory I 2 CEM 186H Honors Chemistry Laboratory II 2 (3) All of the following courses (29 credits): CEM 351 Organic Chemistry I 3 CEM 352 Organic Chemistry II 3 CEM 355 Organic Laboratory I 2 CEM 356 Organic Laboratory II 2 CEM 395 Analytical/Physical Chemistry Laboratory 2 CEM 411 Inorganic Chemistry 4 CEM 434 Advanced Analytical Chemistry 3 CEM 435 Analytical Chemistry Laboratory 2 CEM 483 Quantum Chemistry 3 CEM 484 Molecular Thermodynamics 3 CEM 495 Molecular Spectroscopy 2 (4) The following capstone course (3 credits): CEM 415 Advanced Synthesis Laboratory 3
Many occupations require a moderate training in chemistry combined with training in one or more other areas. Accordingly, the Bachelor of Arts degree is intended for the students desiring a lesser degree of specialization than required for the Bachelor of Science degree. Students who desire chemistry as a major in the programs of premedicine, predentistry and prelaw, or as training for many professional or industrial positions, may elect this program. Ample opportunity in the choice of electives is provided for students who are planning to obtain positions such as the following: technical secretaries, technical librarians, technical sales personnel, chemical patent lawyers, and criminologists. Additional collateral work may be necessary if this program is presented for admission to a school of graduate studies. A more detailed statement may be obtained from the Department of Chemistry.
Requirements for the Bachelor of Arts Degree in Chemistry
- The University requirements for bachelor's degrees as described in the Undergraduate Education section of this catalog; 120 credits, including general elective credits, are required for the Bachelor of Arts degree in Chemistry.
The University's Tier II writing requirement for the Chemistry major is met by completing Chemistry 333 and 444. Those courses are referenced in items 3. b. (3) and 3. b. (4) below.
Students who are enrolled in the College of Natural Science may complete the alternative track to Integrative Studies in Biological and Physical Sciences that is described in item 1. under the heading Graduation Requirements in the College statement. Certain courses referenced in requirement 3. below may be used to satisfy the alternative track. - The requirements of the College of Natural Science for the Bachelor of Arts degree.
The credits earned in certain courses referenced in requirement 3. below may be counted toward College requirements as appropriate. - The following requirements for the major:
a. The following courses outside the Department of Chemistry (18 or 19 credits): (1) One of the following courses (3 or 4 credits): BS 161 Cell and Molecular Biology 4 BS 162 Organismal and Population Biology 3 ENT 205 Pests, Society and Environment 3 PLB 105 Plant Biology 3 PSL 250 Introductory Physiology 4 ZOL 141 Introductory Human Genetics 3 (2) All of the following courses (15 credits): MTH 132 Calculus I 3 MTH 133 Calculus II 4 PHY 231 Introductory Physics I 3 PHY 232 Introductory Physics II 3 PHY 251 Introductory Physics Laboratory I 1 PHY 252 Introductory Physics Laboratory II 1 b. The following courses in the Department of Chemistry (32 or 33 credits): (1) One of the following pairs of courses (7 or 8 credits): (a) CEM 141 General Chemistry 4 CEM 142 General and Inorganic Chemistry 3 (b) CEM 151 General and Descriptive Chemistry 4 CEM 152 Principles of Chemistry 3 (c) CEM 181H Honors Chemistry I 4 CEM 182H Honors Chemistry II 4 (2) One of the following pairs of courses (4 credits): (a) CEM 162 Chemistry Laboratory II 1 CEM 262 Quantitative Analysis 3 (b) CEM 185H Honors Chemistry Laboratory I 2 CEM 186H Honors Chemistry Laboratory II 2 (3) All of the following courses (18 credits): CEM 251 Organic Chemistry I 3 CEM 252 Organic Chemistry II 3 CEM 255 Organic Chemistry Laboratory 2 CEM 333 Instrumental Methods and Applications 3 CEM 383 Introductory Physical Chemistry I 3 CEM 384 Introductory Physical Chemistry II 3 CEM 444 Chemical Safety 1 (4) The following capstone course (3 credits): CEM 311 Inorganic Chemistry 3
The major in Chemical Physics provides a strong foundation in chemistry, physics and mathematics for those students who have a professional interest in the areas of overlap between chemistry and physics. It is particularly suitable for students planning to pursue a graduate degree in the area of chemical physics.
A detailed description of this program may be obtained from either the Department of Physics and Astronomy or the Department of Chemistry.
Requirements for the Bachelor of Science Degree in Chemical Physics
- The University requirements for bachelor's degrees as described in the Undergraduate Education section of this catalog; 120 credits, including general elective credits, are required for the Bachelor of Science degree in Chemical Physics.
The University's Tier II writing requirement for the Chemical Physics major is met by completing Chemistry 499. That course is referenced in item 3. b. (6) below.
Students who are enrolled in the College of Natural Science may complete the alternative track to Integrative Studies in Biological and Physical Sciences that is described in item 1. under the heading Graduation Requirements in the College statement. Certain courses referenced in requirement 3. below may be used to satisfy the alternative track. - The requirements of the College of Natural Science for the Bachelor of Science degree.
The credits earned in certain courses referenced in requirement 3. below may be counted toward College requirements as appropriate. - The following requirements for the major:
a. The following courses outside the Department of Chemistry (43 to 46 credits): (1) One of the following courses (3 or 4 credits): BS 161 Cell and Molecular Biology 3 BS 162 Organismal and Population Biology 3 ENT 205 Pests, Society and Environment 3 MMG 201 Fundamentals of Microbiology 3 PLB 105 Plant Biology 3 PSL 250 Introductory Physiology 4 ZOL 141 Introductory Human Genetics 3 (2) All of the following courses (25 credits): MTH 132 Calculus I 3 MTH 133 Calculus II 4 MTH 234 Multivariable Calculus 4 MTH 235 Differential Equations 3 PHY 191 Physics Laboratory for Scientists, I 1 PHY 192 Physics Laboratory for Scientists, II 1 PHY 321 Classical Mechanics I 3 PHY 471 Quantum Physics I 3 PHY 481 Electricity and Magnetism I 3 (3) One of the following courses (3 credits): MTH 309 Linear Algebra I 3 MTH 314 Matrix Algebra with Applications 3 (4) One of the following courses (3 credits): MTH 310 Abstract Algebra I and Number Theory 3 MTH 320 Analysis I 3 MTH 421 Analysis II 3 MTH 425 Complex Analysis 3 MTH 441 Ordinary Differential Equations II 3 MTH 442 Partial Differential Equations 3 MTH 443 Boundary Value Problems for Engineers 3 MTH 451 Numerical Analysis I 3 (5) One of the following pairs of courses (6 or 8 credits): (a) PHY 183 Physics for Scientists and Engineers I 4 PHY 184 Physics for Scientists and Engineers II 4 (b) PHY 193H Honors Physics I–Mechanics 3 PHY 294H Honors Physics II–Electromagnetism 3 (6) One of the following courses (3 credits): PHY 215 Thermodynamics and Modern Physics 3 PHY 410 Thermal and Statistical Physics 3 PHY 422 Classical Mechanics II 3 PHY 431 Optics I 3 PHY 472 Quantum Physics II 3 PHY 482 Electricity and Magnetism II 3 b. The following courses in the Department of Chemistry (30 to 33 credits): (1) One of the following pairs of courses (7 or 8 credits): (a) CEM 151 General and Descriptive Chemistry 4 CEM 152 Principles of Chemistry 3 (b) CEM 181H Honors Chemistry I 4 CEM 182H Honors Chemistry II 4 (2) One of the following pairs of courses (2 or 4 credits): (a) CEM 161 Chemistry Laboratory I 1 CEM 162 Chemistry Laboratory II 1 (b) CEM 185H Honors Chemistry Laboratory I 2 CEM 186H Honors Chemistry Laboratory II 2 (3) Six credits in organic chemistry courses other than Chemistry 143. (4) One of the following courses (3 credits): CEM 333 Instrumental Methods and Applications 3 CEM 395 Analytical/Physical Laboratory 2 CEM 435 Analytical Chemistry Laboratory 2 CEM 495 Molecular Spectroscopy 2 (5) Two of the following courses (6 credits): CEM 434 Advanced Analytical Chemistry 3 CEM 483 Quantum Chemistry 3 CEM 484 Molecular Thermodynamics 3 (6) Both of the following courses (6 credits): CEM 411 Inorganic Chemistry 4 CEM 499 Chemical Physics Seminar 2 The completion of Chemistry 499 fulfills the department's capstone course requirement.
The Bachelor of Science degree program with a major in computational chemistry is designed to provide a thorough foundation in the various fields of chemistry and the related sciences, as well as a proper educational balance in the liberal arts. In addition, it provides a means for chemistry majors with an interest in the application of computers and computing in chemistry to obtain expertise in computer fundamentals. The program is for students planning careers in the chemical industries or in governmental laboratories and for those planning graduate study in chemistry.
Requirements for the Bachelor of Science Degree in Computational Chemistry
- The University requirements for bachelor’s degrees as described in the Undergraduate Education section of this catalog; 120 credits, including general elective credits, are required for the Bachelor of Science degree in Computational Chemistry.
The University’s Tier II writing requirement for the Computational Chemistry major is met by completing Chemistry 355, 395, 435, and 481. Those courses are referenced in items 3. b. (3) and 3. b. (4) below.
Students who are enrolled in the College of Natural Science may complete the alternative track to Integrative Studies in Biological and Physical Sciences that is described in item 1. under the heading Graduation Requirements in the College statement. Certain courses referenced in requirement 3. below may be used to satisfy the alternative track. - The requirements of the College of Natural Science for the Bachelor of Science degree.
The credits earned in certain courses referenced in requirement 3. below may be counted toward College requirements as appropriate. - The following requirements for the major:
a. The following courses outside the Department of Chemistry (49 or 50 credits): (1) One of the following courses (3 or 4 credits): BS 110 Organisms and Populations 4 BS 111 Cells and Molecules 3 ENT 205 Pests, Society and Environment 3 MMG 205 Allied Health Microbiology 3 PLB 105 Plant Biology 3 PSL 250 Introductory Physiology 4 ZOL 141 Introductory Human Genetics 3 (2) All of the following courses (46 credits): CSE 231 Introduction to Programming I 4 CSE 232 Introduction to Programming II 4 CSE 260 Discrete Structures in Computer Science 4 CSE 320 Computer Organization and Assembly Language Programming 4 MTH 132 Calculus I 3 MTH 133 Calculus II 4 MTH 234 Multivariable Calculus 4 MTH 235 Differential Equations 3 MTH 314 Matrix Algebra with Applications 3 MTH 451 Numerical Analysis I 3 PHY 183 Physics for Scientists and Engineers I 4 PHY 184 Physics for Scientists and Engineers II 4 PHY 191 Physics Laboratory for Scientists, I 1 PHY 192 Physics Laboratory for Scientists, II 1 b. The following courses in the Department of Chemistry (46 or 47 credits): (1) One of the following pairs of courses (7 or 8 credits): (a) CEM 151 General and Descriptive Chemistry 4 CEM 152 Principles of Chemistry 3 (b) CEM 181H Honors Chemistry I 4 CEM 182H Honors Chemistry II 4 (2) One of the following pairs of courses (4 credits): (a) CEM 162 Chemistry Laboratory II 1 CEM 262 Quantitative Analysis 3 (b) CEM 185H Honors Chemistry Laboratory I 2 CEM 186H Honors Chemistry Laboratory II 2 (3) All of the following courses (32 credits): CEM 351 Organic Chemistry I 3 CEM 352 Organic Chemistry II 3 CEM 355 Organic Laboratory I 2 CEM 391 Molecular Thermodynamics 3 CEM 392 Quantum Chemistry 3 CEM 395 Analytical/Physical Laboratory 2 CEM 411 Inorganic Chemistry 4 CEM 415 Advanced Synthesis Laboratory 3 CEM 434 Advanced Analytical Chemistry 3 CEM 435 Analytical Chemistry Laboratory 2 CEM 495 Molecular Spectroscopy 2 (4) The following capstone course (3 credits): CEM 481 Seminar in Computational Chemistry 3
The chemistry disciplinary majors leading to the Bachelor of Arts and Bachelor of Science degrees are available for teacher certification.
A chemistry disciplinary minor is also available for teacher certification.
Students who elect a chemistry disciplinary major or the chemistry disciplinary minor must contact the Department of Chemistry.
For additional information, refer to the statement on TEACHER CERTIFICATION in the Department of Teacher Education section of this catalog.
The Department of Chemistry offers the graduate degree programs that are listed below:
Master of Science
Chemistry
Doctor of Philosophy
Chemical Physics
Chemistry
Chemistry—Environmental Toxicology
Descriptions of the degree programs, organized by fields of study in alphabetical order, are presented below.
In addition to meeting the requirements of the university and of the College of Natural Science, students must meet the requirements specified below.
Admission
Only those persons who are enrolled in a Doctor of Philosophy degree program in the Department of Chemistry or the Department of Physics and Astronomy at Michigan State University may petition the Committee on Chemical Physics for admission to the doctoral program in chemical physics.
Requirements for the Doctor of Philosophy Degree in Chemical Physics
The student must:
- Pass doctoral comprehensive examinations of the cumulative type. Details about these examinations may be obtained from the department.
- Complete at least 6 credits in 800–900 level Chemistry courses.
- Complete at least 6 credits in 800–900 level Physics and Astronomy courses.
- Pass an oral examination on the proposed research.
For the Master of Science program in chemistry, the areas of study are analytical, inorganic, organic, and physical.
In addition to meeting the requirements of the university and of the College of Natural Science, students must meet the requirements specified below.
Admission
The student must have a bachelor's degree and an acceptable grade–point average, and must have had in an undergraduate program one year each of general, analytical, organic, and physical chemistry, one year of physics, and one year of calculus. Deficiencies in the undergraduate program, such as deficiencies in calculus or in foreign language, must be removed before the degree will be recommended.
Requirements for the Master of Science Degree in Chemistry
A total of 30 credits are required for the program under either Plan A (with thesis) or Plan B (without thesis). Most students earn the degree under Plan A. For Plan A, students are required to complete 8 credits of master's thesis research and may be permitted to complete up to 15 credits of master's thesis research; approximately two–thirds of the remaining credits are in the major area and the balance is in other areas.
All entering graduate students must take an orientation examination in each of the four major areas of chemistry and must ultimately achieve at the doctoral qualifying level in one area (for students on Plan A, that area must be the one in which the research is to be performed), and at the minimum proficiency level established by the department in the other three areas.
The program is planned by the student and the major professor in accordance with the student's desire for earning only the master's degree or continuing on to the doctorate.
Programs for the Doctor of Philosophy degree, based on a broad and thorough undergraduate program, emphasize study and original research in one of the following areas: analytical, inorganic, organic, or physical chemistry, or chemical physics. Numerous cross–disciplinary research opportunities involving, for example, biochemistry or the cyclotron laboratory, are also available.
In addition to meeting the requirements of the University and of the College of Natural Science, students must meet the requirements specified below.
Admission
Students holding bachelor's degrees, or master's degrees or the equivalent, may be admitted for study at the doctoral level on either a provisional or regular basis. Applicants are expected to have had in their undergraduate programs one year each of general, analytical, organic, and physical chemistry, one year of physics, and one year of calculus or their equivalents. Deficiencies in the undergraduate program must be removed. Admission to the doctoral program is dependent on having a 3.00 or better grade–point average and upon satisfactory performance on the qualification examinations given in the areas of analytical, inorganic, organic, and physical chemistry. The qualification examinations will be waived for students who score at the 75th percentile or higher on the Graduate Record Examination Subject Test in Chemistry.
Requirements for the Doctor of Philosophy Degree in Chemistry
Satisfactory performance on doctoral comprehensive examinations of the cumulative type is required. Details about these and the qualification examinations may be obtained from the department.
Satisfactory performance on two oral examinations, one to demonstrate research preparedness and the other as a defense of the dissertation, is required.
For information about the Doctor of Philosophy degree program in chemistry—environmental toxicology, refer to the statement on Doctoral Program in Environmental and Integrative Toxicological Sciences in the Graduate Education section of this catalog.
David W. Hyndman, Chairperson
The Earth is a dynamic system subject to both cyclic and directional changes over time. Energy from the Sun drives Earth's water and biogeochemical cycles which, in turn, control surface processes, including climate change and sedimentation. Energy from Earth's interior drives the tectonic cycle and its surface manifestations, including volcanic eruptions and earthquakes. Biological evolution adds directionality to the history of the Earth, and is not reducible to simple physical forces. The geological sciences study these changes and processes as they exist now, as they will develop in the future, and as they have evolved during the 4.5 billion–year history of the Earth.
The biological, chemical, and physical aspects of the Earth are all integrated into the geological sciences, which draw heavily on these other sciences, as well as mathematics and statistics. Geological studies provide knowledge about the availability of natural resources, including groundwater and fossil fuels; the reduction of damage from hazards including volcanic eruptions, earthquakes, and floods; and processes affecting biological evolution, such as those that produce major extinctions. From these diverse studies geologists gain knowledge about the controls on the physical and biological environment. That knowledge allows people to deal with issues ranging from groundwater pollution to climate change.
The undergraduate programs in environmental geosciences and geological sciences lead to the Bachelor of Science degree. The department offers a concentration in geophysics for both degrees and a program for earth science secondary education teacher certification.
Requirements for the Bachelor of Science Degree in Environmental Geosciences
- The University requirements for bachelor's degrees as described in the Undergraduate Education section of this catalog; 120 credits, including general elective credits, are required for the Bachelor of Science degree in Environmental Geosciences.
The University's Tier II writing requirement for the Environmental Geosciences major is met by completing Geological Sciences 401. That course is referenced in item 3. b. below.
Students who are enrolled in the College of Natural Science may complete the alternative track to Integrative Studies in Biological and Physical Sciences that is described in item 1. under the heading Graduation Requirements in the College statement. Certain courses referenced in requirement 3. below may be used to satisfy the alternative track. - The requirements of the College of Natural Science for the Bachelor of Science degree.
The credits earned in certain courses referenced in requirement 3. below may be counted toward College requirements as appropriate. - The following requirements for the major:
a. The following courses outside the Department of Geological Sciences (24 to 26 credits): (1) All of the following courses (8 credits): CEM 161 Chemistry Laboratory I 1 MTH 132 Calculus I 3 MTH 133 Calculus II 4 (2) One of the following groups of courses (7 credits): (a) CEM 141 General Chemistry I 4 CEM 142 General and Inorganic Chemistry 3 (b) CEM 151 General and Descriptive Chemistry 4 CEM 152 Principles of Chemistry 3 (3) One of the following courses (3 or 4 credits): MTH 234 Multivariable Calculus 4 STT 200 Statistical Methods 3 STT 201 Statistical Methods 4 STT 231 Statistics for Scientists 3 STT 421 Statistics I 3 (4) One of the following groups of courses (8 credits): (a) PHY 231 Introductory Physics I 3 PHY 232 Introductory Physics II 3 PHY 251 Introductory Physics Laboratory I 1 PHY 252 Introductory Physics Laboratory II 1 (b) PHY 183 Physics for Scientists and Engineers I 4 PHY 184 Physics for Scientists and Engineers II 4 (5) One of the following courses (3 or 4 credits): GEO 203 Introduction to Meteorology 3 ZOL 303 Oceanography 4 (6) One of the following courses (3 or 4 credits): GEO 324 Remote Sensing of the Environment 4 GEO 325 Geographic Information Systems 3 STT 464 Statistics for Biologists 3 (7) One of the following courses (3 credits): GEO 435 Geography of Health and Disease 3 ZOL 355 Ecology 3 b. The following courses in the Department of Geological Sciences (31 credits): GLG 201 The Dynamic Earth 4 GLG 304 Physical and Biological History of the Earth 4 GLG 321 Mineralogy and Geochemistry 4 GLG 401 Global Tectonics and Earth Structure (W) 4 GLG 411 Hydrogeology 3 GLG 412 Glacial Geology and the Record of Climate Change 4 GLG 421 Environmental Geochemistry 4 GLG 431 Sedimentology and Stratigraphy (W) 4 The completion of GLG 401 satisfies the department’s capstone course requirement. c. One course from each of the following areas (9 or 10 credits): Geophysical Systems CE 421 Engineering Hydrology 3 GEO 409 Global Climate Change and Variability 3 GLG 413 Groundwater Contamination 3 GLG 471 Applied Geophysics 4 GLG 481 Reservoirs and Aquifers 3 Geochemical Systems CE 481 Environmental Chemistry - Equalibrium Concepts 3 CEM 251 Organic Chemistry I 3 CSS 455 Pollutants in the Soil Environment 3 Geobiological Systems ENT 319 Introduction to Earth Systems Science 3 FW 420 Stream Ecology 3 MMG 425 Microbial Ecology 3 MMG 426 Biogeochemistry 3 d. Additional credits in Geological Science courses at the 300-400 level to total 40 credits. The credits that are used to satisfy this requirement may be used to satisfy either the requirements for the geological sciences major or the requirements for the environmental geosciences major, but not both of these requirements. Plant Biology 335 and Microbiology and Molecular Genetics 426 may be used to satisfy either the requirements for the major or the requirements referenced under the heading Graduation Requirements in the College statement, but not both of those requirements.
Concentration in Geophysics
A concentration in geophysics is also available. Students must complete all of the following courses. Courses that are used to satisfy the requirements for the concentration may also be used to satisfy the requirements for the Bachelor of Science degree in Environmental Geosciences. The concentration will be noted on the student’s transcript.
| GLG | 470 | Principles of Modern Geophysics | 3 | ||||
| GLG | 471 | Applied Geophysics | 4 | ||||
| MTH | 234 | Multivariable Calculus | 4 | ||||
| MTH | 235 | Differential Equations | 3 | ||||
| PHY | 183 | Physics for Scientists and Engineers I | 4 | ||||
| PHY | 184 | Physics for Scientists and Engineers II | 4 | ||||
Requirements for the Bachelor of Science Degree in Geological Sciences
- The University requirements for bachelor's degrees as described in the Undergraduate Education section of this catalog; 120 credits, including general elective credits, are required for the Bachelor of Science degree in Geological Sciences.
The University's Tier II writing requirement for the Geological Sciences major is met by completing Geological Sciences 401. That courses is referenced in item 3. b. below.
Students who are enrolled in the College of Natural Science may complete the alternative track to Integrative Studies in Biological and Physical Sciences that is described in item 1. under the heading Graduation Requirements in the College statement. Certain courses referenced in requirement 3. below may be used to satisfy the alternative track. - The requirements of the College of Natural Science for the Bachelor of Science degree.
The credits earned in certain courses referenced in requirement 3. below may be counted toward College requirements as appropriate. - The following requirements for the major:
a. The following courses outside the Department of Geological Sciences (26 or 27 credits): (1) All of the following courses (8 credits): CEM 161 Chemistry Laboratory I 1 MTH 132 Calculus I 3 MTH 133 Calculus II 4 (2) One of the following pairs of courses (7 credits): (a) CEM 141 General Chemistry 4 CEM 142 General and Inorganic Chemistry 3 (b) CEM 151 General and Descriptive Chemistry 4 CEM 152 Principles of Chemistry 3 (3) One of the following options (3 or 4 credits): (a) MTH 234 Multivariable Calculus 4 (b) One course of at least 3 credits in statistics and probability. (4) One of the following groups of courses (8 credits): (a) PHY 231 Introductory Physics I 3 PHY 232 Introductory Physics II 3 PHY 251 Introductory Physics Laboratory I 1 PHY 252 Introductory Physics Laboratory II 1 (b) PHY 183 Physics for Scientists and Engineers I 4 PHY 184 Physics for Scientists and Engineers II 4 b. The following courses in the Department of Geological Sciences (40 credits): GLG 201 The Dynamic Earth 4 GLG 304 Physical and Biological History of the Earth 4 GLG 321 Mineralogy and Geochemistry 4 GLG 361 Petrology 4 GLG 401 Global Tectonics and Earth Structure (W) 4 GLG 431 Sedimentology and Stratigraphy 4 GLG 491 Field Geology – Summer Camp (W) 6 Ten additional credits in Geological Sciences courses at the 300–400 level. Plant Biology 335 and Microbiology and Molecular Genetics 426 may be used to satisfy either the requirements for the major or the requirements referenced under the heading Graduation Requirements in the College statement, but not both of those requirements. The credits that are used to satisfy this requirement may be used to satisfy either the requirements for the geological sciences major or the requirements for the environmental geosciences major, but not both of those requirements. The completion of Geological Sciences 491 fulfills the department's capstone course requirement.
Concentration in Geophysics
A concentration in geophysics is also available. Students must complete all of the following courses. Courses that are used to satisfy the requirements for the concentration may also be used to satisfy the requirements for the Bachelor of Science degree in Geological Sciences. The concentration will be noted on the student’s transcript.
| 1. | All of the following courses (22 credits): | ||||||
| GLG | 470 | Principles of Modern Geophysics | 3 | ||||
| GLG | 471 | Applied Geophysics | 4 | ||||
| MTH | 234 | Multivariate Calculus | 4 | ||||
| MTH | 235 | Differential Equations | 3 | ||||
| PHY | 183 | Physics for Scientists and Engineers I | 4 | ||||
| PHY | 184 | Physics for Scientists and Engineers II | 4 | ||||
The earth science—interdepartmental disciplinary major leading to the Bachelor of Science degree is available for teacher certification. Students who complete the requirements for this disciplinary major and the requirements for teacher certification choose whether they wish to be recommended for certification in earth science or general science.
An earth science disciplinary minor is also available for teacher certification.
Students who elect the earth science—interdepartmental disciplinary major or the earth science disciplinary minor must contact the Department of Geological Sciences.
For additional information, refer to the statement on TEACHER CERTIFICATION in the Department of Teacher Education section of this catalog.
The Department of Geological Sciences offers programs in geological sciences leading to the Master of Science and Doctor of Philosophy degrees. The department also offers programs in environmental geosciences leading to the Master of Science and Doctor of Philosophy degrees.
The goal of the graduate programs in the Department of Geological Sciences is to develop creative and productive scientists who will address problems facing the modern environment and problems related to understanding Earth's past and future.
The department's graduate programs emphasize the study of the biological, chemical, and physical processes of the Earth and the application of knowledge about these processes to solve applied and basic problems. Environmental studies focus on fluids, minerals, and biologically mediated processes and their interactions in the environment. Studies of Earth's past involve time periods ranging in days to billions of years. From this knowledge, predictions on Earth's future may be made.
The three research focus areas in the department are: the environment, geodynamics and tectonics, and education and cognition.
Areas of active research in the department include: geochemistry, geocognition, geodynamics, geomicrobiology, geophysics, hydrology, hydrogeology, land use sustainability, mineral/water interactions, paleontology, petrology, seismology, stratigraphy, and tectonics.
The Master of Science degree program in environmental geosciences is available under either Plan A (with thesis) or Plan B (without thesis).
In addition to meeting the requirements of the university and of the College of Natural Science, students must meet the requirements specified below.
Admission
When applying for admission to the program, an applicant must specify either Plan A or Plan B.
Academic record, letters of recommendation, and Graduate Record Examination (GRE) General Test scores are considered in admission decisions.
For regular admission to the master's degree program in environmental geosciences under Plan A, the student must have:
- A bachelor's degree in a physical or biological science or in engineering from a recognized educational institution.
- Completed the courses in physics, chemistry, and mathematics that are required for the Bachelor of Science degree with a major in geological sciences at Michigan State University, or equivalent courses.
- At least 12 credits in geological sciences courses.
- A grade–point average of at least 3.00.
- Satisfactory scores on the GRE General Test.
Provisional admission may be granted to an applicant who has not completed the course work referenced in items 2. and 3. above. Deficiencies must be removed by completing collateral courses.
For regular admission to the master's degree program in environmental geosciences under Plan B, the student must have:
- Completed a Master of Science degree in the geosciences for which a thesis was required.
- A grade–point average of at least 3.00.
- Satisfactory scores on the GRE General Test.
Requirements for the Master of Science Degree in Environmental Geosciences
A total of 30 credits is required for the degree under either Plan A or Plan B. The student's program of study must be approved by the student's guidance committee. The student must meet the requirements specified below:
Requirements for Both Plan A and Plan B
| 1. | Tier I requirements (10 to 12 credits): | ||||||
| a. | General Component. The following course (1 credit): | ||||||
| GLG | 423 | Environmental Geosciences | 1 | ||||
| b. | Soil Component. One of the following courses (3 or 4 credits): | ||||||
| CSS | 455 | Pollutants in the Soil Environment | 3 | ||||
| CSS | 825 | Clay Mineralogy and Soils Genesis | 4 | ||||
| CSS | 855 | Interfacial Environmental Chemistry | 4 | ||||
| c. | Chemical Component. One of the following courses (3 credits): | ||||||
| GLG | 421 | Environmental Geochemistry | 3 | ||||
| GLG | 821 | Aqueous Geochemistry | 3 | ||||
| GLG | 823 | Isotope Geochemistry | 3 | ||||
| d. | Hydrogeology Component. One of the following courses (3 or 4 credits): | ||||||
| CE | 421 | Engineering Hydrology | 3 | ||||
| CE | 821 | Groundwater Hydraulics | 3 | ||||
| GLG | 411 | Hydrogeology | 4 | ||||
| 2. | Tier II requirement. One of the following courses (3 or 4 credits): | ||||||
| GEO | 408 | Soil Geomorphology Field Study | 4 | ||||
| GLG | 412 | Glacial and Quaternary Geology | 3 | ||||
| GLG | 422 | Organic Geochemistry | 3 | ||||
| GLG | 471 | Applied Geophysics | 4 | ||||
| GLG | 481 | Reservoirs and Aquifers | 4 | ||||
| GLG | 822 | Analytical Applications for Biogeochemical Research | 3 | ||||
| GLG | 863 | Mineral–Water Interactions | 4 | ||||
| With the approval of the guidance committee, a student may substitute a course listed in the Tier I requirements for one of the courses listed above. | |||||||
A student who completed any course listed in the Tier I requirements or in the Tier II requirement prior to enrollment in the program must substitute another course approved by the student's guidance committee.
A given course may be used to satisfy either the Tier I requirements or the Tier II requirement, but not both of those requirements.
Additional Requirements for Plan A
- Tier III requirement:
Seven to 13 credits in courses approved by the student's guidance committee. - Tier IV requirement:
Four to 7 credits in GLG 899 Master's Thesis Research. The research area may focus on any topic that may have applications to solving problems related to the environment. The student must include in the thesis proposal a paragraph that addresses the environmental applications of the thesis topic selected.
Additional Requirements for Plan B
- Tier III requirement:
Thirteen to 16 credits in courses approved by the student's guidance committee. - Tier IV requirement:
One credit of GLG 898 Special Problems in Environmental Geosciences. The student must complete a research paper or project while enrolled in Geological Sciences 898. The topic of the paper or project must be mutually agreed upon by the student and the student's academic advisor.
The core of the Doctor of Philosophy degree program in environmental geosciences is independent research. Course requirements are designed to support the student's professional goals. Commonly, research programs are pursued within the specialty of the staff. However, innovative research is encouraged in any area of environmental geosciences.
In addition to meeting the requirements of the University and of the College of Natural Science, students must meet the requirements specified below.
Admission
Students holding bachelor's or master's degrees may be admitted to the doctoral program in environmental geosciences on the basis of their performance during the previous two years of academic work.
Requirements for the Doctor of Philosophy Degree in Environmental Geosciences
The program of study is determined by mutual agreement between the student and the guidance committee. The student must complete, or have completed prior to admission, 9 credits of course work in geological sciences including a course in physical geology and at least 3 credits in 800-level course work.
The required comprehensive examination involves both an oral and a written portion and covers the area of the student's research specialty, those areas that interface with that specialty, and the significance of the proposed research program. Students who are admitted to the doctoral program with master's degrees must pass the comprehensive examination during the second year of enrollment in the program. Students who are admitted to the doctoral program with bachelor's degrees must pass the comprehensive examination during the third year of enrollment in the program.
For information about the Doctor of Philosophy degree program in environmental geosciences–environmental toxicology, refer to the statement on Doctoral Program in Environmental and Integrative Toxicological Sciences in the Graduate Education section of this catalog.
In addition to meeting the requirements of the university and of the College of Natural Science, students must meet the requirements specified below.
Admission
Academic record, letters of recommendation, and Graduate Record Examination (GRE) General Test scores are considered in admission decisions. For regular admission, the student must have:
- A bachelor's degree in a physical or biological science or in mathematics from a recognized educational institution.
- Completed the courses in physics, chemistry, mathematics, and geological sciences that are required for the Bachelor of Science degree with a major in geological sciences at Michigan State University, or equivalent courses.
- A grade–point average of at least 3.00.
- Satisfactory scores on the GRE General Test.
Depending on the proposed area of specialization, provisional admission may be granted to an applicant who has not completed the courses referenced in item 2. above. Deficiencies must be removed by completing collateral courses before a thesis proposal will be accepted.
Requirements for the Master of Science Degree in Geological Sciences
The student must complete a total of 30 credits for the degree under Plan A (with thesis). Of the 30 credits, no more than 7 credits may be in Geological Sciences 899.
The core of the Doctor of Philosophy degree program in geological sciences is independent research. Course requirements are designed to support the student's professional goals. Commonly, research programs are pursued within the specialty of the staff. However, innovative research is encouraged in any area of geological sciences.
In addition to meeting the requirements of the University and of the College of Natural Science, students must meet the requirements specified below.
Admission
Students holding bachelor's or master's degrees may be admitted to the doctoral program in geological sciences on the basis of their performance during the previous two years of academic work.
Requirements for the Doctor of Philosophy Degree in Geological Sciences
The program of study is determined by mutual agreement between the student and the guidance committee.
The required comprehensive examination involves both an oral and a written portion and covers the area of the student's research specialty, those areas that interface with that specialty, and the significance of the proposed research program. Students who are admitted to the doctoral program with master's degrees must pass the comprehensive examination during the second year of enrollment in the program. Students who are admitted to the doctoral program with bachelor's degrees must pass the comprehensive examination during the third year of enrollment in the program.
Katherine L. Gross, Director
The W. K. Kellogg Biological Station is administered jointly by the College of Agriculture and Natural Resources and the College of Natural Science. The Station developed from the environmental foresight and interest of W. K. Kellogg and has evolved into a world–renowned ecological research center and public education facility for biological, agricultural, and natural resource sciences.
Located 65 miles southwest of East Lansing near Battle Creek and Kalamazoo, the Biological Station's 3,352 acres encompass the Kellogg Bird Sanctuary, Kellogg Farm and Dairy Center, Academic Center and Research Laboratories, and Lux Arbor Reserve. Within this multiple–land use facility, a unique community of scholars conducts research and leads educational programs to increase our understanding of natural and managed ecosystems and their linkage to society.
The teaching and research programs of the Biological Station are closely coordinated with those of the College of Agriculture and Natural Resources and the College of Natural Science. The programs focus on the study of natural and managed ecosystems and includes basic ecology, evolutionary biology, wildlife management, forestry, and agriculture.
The Biological Station's resident faculty hold joint appointments with appropriate departments and teach courses both at the Station and on the main campus. Field oriented courses and research experience in the biological sciences are offered at the Station during the summer session.
Research facilities are provided for students who are candidates for Master of Science and Doctor of Philosophy degrees and for postdoctoral research associates. Residence may be established upon approval of the research problem and the sponsorship of a resident faculty member.
Thesis or dissertation research is supervised by the candidate's major professor, the guidance committee, and, if not otherwise included, a member of the resident faculty at the Biological Station. Investigations by independent researchers from MSU and other institutions are encouraged throughout the year.
Information concerning the instructional program and research opportunities may be obtained by writing the Director, W.K. Kellogg Biological Station, Hickory Corners, Michigan 49060–9516.
Yang Wang, Chairperson
Mathematics, which may partially be defined as the science of number and form, is a vital tool in all branches of knowledge the University covers, from accounting to zoology. Mathematics is also studied for its own sake by those who become fascinated by the results of modern mathematics and the making of new discoveries. The department offers a wide variety of courses that begin with extensions of high school mathematics and reach to the frontiers of mathematical knowledge.
Mathematics majors can build their programs in many different ways to pursue a career path of their choice. The department offers several Honors sequences, so that highly motivated mathematics students will find challenging programs. Students in mathematics, regardless of their major preferences, are encouraged to consult with the department before registration concerning the possibility of advanced placement or enrollment in honors sections.
The Department of Mathematics offers several degree opportunities. These opportunities include a Bachelor of Arts or Bachelor of Science in Mathematics; a Bachelor of Arts or Bachelor of Science in Mathematics, Advanced; a Bachelor of Arts or Bachelor of Science in Computational Mathematics, and a Bachelor of Science in Actuarial Science. Bachelor of Arts degree programs require a higher level of foreign language competency while Bachelor of Science degree program requirements require proficiency in science greater than the established minimum in the college.
The Bachelor of Science degree in Actuarial Science prepares students to work in insurance companies, banks, investment firms, government agencies, hospitals, and business firms where there is a need to weigh the financial consequences of risk. Course work is designed to provide the academic background for successful completion of five of the examinations of the Society of Actuaries (SOA): Exam P/1, Exam FM/2, Exams MLC/3 and MFE/3, and Exam C/4, including completion of the Validation by Educational Experience (VEE) course work in applied statistics, corporate finance, and economics. Completion of these SOA exams and VEE courses is required for those intending to become an Associate of the Society of Actuaries.
The Bachelor of Arts and Bachelor of Science Degree in Mathematics, Advanced is designed to prepare mathematically talented students for additional studies in top graduate schools or to pursue rewarding careers in the mathematical sciences and related fields. While much of the course work is honors, students are not required to be a member of The Honors College. Students will often be eligible, as early as their junior year, to take graduate-level mathematics course work, although none is required for the degree.
A Minor in Mathematics and a Specialization in Actuarial Science are also available.
Requirements for the Bachelor of Science Degree in Actuarial Science
- The University requirements for bachelor’s degrees as described in the Undergraduate Education section of this catalog; 120 credits, including general elective credits, are required for the Bachelor of Science degree in Actuarial Science.
The University’s Tier II writing requirement for the Actuarial Science major is met by completing Mathematics 309 or 496. Those courses are referenced in item 3. below.
Students who are enrolled in the College of Natural Science may complete the alternative track to Integrative Studies in Biological and Physical Sciences that is described in item 1. under the heading Graduation Requirements in the College statement. Certain courses referenced in requirement 3. below may be used to satisfy the alternative track. - The requirements of the College of Natural Science for the Bachelor of Science degree.
The credits earned in certain courses referenced in requirement 3. below may be counted toward College requirements as appropriate. - The following requirements for the major:
| a. | One course of at least 3 credits in biological science, entomology, microbiology, physiology, plant biology, or zoology. | |||||||
| b. | One of the following groups of courses (8 or 10 credits): | |||||||
| (1) | CEM | 141 | General Chemistry | 4 | ||||
| CEM | 142 | General and Inorganic Chemistry | 3 | |||||
| CEM | 161 | Chemistry Laboratory I | 1 | |||||
| (2) | CEM | 151 | General and Descriptive Chemistry | 4 | ||||
| CEM | 152 | Principles of Chemistry | 3 | |||||
| CEM | 161 | Chemistry Laboratory I | 1 | |||||
| (3) | CEM | 181H | Honors Chemistry I | 4 | ||||
| CEM | 182H | Honors Chemistry II | 4 | |||||
| CEM | 185H | Honors Chemistry Laboratory I | 2 | |||||
| (4) | LB | 171 | Principles of Chemistry I | 4 | ||||
| LB | 171L | Introductory Chemistry Laboratory I | 1 | |||||
| LB | 172 | Principles of Chemistry II | 3 | |||||
| c. | One of the following groups of courses (6 or 8 credits): | |||||||
| (1) | PHY | 183 | Physics for Scientists and Engineers I | 4 | ||||
| PHY | 184 | Physics for Scientists and Engineers II | 4 | |||||
| (2) | PHY | 193H | Honors Physics I – Mechanics | 3 | ||||
| PHY | 294H | Honors Physics II – Electromagnetism | 3 | |||||
| (3) | LB | 271 | Physics I | 3 | ||||
| LB | 272 | Physics II | 3 | |||||
| d. | One of the following groups of courses (6 to 8 credits): | |||||||
| (1) | MTH | 132 | Calculus I | 3 | ||||
| MTH | 133 | Calculus II | 4 | |||||
| (2) | LB | 118 | Calculus I | 4 | ||||
| LB | 119 | Calculus II | 4 | |||||
| (3) | MTH | 152H | Honors Calculus I | 3 | ||||
| MTH | 153H | Honors Calculus II | 3 | |||||
| e. | One of the following courses (3 or 4 credits): | |||||||
| LB | 220 | Calculus III | 4 | |||||
| MTH | 234 | Multivariable Calculus | 4 | |||||
| MTH | 254H | Honors Multivariable Calculus | 3 | |||||
| f. | One of the following courses (3 credits): | |||||||
| MTH | 235 | Differential Equations | 3 | |||||
| MTH | 255H | Honors Differential Equations | 3 | |||||
| MTH | 340 | Ordinary Differential Equations I | 3 | |||||
| g. | One of the following courses (1 credit): | |||||||
| MTH | 490 | Directed Studies | 1 | |||||
| MTH | 491B | Teamwork Experience | 1 | |||||
| h. | All of the following courses ( 21 credits): | |||||||
| MTH | 309 | Linear Algebra I | 3 | |||||
| MTH | 360 | Theory of Mathematical Interest | 3 | |||||
| MTH | 458 | Financial Mathematics for Actuaries | 3 | |||||
| STT | 441 | Probability and Statistics I: Probability | 3 | |||||
| STT | 455 | Actuarial Models I | 3 | |||||
| STT | 456 | Actuarial Models II | 3 | |||||
| STT | 459 | Construction and Evaluation of Actuarial Models | 3 | |||||
| i. | One of the following courses (3 credits): | |||||||
| MTH | 457 | Introduction to Financial Mathematics | 3 | |||||
| STT | 442 | Probability and Statistics II: Statistics | 3 | |||||
| j. | One of the following courses (3 credits): | |||||||
| MTH | 491A | Actuarial Internship | 3 | |||||
| MTH | 496 | Capstone in Mathematics | 3 | |||||
| k. | All of the following courses (18 credits): | |||||||
| ACC | 230 | Survey of Accounting Concepts | 3 | |||||
| EC | 201 | Introduction to Microeconomics | 3 | |||||
| EC | 202 | Introduction to Macroeconomics | 3 | |||||
| FI | 311 | Financial Management | 3 | |||||
| FI | 321 | Theory of Investments | 3 | |||||
| FI | 379 | Financial Derivatives (D) | 3 | |||||
| l. | One of the following courses (3 or 4 credits): | |||||||
| CSE | 131 | Technical Computing and Problem Solving | 3 | |||||
| CSE | 231 | Introduction to Programming I | 4 | |||||
Requirements for the Bachelor of Science Degree in Computational Mathematics
- The University requirements for bachelor's degrees as described in the Undergraduate Education section of this catalog; 120 credits, including general elective credits, are required for the Bachelor of Science degree in Computational Mathematics.
The University's Tier II writing requirement for the Computational Mathematics major is met by completing Mathematics 309 or 310 and 496. Those courses are referenced in item 3. c. (1) below.
Students who are in the teacher certification program are required to complete Mathematics 330 or 432 and Statistics and Probability 430.
Students who are enrolled in the College of Natural Science may complete the alternative track to Integrative Studies in Biological and Physical Sciences that is described in item 1. under the heading Graduation Requirements in the College statement. Certain courses referenced in requirement 3. below may be used to satisfy the alternative track. - The requirements of the College of Natural Science for the Bachelor of Science degree.
The credits earned in certain courses referenced in requirement 3. below may be counted toward College requirements as appropriate. - The following requirements for the major:
a. The following courses outside the Department of Mathematics (28 or 29 credits): (1) One course of at least 3 credits in biological science, entomology, microbiology, physiology, plant biology, or zoology. At least 2 credits in laboratory in biological science, chemistry, entomology, microbiology, physiology, plant biology, or zoology. Any course noted in item (2) (c) below may count towards the 2 credit laboratory requirement. (2) One course from each of the following groups (8 or 10 credits): (a) CEM 141 General Chemistry 4 CEM 151 General and Descriptive Chemistry 4 CEM 181H Honors Chemistry I 4 LB 171 Principles of Chemistry I 4 (b) CEM 142 General and Inorganic Chemistry 3 CEM 152 Principles of Chemistry 3 CEM 182H Honors Chemistry II 4 LB 172 Principles of Chemistry II 3 (c) CEM 161 Chemistry Laboratory I 3 CEM 185H Honors Chemistry Laboratory I 2 LB 171L Introductory Chemistry Laboratory I 1 (3) Both of the following courses (8 credits): CSE 231 Introduction to Programming I 4 CSE 232 Introduction to Programming II 4 (4) One course from each of the following groups (8 credits): (a) PHY 183 Physics for Scientists and Engineers I 4 LB 273 Physics I 4 (b) PHY 184 Physics for Scientists and Engineers II 4 LB 274 Physics II 4 b. First–year competency in a foreign language or For students, who have been admitted to the teacher certification program, completion of the Professional Education Courses in the Department of Teacher Education. c. A total of 33 to 40 credits in courses in the Department of Mathematics including: (1) One course from each of the following two groups (6 to 8 credits): (a) MTH 132 Calculus I 3 MTH 152H Honors Calculus 3 LB 118 Calculus I 4 (b) MTH 133 Calculus II 4 MTH 153H Honors Calculus II 3 LB 119 Calculus II 4 (2) One of the following courses (3 or 4 credits): MTH 234 Multivariable Calculus 4 MTH 254H Honors Multivariable Calculus 3 LB 220 Calculus III 4 (3) One of the following two groups (3 or 7 credits): (a) MTH 299 Transitions 4 MTH 309 Linear Algebra I 3 (b) MTH 317H Advanced Linear Algebra 3 (4) One course from each of the following groups (6 credits): (a) MTH 310 Abstract Algebra I and Number Theory 3 MTH 418H Honors Algebra I 3 (b) MTH 320 Analysis I 3 MTH 327H Honors Introduction to Analysis 3 (5) All of the following courses (9 credits): MTH 451 Numerical Analysis I 3 MTH 481 Discrete Mathematics I 3 MTH 496 Capstone in Mathematics 3 The completion of Mathematics 496 satisfies the capstone course requirement of the computational mathematics major. (6) One of the following courses (3 credits): MTH 452 Numerical Analysis I 3 MTH 482 Discrete Mathematics II 3 (7) One of the following courses (3 credits): MTH 235 Differential Equations 3 MTH 340 Ordinary Differential Equations I 3 MTH 347H Advanced Ordinary Differential Equations 3 d. At least one of the following courses (3 credits): Students who select Mathematics 452 or 482 may count the credits toward either requirement 3.c.(6) or 3.d. but not toward both of those requirements. Approval of the Department of Computer Science and Engineering is required to enroll in Computer Science and Engineering 331 and 440. CSE 331 Algorithms and Data Structures 3 CSE 440 Introduction to Artificial Intelligence 3 MTH 360 Theory of Mathematical Interest 3 MTH 415 Applied Linear Algebra 3 MTH 416 Introduction to Algebraic Coding 3 MTH 441 Ordinary Differential Equations II 3 MTH 452 Numerical Analysis II 3 MTH 457 Introduction to Financial Mathematics 3 MTH 472 Mathematical Logic 3 MTH 482 Discrete Mathematics II 3 STT 351 Probability and Statistics for Engineering 3 STT 430 Introduction to Probability and Statistics 3 STT 441 Probability and Statistics I: Probability 3 STT 455 Actuarial Models 3 STT 461 Computations in Probability and Statistics 3
Requirements for the Bachelor of Arts Degree in Computational Mathematics
- The University requirements for bachelor's degrees as described in the Undergraduate Education section of this catalog; 120 credits, including general elective credits, are required for the Bachelor of Arts degree in Computational Mathematics.
The University's Tier II writing requirement for the Computational Mathematics major is met by completing Mathematics 309 or 310 and 496. Those courses are referenced in item 3.c.(1) below.
Students who are in the teacher certification program are required to complete Mathematics 330 or 432 and Statistics and Probability 430.
Students who are enrolled in the College of Natural Science may complete the alternative track to Integrative Studies in Biological and Physical Sciences that is described in item 1. under the heading Graduation Requirements in the College statement. Certain courses referenced in requirement 3. below may be used to satisfy the alternative track. - The requirements of the College of Natural Science for the Bachelor of Arts degree.
The credits earned in certain courses referenced in requirement 3. below may be counted toward College requirements as appropriate. - The following requirements for the major:
a. The following courses outside the Department of Mathematics (21 credits): (1) One course of at least 3 credits in biological science, entomology, microbiology, physiology, plant biology, or zoology. (2) One of the following courses (4 credits): LB 273 Physics I 4 PHY 183 Physics for Scientists and Engineers I 4 (3) One of the following courses (4 credits): CEM 141 General Chemistry 4 CEM 151 General and Descriptive Chemistry 4 CEM 181H Honors Chemistry I 4 LB 171 Principles of Chemistry I 4 (4) Both of the following courses (8 credits): CSE 231 Introduction to Programming I 4 CSE 232 Introduction to Programming II 4 b. Second–year competency in a foreign language. or For students, who have been admitted to the teacher certification program, first-year competency in a foreign language and completion of the Professional Education Courses in the Department of Teacher Education. c. A total of 33 to 40 credits in courses in the Department of Mathematics including: (1) One course from each of the following two groups (6 to 8 credits): (a) MTH 132 Calculus I 3 MTH 152H Honors Calculus 3 LB 118 Calculus I 4 (b) MTH 133 Calculus II 4 MTH 153H Honors Calculus II 3 LB 119 Calculus II 4 (2) One of the following courses (3 or 4 credits): MTH 234 Multivariable Calculus 4 MTH 254H Honors Multivariable Calculus 3 LB 220 Calculus III 4 (3) One of the following two groups (3 or 7 credits): (a) MTH 299 Transitions 4 MTH 309 Linear Algebra I 3 (b) MTH 317H Advanced Linear Algebra 3 (4) One course from each of the following groups (6 credits): (a) MTH 310 Abstract Algebra I and Number Theory 3 MTH 418H Honors Algebra I 3 (b) MTH 320 Analysis I 3 MTH 327H Honors Introduction to Analysis 3 (5) All of the following courses (9 credits): MTH 451 Numerical Analysis I 3 MTH 481 Discrete Mathematics I 3 MTH 496 Capstone in Mathematics 3 (6) One of the following courses (3 credits): MTH 452 Numerical Analysis I 3 MTH 482 Discrete Mathematics II 3 (7) One of the following courses (3 credits): MTH 235 Differential Equations 3 MTH 340 Ordinary Differential Equations I 3 MTH 347H Advanced Ordinary Differential Equations 3 d. At least one of the following courses (3 credits): Students who select Mathematics 452 or 482 may count the credits toward either requirement 3.c.(6) or 3.d. but not toward both of those requirements. Approval of the Department of Computer Science and Engineering is required to enroll in Computer Science and Engineering 331 and 440. CSE 331 Algorithms and Data Structures 3 CSE 440 Introduction to Artificial Intelligence 3 MTH 360 Theory of Mathematical Interest 3 MTH 415 Applied Linear Algebra 3 MTH 416 Introduction to Algebraic Coding 3 MTH 441 Ordinary Differential Equations II 3 MTH 452 Numerical Analysis II 3 MTH 457 Introduction to Financial Mathematics 3 MTH 472 Mathematical Logic 3 MTH 482 Discrete Mathematics II 3 STT 351 Probability and Statistics for Engineering 3 STT 430 Introduction to Probability and Statistics 3 STT 441 Probability and Statistics I: Probability 3 STT 455 Actuarial Models 3 STT 461 Computations in Probability and Statistics 3
Requirements for the Bachelor of Science Degree in Mathematics
- The University requirements for bachelor's degrees as described in the Undergraduate Education section of this catalog; 120 credits, including general elective credits, are required for the Bachelor of Science degree in Mathematics.
The University's Tier II writing requirement for the Mathematics major is met by completing Mathematics 396 or 496 and Mathematics 309 or 310 or 418H. Those courses are referenced in item 3.c. below.
Students who are enrolled in the College of Natural Science may complete the alternative track to Integrative Studies in Biological and Physical Sciences that is described in item 1. under the heading Graduation Requirements in the College statement. Certain courses referenced in requirement 3. below may be used to satisfy the alternative track. - The requirements of the College of Natural Science for the Bachelor of Science degree.
The credits earned in certain courses referenced in requirement 3. below may be counted toward College requirements as appropriate. - The following requirements for the major:
a. The following courses outside the Department of Mathematics (20 or 21 credits): (1) One course of at least 3 credits in biological science, entomology, microbiology, physiology, plant biology, or zoology. At least 2 credits in laboratory in biological science, chemistry, entomology, microbiology, physics, physiology, plant biology, or zoology. (2) One course from each of the following groups (8 or 10 credits): (a) CEM 141 General Chemistry 4 CEM 151 General and Descriptive Chemistry 4 CEM 181H Honors Chemistry I 4 LB 171 Principles of Chemistry I 4 (b) CEM 142 General and Inorganic Chemistry 3 CEM 152 Principles of Chemistry 3 CEM 182H Honors Chemistry II 4 LB 172 Principles of Chemistry II 3 (c) CEM 161 Chemistry Laboratory I 1 CEM 185H Honors Chemistry Laboratory I 2 LB 171L Introductory Chemistry Laboratory I 2 (3) One course from each of the following groups (8 credits): (a) PHY 183 Physics for Scientists and Engineers I 4 LB 273 Physics I 4 (b) PHY 184 Physics for Scientists and Engineers II 4 LB 274 Physics II 4 b. First–year competency in a foreign language or For students who have been admitted to the teacher certification program, completion of the Professional Education Courses in the Department of Teacher Education. c. A total of 36 to 43 credits in courses in the Department of Mathematics including
(36 to 43 credits):(1) One course from each of the following two groups (6 to 8 credits): (a) MTH 132 Calculus I 3 MTH 152H Honors Calculus 3 LB 118 Calculus I 4 (b) MTH 133 Calculus II 4 MTH 153H Honors Calculus II 3 LB 119 Calculus II 4 (2) One of the following courses (3 or 4 credits): MTH 234 Multivariable Calculus 4 MTH 254H Honors Multivariable Calculus 3 LB 220 Calculus III 4 (3) One of the following two groups (3 or 7 credits): (a) MTH 299 Transitions 4 MTH 309 Linear Algebra I 3 (b) MTH 317H Advanced Linear Algebra 3 (4) The following course (3 credits): MTH 496 Capstone in Mathematics 3 The completion of Mathematics 496 fulfills the department's capstone course requirement. Students in the teacher certification program may substitute Mathematics 396 Capstone in Mathematics for Secondary Education for Mathematics 496. (5) A total of 27 credits in approved Mathematics courses at the 300-level or above. At least four of the approved Mathematics courses must be at the 400-level or above. Mathematics 415, 424, and 443 may not be used to fulfill the requirements of the major. Students may use no more than one of Mathematics 309, 314, 317H to satisfy this requirement. One course from a list of approved cognates available in the Department of Mathematics may be used to satisfy this requirement. Statistics and Probability 430 is required for students in the teacher certification program. Either Statistics and Probability 430 or 441 may be substituted for one 300-level mathematics course. The 300-400 level courses as referenced in item 3. c. partially satisfy this requirement. (6) One of the following groups of courses (6 credits): (a) MTH 310 Abstract Algebra I and Number Theory 3 MTH 411 Abstract Algebra II 3 Mathematics 414 or 417 or 418H or 481 may be substituted for Mathematics 411. (b) MTH 418H Honors Algebra I 3 MTH 419H Honors Algebra II 3 (7) One of the following pairs of courses (6 credits): (a) MTH 320 Analysis I 3 MTH 421 Analysis II 3 Mathematics 425 or 441 or 442 may be substituted for Mathematics 421. Mathematics 327H may be substituted for Mathematics 320. (b) MTH 327H Honors Introduction to Analysis 3 MTH 429H Honors Analysis II 3 (8) One of the following courses (3 credits): MTH 330 Higher Geometry 3 MTH 340 Ordinary Differential Equations I 3 MTH 347H Advanced Ordinary Differential Equations 3 MTH 432 Axiomatic Geometry 3 Students in the teacher certification program must take either Mathematics 330 or 432. Students not in the teacher certification program must take Mathematics 340 or 347H. Students not in the teacher certification program with prior credit in Mathematics 235 or 255H may substitute an approved 400-level Mathematics course for Mathematics 340.
Requirements for the Bachelor of Arts Degree in Mathematics
- The University requirements for bachelor's degrees as described in the Undergraduate Education section of this catalog; 120 credits, including general elective credits, are required for the Bachelor of Arts degree in Mathematics.
The University's Tier II writing requirement for the Mathematics major is met by completing Mathematics 396 or 496 and Mathematics 309 or 310 or 418H. Those courses are referenced in items 3. c. (1) and 3. c. (3) below.
Students who are enrolled in the College of Natural Science may complete the alternative track to Integrative Studies in Biological and Physical Sciences that is described in item 1. under the heading Graduation Requirements in the College statement. Certain courses referenced in requirement 3. below may be used to satisfy the alternative track. - The requirements of the College of Natural Science for the Bachelor of Arts degree.
The credits earned in certain courses referenced in requirement 3. below may be counted toward College requirements as appropriate. - The following requirements for the major:
a. The following courses outside the Department of Mathematics (13 credits): (1) One course of at least 3 credits in biological science, entomology, microbiology, physiology, plant biology, or zoology. At least 2 credits in laboratory in biological science, chemistry, entomology, microbiology, physics, physiology, plant biology, or zoology. (2) One of the following courses (4 credits): LB 273 Physics I 4 PHY 183 Physics for Scientists and Engineers I 4 (3) One of the following courses (4 credits): CEM 141 General Chemistry 4 CEM 151 General and Descriptive Chemistry 4 CEM 181H Honors Chemistry I 4 LB 171 Principles of Chemistry I 4 b. Second–year competency in a foreign language or For students who have been admitted to the teacher certification program, first–year competency in a foreign language and completion of the Professional Education Courses in the Department of Teacher Education. c. A total of 36 to 43 credits in courses in the Department of Mathematics including
(36 to 43 credits):(1) One course from each of the following two groups (6 to 8 credits): (a) MTH 132 Calculus I 3 MTH 152H Honors Calculus 3 LB 118 Calculus I 4 (b) MTH 133 Calculus II 4 MTH 153H Honors Calculus II 3 LB 119 Calculus II 4 (2) One of the following courses (3 or 4 credits): MTH 234 Multivariable Calculus 4 MTH 254H Honors Multivariable Calculus 3 LB 220 Calculus III 4 (3) One of the following two groups (3 or 7 credits): (a) MTH 299 Transitions 4 MTH 309 Linear Algebra I 3 (b) MTH 317H Advanced Linear Algebra 3 (4) The following course (3 credits): MTH 496 Capstone in Mathematics 3 The completion of Mathematics 496 fulfills the department's capstone course requirement. Students in the teacher certification program may substitute Mathematics 396 Capstone in Mathematics for Secondary Education for Mathematics 496. (5) A total of 27 credits in approved Mathematics courses at the 300–level or above. At least 4 of the approved Mathematics courses must be at the 400–level or above. Mathematics 415, 424, and 443 may not be used to fulfill the requirements of the major. Students may use no more than one of MTH 309, 314, 317H to satisfy this requirement. One course from a list of approved cognates available in the Department of Mathematics may be used to satisfy this requirement. Statistics and Probability 430 is required for students in the teacher certification program. Either Statistics and Probability 430 or 441 may be substituted for one 300-level mathematics course. The 300-400 level courses referenced in item 3. c. partially satisfy this requirement. (6) One of the following groups of courses (6 credits): (a) MTH 310 Abstract Algebra I and Number Theory 3 MTH 411 Abstract Algebra II 3 Mathematics 414 or 417 or 418H or 481 may be substituted for Mathematics 411. (b) MTH 418H Honors Algebra I 3 MTH 419H Honors Algebra II 3 (7) One of the following pairs of courses (6 credits): (a) MTH 320 Analysis I 3 MTH 421 Analysis II 3 Mathematics 425 or 441 or 442 may be substituted for Mathematics 421. Mathematics 327H may be substituted for Mathematics 320. (b) MTH 327H Honors Introduction to Analysis 3 MTH 429H Honors Analysis II 3 (8) One of the following courses (3 credits): MTH 330 Higher Geometry 3 MTH 340 Ordinary Differential Equations I 3 MTH 347H Advanced Ordinary Differential Equations 3 MTH 432 Axiomatic Geometry 3 Students in the teacher certification program must take either Mathematics 330 or 432. Students not in the teacher certification program must take Mathematics 340 or 347H. Students not in the teacher certification program with prior credit in Mathematics 235 or 255H may substitute an approved 400-level Mathematics course for Mathematics 340.
Requirements for the Bachelor of Arts Degree in Mathematics, Advanced
- The University requirements for bachelor’s degrees as described in the Undergraduate Education section of this catalog; 120 credits, including general elective credits, are required for the Bachelor of Science degree in Mathematics, Advanced.
The University’s Tier II writing requirement for the Mathematics, Advanced major is met by completing Mathematics 418H and 496. Those courses are referenced in item 3. below.
Students who are enrolled in the College of Natural Science may complete the alternative track to Integrative Studies in Biological and Physical Sciences that is described in item 1. under the heading Graduation Requirements in the College statement. Certain courses referenced in requirement 3. below may be used to satisfy the alternative track. - The requirements of the College of Natural Science for the Bachelor of Arts degree.
The credits earned in certain courses referenced in requirement 3. below may be counted toward College requirements as appropriate. - The following requirements for the major:
| a. | The following courses outside the Department of Mathematics (12 or 13 credits): | |||||||
| (1) | One course of at least 3 credits in biological science, entomology, microbiology, physiology, plant biology, or zoology. | |||||||
| (2) | One of the following courses (4 credits): | |||||||
| CEM | 141 | General Chemistry | 4 | |||||
| CEM | 151 | General and Descriptive Chemistry | 4 | |||||
| CEM | 181H | Honors Chemistry I | 4 | |||||
| LB | 171 | Principles of Chemistry I | 4 | |||||
| (3) | One of the following courses (3 or 4 credits): | |||||||
| PHY | 183 | Physics for Scientists and Engineers I | 4 | |||||
| PHY | 193H | Honors Physics I – Mechanics | 3 | |||||
| LB | 273 | Physics I | 4 | |||||
| (4) | One 2 credit laboratory course. | |||||||
| b. | Second-year competency in a foreign language | |||||||
| or | ||||||||
| For students who have been admitted to the teacher certification program, completion of the Professional Education Courses in the Department of Teacher Education and first-year competency in a foreign language. | ||||||||
| c. | A total of 34 to 37 credits in courses in the Department of Mathematics including: | |||||||
| (1) | One of the following courses (3 or 4 credits): | |||||||
| MTH | 132 | Calculus I | 3 | |||||
| MTH | 152H | Honors Calculus I | 3 | |||||
| LB | 118 | Calculus I | 4 | |||||
| (2) | One of the following courses (3 or 4 credits): | |||||||
| MTH | 133 | Calculus II | 4 | |||||
| MTH | 153H | Honors Calculus II | 3 | |||||
| LB | 119 | Calculus II | 4 | |||||
| (3) | One of the following courses (3 or 4 credits): | |||||||
| MTH | 234 | Multivariable Calculus | 4 | |||||
| MTH | 254H | Honors Multivariable Calculus | 3 | |||||
| LB | 220 | Calculus III | 4 | |||||
| (4) | All of the following courses (25 credits): | |||||||
| MTH | 291 | Mathematics Snapshots | 1 | |||||
| MTH | 317H | Advanced Linear Algebra | 3 | |||||
| MTH | 327H | Introduction to Advanced Analysis | 3 | |||||
| MTH | 347H | Advanced Ordinary Differential Equations | 3 | |||||
| MTH | 418H | Honors Algebra I | 3 | |||||
| MTH | 419H | Honors Algebra II | 3 | |||||
| MTH | 428H | Honors Analysis I | 3 | |||||
| MTH | 429H | Honors Analysis II | 3 | |||||
| MTH | 496 | Capstone in Mathematics | 3 | |||||
| The completion of Mathematics 496 fulfills the department’s capstone course requirement. | ||||||||
| d. | A total of 12 credits in approved courses with substantive high-level quantitative material at the 400-level or above. Up to 9 of these 12 credits may be satisfied by courses in departments other than Mathematics as approved by the student’s academic advisor. Students in the teacher certification program must take Mathematics 432 to fulfill part of this elective requirement. Students in the teacher certification program must also take STT 430 which may not be counted as part of this requirement. |
|||||||
Requirements for the Bachelor of Science Degree in Mathematics, Advanced
- The University requirements for bachelor’s degrees as described in the Undergraduate Education section of this catalog; 120 credits, including general elective credits, are required for the Bachelor of Science degree in Mathematics, Advanced.
The University’s Tier II writing requirement for the Mathematics, Advanced major is met by completing Mathematics 418H and 496. Those courses are referenced in item 3. below.
Students who are enrolled in the College of Natural Science may complete the alternative track to Integrative Studies in Biological and Physical Sciences that is described in item 1. under the heading Graduation Requirements in the College statement. Certain courses referenced in requirement 3. below may be used to satisfy the alternative track. - The requirements of the College of Natural Science for the Bachelor of Science degree.
The credits earned in certain courses referenced in requirement 3. below may be counted toward College requirements as appropriate. - The following requirements for the major:
| a. | The following courses outside the Department of Mathematics (17 to 21 credits): | |||||||
| (1) | One course of at least 3 credits in biological science, entomology, microbiology, physiology, plant biology, or zoology. | |||||||
| (2) | One of the following groups of courses (8 or 10 credits): | |||||||
| (a) | CEM | 141 | General Chemistry | 4 | ||||
| CEM | 142 | General and Inorganic Chemistry | 3 | |||||
| CEM | 161 | Chemistry Laboratory I | 1 | |||||
| (b) | CEM | 151 | General and Descriptive Chemistry | 4 | ||||
| CEM | 152 | Principles of Chemistry | 3 | |||||
| CEM | 161 | Chemistry Laboratory I | 1 | |||||
| (c) | CEM | 181H | Honors Chemistry I | 4 | ||||
| CEM | 182H | Honors Chemistry II | 4 | |||||
| CEM | 185H | Honors Chemistry Laboratory I | 2 | |||||
| (d) | LB | 171 | Principles of Chemistry I | 4 | ||||
| LB | 172 | Principles of Chemistry II | 3 | |||||
| LB | 171L | Introductory Chemistry Laboratory I | 1 | |||||
| (3) | One of the following groups of courses (6 or 8 credits): | |||||||
| (a) | PHY | 183 | Physics for Scientists and Engineers I | 4 | ||||
| PHY | 184 | Physics for Scientists and Engineers II | 4 | |||||
| (b) | PHY | 193H | Honors Physics I – Mechanics | 3 | ||||
| PHY | 294H | Honors Physics II – Electromagnetism | 3 | |||||
| (c) | LB | 271 | Physics I | 3 | ||||
| LB | 272 | Physics II | 3 | |||||
| b. | First-year competency in a foreign language | |||||||
| or | ||||||||
| For students who have been admitted to the teacher certification program, completion of the Professional Education Courses in the Department of Teacher Education. | ||||||||
| c. | A total of 34 to 37 credits in courses in the Department of Mathematics including: | |||||||
| (1) | One of the following courses (3 or 4 credits): | |||||||
| MTH | 132 | Calculus I | 3 | |||||
| MTH | 152H | Honors Calculus I | 3 | |||||
| LB | 118 | Calculus I | 4 | |||||
| (2) | One of the following courses (3 or 4 credits): | |||||||
| MTH | 133 | Calculus II | 4 | |||||
| MTH | 153H | Honors Calculus II | 3 | |||||
| LB | 119 | Calculus II | 4 | |||||
| (3) | One of the following courses (3 or 4 credits): | |||||||
| MTH | 234 | Multivariable Calculus | 4 | |||||
| MTH | 254H | Honors Multivariable Calculus | 3 | |||||
| LB | 220 | Calculus III | 4 | |||||
| (4) | All of the following courses (25 credits): | |||||||
| MTH | 291 | Mathematics Snapshots | 1 | |||||
| MTH | 317H | Advanced Linear Algebra | 3 | |||||
| MTH | 327H | Introduction to Advanced Analysis | 3 | |||||
| MTH | 347H | Advanced Ordinary Differential Equations | 3 | |||||
| MTH | 418H | Honors Algebra I | 3 | |||||
| MTH | 419H | Honors Algebra II | 3 | |||||
| MTH | 428H | Honors Analysis I | 3 | |||||
| MTH | 429H | Honors Analysis II | 3 | |||||
| MTH | 496 | Capstone in Mathematics | 3 | |||||
| The completion of Mathematics 496 fulfills the department’s capstone course requirement. | ||||||||
| d. | A total of 12 credits in approved courses with substantive high-level quantitative material at the 400-level or above. Up to 9 of these 12 credits may be satisfied by courses in departments other than Mathematics as approved by the student’s academic advisor. Students in the teacher certification program must take Mathematics 432 to fulfill part of this elective requirement. Students in the teacher certification program must also take STT 430 which may not be counted as part of this requirement. | |||||||
The Minor in Mathematics, which is administered by the Department of Mathematics, will broaden students’ understanding and application of mathematical concepts to their chosen field of study.
The minor is available as an elective to students who are enrolled in bachelor’s degree programs at Michigan State University other than the Bachelor of Arts and Bachelor of Science Degree in Mathematics. With the approval of the department and college that administer the student’s degree program, the courses that are used to satisfy the minor may also be used to satisfy the requirements for the bachelor’s degree. At least 12 unique credits counted towards the requirements for a student’s minor must not be used to fulfill the requirements for that student’s major.
Students who plan to complete the requirements of the minor should consult the undergraduate advisor in the Department of Mathematics.
Requirements for the Minor in Mathematics
Complete the following (21 to 28 credits):
| 1. | One of the following courses (3 or 4 credits): | ||||||
| LB | 118 | Calculus I | 4 | ||||
| MTH | 132 | Calculus I | 3 | ||||
| MTH | 152H | Honors Calculus I | 3 | ||||
| 2. | One of the following courses (3 or 4 credits): | ||||||
| LB | 119 | Calculus II | 4 | ||||
| MTH | 133 | Calculus II | 4 | ||||
| MTH | 153H | Honors Calculus II | 3 | ||||
| 3. | One of the following courses (3 or 4 credits): | ||||||
| LB | 220 | Calculus III | 4 | ||||
| MTH | 234 | Multivariable Calculus | 4 | ||||
| MTH | 254H | Honors Multivariable Calculus | 3 | ||||
| 4. | One of the following groups of courses (3 to 7 credits): | ||||||
| (a) | MTH | 299 | Transitions | 4 | |||
| MTH | 309 | Linear Algebra I | 3 | ||||
| (b) | MTH | 317H | Advanced Linear Algebra | 3 | |||
| 5. | All of the following courses (9 credits): | ||||||
| MTH | 310 | Abstract Algebra I and Number Theory | 3 | ||||
| MTH | 320 | Analysis I | 3 | ||||
| One 400-level mathematics course approved by the student's advisor | 3 | ||||||
The Specialization in Actuarial Science, which is administered by the Department of Mathematics within the College of Natural Science, is available as an elective to students who are enrolled in any bachelor’s degree program at Michigan State University. This specialization complements a number of major fields such as mathematics, statistics and probability, finance, and economics. It is intended to prepare students for work in insurance companies, banks, investment firms, government work, hospitals and business firms where there is a need to weigh the financial consequences of risk. The Specialization in Actuarial Science prepares students for two of the examinations of the Society of Actuaries (SOA): Exam P/1 and Exam FM/2. With the approval of the department that administers the student’s degree program, courses that are used to satisfy the requirements for the specialization may also be used to satisfy the requirements for the bachelor’s degree.
Requirements for the Specialization in Actuarial Science
The student must complete all of the following courses (21 credits):
| 1. | All of the following courses (18 credits): | ||||||
| FI | 311 | Financial Management | 3 | ||||
| FI | 321 | Theory of Investments | 3 | ||||
| FI | 379 | Advanced Derivatives (D) | 3 | ||||
| MTH | 360 | Theory of Mathematical Interest | 3 | ||||
| STT | 441 | Probability and Statistics I: Probability | 3 | ||||
| STT | 455 | Actuarial Models | 3 | ||||
| 2. | One of the following courses (3 credits): | ||||||
| MTH | 457 | Introduction to Financial Mathematics | 3 | ||||
| STT | 442 | Probability and Statistics II: Statistics | 3 | ||||
The mathematics disciplinary majors leading to the Bachelor of Arts and Bachelor of Science degrees are available for teacher certification. The mathematics, advanced major leading to the Bachelor of Arts or Bachelor of Science degree is also available for secondary teacher certification.
A mathematics-elementary and mathematics-secondary disciplinary minor are also available for teacher certification.
Students who elect a mathematics or mathematics, advanced disciplinary major or the mathematics-elementary or mathematics-secondary disciplinary minor must contact the Department of Mathematics.
For additional information, refer to the statement on TEACHER CERTIFICATION in the Department of Teacher Education section of this catalog.
The Department of Mathematics offers graduate work leading to the degrees of Master of Science in Mathematics, Applied Mathematics, and Industrial Mathematics, and Master of Arts for Teachers. The Department also offers graduate work leading to the degrees of Doctor of Philosophy in Mathematics, and Applied Mathematics.
In addition to meeting the requirements of the university and of the College of Natural Science, students must meet the requirements specified below.
Admission
To be admitted to the Master of Science degree program in applied mathematics, a person should have completed (1) the mathematics or applied mathematics courses normally required for the bachelor's degree with a major in mathematics, physics, or engineering, (2) a minimum of a year's work in mathematical analysis at the senior year level, and (3) courses in matrices and linear algebra.
Requirements for the Master of Science Degree in Applied Mathematics
The student must complete a total of 30 credits for the degree under Plan B (without thesis). The student's program of study must be approved by the student's academic advisor and must include:
- At least 24 credits in mathematics courses including:
- At least 6 credits from the following courses: Mathematics 818, 819, 828, 829, 848, 849, 868, 869.
- At least 12 credits in 800–level applied mathematics courses including 6 credits in one of the following groups of courses: Mathematics 841, 842; 848, 849; 850, 851; or 880, 881.
The completion of Mathematics 848 and 849 may be used to satisfy either the requirement referenced in item 1 a. or the requirement referenced in item 1. b., but not both of those requirements.
- At least 18 credits in 800–900 level courses.
In addition to meeting the requirements of the University and of the College of Natural Science, students must meet the requirements specified below.
Admission
Regular admission to the Doctor of Philosophy degree program in applied mathematics presupposes academic preparation equivalent to a Master of Science degree with a major in mathematics with a grade–point average of 3.00 or better. However, a student with a bachelor's degree whose undergraduate preparation is strong may be admitted directly to the program upon passing a qualifying examination.
Requirements for the Doctor of Philosophy Degree in Applied Mathematics
The student must:
- Pass the qualifying examination.
- Complete at least 30 credits in approved 800–900 level mathematics courses excluding courses taken in preparation for the qualifying examination and Mathematics 999; at least 18 of the 30 credits must be in applied mathematics courses.
- Present at least two seminars acceptable to the faculty.
- Pass the comprehensive examination.
- Demonstrate a reading knowledge of one foreign language, normally from among French, German, and Russian, sufficient to read the mathematical literature written in that language.
- Complete a dissertation in applied mathematics.
For detailed information regarding the qualifying and comprehensive examinations, contact the Department of Mathematics.
The degree of Master of Science in Industrial Mathematics is designed to produce generalized problem solvers of great versatility, capable of moving within an organization from task to task. The graduate will have acquired not only the standard mathematical and statistical tools, but also the basic ideas of engineering and business, and will have received training in project development and in modes of industrial communication. The program is for students planning careers in business, government or industry.
Admission
To be admitted to the Master of Science in Industrial Mathematics program, a person should have completed (1) the mathematics or applied mathematics courses normally required for the bachelor’s degree with a major in mathematics, statistics, economics, physics or engineering, (2) courses at the senior level in mathematical analysis, linear algebra and differential equations, and (3) have some familiarity with mathematical software programs such as Mathematica, Matlab, etc.
Students entering the program are expected to have a mathematical preparation at the level of Mathematics 421, 414 and 442. Students with deficiencies may be required to take additional course work.
Requirements for the Master of Science Degree in Industrial Mathematics
In addition to meeting the requirements of the University and the College of Natural Science, the student must complete a total of 36 credits for the degree under Plan B (without thesis). The student’s program of study must be approved by the student’s academic advisor, including:
| 1. | The following requirements for the major (36 credits): | ||||||
| a. | Both of the following courses: | ||||||
| MTH | 843 | Survey of Industrial Mathematics | 3 | ||||
| MTH | 844 | Projects in Industrial Mathematics | 3 | ||||
| b. | A minimum of four of the following courses: | ||||||
| MTH | 810 | Error-Correcting Codes | 3 | ||||
| MTH | 840 | Chaos and Dynamical Systems | 3 | ||||
| MTH | 841 | Boundary Value Problems I | 3 | ||||
| MTH | 842 | Boundary Value Problems II | 3 | ||||
| MTH | 848 | Ordinary Differential Equations | 3 | ||||
| MTH | 849 | Partial Differential Equations | 3 | ||||
| MTH | 850 | Numerical Analysis I | 3 | ||||
| MTH | 851 | Numerical Analysis II | 3 | ||||
| MTH | 852 | Numerical Methods for Ordinary Differential Equations | 3 | ||||
| MTH | 880 | Combinatorics | 3 | ||||
| MTH | 881 | Graph Theory | 3 | ||||
| c. | A minimum of two of the following courses: | ||||||
| STT | 461 | Computations in Probability and Statistics | 3 | ||||
| STT | 801 | Design of Experiments | 3 | ||||
| STT | 843 | Multivariate Analysis | 3 | ||||
| STT | 844 | Time Series Analysis | 3 | ||||
| STT | 847 | Analysis of Survival Data | 3 | ||||
| STT | 861 | Theory of Probability and Statistics I | 3 | ||||
| STT | 862 | Theory of Probability and Statistics II | 3 | ||||


