The M.S. in from Grand Valley State University is a versatile program that allows students to achieve individual goals while serving a diversity of student interests. 

Students have the opportunity to pursue graduate programs in broad areas such as population genetics, organismal biology, aquatic and terrestrial ecology, and natural resources.

• Programs can be tailored for professionals to make them more competitive for job placement or advancement.

• Research opportunities are offered to all graduate students. Some will collaborate with faculty on ongoing research and others will independently find or create research opportunities.

• An individualized, planned program of study established by the student and his/her advisor ensures a unique learning experience designed to meet individual goals.

• The natural resources and aquatic sciences emphases provide opportunities to conduct research and take classes at the Annis Water Resources Institute in Muskegon.

• Available to full- or part-time students. Many classes are offered at times that accommodate the schedules of working professionals. A majority of students receive competitive graduate assistantships that provide a stipend and full tuition waiver, as well as some teaching experience.

Career Options

Just as the field of biology is broad, so is the list of career possibilities for biologists. Many biology careers involve the environment, fisheries and wildlife, and laboratory research. For examples please contact the department.