To obtain the M.S. degree, a student with Full Graduate Standing must complete at least 30 hours of graduate courses beyond the bachelor's degree, must complete a thesis based on original research, and pass a final oral examination.

The student, in consultation with the Major Professor, will determine an area, termed the Specialty Field, that is of prime interest to the student and in which the student wishes to attain a high degree of expertise. The student and Major Professor will also choose at least one Supporting Field that relates to and supplements the field of specialization, such as biochemistry supporting physiology, or microbiology supporting genetics. The final oral examination covers the area of specialization, supporting fields, and the defense of the thesis.