The program is offered by .?Most students conclude their MS studies with a thesis, where the goal is a publishable contribution. The requirements are given below and are subject to completion after entering the masters program.

All graduates will be able to:

1. To prepare students for professional careers:

• Attain knowledge and expertise in core disciplinary areas.
• Think critically and develop creative solutions to scientific problems.
• Effectively communicate the results of their research.
• Become visible members of the scientific community taking organizational and service roles.

2.?To enable students to become effective researchers and teachers:

• Recognize important scientific problems and contribute to solving them.
• Master the field, laboratory, data analysis and theoretical skills necessary to perform the research.
• Write research grant proposals or otherwise obtain research funding (expectation is higher for PhD students).
• Become effective teachers in field, laboratory and lecture-room settings.

3.?To provide scientific leadership and expertise at the local, state and national levels:

• Attract and retain world-class faculty in appropriate disciplinary areas.
• Assist students to engage in outreach activities.
• prepare students to successfully compete for jobs in industry, academia, and government.