MS Degree Program
-
The MS Degree
The MS degree may be earned in either of two ways, one (Plan I) requiring a thesis describing the results of a laboratory research project, and the other (Plan II) requiring a comprehensive examination. The majority of MS candidates enroll in the Plan II course work MS degree.
Plan I: Thesis Plan
A minimum of 36 quarter units of graduate and upper division undergraduate courses in or related to biochemistry are required (24 must be graduate level). Preparation and presentation of a thesis that is acceptable to a committee of three faculty members is also required of every candidate for the degree. After a student selects a research advisor, he or she is responsible for approval of courses and a thesis research project, and for guidance on the drafting and completion of an acceptable thesis.
Plan II: Comprehensive Examination Plan
A minimum of 36 quarter units of graduate and upper division undergraduate courses in or related to biochemistry are required (18 must be graduate level). A faculty advisor is responsible, not only for the program of study, but also for guidance in preparation for the comprehensive examination in basic biochemistry. Upon the student's successful performance in the examination, the Program so advises the Dean of the Graduate Division and the MS degree is conferred. The normative time for an MS degree in Plan II is 3 quarters if all prerequisite courses have been completed as an undergraduate.