Overview
Temple University Graduate Students Earn Master's or Doctorate Degrees in Biology through Interdisciplinary Studies
With a choice of two different graduate degree programs in biology, TU offers some of the most comprehensive courses that are directly applicable to modern-day scientific careers. Master of Science students must complete core coursework in molecular biology and genetics, physiology, behavior and neurobiology, and cell and developmental biology. In addition, attending graduate seminars is necessary to complete degree requirements.
M.S. students are also required to choose, propose, and conduct independent research on specific thesis matters to demonstrate their knowledge of the biological sciences. This work is typically completed under the guidance of an advisor and graduate committee. Faculty members and the public may attend a student's defense of her thesis at the end of the program.
The Master's Degree program in Biology at Temple University provides rigorous study and research opportunities in the field of biology. In addition to core requirements, students are encouraged to complete courses in other disciplines. These may include biochemistry, chemistry, computer science, mathematics, and physics. Other special study opportunities are available in conjunction with the Center for Neurovirology and Cancer Research, the neuroscience program, and the environmental studies program. Full-time status is required in order to complete the M.S., and students are given three years to do so.
Students are led through the graduate program under faculty members with a variety of special interests and focus areas. These include aquatic ecology, biochemistry, cell biology, genetics, molecular biology, neurobiology, and virology. Transfer credits from other universities may also be applicable toward required coursework in the program.
Doctorate degree candidates seeking a Ph.D. in Biology at Temple University must complete an additional 19 hours of coursework beyond the Master's requirements. Internships are not required of students, but they must attend five graduate seminars or the equivalent. These seminars feature both faculty and nationally-recognized speakers who travel to campus and speak about contemporary issues in the field of Biological Sciences, as well as modern research techniques and studies being conducted.
Every Ph.D. student is required to teach on TU's campus. Two semesters of teaching are the minimum amount required during the program, and this can be satisfied through a Teaching Assistantship awarded by the Department of Biology. In addition, a proposal for independent dissertation research must be submitted during the fourth semester of the student's program at TU. A complete background of the problem to be addressed, the research required and what it will accomplish must be provided to a graduate committee. This proposal is considered a written exam, and upon passing will lead to an oral exam.
Once approved, the student will conduct independent and original research under the guidance of his or her graduate advising faculty member. This dissertation is meant to demonstrate the student's knowledge of modern research and his or her specific area of expertise and study, and must be defended to the committee and public before the degree is awarded.
Temple University Ph.D. candidates must pursue their degree on a full-time basis, and have seven years to complete the task. The entire program is aimed at preparing students for both teaching and research careers, and future studies. Just as with M.S. students, Ph.D. candidates are encouraged to pursue interdisciplinary studies through coursework in related but separate departments.
Temple University Graduates Find Careers and Work in the Fields of Biotechnology, Health Care, Education, and Government
Upon graduation, M.S. students are considered highly-trained and experts in the field of biological sciences. They will frequently find careers in the health care field, pharmaceuticals, or biotechnology, and may even work for government agencies. Ph.D. graduates also find these areas rewarding, but can secure teaching positions at TU or other Universities.
Financial Aid and Scholarships Contribute to Tuition Fulfillment, in Addition to Graduate Assistantship Positions
In order to help pay for tuition costs, many financial aid and scholarship opportunities exist for TU students. However, specific to the graduate program are assistantships, fellowships, and some internships provided by the department. Teaching assistantships require students to aid faculty in the classroom and laboratory, offering instruction to undergraduate students. Grading students' work and preparing materials for the respective faculty member may also be required.
Research assistantships will vary depending upon the area of study and the faculty member overseeing the program. At least 20 hours per week are expected to be devoted to research, and these positions are awarded on a very competitive basis depending upon the graduate student's focus area and course of study. All assistants at TU are provided up to 9 credit hours per semester of tuition remission and carry a nine-month academic-year stipend. Summer students may also pursue additional seasonal assistantships.
Temple University Offers Graduate Students a Contemporary Education in the Midst of Historical Surroundings
The historical city of Philadelphia and the surrounding thriving community is often what draws many students to the graduate program in biology at TU. When not researching or completing required coursework, students may tour the local city's many landmarks such as the Liberty Bell, or simply enjoy an evening of modern dining and shopping. The state of Pennsylvania also offers many natural getaway options for students looking to hike, bike, or simply explore the countryside on long weekends and vacations from school.
