BS/MS Accelerated Program, Biotechnology

Program Learning Outcomes

Students will be able to:

• demonstrate extensive knowledge in the areas of biochemistry, molecular biology and cell biology.
• effectively communicate research results in both oral and written form by preparing a written thesis or similar document, and delivering an oral presentation of their work. (C)
• conduct laboratory-based research in the context of biotechnology, including developing and testing hypotheses, and interpreting data. (QR)
• evaluate molecular biosciences literature by reviewing and discussing relevant publications. (CT)
• conduct research in their field of study in Biotechnology and present that research at the annual Biotechnology Symposium in May.

I. Description

An accelerated BS/MS Program encourages outstanding students in the BS Biotechnology undergraduate degree to obtain a Professional MS degree in Biotechnology in a shorter time at the University of Nevada, Reno.

II. Contact Information

Dr. Karla Hernandez, Biotechnology Graduate Program Director
Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology
cjhoward@unr.edu

III. Admission Requirements

Students apply for the Accelerated Program after completing at least 75 credits towards their BS degree with a 3.0 GPA (only UNR courses are included in the GPA calculation). This will typically occur during the spring of their senior year.

IV. Program Requirements

• During their senior year, students will apply for admission to the Graduate School and complete the Accelerated Bachelor’s/Master’s Program Application.  Interested students must meet all of the requirements of the Graduate School and the Biotechnology, M.S.  program.
• Seniors who are admitted to the program may take up to76 credits from the approved course list (see below). These courses can be used to meet requirements for both the BS and MS degrees in Biotechnology. Courses selected for this purpose must be approved by the student’s BS program advisor and graduate advisor.
• Undergraduate students must receive permission from the Graduate School to register for a 600-level or 700-level course.
• Only courses in which the student has earned a “B” or better may be used to meet graduate degree requirements.
• Students must maintain at least a 3.0 GPA in the courses required for their UNR degree to remain in good standing in the accelerated program. 
• A student must complete the BS degree at UNR to be part of the Accelerated BS/MS Program.

V. Additional Requirements

• Students will continue conducting research with their academic research advisor during their senior year.
• The non-thesis M.S. Biotechnology program requires a total of 30 graduate credits in three semesters (summer, fall, and spring). The program may be started in either summer or spring semester. Students are required to meet with their academic advisor to confirm they are on the correct path for accelerated graduation.  
• All students are required to present their research at the annual Biotechnology Symposium in May, which is often scheduled within a few days of the commencement ceremonies.