Master of Science in Biological Sciences

at Montana State University - Bozeman USA

Students in the Land Rehabilitation program at Montana State gain the critical knowledge and skills needed to analyze and manage lands requiring rehabilitation, which includes soil remediation, re-vegetation, inspecting impacted geologic resources, managing invasive species and more. Students focus on a foundation of chemical, biological and environmental science coursework before studying soil, water and plant science courses that range from molecular to landscape in scale.

Financial engineers combine economic theory and engineering problem-solving skills to assist businesses with risk management strategies, which is an increasingly important role in today’s globalized economy. In the Financial Engineering program at Montana State, students undergo rigorous training in economics, engineering mathematics and actuarial methods that are at the core of the financial industry.

Students in the Political Science department at Montana State develop knowledge of American political institutions, world politics, political theory, public administration and policy through the lens of a political scientist. In addition to the courses available, Political Science students are also able to learn more about the discipline through a variety of hands-on opportunities such as the department’s internship program, as well as study abroad opportunities.

An understanding of developmental biology, cellular biology, neurobiology and physiology are important foundations for careers in the medical and dental fields. Students studying the Biomedical Sciences option at Montana State gain an understanding in a wide range of biological subjects with real-world, hands-on research experiences and mentorship opportunities with award-winning faculty. For students interested in furthering their education in the health sciences, the Health Professions Advising office facilitates exciting opportunities to explore these careers, as well as resources for applying to professional schools after graduation.

Housed within Montana State’s Department of Ecology as an option within the Biological Sciences major, Biology Teaching provides a solid education in biology and basic sciences with professional preparation courses required for state teacher certification. Graduates will gain a clear understanding of natural and human-related processes within ecosystems, learn the basic principles of plant and animal ecology and be qualified to teach secondary school biology.

Students in the Agribusiness Management program at Montana State learn how to apply economic and business principles to the organization, operation and management of agricultural enterprises. Agribusiness Management students study the production, processing, marketing and distribution of agricultural products, as well as the accounting, finance and management skills core to running a successful business in the agricultural sector. Upon graduation, students are prepared to make the best decisions regarding production, crop and animal management and business strategy for agribusiness firms.

In the graduate program for Plant Pathology at Montana State, candidates investigate major problems in plant pathology within MSU’s state of the art agricultural facilities. Sample research projects include, but are not limited to, soil-borne diseases in cereals, the genetic root of disease resistance in field crops, cereal leaf spots, viral diseases inherent in cereals and potatoes, bacterial diseases in plants, and the biochemistry and molecular genetics of general plant diseases. Not only does this research apply to making a healthier and more robust food supply, but the research also seeks to develop new technology to manage crop pests.

In the Mental Health Counseling option at Montana State, students gain the skills to address a variety of mental health issues through the lens of human development, counseling theory, learning theory, group dynamics and the etiology of mental illness and dysfunctional behavior. Mental Health Counseling students engage in projects that enhance their personal and professional development as counselors and develop their knowledge and skills on how to identify and care for various client populations and their concerns. Each student in the Mental Health Counseling program undergoes 700 hours of supervised experience in appraisal, individual, group counseling, and consultation in clinic and community agencies prior to graduation.

An understanding of developmental biology, cellular biology, neurobiology and physiology are important foundations for careers in the medical and dental fields. Students studying the Cell Biology and Neuroscience option at Montana State gain an understanding in a wide range of biological subjects with real-world, hands-on research experiences and mentorship opportunities with award-winning faculty. For students interested in furthering their education in the health sciences, the Health Professions Advising office facilitates exciting opportunities to explore these careers, as well as resources for applying to professional schools after graduation.

Students within the Geography program at Montana State are introduced to a series of core geography courses that explore world regional, physical and human geography concepts. After gaining a core understanding of spatial relationships, global distributions of physical and cultural phenomena and the factors contributing to the evolution of the Earth’s varied landscapes, students then have the opportunity to declare an emphasis in physical or human geography depending on potential careers ranging from environmental management to city planning.