Master of Science in Optics and Photonics

at Montana State University - Bozeman USA

Students in the Biochemistry program at Montana State delve into core chemistry, biochemistry, and biology courses to gain a comprehensive understanding of the molecular nature of biological materials and life processes. Depending on their interests, students have the opportunity to take electives in areas such as immunology, microbiology, veterinary molecular biology or the environmental sciences. Additionally, all students in the Biochemistry program are assigned to an on-campus lab to conduct laboratory research as part of their degree, preparing them for either on-the-job laboratory work or higher education.

In the Music program at Montana State, students pursue core music studies in performance, theory, and history, along with a broad range of specialized music ensembles. Dynamic faculty work one-on-one in the studio, performers participate in a wide range of ensembles and specialists lead academic courses that range from entertainment business to music composition.

Students in the Animal Science option at Montana State investigate the basic biological sciences of major livestock and rangeland in depth, as well as animal breeding, reproductive physiology, nutrition and livestock production. The option is designed for highly motivated students who have a strong interest in graduate training or professional school; graduates have gone onto veterinary school, medical school and graduate studies in the field.

Candidates in the graduate Entomology program at Montana State are able to broaden their knowledge within the field through formal coursework and independent research projects that span the breadth of research foci in the field. Taking advantage of Montana State’s location within the Greater Yellowstone Ecosystem and within the western United States, entomological research at MSU includes some of the most important pests in the region, while beneficial insects studied in the department include various biological control agents and pollinators. Depending on a candidate’s interest, their individual program can be designed to suit their individual interests and career goals.

Students in the Sustainable Crop Production program at Montana State pursue the answers to hard-hitting questions pertaining to sustainability and agriculture. Those questions include “Where does our food come from? Are there ways to sustainably maintain production levels and yet protect our natural resources? Is it possible to improve the quality and nutrition of our food supply? Are local food systems a viable alternative to corporate agricultural production? Can crops grown for bioenergy production reduce our use of fossil fuels and lessen carbon dioxide emissions?” Coursework in the Sustainable Crop Production program help students in digging for those answers, including agronomy, soil fertility, plant genetics and physiology, greenhouse production, plant propagation, integrated pest management and small business management.

The Montana State Civil Engineering department prepares construction engineering technology graduates to plan and supervise construction for major projects such as highways, buildings and industrial plants. The CET program offers experienced and well-connected faculty who teach students hands-on problem-solving techniques that will serve them throughout their careers.

In the graduate program for Plant Sciences at Montana State, candidates pursue research projects within state-of-the-art laboratories on subjects such as plant breeding and genetics, plant pathology, mycology, biotechnology, plant physiology and systematics, molecular evolution and biochemistry. Candidates conduct these projects in labs such as the Plant BioScience Facility or the Plant Growth Center, with over 29 glasshouse rooms and 8,300 square feet of bench space. They also train under award-winning researchers in the field.

Students in the Equine Science track of Animal Science at Montana State are immersed in a program that combines the scientific and technical knowledge required in the industry with practical aspects of management, horsemanship and training. Students gain experience with business and management tools for the equine industry, colt breaking and horse behavior, land management for small acreage grazing and equine growth and development. In addition to hands-on learning experiences and internships, students can also take advantage of the program’s amazing facilities and affiliated Farrier School.

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 in the Child Development program at Montana State are actively engaged in a variety of settings that include children, their families and other professionals in the field.  Course work and field experience provide students with multiple opportunities for applied understanding of children's growth and development, building family and community relationships, conducting observations and assessments, understanding developmentally appropriate practices and promoting the well-being of young children and their families.