While emphasizing the unity of fundamental concepts in biology, the master
of science (M.S.) curriculum provides an opportunity for in-depth study of cell
and molecular biology, ecology, neurobiology, or physiology. An emerging focus
for interdisciplinary research at Rutgers University-Camden is the study of
information processing in complex biological systems. Our program offers both
thesis and non-thesis tracks depending on the students post-graduation goals. For
students interested in a research-based thesis, opportunities may be pursued in
any of these areas.
The M.S. biology program has been in existence since 1971. Many
students have completed the M.S. program at Rutgers-Camden and have gone
on to Ph.D. programs in the biological sciences; professional schools; research
institutions; and positions of responsibility in industry, education, and
environmental management. Most members of the graduate faculty at Camden also
are affiliated with Ph.D. programs at Rutgers University-New Brunswick. A
number of students receiving advanced degrees at Camden have continued their
doctoral work in the computational and integrative biology program.
An electron microscope facility containing both transmission and scanning
electron microscopes, confocal microscopes, a tissue culture laboratory, and a
variety of modern molecular biological and electrophysiological instruments are
available for research and instruction at the Camden campus. In addition,
opportunities exist for ecological fieldwork at the Pinelands Field Station in
the Brendan T. Byrne State Forest.
Research in environmental studies is the main thrust at the Rutgers Pinelands Field Station. Research activities at the Pinelands station include soil and freshwater
nutrient cycling, wetland ecology, ecosystem fragmentation, mycorrhizae and
fungal ecology and physiology, and the effects of pollutants and fire on ecosystem
processes. The station is used as a research center by faculty and students of
a number of departments within and outside the university. The station is
surrounded by unspoiled habitats under state and/or federal protection and
offers excellent research opportunities on a year-round basis.
Students also have opportunities to participate in the research of the
Center for Computational and Integrative Biology, an interdisciplinary research
center that promotes collaborations among biology, chemistry, computer science,
mathematics, and physics faculty.
Although fully capable of meeting the requirements of the full-time student,
the design of the M.S. program, with classes offered in the late afternoon,
evening, and on Saturday, also appeals to those students whose outside
obligations limit their hours of attendance or the number of courses that can
be completed each semester.
Graduate School-Camden 
