Program

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 diverse areas in the great Philadelphia area, across different states in the US, and internationally.

Research focus in ecology, evolution, and environmental science includes 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.

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.