The Department of Biological Sciences at Clemson University is proud to offer an online, non-thesis Master of Biological Sciences designed specifically for K-12 teachers and others interested in biological sciences. The goal of this program is to improve content knowledge in biological sciences. This program is fully in a distance-learning format and lectures are available 24/7. The curriculum consists of relevant, rigorous, and challenging graduate courses that are specifically designed to improve science-content knowledge.

Each course provides three hours of graduate credit from the Clemson University Department of Biological Sciences. All courses are open to degree and non-degree seeking students. Application to the graduate school as a degree or non-degree seeking student is online at http://www.grad.clemson.edu/.

The non-thesis option in the MS degree program requires a total of 30 semester hours of graduate course work. At least 18 of the 30 hours must be at the 800-level.  All courses are offered online.

The non-thesis Master of Science in Biological Sciences has no residency requirement. The GRE is not required for in-service teachers.

If you would like additional information about this program, please visit our web site at
http://www.clemson.edu/cafls/departments/biosci/graduates/biosc-online/index.html for the curriculum, course application forms for the upcoming courses (bottom of the page), information, and FAQs about the program (on the left side of the page).  I have also attached a PDF file that describes the program.

For Fall 2010, we are offering two courses (both courses run Aug 23-Dec 10):

BIOSC 842 Understanding Cellular Processes – This online course will explore the field of cellular processes including morphology and physiology of cell membranes, cytoplasm and organelles. Topics will include techniques in cell biology, cell fine structure, motility, cell division, organelle functions, cell-cell interactions, signal transduction, and protein and membrane trafficking. Instructor: Dr. Susan Chapman
 
BIOSC 843 Understanding Genetics and Evolutionary Biology – This online course is designed for teachers who want to increase their content knowledge in the areas of genetics and evolution.  The course will focus on Mendelian genetics, molecular genetics, gene expression and regulation, population genetics, forces of evolutionary change, and the role of evolutionary change in the origin of new species and the diversity of life. Instructor: Dr. Margaret Ptacek

The courses use ECHO 360 (for the lectures) and BlackBoard (for course materials and testing).

Please let me know if you would like additional information.

Bob

Robert Ballard, Director
BIOSC Online
SC DNA Learning Center
Professor of Biological Sciences
Office: G22 Jordan Hall
Mailing Address:
132 Long Hall
Department of Biological Sciences
Clemson University
Clemson, SC 29634
E ballard@clemson.edu  
T (864) 656-3579
F (864) 656-0435