MS in Biological Sciences

The Department of Biological Sciences offers graduate study leading to Master of Science and Doctor of Philosophy degrees.

Ph.D. degrees are available in Biological Sciences, Genomics, Cellular and Molecular Biology, Environmental and Conservation Sciences, and STEM Education. Advanced work may involve specialized training in the following areas:

• aquatic biology
• behavior
• biology education research
• cell biology
• cancer biology
• conservation biology
• comparative biochemistry and physiology
• developmental biology
• ecology
• endocrinology
• evolution
• evolutionary ecology
• fisheries biology
• molecular biology
• plant biology
• population biology
• prairie pothole ecology
• wildlife biology

Student research and academic programs are tailored to individual needs and interests. Interdisciplinary approaches to biological problems are encouraged.

Major Advisor

Applicants must identify a potential faculty advisor when they apply to NDSU Graduate School. Generally, the major advisor is active in the field of research specified by the applicant. View a list of faculty and their research interests here .

North Dakota State University is distinctive as a student-focused, land-grant, research university.

NDSU is ranked 94 among public research universities based on NDSU’s research expenditures reported to the National Science Foundation. In addition, NDSU is listed in the National Science Foundation’s top 100 in several areas, including agricultural sciences; business management and business; communications; computer sciences; natural resources and conservation science; political science and government; social sciences; sociology, demography, and population studies; and visual and performing arts.

The main campus is in Fargo, North Dakota, with Extension Service and Research Experiment Station locations across the state.

Mission, Vision, Core Values

Mission

With energy and momentum, North Dakota State University addresses the needs and aspirations of people in a changing world by building on our land-grant foundation.

Vision

We envision a vibrant university that will be globally identified as a contemporary metropolitan land-grant institution.

Core Values

NDSU is guided by the following key values and principles:

Land-Grant

We reflect and serve geographically and culturally diverse populations. We share institutional success across the university. We anticipate and welcome growth and service that will occur in ways yet to be conceived. We embrace our unique complexities as a land-grant university on the Northern Great Plains. We remain committed to serving people globally.

People

We derive strength and vitality from each other and from the diverse communities we serve. We envision an academic and social environment that is conducive to intellectual and personal development by promoting the safety and welfare of all members of the university community. We promote excellence through individuals participating in decisions and value cooperation for the common good.

Teaching and Learning

We provide a superior teaching and learning environment within and outside the traditional classroom. We promote and value liberal, graduate, and professional education in a collegial environment where divergent ideas can be shared. We foster an environment that promotes life-long learning with individually defined goals.

Ethics

We maintain our integrity through principled action and ethical decision-making.

Culture

We will be the land-grant university that we want to be by welcoming and respecting differences in people and ideas. We support the goals of the North Dakota University System and value collaboration with colleges and universities around the world. We foster accessibility to our programs and services.

Accountability

We have a special relationship with and are accountable to, the people of North Dakota. We actively strive to contribute to our region's economic prosperity and to improve the quality of life.