Genetics is the study of inheritance. Biotechnology is the application of modern DNA marker, isolation, and transfer technologies toward improving plant and animal agricultural productivity, environmental remediation, and the treatment of disease. These branches of biology have risen to prominence during the course of the past fifteen years and are widely recognized for their potential impact upon society in the twenty-first century. Employment opportunities in industry and academia are especially plentiful for graduates with advanced degrees in genetics and biotechnology.  All emphases require original research topics with the results presented in thesis format.  This research is expected to be of a publication quality and thesis style best reflecting that of a professional journal, thus facilitating timely submissions for publication.  We also encourage formal presentations at professional meetings.

• Credit hours: (30): minimum 24 course work hours plus 6 thesis hours (PWS 699R).
• Undergraduate hours: no more than 10 semester hours may be applied toward master’s degree.
• Thesis: completion of the thesis in scientific journal format and prepared for journal submission.
• Required courses: PWS 586, 673R and 670, 672, plus two semesters of 694R.
• Biannual progress reviews by advisory committee and graduate committee.
• Examinations: final oral defense of thesis.
• Minor: not required; students who do desire a minor may choose from botany, chemistry, computer science, food science, geology, geography, mathematics, microbiology, physics, statistics, range science, or zoology.