MS Degree

Master's Degree Details

Basic Details

Prior to the start of classes
  • Participate in the Biology and Wildlife Department's New Graduate Student Orientation
  • Participate in the UAF Graduate School Orientation
  • Complete required safety trainings
  • Students who will serve as a teaching assistant (TA) the first semester must participate in the Biology and Wildlife Department's TA training
  • TA training offered by the Graduate School is optional but recommended
  • Students without previous research experience should plan to take Research Design (BIOL/WLF F602) in their first semester.
Minimum requirements for an MS degree
  • Successfully complete at least 30 credits of course work including between 6 and 12 credits of thesis (F699). At least 21 credits, including those earned for thesis and research/project, must be at the F600 level; the rest can be at the 400 level.
  • Pass a comprehensive examination that consists of a written thesis proposal and an oral defense of the proposal
  • Present and defend the thesis research in a public seminar
  • Revise the thesis as needed in response to comments by reviewers
  • Submit the final thesis to the Graduate School
  • Archive the thesis as instructed by the Graduate School
Report your progress annually

Each year, report your progress in two ways.

  • Annual Report of the Advisory Committee - Due every year by May 15th for people who were admitted in a Summer or Fall term, and by December 15th for those who were admitted in a Spring semester. Submit a 2-page summary of your progress to your committee, who will compile a report. Staying up to date on this report is required to remain in good standing with the Graduate School.
  • Supplemental Annual Report - This is an online form due every year by 15 May in which you report accomplishments such as papers and grant proposals submitted and presentations delivered. You will receive an email in spring telling you that the reporting form is open for the year. Log in to the B&W Restricted Site (found under the Resources menu) to access the form. The information requested is used by the department to track and report on graduate student accomplishments.