The master’s degree in biodefense prepares students to become the next generation of biodefense and biosecurity professionals and scholars. This program provides students with a foundation in microbiology and biotechnology combined with a broader security and organizational context.
Students are able to select a concentration in International Security or Homeland Security.
Because of the breadth of the program, students with backgrounds in science or other areas such as international affairs, political science, law, public policy, and conflict resolution are encouraged to apply.
Degree Requirements (Catalog Year 2012-2013)
In addition to meeting the following requirements for this degree, students must meet the university requirements for all master's degrees.
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Six core courses (18 credits): BIOD 604, 605, 609; GOVT 500, 540; PUAD 630
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Four to five elective courses (12-15 credits)
Students who do a thesis have 12 credits of electives. Students who do a project have 15 credits of electives.
All students may choose electives from the full range of courses offered or focus 12 credits of electives in one of the concentrations to the right. At least 9 credits of electives must be in biodefense; the remaining credits (3-6) may be from outside biodefense with prior written approval of the director. - 3 credits of project or 6 credits of thesis: BIOD 798 or 799
Students must demonstrate the ability to conduct original, independent research by completing a research project or a thesis. The objectives of both the research project and thesis are to serve as a capstone for the student’s graduate education and to demonstrate the student’s research, analytical, and writing skills. Both options require the student to produce a substantial and original contribution to the fields of biodefense or biosecurity on the model of a paper suitable for presentation at a scholarly conference or an article in a peer-reviewed scholarly journal. Students should be aware of the university policies governing theses. They must follow the thesis enrollment policy and once enrolled in BIOD 799, maintain continuous enrollment. These policies are specified in the Academic Policies chapter of the University Catalog.
Total: 36 Credits
Requirements may be different for earlier catalog years. See the University Catalog archives.