Hello, I am reaching a decision point regarding my future education and I could use some advice. I am about to graduate with a B.S. in Behavioral Science from Bellevue University. I am considering two graduate programs right now, the first program requiring a background in Biology and the second a background in Biology and/or Chemistry. As I do not have a background in either subject, I am weighing my options to determine the best way to make up this deficit. The first program that I am looking into is the online M.S. in Biology from University of Nebraska Kearney. this program requires a minimum of 24 semester hours in Biology. The second program is an online M.S. in Pharmacology and Toxicology from Michigan State University. This program has an absolute minimum requirement of 3 credits in Biology and 3 credits in Chemistry. However, this program is very selective, and it is strongly recommended that applicants have a background in biology or chemistry. So this brings me to the area where I need some advice. In order to strengthen my application to each of these programs, should I pursue a 2nd Bachelors degree in Biology through Excelsior OR should I just take some additional courses in Biology and Chemistry and hope that this is enough to gain admission to one or both of these programs? An additional factor to consider here is timing. If I act now (or very soon), I can take advantage of the "Continuation Discount Enrollment Fee" which is offered to Excelsior graduates within one year of earning an associate degree (I completed my A.S. in Liberal Studies through Excelsior about this time a year ago). This would reduce my enrollment fee from $895 to $440. This is very appealing to my pocket. I would need to check with them to see if this discount applies to students who are looking to pursue a 2nd bachelors degree. So, what should I do? Ultimately, I would like to switch careers and pursue a more scientific-oriented occupation (possibly with my present employer). Either program would give me the opportunity to work in other areas of the company (R&D, medical writing, etc.). Thanks in advance for your feedback.
If both degrees meet your needs why not push for the Michigan degree - it requires less prequisite courses and no GRE. If you do not get into the Michigan program keep taking biology courses and try for the Nebraska degree.
If you find you need prep work, here's a program that might be useful. Mississippi State has a master's in interdisciplinary science program that lets you concentrate 21 semester hours in biology or chemistry. The tuition rate is low and you would be moving forward while building your science background. There are very view prerequisites. You could always transfer to a program you like more once you've earned a few credits or stay and finish before enrolling somewhere else. http://www.distance.msstate.edu/mais/
Hi Ian, My preference is the MSU program, however, the UNK program looks good as well. I am going to take some science courses in the near future (probably as soon as I wrap up my current courses at Bellevue). After that, I'll apply and see what happens. If anyone has information on online science courses with labs (including some upper level courses), please let me know. I am aware of the offerings at Ocean County Community College and Rio Salado. Thanks,
