MASTER OF SCIENCE
STUDIES IN BIOLOGY
GUIDE FOR APPLICANTS,
GRADUATE STUDENTS AND
GRADUATE TEACHING ASSISTANTS
2015
Ver. 1.15
TABLE OF CONTENTS
Topic
Page
HISTORY AND CURRENT STATUS ........................................................................................ 1
GRADUATE STUDENT RESPONSIBILITIES
KEY FACULTY REGARDING YOUR GRADUATE PROGRAM .......................................... 2
Thesis Advisor
Thesis Advisory Committee
MS Graduate Program Coordinators
APPLICATION AND ADMISSION ........................................................................................... 3
Graduate Teaching Assistant (GTA) Application
MS DEGREE REQUIREMENTS ................................................................................................ 4
THE GRADUATE CURRICULUM ............................................................................................ 5
Required (Core) Courses
Specialization Areas:
Biotechnology, Genetics and Microbiology
Organismal Biology and Ecology
Physiology and Cellular/Molecular Biology
Research Tools
COURSE LOADS AND RECOMMENDED SEQUENCE......................................................... 7
DEGREE PLAN ........................................................................................................................... 7
Revision to the Degree Plan
RETENTION STANDARDS ....................................................................................................... 8
FOREIGN LANGUAGE/RESEARCH TOOLS .......................................................................... 8
THE GRADUATE FACULTY .................................................................................................... 9
COMPREHENSIVE EXAMINATION ..................................................................................... 11
Exam Format
Reporting and Filing of Exam Results
THESIS ....................................................................................................................................... 12
Change of Thesis Advisor
Registration for Biological Research
Thesis Proposal
Registration for Thesis Research
Thesis Preparation
Intent to Graduate
Thesis Defense
Thesis Deadline and Submission
Ver. 1.15
ACADEMIC MISCONDUCT.................................................................................................... 14
Plagiarism
Academic Integrity
Important Note Regarding the Thesis
ACADEMIC SUPPORT FOR GRADUATE STUDENT RESEARCH .................................... 14
Computer Facilities
Research Space
Desk Space
Supplies and Equipment for Research
Learning Resource Center (LRC) Services
College of Business Computer Lab
Gulf Coast Research Laboratory (GCRL)
GRADUATE TEACHING ASSISTANTS ............................................................................... 15
Application Procedure
Selection Criteria
Responsibilities
Retention
GTA Office Space and Office Hours
DEPARTMENTAL COORDINATORS ................................................................................... 17
BIOLOGY DEPARTMENT FINANCIAL AWARDS AND SCHOLARSHIPS ..................... 17
Graduate Student Awards
Research Scholarship
CO-CURRICULAR ACTIVITIES ............................................................................................ 19
Graduate Student Orientation
Graduate Student Association
Biology Club
Scholars Day
APPENDICES ........................................................................................................................... 21
A. College of Graduate Studies Interactive Forms, 21
1. Graduate Student Handbook
2. Degree Plan for Masters of Science in Biology
3. Degree Plan Revision Form
4. Notice of Intent to Graduate Form
5. Thesis/Dissertation Checklist
6. Instructions for Preparation of the Thesis and Electronic Submission
7. Thesis/Dissertation Publishing Agreement
8. Graduation Guidelines
B.
C.
D.
E.
F.
G.
Research & Thesis Approval Form, 22
Literature Citation Guidelines, 23
Sample Thesis Approval Page, 24
Spring 2015 Graduate Program Deadlines, 25
Biology Faculty and Staff, 26
MTSU Campus Map, 27
Ver. 1.15
HISTORY AND CURRENT STATUS
Middle Tennessee State University (MTSU) recently celebrated its 100th anniversary. Opened in
1911 as Middle Tennessee Normal School, the institution changed its name in 1925 to Middle Tennessee
State Teachers College and then again in 1943 to Middle Tennessee State College. The college was
advanced to University status in 1965, with a total enrollment of about 6000 students. Enrollment more
than doubled by 1990, and increased to over 19,000 students by 2000. With current enrollments of about
23,000 undergraduate and 2200 graduate students, MTSU remains the largest undergraduate institution
and the second largest institution of higher education in Tennessee. The 2009 Forbes national ranking of
600 public and private colleges and universities included MTSU as the highest ranked public university in
Tennessee, the highest ranked Tennessee school (public or private) in the “Best College Buy” category,
and the only Tennessee school in the top 100 public colleges and universities in the United States.
The MTSU College of Graduate Studies was established in 1951 and the first Master of Art (MA)
degree in biology was granted in 1959. In 1966, the Biology Department discontinued the MA degree and
instituted a thesis-based Master of Science (MS) degree emphasizing research and preparation for further
graduate study as well as employment in public agencies, industry, and non-governmental organizations.
The thesis-based MS degree is the only graduate degree offered by the Biology Department and is the
basis for this guide.
The MTSU College of Basic and Applied Sciences (CBAS) offers the Master of Professional
Science (MSPS) degree, with 3 concentration areas: Biotechnology, Biostatistics, and Health Care
Informatics. The Biotechnology concentration program coordinator, Dr. Rebecca Seipelt-Thiemann, is a
Biology Department faculty member. Additionally, fall 2010 marked a major advancement for MTSU
with the institution of 3 new CBAS-based interdisciplinary PhD programs: Molecular Biosciences,
Computational Sciences, and Mathematics and Science Education. Biology Department faculty
participate in all 3 programs and the Molecular Biosciences program director is Dr. Elliot Altman.
The Biology Department mission is to provide a high quality educational experience that prepares
graduates for advanced study or employment. Through a commitment to excellence the Department
strives to encourage and support research and scholarly activity by faculty and students. The Department
includes over 50 faculty (tenured or tenure track, post-retirement, and temporary/adjunct instructors) and
staff (administrative/support personnel), almost 600 undergraduate biology majors, and over 50 active MS
graduate students, 26 of whom hold graduate teaching assistantships.
The new 250,000 square foot
MTSU Science building is home for the
Biology Department and provides state-ofthe-art facilities for students and faculty.
GRADUATE STUDENT
RESPONSIBILITIES
While many administrators, faculty, and
staff will play critical roles regarding your
graduate program application process and,
if accepted, graduate program, ultimately
success regarding these and other matters is
primarily a student responsibility. Student
responsibility includes (but is not limited to) ensuring that all application and program requirements are
properly fulfilled according to any Departmental or other University deadlines and specifications. Doing
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so, will require the student to become familiar with Departmental and University policies and a full
understanding of this guide is a good first step in that process.
It is important for applicants and students to fully understand that determining academic and career
interests is a critical step in their post-undergraduate training and that this step should begin prior to
application to a graduate program. Students who enter a program without having a clear understanding of
said matters often flounder and sometimes fail either through lack of interest or other shortcomings.
KEY FACULTY REGARDING YOUR GRADUATE PROGRAM
Many administrators, faculty, and staff will play an important role in the successful completion of your
graduate program. Following are some key personnel.
Thesis Advisor— other than yourself, your Thesis Advisor (AKA Major Advisor or Major Professor) is
arguably the most important person regarding your graduate program.
The role of the Thesis Advisor is primarily to guide graduate student academic and research progress,
oversee thesis preparation, nurture appropriate scientific attitudes and professional development, and set a
positive example of a scholarly scientist. The Thesis Advisor is typically the first person a graduate
student should query regarding questions about his or her graduate program, academic, research or
professional development, or general graduate program operations and requirements (such as the timely
and proper filing of required documents with the Department or College of Graduate Studies). The
Thesis Advisor will play a critical role in the development of a research thesis proposal and research
completion. In addition, the Thesis Advisor will mentor the student regarding academic coursework
selection to best meet the student’s academic and career goals while fulfilling departmental, college and
university requirements for graduation.
Because of the importance of the Thesis Advisor, prospective graduate students should identify a Biology
Department graduate faculty member who is able to serve as their Thesis Advisor (again, this is best done
before applying to the program). While there is no “best way” to choose a Thesis Advisor, the following
suggestions may be helpful.
1) First and foremost, the student should know what their specific interests are regarding graduate
studies, these of course being related to the student’s ultimate career goals.
2) Read over the faculty biographies on the Biology Department webpage to familiarize yourself
with faculty areas of expertise. Upon learning of faculty that seemingly could contribute to your
program, meet or correspond with them regarding their ability to serve as your Thesis Advisor.
Due to the critical role that the Thesis Advisor plays, an excellent working relationship should be
cultivated and maintained between the graduate student and Thesis Advisor, and this takes effort on the
part of each. Along these lines it’s typically beneficial to have a short formal weekly meeting with your
Thesis Advisor to assess progress and plan ahead.
Thesis Advisory Committee— the Thesis Advisory Committee is comprised of the Thesis Advisor
(Committee Chair), at least 2 other MTSU faculty members (selected by the student in consult with the
Thesis Advisor), and the Biology Department Chair (ex-officio). The primary purpose of the Committee
is to review and critique the student’s research thesis proposal, periodically monitor thesis progress, read,
critique and approve or reject the submitted thesis, and develop and grade the student’s written and oral
comprehensive examination.
MS Graduate Program Coordinators— the primary role of the MS Graduate Program Coordinators is
to coordinate the general operation of the Biology MS graduate program, including such operations as
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program admissions and program fulfillment. Under the non-ideal circumstance of a student being
admitted without a Thesis Advisor, a Graduate Coordinator will serve temporarily as said student’s
academic advisor.
APPLICATION AND ADMISSION
Admission applications are accepted year-round. However, preference will be given to students adhering
to the following deadlines: summer/fall enrollment, March 1; spring enrollment, October 1. The
application can be completed on-line at http://www.mtsu.edu/graduate/, and all supporting documents
(listed below) should be submitted to the College of Graduate Studies, MTSU Box 42, Ingram Building,
2267 Middle Tennessee Boulevard, Murfreesboro, TN 37132.
In addition to the College of Graduate Studies application form the following materials are required:
1) official transcripts from all colleges/universities attended,
2) official Graduate Record Examination (GRE) scores (within the past five years),
3) three letters of recommendation (at least two from teachers),
4) a personal statement outlining the student’s rationale for pursuing graduate study and
indicating a potential area(s) of research interest, and
5) international students must submit either Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL)
scores (Overall iBT = 71; Speak = 26) or International Language Institute (IELTS) scores
(Total = 6; Speak = 6.5).
Only complete applications will be forwarded to the biology department for review. Applications
are not considered complete until the required materials listed above have been filed with the College of
Graduate Studies. Consideration for unconditional admission also requires:
1) an undergraduate minor in biology or equivalent (at least 19 hours) including two
semesters of freshmen biology and one upper division biology course, and
2) twelve hours of chemistry including at least one semester of organic chemistry or
biochemistry.
Additionally, applicants receiving unconditional admission typically will have:
1) overall (and biology coursework) undergraduate grade point averages (GPA) of at least 3.0 (on
a 4.0 scale),
2) GRE verbal, quantitative and writing assessment scores near or above the 50th percentile, and
3) identified a thesis advisor.
Applicants not meeting the minimal standard in one area may be considered for admission on a
conditional (probationary) basis.
Graduate Teaching Assistant (GTA) Application
The GTA application form is available from the College of Graduate Studies Website
(http://www.mtsu.edu/graduate/pdf/GraduateAsstApp.pdf) and should be submitted directly to the
Department of Biology (MTSU Box 60, 1301 East Main St., Murfreesboro, TN 37132).
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MS DEGREE REQUIREMENTS
Completion of the MS degree in biology includes the following.
1) Complete a minimum of 30 graduate semester hours with at least 21 hours at the 6000 level (no more
than 30% of the total hours can include 5000 level courses).
2) Complete a biology major of at least 16 hours, including the following 9 required hours:
BIOL 6620
Biological Research
3
BIOL 6640
Thesis
3
BIOL 6650
Seminar
1
BIOL 6660
Seminar
2
Students are expected to complete both seminars during the first year of study.
Additional courses to meet the 30 hour requirement may include approved graduate courses in
biology, chemistry, mathematics, physics, or other related disciplines.
A minor is optional, but if elected, must include a minimum of 12 semester hours (these 12 hours
may be included in the 30 total required hours).
3) Complete six semester hours of approved research tools (see page 8 for examples), or complete two
semesters (six hours) of a foreign language (French, German, or Spanish). (These six hours are in
addition to the 30 hours required for the degree).
4) Complete BIOL 6620, Biological Research and file both the Research and Thesis Approval Form
(Appendix A) and a copy of the research proposal (both hardcopy and Word/PDF file) with the
Graduate Coordinator by the end of the second semester of graduate study.
5) File a Degree Plan (Appendix B) with the College of Graduate Studies prior to completing 21
graduate credit hours.
6) Successfully complete both written and oral comprehensive examinations (may be taken only twice).
The comprehensive exam should be completed the semester prior to the semester of anticipated
graduation.
7) File the Graduate Notice of Intention to Graduate form (http://www.mtsu.edu/graduate/intent.php)
with the College of Graduate Studies during the first week of the semester of intended graduation.
8) File the completed thesis (both hardcopy and Word/PDF file) with the biology office at
least one week prior to the thesis defense.
9) Present and successfully defend the thesis in a public forum.
10) Submit the final version of the signed Thesis Approval Page and a signed Thesis/Dissertation
Publishing Agreement (Appendix A) to the College of Graduate Studies and submit the Thesis
electronically via the MTSU ProQuest website: www.etdadmin.com/mtsu.
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THE GRADUATE CURRICULUM
Biology graduate students complete a core curriculum of nine hours as outlined below. Students
may pursue a broad, general curriculum or develop an "area of specialization", which requires at least
nine (9) hours. If selected, the area of specialization must be indicated on the Research and Thesis
Approval Form and the Degree Plan, but will not appear on the diploma.
Required (Core) Courses: (total = 9 hours)
6620
Biological Research (3 hours; fall, spring, summer)
Students must obtain permission from the thesis advisor and register for Biological Research
during the first semester of graduate study. The student will identify a thesis research problem,
conduct a thorough review of the pertinent literature, prepare a written proposal (see guidelines
on page 12), and present the proposal to the thesis advisory committee. A signed Research and
Thesis Approval Form and a copy of the approved research proposal must be submitted to the
Graduate Coordinator by the end of the semester.
6640
Thesis (3 hours; fall, spring, summer)
Completion of the research problem begun in BIOL 6620. Students may register for 1–6 credit
hours in any single semester. Students must complete a minimum of 3 credits and only 3 credits
count toward the 30 hours required for the MS degree. S/U grading.
6650
Seminar (1 hour; fall)
This course provides an introduction to discussion and critical evaluation of the primary scientific
literature. Responsible conduct of research topics including data management, publication
practices, peer review, and collaborative science will be emphasized.
6660
Seminar (2 hours; spring)
This course focuses on developing written and oral communication skills relevant to obtaining
research funding and presenting research results. Responsible conduct of research topics
including mentor/trainee relationships, human subjects, animal research, research misconduct,
and conflicts of interest will be emphasized. BIOL 6650 is a recommend prerequisite.
Specialization Areas
The Biology graduate courses are segregated into three specialization areas: Biotechnology,
Genetics and Microbiology, Organismal Biology and Ecology, and Physiology and Cellular/Molecular
Biology. Because many courses include lecture/laboratory sections, students must register for both the
lecture and laboratory sections.
BIOTECHNOLOGY, GENETICS AND MICROBIOLOGY
5050/5051
5460/5461
5510
6080/6081
6200
6380/6381
6430
6440
6450
6730
Parasitology
Human Genetics
Food/Industrial Microbiology
Advanced Mycology
Speciation
Experimental Immunology
Clinical and Pathogenic Microbiology
Advanced Virology
Advancements in Molecular Genetics
Adv. Microbial Physiology/Biochemistry
3
3
4
4
3
4
4
4
4
4
spring
spring
fall
fall, even years
fall, even years
fall, spring
fall, spring
fall
fall, spring
spring, even years
Ver. 1.15; Page 5
6750
6770
6780
7010
Adv. Plant Biotechnology
Issues in Biotechnology
Principles of Systematics
Analysis of Genetic Markers
4
2
4
4
fall
fall
fall, odd years
spring, even years
ORGANISMAL BIOLOGY AND ECOLOGY
5030
5040
5120
5140/5141
5180/5181
5220/5221
5250/5251
5260
5330-5333
5390/5391
5520
5580/5581
6060
6070
6080/6081
6120
6130/6131
6180/6181
6200
6210/6211
6220/6212
6400
6460
6500
6700/6701
6780
7010
Non-Flowering Plants
General Entomology
Flowering Plants
Invertebrate Zoology
Vertebrate Zoology
Ichthyology
Limnology
Nature Study
Biome Analysis
Ethology
Plant Anatomy
Marine Biology
Advanced Dendrology
Plants and Man
Advanced Mycology
Aquatic Ecology
Ornithology
Mammalogy
Speciation
Protozoology
Herpetology
Medicinal Plants
Conservation Biology
Special Problems in Biology
Plant Animal Interactions
Principles of Systematics
Analysis of Genetic Markers
4
3
4
4
4
4
4
3
1-4
4
4
4
3
3
4
3
3
3
3
3
3
3
4
4
3
4
4
fall
fall
spring
spring
fall, summer
fall, even years
spring
on demand
summer
spring, odd years
spring, even years
spring
fall
fall, odd years
fall, even years
fall, odd years
spring, even years
on demand
fall, even years
fall, even years
spring, odd years
fall, even years
spring
on demand
fall, odd years
fall, odd years
spring, even years
PHYSIOLOGY AND CELLULAR/MOLECULAR BIOLOGY
5130/5131
5170
5500
5560/5561
5570/5571
6270
6380/6381
6390/6391
6440
6590
6720/6721
6730
Histology
Endocrinology
Plant Physiology
Neurobiology
Principles of Toxicology
Cell Metabolism and Human Disease
Experimental Immunology
Advanced Cell and Molecular Biology
Advanced Virology
Environmental Toxicology
Advanced Animal Developmental Biology
Adv. Microbial Physiology/Biochemistry
4
3
4
4
3
3
4
4
4
4
4
4
spring
fall, odd years
spring
fall, even years
spring, odd years
spring, even years
fall, spring
fall
fall
spring, even
years spring
spring, even years
Ver. 1.15; Page 6
RESEARCH TOOLS
5540
5550
6290
6350/6351
6360
6410
6500
6760
Topics in Environmental Education
Biotechnology
Adv. Scanning Electron Microscopy
Biostatistical Analysis
Energy Dispersive X-ray Theory and Analysis
Adv. Transmitting Electron Microscopy
Special Problems in Biology
Bioinformatics
1-4
3
4
4
1
4
4
4
summer
fall, spring, summer
fall
spring
spring
spring
on demand
spring
COURSE LOADS AND RECOMMENDED SEQUENCE
Full-time
Maximum load
9 hours (6 hours for graduate teaching assistants)
12 hours (10 hours for graduate teaching assistants)
Semester 1
BIOL 6620
BIOL 6650 or BIOL 6660
BIOL 6350
Semester 2
BIOL 6640
BIOL 6650 or BIOL 6660
Semester 3
BIOL 6640
Semester 4
BIOL 6640
Total Hours*
Biological Research
Seminar
Biostatistical Analysis
3
1 or 2
4
9
Thesis
Seminar
Research tools** or Elective
3
1 or 2
3 or 4
9
Thesis
Research tools** or Elective
Elective
1
3 or 4
3 or 4
9
1
68
9
Thesis
Electives
* Minimum total hours = 30 (21 at the 6000 level) and includes 16 hours in Biology.
**See list of research tools courses on page 8 and consult with a Graduate Coordinator.
DEGREE PLAN
Students must file and have approved a Degree Plan before completing 21 semester hours of
coursework. The form outlines the planned curriculum and must be signed by a Graduate Coordinator,
not the Thesis Advisor (AKA major professor). However, this form should be completed in consultation
with the Thesis Advisor. A link to the form is included in Appendix A.
Revision to the Degree Plan
If the courses listed on the Degree Plan application cannot be completed as approved, a Revision
to Degree Plan form (Appendix A) must be filed with the College of Graduate Studies.
Ver. 1.15; Page 7
RETENTION STANDARDS
A cumulative minimum graduate GPA of 3.0 is required to earn the Biology MS degree. Any
student whose GPA falls below 3.0 will be placed on academic probation. A student who fails to
achieve a 3.0 GPA by the end of the semester after being placed on probation will be suspended and the
degree program terminated. Under special circumstances, a suspended student may re-apply and be readmitted to a degree program. [NOTE: These retention standards are higher than those imposed by the
College of Graduate Studies.]
Once enrolled in the graduate program, a student must maintain continuous enrollment (a
minimum of one hour of graduate credit per semester) until graduation. This stipulation does not
pertain to summer enrollment. If a student ceases to enroll and later wishes to return to the program,
he/she must apply for readmission. The time limit to complete the MS degree is six years from
matriculation.
FOREIGN LANGUAGE/RESEARCH TOOLS
Students pursuing the MS degree must demonstrate knowledge of either a foreign language or
approved research tools. Knowledge of a foreign language may be demonstrated through completion of
two semesters (at least six semester hours) of French, German, or Spanish with a grade of "B" or better.
Students may complete research tools in lieu of a foreign language and this is the preferred
option. The research tool requirement may be fulfilled through completion of at least six semester hours
of undergraduate/graduate coursework with a grade of “B” or above. Transfer courses with a grade of “B”
or higher also may be applied to the research tools requirement. A Graduate Coordinator must approve
all research tools or foreign language course selections/substitutions in advance. Research tools
courses may include the following.
Department / #
Title [Brackets indicate prerequisite courses.]
Credits
ANTH 4950/5950
Archaeological Field School
3-6
BIOL 4290/6290
BIOL 4270/6410
BIOL 4350/6350
BIOL 4550/5550
BIOL 4750/6750
Advanced Scanning Electron Microscopy
Transmitting Electron Microscopy
Biometry/Biostatistical Analysis
Biotechnology
Adv. Plant Biotechnology
4
4
4
3
4
CHEM 4230/5230
CHEM 4530/6530
CHEM 4550
Instrumental Analysis
Biochemical Techniques [CHEM 4500/6500 or 6510]
Bioanalytical Chemistry
4
2
4
CSCI 1150
Computer Orientation
3
GEOG 4530/5530
GEOG 4570
Geographic Information Systems (GIS)
Adv. Geographic Information Systems (GIS)
4
3
INFS 2200
Introduction to Microcomputing
3
MATH 1530
Applied Statistics
3
Ver. 1.15; Page 8
MATH 2050
Probability and Statistics
3
PSY 6280
PSY 6290
PSY 7580
Regression
ANOVA
Multivariate Data Analysis
3
3
3
STAT 3150
STAT 5130
STAT 5140
STAT 4190/5190
STAT 4320/5320
STAT 6020
STAT 6160
STAT 6180
STAT 6510
STAT 6520
STAT 6602
STAT 6602
STAT 6603
Mathematical Statistics I
Applied Statistics
Probability and Statistical Processes
Mathematical Statistics II [STAT 3150]
Prob. & Stochastic Processes [MATH 2050 or STAT 3150]
Introduction to Biostatistics
Advanced Mathematical Statistics I
Advanced Mathematical Statistics II [STAT 6160]
Biostatistical Methods [STAT 6020]
Advanced Biostatistical Methods [STAT 6020 & 6160]
Regression Analysis
Nonparametric Statistics
Experimental Design
3
3
3
3
3
3
3
3
3
3
3
3
3
THE GRADUATE FACULTY
Biology Graduate Faculty members teach graduate-level courses, guide thesis research, and serve
on graduate examination committees. The Biology Graduate Faculty, their institution of terminal degree,
and their research and/or teaching specialties include:
Elliott Altman PhD – California Institute of Technology
PhD in Molecular Biosciences Program Director; Metabolic engineering and peptide therapeutics
Frank C. Bailey PhD - Clemson University
Aquatic toxicology
George W. Benz PhD - University of British Columbia
Marine biology; Aquatic ecology
Sarah Bergemann PhD - University of Wyoming
Botany (mycology); Plant genetics
Lynn Boyd PhD - University of Utah
Biology Department Chair; Cell and Developmental Biology
Andrew Brower PhD - Cornell University
Entomology; Molecular systematics
Vincent A. Cobb PhD - Idaho State University
Behavioral/physiological ecology; Thermal biology; Herpetology
John D. DuBois PhD - Miami University of Ohio
Plant physiology; General Biology
Matthew Elrod-Erickson PhD - Massachusetts Institute of Technology
Developmental biology; Cell biology; Genetics
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Anthony L. Farone PhD - Miami University of Ohio
Immunology; Microbiology
Mary B. Farone PhD - Miami University of Ohio
Clinical Microbiology; Biotechnology
Grant Gardner PhD – North Carolina State University
Science education; Discipline-based education research
Christopher Herlihy PhD - Queen’s University
Botany; Plant mating system evolution; Cedar glade ecology
R. Stephen Howard PhD - Indiana University
Evolutionary ecology; Population biology
Jason R. Jessen PhD - Medical College of Georgia
Cell, Molecular, and Developmental Biology; Cell polarity and migration
Amy E. Jetton PhD - Northwestern University
Reproductive endocrinology; Animal physiology
Matthew Klukowski PhD - Indiana University
Animal physiology; Endocrinology; Vertebrate anatomy
Jeffrey D. Leblond PhD - University of Tennessee
Environmental microbiology; Phycology
Erin McClelland PhD - University of Utah
Medical mycology/host-pathogen interactions; Microbiology; Biotechnology
Brian T. Miller PhD - Washington State University
Vertebrate morphology and natural history; Herpetology
Ashley Morris PhD - University of Florida
Botany; Phylogeography; Molecular systematics
David E. Nelson PhD - University of Liverpool
Cell Biology and Neurodegeneration
Anthony L. Newsome PhD - University of Memphis
Microbiology; Parasitology
Ryan Otter PhD - Clemson University
Environmental Toxicology; Ecology
Brian Robertson PhD - Vanderbilt University
Cell and Molecular Biology; Biological rhythms; Bioluminescence
Mohamed Salem PhD - West Virginia University
Genetics; Functional genomics
Michael Rutledge EdD - Ball State University
General biology; Evolution
Kim C. Sadler EdD - Tennessee State University
Biology education; Environmental education
Ver. 1.15; Page 10
Rebecca Seipelt PhD - University of Kentucky
MSPS Biotechnology Concentration Program Director; Genetics; Microbiology; Bioethics
Cindi Smith-Walters PhD - Oklahoma State University
Environmental education; Environmental science
William C. Stewart PhD - East Carolina University
Animal physiology; Neurobiology
Jeffrey Walck PhD - University of Kentucky
Plant Ecology; Rare/endangered plants
Stephen M. Wright PhD - University of North Dakota
Microbiology; Virology
COMPREHENSIVE EXAMINATION
Students in good standing (GPA of at least 3.0 after completing 24 hours of graduate credit) are
eligible to take the comprehensive exam. Because the thesis submission deadline usually occurs after the
comprehensive exams are administered each semester, the comprehensive exam must be completed at
least one semester prior to the anticipated semester of graduation. Students must successfully complete
the comprehensive examination before defending the thesis.
The objective of the comprehensive exam is to assess the student's knowledge of basic biological
terminology and concepts. Students are encouraged to systematically review notes taken during the
graduate program and to review a good, up-to-date, general biology textbook. However, the exam will be
more than a re-examination of completed coursework. The examinee must demonstrate the ability to
integrate information from several sources, to argue for or against a given position and, in some instances,
to demonstrate an in-depth understanding of a particular process, concept, or theory.
The comprehensive exam date is set by the College of Graduate Studies and usually falls during
the weeks following midterm. The biology comprehensive exams include both written and oral sections,
and successful completion of the written exam (overall performance equivalent to a grade of “B” or
better) is required before the student may attempt the oral exam. The oral exam must be completed
within three weeks of the written exam date. Successful completion of the oral exam will depend on a
unanimous opinion from the Thesis Advisory Committee. Students failing the written exam must wait
until the next semester to retake the exam. Students failing the oral exam may retake the oral exam at a
time agreed upon by the Thesis Advisory Committee. The Graduate Coordinator or his designee will
participate in the second oral exam as a nonvoting observer. The written and oral sections of the
comprehensive examination may be attempted twice. Failure to successfully complete either the
written or oral exams on the second attempt will terminate the degree program in Biology.
Exam Format
The written exam will be based on essay/problem questions prepared by the candidate's Thesis
Advisory Committee. Questions may emphasize the chosen area of specialization, especially as it relates
to the research topic. The number and design of questions will be at the discretion of each committee
member. Typically, each committee member will provide a list of 2-3 long answer (discussion) and 3-5
short answer questions and direct the student to answer 1-2 long-answer and 2-3 short-answer questions.
Students must answer at least two questions from each committee member. It is the Thesis Advisor’s
responsibility to insure the number of questions is appropriate for the time allotted (4 hours). Upon
successful completion of the written exam (overall grade of B or higher), the Thesis Advisory Committee
will administer the oral exam.
Ver. 1.15; Page 11
Reporting and Filing of Exam Results
All completed comprehensive exams, including questions, answers, and scores, must be filed with
the Graduate Coordinator within three weeks of the written exam date. The Graduate Coordinator will
forward the pass/fail status of each student to the College of Graduate Studies, and all exam materials will
remain in the student’s file for a minimum of five years.
THESIS
Without fail, the student must choose a Thesis Advisor, assemble a Thesis Advisory Committee, and
file the signed Research and Thesis Approval Form and the research proposal (both hardcopy and
Word/PDF file) with a Graduate Coordinator before completing 2 semesters of graduate study.
Failure to comply will result in a “HOLD” being placed on future registration.
Change of Thesis Advisor
Occasionally it may be necessary for a student to change Thesis Advisors. First, the student must
obtain a formal release, in the form of a letter addressed to the Graduate Coordinator, from the current
Thesis Advisor. When situations warrant, the department chair also may grant a release allowing the
student to choose a new Thesis Advisor. Second, a new Research and Thesis Approval form indicating
the new Thesis Advisor, committee members, and project title must be completed. Finally, a Change in
Thesis Advisory Committee form must be submitted to the College of Graduate Studies.
Registration for Biological Research
Students should identify a Thesis Advisor and register for BIOL 6620, Biological Research no
later than the second semester of graduate study. Successful completion of Biological Research will
include identification of the Thesis Advisory Committee, preparation and approval of a written thesis
proposal, and submission of the completed Research and Thesis Approval form and the thesis proposal
(both hardcopy and Word/PDF file) to the Graduate Coordinator.
If the proposed research involves animal or human subjects, students also must provide
documentation of training and approval by the appropriate review board. Protocols involving live animals
are reviewed by the Institutional Animal Care and Use Review Committee (IACUC) and human subject’s
protocols are reviewed by the Institutional Review Board (IRB). Students are referred to the Office of
Compliance website (http://www.mtsu.edu/compliance/) for additional information and forms.
IACUC/IRB approval must be obtained before initiating studies.
Thesis Proposal
After the Thesis Advisory Committee has been identified, but before beginning actual research,
each student will prepare a proposal outlining the problem to be investigated and the experimental
procedures and/or methods of inquiry. The student should anticipate the necessary supplies, equipment,
and work-space required for the conduct of the proposed research and report these in a timely fashion to
the Thesis Advisor. The proposal should contain the following elements:
A.
B.
C.
D.
Research proposal/Thesis title
Introduction to and background for the question/problem
Concise statement of hypothesis(es) or objective(s)
Research plan and methods
1.
Study design
2.
Data analysis
Ver. 1.15; Page 12
E.
F.
G.
H.
Timeline for completion of the proposed research
Preliminary Budget
Potential problems or concerns that could alter the research plan
Literature cited
After distributing the proposal to the Thesis Advisory Committee for review, the student is
expected to make a formal presentation of the proposal to the Committee. The proposal must be
unanimously approved as written, or modified, by the Thesis Advisory Committee. The signed Research
and Thesis Approval form and the proposal should be submitted to the Graduate Coordinator.
Registration for Thesis Research
Students should complete Biological Research (BIOL 6620) and have an approved Research and
Thesis Approval form on file before registering for Thesis Research (BIOL 6640). Under special
circumstances students may be permitted to co-register for Biological Research and Thesis Research.
Thesis Preparation
The College of Graduate Studies provides a Thesis Checklist (Appendix A) that helps the student
ensure all parts of the thesis are included and to make certain all guidelines have been met. Additionally,
departmental guidelines for preparing the literature citations, Thesis Approval Page, and thesis
submission deadlines are provided in Appendices C–E. Thesis style in the Biology Department follows
Scientific Style and Format: The CSE Manual for Authors, Editors, and Publishers, 7th Edition (2006).
Intent to Graduate
A Graduate Notice of Intention to Graduate (Appendix A) must be filed in the College of
Graduate Studies office during the first week of the semester/term of intended graduation (Summer
Session II for August graduation). Graduate students must be registered for at least one semester hour of
graduate credit during the semester of graduation. However, if a student misses the thesis deadline in one
semester but defends and submits final copies of the thesis by the end of the same semester, the College
of Graduate Studies may waive the one hour requirement for the next semester.
Thesis Defense
The completed thesis (both hardcopy and Word/PDF file) must be submitted to the biology
department office at least one week prior to the scheduled defense. The electronic version will be
made available to Biology faculty members for their review. Because the thesis defense is a formal public
seminar, the date and time will be advertised by the biology department. On the day of the defense, the
thesis must be in final form (ready to be signed by the Thesis Committee, the Department Chair,
and the Graduate Dean).
The thesis defense usually includes a brief introduction of the candidate’s academic and
professional accomplishments followed by a 3040 minute oral presentation and a 1020 minute
question-and-answer period. Questions are generally restricted to the thesis topic. Candidates should be
prepared to defend the appropriateness of the research, the validity of procedures used, and the
conclusions reached. The oral presentation also should demonstrate a thorough command of pertinent
literature. After the question and answer period, the candidate will be excused and the student's Thesis
Advisory Committee will convene to discuss and vote on whether to accept the final thesis.
Ver. 1.15; Page 13
Thesis Deadline and Submission
The deadline for submitting theses to the Graduate Office is approximately foursix weeks prior
to graduation. Students should consult Appendix E and/or the College of Graduate Studies Calendar to
confirm the exact date each semester. The Thesis Advisory Committee and the department chair must
approve the Thesis before submission to the Graduate School Dean. The signed Thesis Approval Page
and a Thesis/Dissertation Publishing Agreement (Appendix A) must be submitted to the College of
Graduate Studies. The Thesis will be submitted electronically via the MTSU ProQuest website:
www.etdadmin.com/mtsu.
ACADEMIC MISCONDUCT
Academic misconduct includes plagiarism, cheating, fabrication, or facilitating any such act. The
MTSU policies regarding plagiarism and academic integrity, as stated in the 2013-2014 MTSU Graduate
Catalog, are included below for reference. Given the increasing ease of access to information from a
variety of sources it is critical that students be vigilant in avoiding even the possible appearance of
plagiarism.
Plagiarism— The use or reproduction of material from another person’s work (e.g.,
publications, productions, or intellectual property) without revealing the source and/or
clearly acknowledging the degree of dependency. If materials are reproduced verbatim
from another source, or even reproduced in large part with only minor modification,
proper citation must occur. To avoid allegations of plagiarism, clearly cite the source and
use quotations marks to identify the excerpts, or clearly acknowledge the source by
indenting and single-spacing the reproduced selection.
Academic Integrity— Students at MTSU are expected to be intellectually honest and
forthright in their academic activities. Proper credit should be given to sources of all
work done. To attempt to use the ideas or words of others or to falsify data is to
plagiarize (i.e., adopt, present, or reproduce ideas, statements, images, or works of others
as one’s own without proper acknowledgment) or fabricate (i.e., falsify any information
or citation) respectively, neither of which is acceptable. Appropriate action will be taken
as deemed necessary by the College of Graduate Studies, up to and including expulsion
from MTSU and the rescinding of any graduate degree awarded as a result of a breach in
academic integrity.
Important Note Regarding the Thesis— Although minor changes may be made to a
student’s thesis based on feedback stemming from the general Departmental review of
the submitted work and the thesis defense, a thesis will be considered in a “final” form
regarding issues involving academic misconduct when it is submitted to a MS Graduate
Program Coordinator for the purpose of the broad departmental review that occurs just
prior to the thesis defense.
ACADEMIC SUPPORT FOR GRADUATE STUDENT RESEARCH
Biology Department graduate students are supported by the following special academic services
and privileges.
Ver. 1.15; Page 14
Computer Facilities
Graduate students engaged in thesis-related research or directed independent study may use
University computer facilities.
Research Space
Location of where a student will conduct their thesis research will be determined by the student’s
Thesis Advisor.
Desk Space
Graduate Teaching Assistants will be assigned a study space. Students not holding a GTA should
check with their Thesis Advisor regarding the availability of study space.
Supplies and Equipment for Research
The department maintains a modest budget for the purchase of supplies and non-specialized
equipment needed for graduate student research. The thesis advisor must sign all requisition forms before
student requests will be considered for approval by the Department Chair.
Learning Resource Center (LRC) Services
Students presenting seminars or papers at meetings may use the Graduate Multimedia
Development Center located in LRC 101S (www.mtsu.edu/itsc or 615-898-5445). Co-sponsored by the
College of Graduate Studies and the Instructional Technology Support Center (ITSC), the Center provides
graduate students with computer hardware and software, digital cameras, video cameras, scanners, audiovisual equipment, technical support, and workshops designed to assist them in developing multimedia
projects.
College of Business Computer Lab
The Business and Aerospace Building computer lab (Room S137) and is available 24 hours per
day, 7 days per week. There are approximately 196 Microsoft Windows computers equipped with
Microsoft Office Professional available. A subset of these computers also has installed data analysis
(SigmaStat) and scientific graphics (SigmaPlot) programs purchased by the Biology department. A
Hewlett-Packard color scanner and color printer also are available.
Gulf Coast Research Laboratory (GCRL)
The Biology Department cooperates with a number of other universities to provide low-cost
opportunities for summer graduate study at the GCRL in Ocean Springs, Mississippi. For details, inquire
in the departmental office or review the GCRL web site at http://www.usm.edu/gcrl/.
GRADUATE TEACHING ASSISTANTS
Graduate Teaching Assistantships (GTAs) are available to students who show academic promise
and potential as effective teachers. Assistantships cover all tuition costs (resident or nonresident) and
provide a stipend of $6900 per year (2 semesters). Students must be admitted to a graduate program and
Ver. 1.15; Page 15
meet the minimum GPA and GRE score requirements for admission to the Biology Program to be
considered for a GTA.
Application Procedure
Students seeking consideration for a GTA appointment should submit the GTA application form
(http://www.mtsu.edu/graduate/pdf/GraduateAsstApp.pdf) directly to the Biology Department (SCI 2044) or
MTSU Box 60, 1301 East Main St., Murfreesboro, TN 37132).
Selection Criteria
The Graduate Admissions Committee reviews the applicant folders and the merits of each
applicant are discussed. Faculty who have had individual applicants in class or who have been contacted
by applicants are asked to comment. Important qualities considered include the following.
1) Academic ability (overall GPA and biology GPA > 3.0 and biology coursework completed
2) Overall background in biology from coursework and or experience
3) English language proficiency (TOEFL Speak score of 26 or IELTS Speak score of 6.5)
4) Source and quality of recommendation letters
5) Perceived ability to interact effectively with faculty, peers, and students
6) Progress toward thesis research (student has identified a research topic)
Responsibilities
Full-time GTAs are required to do the following.
1) Attend a Laboratory Safety Training course
2) Work 8 contact hours per week in laboratory supervision
3) Enroll in a minimum of 6 graduate credit hours each semester
4) Hold office hours of a least 5 hours per week to consult with students
5) Attend weekly laboratory orientation meetings with their Laboratory Coordinator
Retention
Graduate Teaching Assistant academic progress and teaching performance are reviewed each
semester. A minimum 3.0 GPA for all graduate coursework and satisfactory performance reviews are
required for GTA contract renewal. Contracts may be renewed for a maximum of 6 semesters.
GTA Office Space and Office Hours
Graduate Teaching Assistants are provided office space in the Science Building. When classes
begin GTA office hours, plus all class hours and room/building locations, should be posted on a card
outside the GTA’s office or work area. The entire schedule also should be reported to the Biology
Department office.
Ver. 1.15; Page 16
DEPARTMENTAL COORDINATORS
Departmental coordinators have been appointed to help graduate students and GTAs and to
facilitate administration of departmental programs. These individuals, their office locations, and a brief
description of their duties include:
Dr. George W. Benz (SCI 1055)
Co-coordinates the departmental MS program along with Dr. Vince Cobb.
Dr. Vince Cobb (SCI 1083)
Co-coordinates the departmental MS program along with Dr. George W. Benz.
Dr. Matt Klukowski (SCI 1151)
Coordinates the Human Anatomy and Physiology courses (BIOL 2010 and BIOL 2020)
and is responsible for the GTAs who teach the course.
Ms. Karen Lehocky (SCI 1088)
Coordinates media preparation for the microbiology laboratories and maintains the
Biology stockroom.
Dr. Dennis Mullen (SCI 1085)
Coordinates the General Biology courses (BIOL 1110 and BIOL 1120) and is responsible
for the GTAs who teach the course.
Mr. David Powell (SCI 2139)
Coordinates provision of supplies and materials for the freshman laboratories including
BIOL 1030, BIOL 1110, and BIOL 1120.
Dr. Kim C. Sadler (SCI 1161)
Coordinates the Topics in Biology course (BIOL 1030) and is responsible for the GTAs
who teach the course.
Dr. Rebecca Seipelt-Thiemann (SCI 2012)
Coordinates the Biotechnology concentration of the MSPS program.
BIOLOGY DEPARTMENT FINANCIAL AWARDS AND SCHOLARSHIPS
Graduate students are eligible to compete for several prestigious annual departmental awards.
Awards carry stipends ranging from $100-$2,000 plus various forms of public recognition. Contact your
advisor or the Biology Office regarding application information.
Graduate Student Awards
Sarah F. Barlow Scholarship–Awarded to graduate teaching assistant who plans to teach at the
secondary or college level. Award announced in April. Maximum of $500 per year awarded.
Ver. 1.15; Page 17
*William H. Butler, Jr. Graduate Research Scholarship-To provide support for expenses associated
with thesis research. Awards possible throughout the year. Maximum of $500 per year awarded.
*Mary C. Dunn Graduate Scholarship-To support research efforts. Awards announced in April. Two
scholarships of up to $2000 each (up to $1000 per semester) awarded.
J.L. Fletcher Graduate Scholarship-Awarded to a beginning Biology graduate student. Award
announced in April, scholarship given for the succeeding fall semester. Maximum of $500 per year
awarded.
*Thomas E. Hemmerly Graduate Research Support Fund-To provide travel and/or supplies necessary
for thesis research. Awards possible throughout the year. Maximum of $500 per year awarded.
Charles Holland Biology Club Scholarship-Available to students enrolled in the graduate program.
Award announced in April. Maximum of $500 per year awarded.
*Brian Miller Graduate Research Scholarship- To support research of second year graduate students
conducting field studies on Herpetology or Biospeleology in TN. Award is for purchase of equipment,
supplies or support travel to and from research sites. Awards possible throughout the year. Maximum of
$500 per year awarded.
*Dennis Mullen Vertebrate Biology/Aquatic Ecology Research Scholarship-Awarded to graduate
students engaged in research in Vertebrate Biology or Aquatic Ecology. Award is for purchase of
equipment, supplies or support travel to and from research sites. Awards possible throughout the year.
Maximum of $500 per year awarded.
*Marion R. Wells Graduate Research Scholarship-To provide support for thesis research conducted
during summer months. Award announced in April. Maximum of $500 per year awarded.
*John M. Zamora Graduate Research Scholarship-To provide support for expenses associated with
thesis research. Awards possible throughout the year. Maximum of $500 per year awarded.
*Kurt E. Blum Botany Research Scholarship-Awarded in support of undergraduate and graduate
research in botany. Maximum of $500 per year awarded.
*John D. DuBois Scholarship –Awarded to undergraduate or graduate students to provide travel for
paper presentations at scientific meetings. Awards possible throughout the year. Maximum of $500 per
year awarded.
*Padgett Kelly Research Scholarship- Awarded to an undergraduate or graduate student to support
summer studies or field research in ecology or conservation Biology. Award is for purchase of
equipment, supplies or support travel to and from research sites. Awards possible throughout the year.
Maximum of $500 per year awarded.
*Mitchell Magid Scholarship–A scholarship for students doing research or internships in Organismal
Biology. Available to a student of any classification level. Award announced in April. Maximum of
$500 per year awarded.
Charles R. McGhee Scholarship-Awarded to a Biology major of junior, senior, or graduate standing
seeking licensure to teach Biology. Award announced in April, scholarship given for the succeeding fall
semester. Maximum of $500 per year awarded.
Ver. 1.15; Page 18
*George G. Murphy Research Scholarship-Awarded to an undergraduate or graduate student to
purchase supplies or support travel associated with research projects. Awards possible throughout the
year. Maximum of $500 per year awarded.
*J. Gerald Parchment Scholarship-Awarded to a Biology major of sophomore or above standing for
summer study or academic year research. Award announced in April. Maximum of $500 per year
awarded.
*John A. Patten Scholarship-Awarded to a Biology major of sophomore or above (including graduate)
standing for research support or summer study. Award announced in April. Maximum of $1,500 per year
awarded.
*Stephen M. Wright Research Scholarship-Awarded to an undergraduate or graduate student to
support any aspect associated with research in microbiology or biotechnology. Awards possible
throughout the year. Maximum of $500 per year awarded.
* Research Scholarship-To qualify for any research scholarship, a research statement is required as part
of the scholarship application package.
A research statement should include 6 clearly defined sub-sections as follows.
1. Background/Introduction (2-page maximum)
2. Material & Methods (2-page maximum)
3. Expected Results/Potential Implications
4. Expected Timeline
5. Detailed Budget (including how scholarship will be used)
6. References
CO-CURRICULAR ACTIVITIES
Graduate Student Orientation
Prior to the beginning of each fall semester the Biology Department hosts an informal meeting for
all new and returning graduate students and the graduate faculty. This is an excellent opportunity for
graduate students to meet other new and returning graduate students and learn about faculty research
interests and accomplishments.
Graduate Student Association
The MTSU chapter of the Graduate Student Association serves to provide graduate student
representation and promotion of graduate student interests in the Biology Department and on the MTSU
campus. Membership is open to all graduate students. Additional details may be obtained by contacting
Dr. Ryan Otter, chapter sponsor (Ryan.Otter@mtsu.edu).
Biology Club
The Biology Club is the oldest student organization on the MTSU campus. It is open to all
students interested in biology. Club activities emphasize outdoor recreation and fund-raising through
paper and aluminum recycling. More information may be obtained by contacting the Dr. Steve Howard
(Steve.Howard@mtsu.edu).
Ver. 1.15; Page 19
Scholars Day
Each spring semester the College of Graduate Studies sponsors a university-wide showcase of
research, scholarship, creative activity, and public service where faculty and graduate students share their
work in a collegial, interdisciplinary setting. The format includes a keynote speaker, poster and oral
presentations, multi-media displays, and round-table discussions.
Ver. 1.15; Page 20
APPENDIX A
COLLEGE OF GRADUATE STUDIES INTERACTIVE FORMS
Important MS Degree related information available from the College of Graduate Studies includes:
1) Graduate Student Handbook
http://www.mtsu.edu/graduate/pdf/GRADUATE%20STUDENT%20HANDBOOK-2014.pdf
2) Degree Plan for Masters of Science in Biology
http://www.mtsu.edu/graduate/pdf/DegPlan_Bio.pdf
3) Degree Plan Revision Form
http://www.mtsu.edu/graduate/pdf/DegreePlanReviseALL.pdf
4) Notice of Intent to Graduate Form
http://www.mtsu.edu/graduate/intent.php
5) Thesis/Dissertation Checklist
http://www.mtsu.edu/graduate/pdf/ThesisDissChecklist.pdf
Note: The Biology Department follows the CSE Manual for Authors, Editors and
Publishers, 7th ed. 2006.
6) Instructions for Preparation of the Thesis and Electronic Submission
http://www.mtsu.edu/graduate/pdf/ThesisDissertationManual.pdf
7) Thesis/Dissertation Publishing Agreement
http://www.mtsu.edu/graduate/pdf/ThesisDissPublishingAgreement.pdf
8) Graduation Guidelines
http://www.mtsu.edu/graduate/pdf/gradletter201380.pdf
Ver. 1.15; Page 21
APPENDIX B
RESEARCH & THESIS APPROVAL FORM
DEPARTMENT OF BIOLOGY
MIDDLE TENNESSEE STATE UNIVERSITY
Students seeking the MS degree in Biology must complete and file this form with the departmental
graduate coordinator by the end of the second semester of graduate study.
NAME: ________________________________________________________ M___________________
(Last)
(First)
(MI)
(M#)
The MS degree in biology may be pursued with or without a declared area of specialization. If an area of
specialization is not desired, check the box labeled "BIOLOGY". If an area of specialization is elected, a
minimum of 15 semester hours including BIOL 6620 (Biological Research) and BIOL 6640 (Thesis) must
be completed. Please check the appropriate box.
 Biology
 Organismal Biology and Ecology
 Biotechnology/Genetics and Microbiology
 Physiology and Cellular/Molecular Biology
THESIS TOPIC (tentative title/research area): _______________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________________________________
CURRENT RESEARCH STATUS (check all that apply):
 Research topic selected
 Written thesis proposal complete
 Thesis proposal approved by Thesis Advisory Committee
 Some observations and/or data collected
Date: _________________
Does this research include the use of live vertebrate animals? ____ Yes ____ No
Student completed IACUC approved training on _____________.
MTSU IACUC Protocol number __________ and approval date__________.
Does this research include the use of human subjects? ____ Yes ____ No
Student completed IRB approved training on _____________.
MTSU IRB Protocol number __________ and approval date__________.
The following faculty members have agreed to guide the research and critically review the thesis:
Thesis Advisor
____________________________
(Printed name)
______________________________
(Signature)
Committee Member
____________________________
(Printed name)
______________________________
(Signature)
Committee Member
____________________________
(Printed name)
______________________________
(Signature)
Committee Member
____________________________
(Printed name)
______________________________
(Signature)
I understand the written and oral portions of my comprehensive examination will be prepared and graded
by my Thesis Advisory Committee, and I must answer questions from each committee member.
____________________________________
(Student Signature)
_______________________________________
(Date Submitted)
Ver. 1.15; Page 22
APPENDIX C
LITERATURE CITATION GUIDELINES
The Department of Biology uses the name-year system for citations in text and references in the Literature
Cited.
CITATIONS
Journal Articles, Books and Theses
(Author Year): (Steele 1982); (Levy and Pappano 2007); (Steele 1982; Levy and Pappano 2007)
REFERENCES
Journal Articles
Personal Author(s): Author(s). Year. Article title. Journal title volume (issue): inclusive pages.
Steele RD. 1982. Role of 3-ethylthiopropionate in methionine metabolism and toxicity in rats. J.
Nutr. 112:118-125.
Organization as Author: Organization name. Year. Article title. Journal title volume (issue): inclusive pages.
Scandinavian Society for Clinical Chemistry and Clinical Physiology, Committee on Enzymes. 1976.
Recommended method for the determination of glutamyltransferase in blood. Scand. J.
Clin. Lab. Invest. 36:119-125.
Anonymous Author: [Anonymous]. Year. Article title. Journal title volume (issue):inclusive pages.
Books and Monographs
Personal Author(s): Author(s). Year. Book title. Place of publication: Publisher's name. Total pages.
Hopkins WG. 1999. Introduction to plant physiology. New York: J Wiley. 512p.
Organization as Author: Organization name. Year. Book title. Place of publication: Publisher's name. Total pages.
AMA Department of Drugs. 1980. AMA drug evaluations. 4 th edition. New York: J Wiley. 186p.
Editor: Editor's name, editor. Year. Book title. Place of publication: Publisher's name. Total pages.
Wood RKS, editor. 1982. Active defense mechanisms in plants. New York: Plenum Press. 224p.
Section in a Book: Section author(s) name(s). Year. Title of section. In: Editor(s) name(s), editor(s). Title of
book. Place of publication: Publisher. Pages of section.
Kirkpatrick CH, Sohnle PG. 1981. Chronic mucocutaneous candidiasis. In: Safai B, Good RA, editors.
Immunodermatology. New York: Plenum Medical Book Co. p 231-278.
Theses and Dissertations
Author. Year of degree. Title [type of publication]. Place of institution: Institution granting degree.
Total number of pages.
Asbell DB. 1984. A survey of the plankton of J. Percy Priest Reservoir, Tennessee [MS thesis].
Murfreesboro (TN): Middle Tennessee State University. 53p.
Spangler R. 1980. Characterization of the secretory defect present in glucose intolerant Yucatan
Miniature swine [dissertation]. Fort Collins (CO): Colorado State Univ. 163p.
Electronic Journal Articles
Author(s). Year. Title of article. Journal title [type of medium]: volume number(issue number):
pagination. Availability statement. [Date of accession if needed].
Rafiq S. 1997. Effects of different salt concentrations on the growth of Rhizobium (osmoadaptation).
Scientia [online serial]: 1(2):1-9. Available via the INTERNET (http://www.mtsu.edu/~scientia).
Ver. 1.15; Page 23
APPENDIX D
Thesis Title should be Centered, Double-Spaced, and Placed Two Inches from the Top Margin:
Only the First Letter of a Word should be Capitalized
Student Name Here
Approved:
Faculty Name, Committee Chair
Faculty Name, Committee Member
Faculty Name, Committee Member
Faculty Name, Chair, Department of Biology
Faculty Name, Dean, College of Graduate Studies
Ver. 1.15; Page 24
APPENDIX E
BIOLOGY DEPARTMENT GRADUATE PROGRAM DEADLINES
SPRING 2015
January 20
Classes begin
February 3
Last day to file “Intent to Graduate Form” for May graduation
March 20
Last day to sign-up for the spring 2015 Biology comprehensive exams
March 20
Last day to file a thesis with the Biology Department for May graduation
March 27
Last day to defend and file a thesis with the College of Graduate
Studies for May graduation
March 30
Biology comprehensive written exams (1:00 PM; location TBA)
April 27
Comprehensive exam results due in the College of Graduate Studies
Ver. 1.15; Page 25
APPENDIX F
Instuctor
Altman, Elliot
Bailey, Frank
Benz, George
Bergemann, Sarah
Boyd, Lynn
Brower, Andrew
Butler, William M
Cobb, Vincent
Dubois, John
Elrod-Erickson, Matt
Ervin, Gore
Farone, Anthony
Farone, Mary
Gardner, Grant
Herlihy, Christopher
Howard, Steve
Jessen, Jason
Jetton, Amy
Johnson, Sandra
Kelly, Padgett
Klukowski, Matthew
Leblond, Jeff
McClelland, Erin
McGhee, Charles
Miller, Brian
Morris, Ashley
Mullen, Dennis
Murphy, George
Nelson, David
Newsome, Anthony
Otter, Ryan
Robertson, Brian
Rutledge, Michael
Sadler, Kim
Salem, Mohamed
Sieg, Robert
Seipelt-Thiemann, Rebecca
Smith-Walters, Cindi
Stewart, William
Walck, Jeffrey
Wright, Stephen
Zamora, John
Support
Altman, Ronni
Case, Karen
Elrod, Becky
Jones, Ellen
Jessen, Tammy
Lehocky, Karen
McKnight, Virginia
Miller, Joyce
Powell, David
Powers, Lyn
MTSU Biology Faculty Spring 2015
E-Mail
Elliot.Altman@mtsu.edu
Frank.Bailey@mtsu.edu
George.Benz@mtsu.edu
Sarah.Bergemann@mtsu.edu
Lynn.Boyd@mtsu.edu
Andrew.Brower@mtsu.edu
William.Butler@mtsu.edu
Vincent.Cobb@mtsu.edu
John.DuBois@mtsu.edu
Matt.Elrod-Erickson@mtsu.edu
Max.Ervin@mtsu.edu
Anthony.Farone@mtsu.edu
Mary.Farone@mtsu.edu
Grant.Gardner@mtsu.edu
Chris.Herlihy@mtsu.edu
Steve.Howard@mtsu.edu
Jason.Jessen@mtsu.edu
Amy.Jetton@mtsu.edu
Sandra.Johnson@mtsu.edu
J.Kelly@mtsu.edu
Matt.Klukowski@mtsu.edu
Jeff.Leblond@mtsu.edu
Erin.McClelland@mtsu.edu
Charles.McGhee@mtsu.edu
Brian.Miller@mtsu.edu
Ashley.Morris@mtsu.edu
Dennis.Mullen@mtsu.edu
George.Murphy@mtsu.edu
David.E.Nelson@mtsu.edu
Anthony.Newsome@mtsu.edu
Ryan.Otter@mtsu.edu
James.Robertson@mtsu.edu
Michael.Rutledge@mtsu.edu
Kim.Sadler@mtsu.edu
Mohamed.Salem@mtsu.edu
Robert.Sieg@mtsu.edu
Rebecca.Seipelt@mtsu.edu
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John.Zamora@mtsu.edu
Biology Department Office
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Ver. 1.15; Page 26
Ver. 1.15; Page 27