The Microbiology and Environmental Toxicology Department offers a Master of Science (M.S.) degree in Microbiology and Environmental Toxicology (METX). The METX M.S. degree can be attained through Plan I (thesis) or Plan II (capstone). Plan I: A master’s research thesis, viewed as acceptable by a thesis committee appointed by the METX graduate advisory committee, is required of each candidate. The completed thesis must be filed with the Graduate Division by the end of instruction in the term in which the candidate expects the degree to be awarded. Students will also accomplish a minimum of 40 credits of instruction. Plan II: Students complete a capstone requirement, which is an individual written project. A comprehensive project in the major subject, as approved by the METX graduate advising committee, is required of each candidate. Students will also accomplish a minimum of 40 credits of instruction.

The METX M.S. degree combines core courses and electives to provide interdisciplinary training in microbiology, toxicology, and environmental health sciences. Graduates from the program are exceptionally prepared to take research or management positions in organizations concerned with microbial and environmental health-related sciences. Graduates may also pursue fields in education or enter doctoral programs in biological and environmental health sciences or related fields.

Students pursuing Plan I typically graduate in two years; Plan II typically concludes in one year.