Compare Programs
Not sure which program is right for you? Comparing programs is easy. Select any program from the dropdown menu below, then choose any additional programs of interest and click "Compare" to see them side by side.
| x remove Biology, M.S. | x remove Earth Science, B.S. | x remove Combined Degree: Engineering, B.S.E. and M.S.E. | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Credits Required |
33
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149
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varies by program
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| Format |
Face To Face
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Face To Face
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Face To Face
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| Location |
Graduate students in this major study at Grand Valley's Allendale Campus. 
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Undergraduate students in this major study at the Grand Valley Allendale
Campus.
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All undergraduate students begin their academic career at Grand Valley's Allendale Campus; classes for graduate students in this major meet downtown on the Robert C. Pew Grand Rapids Campus.
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| Coursework |
The M.S. in biology is a highly individualized program of study. All program plans will include the following three components:
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The program consists of coursework in the geosciences, physics, chemistry, and mathematics. Some required courses include:
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The study plans for the combined B.S.E./M.S.E. program are very aggressive and academically demanding. Undergraduate students maintaining a GPA of 3.3 through their junior year are encouraged to apply for the program. For more information, please contact the graduate program director.
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| Career Options |
Just as the field of biology is broad, so is the list of career possibilities for biologists. Many biology careers involve the environment, fisheries and wildlife, and laboratory research. For examples please contact the department. Visit gvsu.edu/biology for details.
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Most Earth Science B.S. graduates pursue careers in secondary education. We recommend that students choose a minor in one of the other sciences. Students that take the extra coursework needed to obtain an science secondary endorsement are most successful in starting their teaching careers in Michigan. Demand for Earth science graduates is high across the country. Careers may also be found in environmental remediation and water resources.
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The following are just a few career options for engineers:
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| Application Deadline |
Applications for admission are accepted on a rolling basis, but deadline for graduate assistantship consideration for fall semester is January 15. The $30 nonrefundable application fee is waived if the applicant has previously applied to GVSU.
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| Skills Employers Want |
The M.S. in Biology degree at GVSU will develop the skills you need to land the job you want. Whether the skills are advanced or general, you will build a resume of qualifications that are sure to attract employers. The following careers correlate with those pulled from actual biology postings.
Source: EMSI, 2022
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The B.S. in Earth Science at GVSU will develop the skills you need to land the job you want. Whether the skills are advanced or general, you will build a resume of qualifications that are sure to attract employers. The following skills correlate with those pulled from actual job postings.
Source: EMSI, 2020
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The M.S.E. in Engineering at GVSU will develop the skills you need to land the job you want. Whether the skills are advanced or general, you will build a resume of qualifications that are sure to attract employers. The following skills correlate with those pulled from actual job postings in the engineering field.
Source: EMSI, 2022
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