The Department of Microbiology has a rich history and long tradition of training world-class scientists. As we enter into this new era of genomics and molecular life science research, we are well on our way to training the next generation of researchers. Our Master's program in microbiology offers an individualized approach to graduate study in one of the nation's largest teaching and research institutions. You will actively participate in planning your graduate program while working with colleagues from around the world. The MS degree offers a flexible program for the study of different aspects of modern microbiology. The Graduate Program in Microbiology offers either a plan A (thesis research) or plan B (non-thesis) degree, depending on your interests and laboratory opportunities. During the first year, students in both programs will complete a core series of coursework that includes options in Genetics, Bioinformatics, Molecular Microbiology, and Ecology and Evolution as well as scientific presentations. Additional elective courses will allow you to specialize in a particular area of Microbiology. Non-thesis MS degrees can be completed in 1-2 years depending on your background. If you elect to include thesis research you can apply research credits towards your degree, typically completed in 2 years. In some situations, students desiring to continue their research as a PhD candidate can apply to the PhD program in Microbiology and their MS coursework applied to meet the PhD course requirements.