Master of Science in Biochemistry

University of Northern British Columbia

Thesis and project options are available. The thesis option prepares graduate students for careers in research or further academic study by requiring the design and completion of an original research program and preparation of a thesis. The project option provides training across disciplines particularly suitable to individuals with more defined career objectives, as well as providing a mechanism for non-traditional students (e.g., working students, teachers, and professionals) to upgrade their skills.The Master of Science thesis option is designed for candidates who wish to develop career interests related to scientific research or who intend to pursue further academic research degrees. MSc students within the Biochemistry thesis stream are required to complete 3 credit hours of Graduate Seminar (two semesters), a minimum of 12 credit hours of approved graduate-level electives (i.e., at or above the 600 level), and a 12 credit-hour thesis (BCMB 794-12). It is expected that the electives consist of scientifically-oriented courses and that the thesis involves an independent investigation resulting in an original scientific contribution.The Master of Science project option is designed for candidates who wish to upgrade their skills, or who are constrained in their ability to undertake a traditional research thesis. MSc students within the BCMB project stream are required to complete 3 credit hours of Graduate Seminar (two semesters), a minimum of 18 credit hours of approved electives, and a 6 credit-hour project (BCMB 793-6). Given the course-intensive nature of this option, MSc projects are limited, subject to sufficient teaching resources and a critical mass of faculty within an area of defined specialization. It is expected the electives consist of scientifically-oriented courses, and the project involves an independent investigation resulting in a scientific contribution, although this contribution need not include original research. Because of the number of courses required for this option, it is restricted to designated specializations that have been decided upon within each program area.The normal time for completion of the MSc is two academic years. While this is the recommended timeline, it may be adjusted at the discretion of the supervisory committee to suit a particular student’s research and program needs.