Advising for Graduate Students

A critical aspect of the M.S. in Biology program is the close working relationship you will develop with your faculty advisor.  All M.S. students (coursework and thesis) are required to regularly meet with their faculty advisor.  Your faculty advisor will not only guide your academic program, such as coursework, credit requirements, and comprehensive exam counseling, but will also provide career mentorship.  Your faculty advisor is a nationally and internationally recognized expert in his or her field.  Take advantage of your advisor’s knowledge and expertise. 

In addition to regular meetings throughout the semester, all students must meet with their faculty advisor at the beginning of each academic year to determine course schedules and upcoming deadlines. Together with your advisor, you will fill out a Pre-Registration Agreement form (pdf). The signed form must be filed with the Associate Chair of Graduate Studies in Biology to make sure you are satisfying your degree requirements, and that the courses you want to take will be applicable toward your degree.