Winthrop University

Admission to graduate study at Winthrop University is open to applicants who have earned a baccalaureate degree from a regionally accredited institution with an acceptable cumulative grade-point average, and who have achieved an adequate score on an appropriate standardized test. Admission as a graduate student in the College of Arts and Sciences requires a student's undergraduate record to show adequate preparation for graduate work in the chosen program and an overall undergraduate grade-point average of at least 3.0 on a 4.0 scale. If the quality of the student's undergraduate work is less than required, admission may be granted on the basis of scores on the Graduate Record Exam. The graduate program in Biology uses a sliding scale based on GPA, Verbal GRE, and Math GRE scores. This scale is published on page 43 of the 2008-2009 Graduate Catalog and can be accessed at the following site: http://www.winthrop.edu/graduateschool/Biologyadmissionrequirements.htm

Students who score at least 12 points on the 22-point scale are eligible for an admission interview. Students moving onto the interview stage must submit at least two letters of recommendations, preferably from faculty members who can comment on the likelihood of success in graduate school. Students should also prepare statements of their personal and professional objectives and indicate whether they plan to pursue the thesis or non-thesis option. All application materials should be sent to The Graduate School, Winthrop University, 701 Oakland Avenue, Rock Hill, SC, 29733. A $50 non-refundable application fee must be included with the application materials. Questions about the Biology M.S. program should be directed to Dr. Janice Chism, Graduate Program Director, Department of Biology, Winthrop University, Rock Hill, SC 29733; phone 803/323-2111, ext. 6429; fax 803/323-3448; e-mail chismj@winthrop.edu.

The M.S. program in Biology offers both the thesis and non-thesis options. For students choosing the thesis option, selection of an appropriate faculty supervisor is critically important. It is recommended that prospective students contact faculty members to discuss possible research projects. The application deadline for fall admission is May 15. However, students wishing to be considered for graduate teaching and research assistantships are strongly encouraged to submit their application by February 15.