Truett McConnell University Announces New Master of Science in Biology Program

Dr. Robert S. Bowen, Dean of STEM and Associate Professor of Physiology stands in the TMU biology lab. TMU/Special

By Jenny Gregory

CLEVELAND — The Truett McConnell University (TMU) Pilgram Marpeck School of Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) announces its new Master of Science in Biology (MS in Biology) degree program approved by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC), to be offered beginning fall semester 2017.

“Once the secret in the North Georgia mountains, Truett McConnell University has matured into a distinctively Christian institution providing students with a broad platform of biblically centered degree programs, both undergraduate and graduate,” said TMU Dr. President Emir Caner.

“Our newest master’s degree, the Master of Science in Biology,” Caner added, “will equip graduates to enter professions within the science community and contribute through research, teaching, writing, and other avenues – all through the lens of Scripture.”

Dr. Brad Reynolds, VP of Academics and Dean of Faculty, added, “For too long scientific research has been handcuffed by an atheistic worldview which created spurious boundaries. Now, TMU, is offering a scientific master’s degree which conforms to the motto “truth is immortal” and opens scientific research beyond the pseudo boundaries of evolutionary theory.”

The new MS in Biology, which is TMU’s fourth master’s degree program, will be available on the Cleveland campus and require 42 credits including courses from a research curriculum, specific biology content areas – physiology, molecular, and cellular biology and organismal biology – departmental seminars and institutional requirements.

Dean of STEM and Associate Professor of Physiology Dr. Robert S. Bowen instructs students during a biology lab at TMU. TMU/Special

Dr. Robert S. Bowen, Dean of STEM and Associate Professor of Physiology, shared, “I am most excited about the cultural shift and opportunities the MS in Biology will bring to the Biology program and The Pilgram Marpeck School of STEM as a whole.”

“The goal of the coursework,” added Bowen, “is to help students develop a higher level of knowledge within a specific biological field as they prepare to become experts in that area.”

“The additional opportunities available in research and for collaboration between undergraduate students, graduate students and faculty will enhance the scholarly experience for each facet of our academic community,” Bowen added. 

Students looking to apply will be evaluated based on undergraduate GPA (both overall and science/math specific), previous coursework, GRE scores, a personal statement, and letters of recommendation.

“It is the goal of this program to prepare students for careers in academia through entrance to PhD programs, bio-industry and private research, medicine and healthcare and government.  Really, we are aiming to help students achieve professional success anywhere professional biologists are working,” Bowen stated.

Current and prospective TMU students interested in pursuing the MS in Biology program can contact The Pilgram Marpeck School of STEM at (706) 865-2134, ext. 6401 or by contacting Jim Dunnington via email at graduateadmissions@truett.edu or by calling (706) 865-2134, ext. 2131.

Jenny Gregory is the content manager for Truett McConnell University.