Charles E. Schmidt
College of Science

Link to Course Descriptions for the Charles E. Schmidt College of Science

The Charles E. Schmidt College of Science offers baccalaureate programs in Biological Sciences, Chemistry, Exercise Science and Health Promotion, Geosciences, Health Science, Mathematics, Neuroscience and Behavior, Physics, Psychology, Urban Design, and Urban and Regional Planning. The degrees awarded are Bachelor of Arts (B.A.), Bachelor of Science (B.S), Bachelor of Urban Design (B.U.D.) and Bachelor of Urban and Regional Planning (B.U.R.P.). Refer to the department sections for which degrees are awarded in each major.

The Bachelor of Arts programs are offered in the liberal arts tradition. They permit greater elective breadth with less specialization than the Bachelor of Science programs. B.A. programs are available for the preparation of secondary school science and mathematics teachers, for preprofessional programs such as dentistry and medicine and for graduate school preparation in certain interdisciplinary fields.

The Bachelor of Science programs meet the requirements of professional associations and provide the more intensive training required for admission to graduate work. They are normally elected by students intending to pursue careers in these fields.

Honors programs for undergraduates are available through most College of Science departments. Additionally, eligible College of Science majors in Biology, Psychology, and Neuroscience and Behavior bachelor's programs may apply to participate in the FAU Max Planck Honors Program (MPHP). Established by the Jupiter Life Science Initiative, the College of Science and the Wilkes Honors College, working in partnership with the Max Planck Florida Institute for Neuroscience, the MPHP is a Jupiter-specific honors program for undergraduates. The program provides participants with exclusive enrichment opportunities. Students who maintain all standards and fulfill all requirements of the MPHP receive a designation of “FAU Max Planck Honors” on their final transcript. Details of the MPHP are listed here. Visit the MPHP website to apply.

Programs leading to the master's degree are available in Biological Sciences, Chemistry, Environmental Science, Exercise Science and Health Promotion, Geosciences, Mathematics, Physic, Psychology and Urban and Regional Planning. Degrees awarded are Professional Science Master (P.S.M.), Master of Science (M.S.), Master of Science in Teaching (M.S.T.), Master of Arts (M.A.) and Master of Urban and Regional Planning (M.U.R.P.). Refer to the department sections for which degrees are awarded in each major.

Doctoral programs (Ph.D.) are offered in Integrative Biology, Chemistry, Geosciences, Mathematics, Neuroscience, Physics and Psychology. Complex Systems and Brain Sciences is being phased out and is no longer accepting students.

Bachelor's Degree Program Information

General Studies Degree Program
The University offers a Bachelor of General Studies (B.G.S.) degree program that allows students to design a plan of study to meet their personal interests and career goals. The 120-credit program includes 15 credits of upper-division coursework in one discipline, which students select in consultation with an advisor. For more B.G.S. details and degree requirements, please refer to the Degree Programs section of this catalog.

Admission Requirements and Recommendations
The undergraduate applicant for admission to the Charles E. Schmidt College of Science must meet the general freshman or transfer admission requirements of the University. In addition, the student should consider the list of science and mathematics courses required and recommended by the major department of choice in planning the lower-division program. In general, transfer students should not take more work in their proposed major field than is recommended in the Degree Requirements section of this catalog under Lower-Division College and Department Requirements and Recommended Courses. Freshmen should review the core curriculum also in the Degree Requirements section.

Degree Requirements
All candidates for a baccalaureate degree from the Charles E. Schmidt College of Science must satisfy:

1.  All of the general baccalaureate degree requirements of the University (see the Degree Requirements section).
2. The foreign language requirement as outlined in the Degree Requirements section of this catalog.
3. All of the special requirements for the degree as specified by the department in which the program is offered; these requirements are listed in this section.
4. All the requirements of the Charles E. Schmidt College of Science.

Charles E. Schmidt College of Science Requirements

1.   Department major:  Credits in the major field as designated for each student by the major department. In order to graduate, a student must maintain a "C" average in departmental major courses unless otherwise specified by the department. Any coursework in the major field transferred from another institution must be approved by the major department.
   
2. Cognate work:  Supporting work in departments related to the major as specified by the student's advisor.

3. Transient Work policy:  After matriculation into the Charles E. Schmidt College of Science, transient work is not permitted except in unusual circumstances. In these cases, an academic petition showing justification is required.

Cooperative Education Program
The College's Cooperative Education Program enables interested students from all departments in the College to take advantage of the opportunity to alternate periods of academic study with periods of paid work experience. The program is available on an optional basis to all students in accordance with the description shown in the Student Services and Activities section of this catalog. In addition, students in the Charles E. Schmidt College of Science must meet the following requirements:

1.  Students wishing to participate in the co-op plan in the College of Science should contact their major department to determine which of the co-op plans is available to them.
2. The maximum amount of credit that may be earned is 10 credits, a portion of which may be part of the degree program (non-additive) and a portion of which may be in addition to the requirements of the degree program (additive) as outlined below:
   

   Subject	Non-additive	Additive
   Biological Sciences	4	6
   Chemistry	10	0
   Geology	4	6
   Mathematics	4	6
   Physics	3	7
   Psychology	8	2

3. The following reflects the minimum credits per work period that may be allowed. Students should contact their major department to determine which plan is available to them:
   
   Alternating Plan (40 hr./wk.) 2-4 credits
   Parallel Plan (20 hr./wk.) 1-2 credits
   Special Plan (40 hr./wk.) 2-4 credits
   
   
4. The student will be evaluated as follows:
   
   1. Technical report
   2. Employer's evaluation
   3. Final co-op report
      
      
5. Student will be graded as satisfactory/ unsatisfactory.
6. A student's participation in the program must be approved by all of the following:
   1. The department;
   2. The Charles E. Schmidt College of Science;
   3. The director of Cooperative Education.
7. A job related to the student's major must be available.
8. The student must accept the job.
9. The employer must accept the student.

Pre-Health Professional Programs
The University provides curricular sequences that satisfy the requirements for preprofessional students aspiring to the practice of medicine, dentistry, optometry, pharmacy, veterinary medicine, etc.

New students in this category are urged to seek advisement from the Pre-Health Professions Office prior to registration and to start a special file at this time. The office may be reached at 561-297-3307.

The Pre-Health Professions Office provides continual guidance and helps students realize their maximum potential for success in applying for admission to professional schools. The office serves the Pre-Health Professions Committee of the Charles E. Schmidt College of Science, which has functioned for many years with ever-increasing success in helping qualified applicants enter the professional school of their choice. The office maintains a preprofessional discussion group, Premed-L.

Combined Degree Program Information

The College of Science offers four combined B.S./M.S. programs in the following areas: Biological Sciences,  Exercise Science and Health Promotion, Geosciences, Mathematics and Statistics, and Biological Sciences/Environmental Science. A  B.A. in Heath Science combined with an M.S. in Exercise Science and Health Promotion, a  B.A./M.A. in Psychology, and a B.S. in Neuroscience and Behavior with an M.A. in Psychology are other offerings. The College also offers a combined B.S. in Physics with a Professional Science Master (P.S.M) in Medical Physics.

For the Biological Sciences B.S./M.S. program, a Molecular Biology and Biotechnology path of study prepares students to enter the interdisciplinary Ph.D. program in Integrative Biology. Both B.S. and M.S. degrees can be completed in five years. The B.S. in Biological Sciences/M.S. in Environmental Science provides hands-on training for a career in environmental science and also prepares students for the Integrative Biology Ph.D. and the Geosciences Ph.D. For detailed information about both combined programs, see the Biological Sciences section of the catalog.

The accelerated tracks, B.A. to M.S. and B.S. to M.S., in Exercise Science and Health Promotion assist students in obtaining a master's degree, whch may be a requirement in their chosen career paths.

In the Mathematics discipline, students may also complete a Bachelor of Science degree and a Master of Science degree in five years. The program is designed to prepare students for the pursuit of a Ph.D. in Mathematics. See the Mathematics and Statistics section of this catalog for admission and degree requirements.

A combined program  in Mathematics is offered jointly by the Wilkes Honors College and the Charles E. Schmidt College of Science. This five-year program leads to bachelor's and master's degrees in Mathematics. Details of the undergraduate portion of the program can be found here.

The combined Bachelor of Science (B.S.) in Physics and Professional Science Master (P.S.M.) in Medical Physics is an accelerated, five-year program. Students apply to the B.S./P.S.M. program in the first semester of their junior year and begin taking graduate courses after completion of their junior year (summer prior to senior year); those courses would apply to both the B.S. and P.S.M. degrees. For details, see the Physics section of the catalog.

Master's Degree Program Information

The Master of Science and Master of Arts will be conferred on Charles E. Schmidt College of Science students who satisfy the general University requirements for this degree, and in addition, meet the following College requirements:

1.  Residence Requirements: Each student must be enrolled for two semesters in courses offered on campus.
2. Admission to Candidacy: Admission to candidacy for the master's degree in the College is usually granted after the applicant has completed a minimum of 8 graduate credits, with a 3.0 grade point average, in the major department and has satisfied requirements set by the University as well as by the applicant's major department. The major department may require satisfactory performance in a qualifying examination, demonstration of capability in a foreign language and/or selection of a thesis advisor and topic as prerequisites for candidacy.
3. If a thesis is required, students must pass a final oral defense of their thesis and be examined on such other material as may be indicated by the faculty.

Students who do not meet the standards established by their department may be subject to dismissal.

Master of Science in Teaching
Several departments in the Charles E. Schmidt College of Science that have approved master's programs also have programs leading to the Master of Science in Teaching. These programs are designed to prepare science teachers for secondary schools and junior colleges.

The curriculum for an M.S.T. from the College of Science consists of a minimum of 30 credits (excluding internship) beyond the baccalaureate, of which up to 6 credits may be allowed for a suitable thesis project at the discretion of the department. The same conditions of departmental standards pertain as above.

Students who wish to obtain an M.S.T. degree but who have deficiencies in their undergraduate background, as determined by the department, will register as non-degree students. Upon admission to graduate status, up to 9 credits taken under the non-degree-seeking student category can be transferred to the graduate program at the discretion of the major department. Students must take the remainder of the program while in graduate status. Students will be advised by their departments which undergraduate courses from their projected curricula will be acceptable for the M.S.T. degree. A master's committee will be constituted to supervise and advise students at the time they transfer to graduate status.

Doctoral Degree Program Information

The Charles E. Schmidt College of Science offers programs of study leading to the Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) degree in Integrative Biology, Chemistry, Geosciences, Mathematics, Neuroscience, Physics and Psychology.  Information  for the Integrative Biology and the Neuroscience programs  is  found under the Interdisciplinary Programs heading below. For specifications for the other doctoral programs, see the appropriate departmental section of this catalog. Complex Systems and Brain Sciences is being phased out and is no longer accepting students.

Certificate Programs

Several certificate programs are offered in the Charles E. Schmidt College of Science. The Biological Sciences Department offers an undergraduate Biotechnology certificate program. In Chemistry and Biochemistry, students may choose from the undergraduate Pharmaceutical Technology certificate and the graduate Post-Baccalaureate Research Education Program in Chemistry (PREPChem) certificate. The Department of Geosciences offers an undergraduate certificate in Geographic Information Systems, an undergraduate Advanced Geographic Information Systems certificate, and two graduate certificates, one in Remote Sensing and the other in  Geographic Information Systems. In Mathematics and Statistics, students may choose from undergraduate certificates in Statistics, Actuarial Science, Cybersecurity and Data Science, and the graduate certificate in Cyber Security. An undergraduate minor in Cybersecurity is also available. In Psychology, students may choose the undergraduate certificate in Applied Mental Health Services. Requirements for these certificate programs are listed within their specific departments. The Department of Physics offers a graduate certificate in Medical Physics that appears below in Interdisciplinary Programs.

Five certificate programs—Environmental Science, Environmental Restoration, Medical Physics, Neuroscience and Post-Baccalaureate Pre-Health Professions—are interdisciplinary in nature, crossing several Charles E. Schmidt College of Science departments. Details of these certificate programs are listed below under Interdisciplinary Programs.

Undergraduate Research Certificate
To recognize undergraduate students' excellence in undergraduate research, the Office of Undergraduate Research and Inquiry (OURI) has established the Undergraduate Research Certificate. Requirements for the Research Certificate include completion of 12 credits of research exposure, skill-building and intensive courses as well as dissemination of the outcomes of students' research and inquiry through a research presentation or exhibition.

Interdisciplinary Programs

The Charles E. Schmidt College of Science offers several interdisciplinary programs: a bachelor's degree program in Health Science; the FAU Max Planck Honors Program; a graduate certificate/preparatory program in Post-Baccalaureate Pre-Health Professions; undergraduate certificates in Applied Mental Health Services and Environmental Science; graduate certificates in Environmental Restoration, Medical Physics, Neuroeconomics, and Neuroscience; a master's degree program in Environmental Science; a master's degree program in Marine Science and Oceanography; a professional science master in Medical Physics, and doctoral degree programs in Integrative Biology and Neuroscience. These programs draw on a variety of disciplines and diverse faculty to present students with programs of study especially designed for their individual interests. Admission and degree requirements for the interdisciplinary programs follow.

Health Humanities Undergraduate Minor

Post-Baccalaureate Pre-Health Professions Certificate

Certificate Programs

Master's Programs

Doctoral Programs

Health Science
Bachelor of Arts (B.A.)

Behavioral and Mental Health Concentration
Public/Global/Environmental Health Concentration
Science Concentration
Women’s Health Concentration

(Minimum of 120 credits required)

The Bachelor of Arts with major in Health Science degree is designed for students interested in pursuing careers in healthcare-related professions. This degree provides broad-based interdisciplinary training with a core in the basic sciences and requires a concentration in one of the following areas: Women’s Health, Public/Global/Environmental Health, Science, and Behavioral and Mental Health.

The program structure enables students to take relevant coursework in various colleges and departments across FAU to broaden their understanding of factors that both positively and negatively impact the healthcare system, patients and practitioners. In addition, through the  Health Science  course sequence, students learn how professionals from various fields of practice (medicine, pharmacy, social work, nursing, etc.) interact in a collaborative manner. Students also have access to clinical  observation  opportunities and other extracurricular activities (lab experiences, internships, research).

Prerequisite Coursework for Transfer Students
Students transferring to Florida Atlantic University must complete both lower-division requirements (including the requirements of the General Education Program) and requirements for the college and major. Lower-division requirements may be completed through the A.A. degree from any Florida public college, university or community college or through equivalent coursework at another regionally accredited institution. Before transferring and to ensure timely progress toward the baccalaureate degree, students must also complete the prerequisite courses for their major as outlined in the   Transition Guides.

All courses not approved by the Florida Statewide Course Numbering System that will be used to satisfy requirements will be evaluated individually on the basis of content and will require a catalog course description and a copy of the syllabus for assessment.

Core Requirements
Health Science 1: Foundations of Health and Illness	IDS 2122	3
Health Science 2: Evaluating the Evidence	IDS 3184	1
Health Science 3: Capstone Project	IDS 3893	1
General Psychology	PSY 1012	3
Human Development	DEP 3053	3
College Algebra	MAC 1105	3
Methods of Calculus	MAC 2233	3
Statistics	STA 2023	3
Microbiology for Health Services and Lab	MCB 2004, 2004L	4
Choose from:
Biological Principles and Lab	BSC 1010, 1010L	4 and
Biodiversity and Lab	BSC 1011, 1011L	4
OR
Anatomy and Physiology 1 and Lab	BSC 2085, 2085L	4
Anatomy and Physiology 2 and Lab	BSC 2086, 2086L	4
Choose from:
Contemporary Chemical Issues	CHM 1020C	3 and
General Chemistry for the Health Sciences and Lab	CHM 2032, 2032L	4
OR
General Chemistry 1 and Lab	CHM 2045, 2045L	4 and
General Chemistry 2 and Lab	CHM 2046, 2046L	4
Choose from:
Physical Science	PSC 2121	3
OR
College Physics 1 and	PHY 2053	4
General Physics 1 Lab	PHY 2048L	1
		43-45 credits required
Additional Required Credits 21 credits from list below; 15 credits must be in one concentration area
The following four courses may be used in any concentration
Health Care Medical Terminology	HSA 3534	3
Issues and Trends in Health Care	HSA 4113	3
Health Law	HSA 4423	3
Biomedical Ethics	PHI 4633	3
Women's Health Concentration
Culture, Gender and Health	ANT 4469	3
Women, Witches and Healing	NUR 4176	3
Psychology of Women	SOP 3742	3
Family Violence	SOW 4141	3
Women, Violence, Resistance	WST 3325	3
Other, as approved by advisor
Public/Global/Environmental Health Concentration
Asian Medical Systems	ANT 4365	3
Environment and Disease	ANT 4463	3
Psychopathology	CLP 4144	3
Environmental Issues in Atmospheric and Earth Science	ESC 3704	3
Health Research Methods	HSA 4700	3
Perspectives in Health	HSC 3102	3
Stress Management	HSC 4104	3
Weight Management	HSC 4139	3
Substance Abuse	HSC 4143	3
Health Promotion	HSC 4581	3
Nutrition in Health and Exercise	PET 3361	3
Obesity: Biological, Psychological and Cultural Factors	PET 4263	3
Politics of Community Development	PUP 4623	3
Health and Social Inequality	SYO 4404	3
Sociology of Mental Health	SYO 4410	3
Drugs and Society	SYP 3550	3
Other, as approved by advisor
Science Concentration
Exercise Physiology 1 and Exercise Lab Techniques	APK 4110, 4110L	4
Biochemistry 1	BCH 3033	3
General Microbiology	MCB 3020	3
General Pathophysiology	NUR 4125	3
Genetics	PCB 3063	3
Immunology	PCB 4233	3
Neurophysiology of Human Movement	PET 3050	3
Nutrition in Health and Exercise	PET 3361	3
Kinesiology	PET 4330C	3
Biological Bases of Behavior	PSB 3002	3
Psychopharmacology	PSB 4444	3
Speech and Hearing Science	SPA 4011	3
Anatomy and Physiology of the Speech and Hearing Mechanism	SPA 4101	3
Other, as approved by advisor
Behavioral and Mental Health Concentration
Psychopathology	CLP 4144	3
Clinical Psychology	CLP 4343	3
Stress Management	HSC 4104	3
Substance Abuse	HSC 4143	3
Obesity: Biological, Psychological and Cultural Factors	PET 4263	3
Biological Bases of Behavior	PSB 3002	3
Neuropsychology	PSB 4240	3
Interpersonal Communication Skills	SDS 4410	3
Psychology and the Law	SOP 4751	3
Sociology of Mental Health	SYO 4410	3
Other, as approved by advisor

 

Health Humanities
Undergraduate Minor

(Minimum of 15 credits)

The minor in Health Humanities is open to all undergraduate students at FAU. The minor is awarded upon graduation from an undergraduate program at FAU; it is not awarded independently of an undergraduate degree. For minor details click here.

Post-Baccalaureate Pre-Health Professions
Undergraduate Certificate

(Minimum of 52 credits required)

The Charles E. Schmidt College of Science offers a Post-Baccalaureate Pre-Health Professions certificate for students interested in pursuing medical, dental, veterinary or other health-related professions and who have not completed prerequisite courses as undergraduates. This certificate program is designed to assist students academically, build their research portfolios and help them obtain healthcare shadowing and volunteering experiences. The requirements for students pursuing this certificate are:

1. Students must be degree-seeking at Florida Atlantic University;
2. Students must have an undergraduate GPA of 3.0 or higher in the last 60 credits of their first baccalaureate degree;
3. Students should complete 100 hours of approved community or volunteer service and shadowing while completing this certificate;
4. Students should maintain a 3.0 GPA in order to earn this certificate; and
5. Students must complete at least 52 credits with 75 percent of the credits listed below (for the certificate) in residence at FAU.

In addition, students who wish to qualify for an interview with Florida Atlantic University’s Pre-Health Professions Committee need to:

1.  Open a Pre-Health Professions file with the Charles E. Schmidt College of Science Pre-Health Professions Office;
2.  Have a GPA of 3.2, and a GRE, or MCAT scores of 500 or higher (or equivalent DAT or PCAT scores for those professions); and
3. Have a minimum of three letters of recommendation, two of which must be from science faculty.

For further details, please contact the Charles E Schmidt College of Science Pre-Health Professions Office:  preprof@fau.edu.
  
Courses required in the Post-Baccalaureate Pre-Health Professions certificate program:

Core Courses
Biodiversity	BSC 1011	3
Biodiversity Lab	BSC 1011L	1
Biological Principles	BSC 1010	3
Biological Principles Lab	BSC 1010L	1
General Chemistry 1	CHM 2045	3
General Chemistry 1 Lab	CHM 2045L	1
General Chemistry 2	CHM 2046	3
General Chemistry 2 Lab	CHM 2046L	1
Organic Chemistry 1	CHM 2210	3
Organic Chemistry 2	CHM 2211	3
Organic Chemistry Lab	CHM 2211L	2
Biochemistry 1	BCH 3033	3
College Physics 1	PHY 2053	4
General Physics 1 Lab	PHY 2048L	1
College Physics 2	PHY 2054	4
General Physics 2 Lab	PHY 2049L	1
Statistics
Introductory Statistics	STA 2023	3
Introduction to Biostatistics	STA 3173	3
Experimental Design and Statistical Inference	PSY 3234	3
Calculus
Methods of Calculus	MAC 2233	3
Calculus with Analytic Geometry 1	MAC 2311	3
Genetics
Genetics	PCB 3063	3
General Psychology
General Psychology	PSY 1012	3
Anatomy and Physiology - 8 credits required, choose from options below:
Medical or Dental
Human Morphology and Function 1	PCB 3703	3
Human Morphology and Function 1 Lab	PCB 3703L	1
Human Morphology and Function 2	PCB 3704	3
Human Morphology and Function 2 Lab	PCB 3704L	1
Veterinary
Comparative Animal Physiology	PCB 4723	3
Comparative Animal Physiology Lab	PCB 4723L	1
Vertebrate Structure Development and Evolution	ZOO 4690	3
Vertebrate Structure and Development Lab	ZOO 4690L	2
Pharmacy or Physician Assistant
Anatomy and Physiology 1	BSC 2085	3
Anatomy and Physiology 1 Lab	BSC 2085L  or	1
Human Morphology and Function 1	PCB 3703	3
Human Morphology and Function 1 Lab	PCB 3703L	1
Anatomy and Physiology 2	BSC 2086	3
Anatomy and Physiology 2 Lab	BSC 2086L  or	1
Human Morphology and Function 2	PCB 3704	3
Human Morphology and Function 2 Lab	PCB 3704L	1
Choose two courses from one area:
Medicine/Dentistry
Introduction to Preprofessional Studies	PCB 3083	3
Introduction to Preprofessional Studies Lab	PCB 3083L	1
Medical Shadowing Internship	IDS 3940	1
Sociological Perspectives	SYG 1000	3
Pharmacy
Public Speaking	SPC 2608	3
Macroeconomics	ECO 2013	3
Microeconomics	ECO 2023	3
Medical Shadowing Internship	IDS 3940	1
Physician Assistant
Health Care Medical Terminology	HSA 3534	3
Introduction to Preprofessional Studies	PCB 3083	3
Introduction to Preprofessional Studies Lab	PCB 3083L	1
Medical Shadowing Internship	IDS 3940	1
Veterinary
Introduction to Animal Science	ANS 3006C	4
Medical Shadowing Internship	IDS 3940	1

Environmental Science

The Environmental Science Program at Florida Atlantic University is developing educational options that will produce environmental scientists, educators, professionals, managers and citizens with the ability to understand and provide technically sound and visionary solutions to environmental problems. The Environmental Science Program recommends that every FAU student attain some awareness and sensitivity to environmental issues. In order to understand the complex and diverse nature of local and global issues, the curriculum incorporates new courses, graduate and undergraduate certificates, thesis and non-thesis options and a focus on experiential learning. Environmental Science is designed to emphasize a holistic view of the relationship between humans and the environment, incorporating both an interdisciplinary and multidisciplinary focus, with a focus on wetland and coastal systems. Programs of study include the undergraduate Environmental Science certificate, the graduate Environmental Restoration certificate, the Master of Science with Major in Environmental Science and a combined, accelerated program with Biological Sciences in which students may earn the B.S. in Biological Sciences and the M.S. in Environmental Science in five years. This program appears in the Biological Sciences Department section.

Environmental Science
Undergraduate Certificate

(Minimum of 18 credits required)

The Environmental Science certificate program is administered by the Environmental Science Program. Participating faculty have appointments in all departments in the Charles E. Schmidt College of Science, as well as departments in participating colleges. The program allows undergraduate students to explore environmental issues through a broadly based interdisciplinary program. Program objectives are:

1. Introduce students to the major environmental issues facing our rapidly changing society.
2. Provide in-depth analysis in several areas of study, including vital concerns such as wetland and coastal ecosystem management, environmental restoration, environmental ethics, natural resource management, environmental planning and policies, environmental economics and geographical analysis.

The certificate program is designed to enhance an undergraduate student's major program of study. This option does not qualify as a major in Environmental Science. The certificate in Environmental Science is awarded in conjunction with an academic major and consists of 18 credits of environmentally focused courses. Students who already hold a baccalaureate degree may pursue the certificate as a non-degree-seeking student or in conjunction with a second bachelor's degree. All courses taken in the curriculum may be applied toward other general and specific graduation requirements and courses taken to fulfill other requirements may be applied to the certificate curriculum. All courses must be successfully completed with a grade of "C" or better to be counted toward the certificate.

Certificate Curriculum and Requirements
The certificate consists of 18 credits. All students must complete the following requirements:

1. All students must take one course from each of  the three  core areas below.

Human-Environmental Interactions Core Choose one of the following
Environment and Society	EVR 2017	3
Issues in Human Ecology	PCB 3352	3

 

Statistics Core Choose one of the following
Introductory Statistics	STA 2023	3
Introduction to Biostatistics	STA 3173	3
Experimental Design and Statistical Inference	PSY 3234	3
Quantitative Methods	GEO 4022	3

 

Environmental Science Core Choose one of the following
Critical Thinking in Environmental Science	EVS 4021	3

 

2. Students must  take one course from  three of the five focus areas listed below.   These include Biology, Earth Science, Human-Environmental Interactions, Geographic Information Science and Chemistry.

Biology
Vascular Plant Anatomy	BOT 3223	2
Vascular Plants Lab	BOT 3223L	2
Biodiversity	BSC 1011	3
Biodiversity Lab	BSC 1011L	1
General Microbiology	MCB 3020	3
General Microbiology Lab	MCB 3020L	1
Marine Biodiversity	OCB 4032	3
Marine Biodiversity Lab	OCB 4032L	1
Marine Biology	OCB 4043	2
Marine Biology Field Studies and Lab	OCB 4043L	2
Marine Microbiology and Molecular Biology	OCB 4525	3
Marine Microbiology and Molecular Biology Lab	OCB 4525L	1
Marine Ecology	OCB 4633	3
Marine Ecology Lab	OCB 4633L	1
Marine Science	OCE 4006	3
Genetics	PCB 3063	4
Principles of Ecology	PCB 4043	3
Evolution	PCB 3674	3
Comparative Animal Physiology	PCB 4723	3
Comparative Animal Physiology Lab	PCB 4723L	1
Invertebrate Zoology	ZOO 3205	3
Invertebrate Zoology Lab	ZOO 3205L	2
Ornithology	ZOO 4472	2
Ornithology Lab	ZOO 4472L	2
Vertebrate Structure Development and Evolution	ZOO 4690	3
Vertebrate Structure and Development Lab	ZOO 4690L	2

 

Earth Science
The Blue Planet	ESC 2000	3
Environmental Issues in Atmospheric and Earth Science	ESC 3704	3
Introduction to Physical Geography	GEO 2200C	3
Biogeography	GEO 4300	3
Physical Geology/Evolution of the Earth	GLY 2010C	4
The History of the Earth and Life	GLY 2100	3
Geology of Florida	GLY 4155C	4
Paleontology	GLY 3603C	3
Coastal and Marine Science	GLY 3730	3
Environmental Geochemistry	GLY 4241	3
Mineralolgy and Petrology	GLY 4310C	4
Structural Geology	GLY 4400C	4
Solid Earth Geophysics	GLY 4451	3
Stratigraphy and Sedimentation	GLY 4500C	4
Geomorphology	GLY 4700C	3
Geology Field Methods	GLY 4750C	3
Hydrogeology	GLY 4822	3
Groundwater Numerical Modeling	GLY 4832C	3
Field Experience	GLY 4948C	1
Weather, Climate and Climate Change	MET 2010	3

 

Human-Environmental Interactions
American Environmental History	AMH 3630	3
Culture and Ecology	ANT 3403	3
Environment and Disease	ANT 4463	3
Anthropology of Nature	ANT 4419	3
Primate Behavior	ANT 4552	3
Economic Principles and Policies	ECO 3003	5
Environmental Economics	ECP 4302	3
RI: Human-Environment Interactions in South Florida	GEA 4275	3
Water Resources	GEO 4280C	3
American Cultural Landscape	GEO 4422	3
Tourism and Commercial Recreation	GEO 4542	3
Urban Geography	GEO 4602	3
Field Experience	GEO 4948C	1
Global Environmental Politics and Policies	INR 4350	3
Environmental Journalism	JOU 4314	3
Literature and the Environment	LIT 4434	3
Environmental Ethics	PHI 3640	3
Principles and Methods of Environmental Education	SCE 3442	3
Environmental Sociology	SYD 4510	3
Justice, Health and the Environment	SYD 4513	3
Planning and Growth Management	URP 3000	3
Sustainable Cities	URP 4403	3
Environmental Planning Methods	URP 4420	3
Green Consciousness	WST 4349	3

 

Geographic Information Science
Introduction to Mapping and GIS	GIS 3015C	3
Remote Sensing of the Environment	GIS 4035C	3
Digital Image Analysis	GIS 4037C	3
Principles of Geographic Information Systems	GIS 4043C	3
Geovisualization and GIS	GIS 4138C	3

 

Chemistry
Biochemistry 1	BCH 3033	3
Biochemistry 2	BCH 3034	3
Contemporary Chemical Issues	CHM 1020C	3
General Chemistry 1	CHM 2045	3
General Chemistry 1 Lab	CHM 2045L	1
General Chemistry 2	CHM 2046	3
General Chemistry 2 Lab	CHM 2046L	1
Organic Chemistry 1	CHM 2210	3
Organic Chemistry 2	CHM 2211	3
Environmental Chemistry	CHM 3080	3

 

Environmental Restoration
Graduate Certificate

(Minimum of 18 credits required)

The Environmental Science Program offers the Environmental Restoration certificate for graduate students who wish to pursue an environmental restoration position upon graduation, professionals looking to increase their knowledge base and/or advance professionally and anyone considering becoming a Certified Ecological Restoration Practitioner (CERP). The Society for Ecological Restoration (SER) administers the CERP program, which covers a rigorous assessment of academic credentials, including courses in ecological restoration, biological science, physical science, resource management and conservation, and quantitative science. FAU's Environmental Restoration certificate can help students fulfill those requirements by bolstering their credentials in the assessed disciplines by drawing upon courses from environmental science, geosciences, biology, chemistry, urban and regional planning, and civil engineering.

Students interested in SER's professional certification should consult with an Environmental Science program advisor to review their academic credentials and tailor their Environmental Restoration certificate plan of study to maximize the certificate's benefits to their academic credentials.

The certificate consists of a minimum of 18 credits, including two core courses,and four electives chosen from a minimum of three of the four elective focal areas. All courses must be completed with a grade of “C” or better to be counted toward the certificate.

Environmental Restoration Core Courses
Environmental Restoration	EVR 6334	3
Restoration Implementation and Management	EVR 6358	3

Elective Foci
Choose a total of four electives from a minimum of three of the four elective focal areas.

Biological Science Electives
Advanced Plant Physiology and Advanced Plant Physiology Lab	BOT 6506, BOT 6506L	4
Advanced Ecology	PCB 6046	3
Ecological Theory	PCB 6406	3
Environmental Physiology	PCB 6749	3
Physiology of Marine Animals	PCB 6775	3
Coral Reef Systems and Coral Reef Systems Lab	OCB 6266, OCB 6266L	4
The Biology of Sea Turtles	ZOO 6406	3
Biology of Sharks and Their Relatives	ZOO 6409	3

 

Physical Science Electives
Soil Stabilization and Geosynthetics	CEG 6124	3
Chemistry for Environmental Scientists	CHS 6611	3
Open-Channel Hydraulics	CWR 6235	3
Paleoenvironmental Reconstruction	EVR 6931	3
Environmental Geochemistry	GLY 5243	3
Shore Erosion and Protection	GLY 5575C	3
Coastal Environments	GLY 6737	3
Methods in Hydrogeology	GLY 6838	3
Benchmark Developments in Hydrogeology	GLY 6897	3

 

Resource Management and Conservation Electives
Scientific Communication	BSC 6846	3
Culture, Conservation and Land Use	GEO 6337	3
Marine Fisheries Ecology and Management	OCB 6715C	3
Conservation Biology	PCB 6045	3
Environmental Analysis in Planning	URP 6425	3
Environmental Policy and Programs	URP 6429	3

 

Quantitative Science Electives
Digital Image Analysis	GIS 5033C	3
Remote Sensing of the Environment	GIS 5038C	3
Principles of Geographic Information Systems	GIS 5051C	3
Applications in Geographic Information Systems	GIS 5100C	3
Programming in Geographic Information Systems	GIS 5103C	3
Photogrammetry and Aerial Photography Interpretation	GIS 6028C	3
LIDAR Remote Sensing and Applications	GIS 6032C	3
Geospatial Databases	GIS 6112C	3
Hyperspectral Remote Sensing	GIS 6127	3
Spatial Data Analysis	GIS 6306	3
Experimental Design and Biometry	PCB 6456	4
Statistics for Urban Planning	URP 6211	3

 

Medical Physics
Graduate Certificate

(Minimum of 18 credits required)

The Medical Physics certificate is an 18-credit interdisciplinary graduate program. Students are required to take a 3-credit prerequisite course, followed by 15 credits of program courses.

Medical Physics is an applied branch of physics devoted to the application of concepts and methods from physics to the diagnosis and treatment of human disease. This program prepares students who are interested in health-related careers and/or seeking an advanced degree in Medical Physics. Career paths for medical physicists include radiation therapy physicist, diagnostic medical physicist, nuclear medical physicist and health physicist. Companies that produce treatment equipment, treatment planning systems, support materials and software and hardware development; and research and academia are also suitable career paths.

This certificate program is designed to provide the essential didactic elements of Medical Physics to Ph.D. holders seeking to pursue an alternative pathway to Medical Physics residency. It is intended to enable individuals with a doctoral degree in physics or a related discipline to meet the didactic requirements needed to enter a CAMPEP-accredited residency program (Commission on Accreditation of Medical Physics Education Programs). Students enrolled in the certificate program may also register for Part 1 of the American Board of Radiology board exam in Medical Physics.

Students with a Ph.D. in physics, physical sciences, mathematics or engineering who are interested in this program may apply for admission to the regular graduate program of the Physics Department. Also, students who are officially admitted as doctoral students in the above-mentioned fields may apply.

Required Courses - 18 credits
Prerequisite Course - 3 credits
Anatomy and Physiology 1	BSC 2085	3
Program Courses - 15 credits
Radiation Biology	RAT 6204	3
Radiation Physics	RAT 6686	3
Radiation Therapy Physics	RAT 6628	3
Medical Imaging Physics	RAT 6616	3
Radiation Protection and Safety	RAT 6310	3

 

neuroeconomics
Graduate Certificate

(Minimum of 12 credits required)

Neuroeconomics is a field of study investigating the processes underlying choice behavior by applying formal mathematical and computational models of decision making to the analysis and interpretation of neuroimaging data. The Neuroeconomics certificate program is suitable either 1) for students who have some knowledge of statistics and programming but who do not necessarily use this knowledge on a day-to-day basis or 2) for students with advanced quantitative skills who aim to learn how those skills can be applied to neuroscience research. Available to master’s and doctoral students, the program is administered through the College of Science’s Dean’s Office.

Admission Requirements

1. Students must satisfy the prerequisites for enrolling in courses in the certificate program.
2. Approval of the certificate program coordinator prior to taking courses to fulfill the 12-credit certificate requirement.

Degree Requirements
The Neuroeconomics certificate consists of 12 credits. All four courses must be successfully completed (a minimum of B+ average). Students must satisfy the prerequisites for each course in the program.

Required Courses - 12 credits
Cognitive Neuroscience	ISC 5456	3
Special Topics (such as Neuroscience of Decision Making)	ISC 6930	3
One of the following
Computational Neuroscience	ISC 6460	3
Special Topics (such as Introduction to Decision Making	ECO 6930	3
One of the following
Special Topics (such as Neurobiological Signal Processing	ISC 6930	3
Special Topics in Cognition (such as Neuroimaging in Cognitive Neuroscience)	EXP 6930	3

 

Neuroscience
Graduate Certificate

(Minimum of 14 credits required)

The Neuroscience certificate program provides students with an understanding of the essential principles of neuroscience and elective concentrated study in theoretical and dynamical, molecular and cellular, cognitive and behavioral neuroscience. Available to master's and doctoral students, the program is administered through the College of Science's Dean's Office and consists of a multidepartmental curriculum comprised of courses from the College of Medicine, College of Science and the College of Engineering and Computer Science.

Admission Requirements

1. Acceptance into a master's or doctoral training program in any of the following departments or programs: Biological Sciences, Biomedical Sciences, Chemistry and Biochemistry, Complex Systems and Brain Sciences, Electrical Engineering, Integrative Biology, Mathematics and Statistics, Physics or Psychology.
2. Approval from the certificate program coordinator prior to taking courses to satisfy the 14-credit certificate requirement.

Degree Requirements
The Neuroscience certificate consists of 14 credits. It requires the successful completion (at least a B+ average) of four courses from the tables below plus satisfactory achievement in two semesters of the 1-credit Neuroscience Colloquium. Students are also expected to participate in the FAU Neuroscience Research Day held each spring semester.

Required Courses - 6 credits
Cellular and Molecular Neuroscience	PSB 6345	3
Systems and Integrative Neuroscience	PSB 6346	3

Elective Courses
Choose one course from any two of the four areas listed below for a minimum of 6 credits: Theoretical and Dynamical Neuroscience, Cognitive Neuroscience, Molecular and Cellular Neuroscience and Behavioral Neuroscience. Note that one of the elective courses is required to be from outside the student's "home" program area. This requirement ensures that the student gains an interdisciplinary exposure to the neurosciences.

Theoretical and Dynamical Neuroscience
Introduction to Neural Networks	CAP 5615	3
Computational Neuroscience 1	ISC 6460	3
Methods in Complex Systems	ISC 6450	3
Bioinformatics	BSC 6458C	4
Bioinformatics: Engineering Perspectives	BME 6762	3

 

Cognitive Neuroscience
Cognitive Neuroscience	ISC 5465	3
Seminar in Cognition	EXP 6609	3
Seminar in Attention	ISC 6932	3
Seminar in Human Perception	EXP 6208	3

 

Molecular and Cellular Neuroscience
Advanced Cell Physiology	PCB 6207	3
Developmental Neurobiology	PSB 6515	3
Brain Diseases: Mechanisms and Therapy	BMS 6736	3
Special Topics	BSC 6936	3
Special Topics	PCB 6933	3

 

Behavioral Neuroscience
Seminar in Behavioral Neuroscience	PSB 6058	3
Developmental Neuropsychology	PSB 6516	3
Special Topics in Behavioral Neuroscience	PSB 6930	3

 

Neuroscience Colloquium
Special Topics (Students must enroll in two semesters of the 1-credit Neuroscience Colloquium.)	ISC 6930	1

The Neuroscience Colloquium is a public seminar series with distinguished speakers from outside and inside of FAU. Students also present their own research in the form of a seminar to the other students in the program and faculty. Students in the certificate program are required to present at least one seminar during the two semesters that they are enrolled. Attendance is mandatory for all students.

Environmental Science
Master of Science (M.S.)

(Minimum of 36 credits required)

This interdisciplinary environmental program is administered in the Charles E. Schmidt College of Science. Participating faculty have appointments in all departments in the College of Science, as well as departments in the Dorothy F. Schmidt College of Arts and Letters, Harbor Branch Oceanographic Institute, the Harriet L. Wilkes Honors College, the College of Engineering and Computer Science and the College of Business. The M.S. in Environmental Science is also available as a combined, accelerated program with the B.S. in Biological Sciences. Complete details about this combined program appear in the  Biological Sciences Department section.

Students are required to take most of the coursework spread across the four core subject areas listed below. The exact courses taken are to be determined by students and their advisory committees. A grade of "C" or better (unless otherwise noted in the course description) is required in all courses taken as part of the requirements for a Master of Science degree in Environmental Science. However, the minimum University-wide, cumulative GPA requirement for degree-seeking graduate students is a 3.0 ("B" grade average). For more information about this program, visit here.

Admission Requirements
In addition to meeting all of the University and College admission requirements for graduate study, each applicant for the M.S. with Major in Environmental Science must have a:

1. Minimum 3.0 average for the last 60 credits of undergraduate work.
2. Letter of support from a prospective primary advisor who is a member of the Environmental Science Program faculty.

Thesis Option 
A student curriculum consists of a minimum of 36 graduate credits taken in the following six categories:

Environmental Science Colloquium Series (EVS 6920): 2 credits. This course is currently only offered in the fall semester. Students must take EVS 6920 during their first fall semester.

Fundamentals of Environmental Research (EVS 6917): 1 credit. This course is currently only offered in the spring semester. Students must take EVS 6917 during their first spring semester.

Data Science: 3 credits. Students must take either GIS 6306, PCB 6456  or URP 6211.

Electives: 21-24 graduate credits with no more than 12 credits per course prefix and no more than 15 credits per department. Required courses do not count toward department credit limit. 

Environmental Science Directed Independent Study (EVS 6905) or Directed Independent Research in Environmental Science (EVS 6916): Up to 3 graduate credits combined may be counted toward this degree.

Thesis: 6-9 credits (EVS 6971).

Degree requirements may change. Students must either: 1) fulfill the requirements in effect during the first semester they are enrolled in the program, or 2) they may choose to fulfill the requirements in effect during the semester they graduate. The FAU University Catalog is the only official source for determining degree requirements.

Non-Thesis Option

A student curriculum consists of a minimum of 36 graduate credits taken in the following five categories:

Environmental Science Colloquium Series (EVS 6920): 2 credits.

Fundamentals of Environmental Research (EVS 6917): 1 credit.

Data Science: 3 credits. Students must take either GIS 6306, PCB 6456  or URP 6211.

Electives: 27 graduate credits with no more than 12 credits per course prefix and no more than 15 credits per department. Required courses do not count toward department credit limit.

Environmental Science Directed Independent Study (EVS 6905) or Directed Independent Research in Environmental Science (EVS 6916): Up to 3 graduate credits combined may be counted toward this degree.

Degree requirements may change. Students must either: 1) fulfill the requirements in effect during the first semester they are enrolled in the program, or 2) they may choose to fulfill the requirements in effect during the semester they graduate. The FAU University Catalog is the only official source for determining degree requirements.

Departmental Courses: No more than 15 total credits from any one department, and no more than 12 credits from any one prefix.
Biological Sciences
Flora of South Florida	BOT 5155	3
Flora of South Flora Laboratory	BOT 5155L	3
Plant Ecology	BOT 6169C	3
Advanced Plant Physiology	BOT 6505	3
Advanced Plant Physiology Lab	BOT 6505L	3
Symbiosis	BSC 6355	3
Scientific Communication	BSC 6846	3
Chemistry for Environmental Scientists	CHS 6611	3
Data Processing and Modeling of Marine Systems	OCB 6673	3
Natural History of the Indian River Lagoon	OCB 6810	3
Marine Global Change	OCE 6019	3
Conservation Biology	PCB 6045	3
Advanced Ecology	PCB 6046	3
Freshwater Ecology	PCB 6307	3
Freshwater Ecology Laboratory and Field Studies	PCB 6307L	3
Marine Ecology	PCB 6317	3
Marine Ecology Laboratory and Field Studies	PCB 6317L	3
Experimental Design and Biometry	PCB 6456	3
Environmental Physiology	PCB 6749	3
Marine Invertebrate Zoology	ZOO 6256	3
Marine Invertebrate Zoology Lab	ZOO 6256L	3
Natural History of Fishes	ZOO 6456	3
Natural History of Fishes Lab	ZOO 6456L	3
Seminar in Ichthyology	ZOO 6459	3
Civil, Environmental and Geomatics Engineering		3
Soil Stabilization and Geosynthetics	CEG 6124	3
Open-Channel Hydraulics	CWR 6235	3
Sustainability and Pollution Prevention	ENV 6932	3
Curriculum and Instruction
Advanced Methods of Environmental Education	SCE 6344	3
Perspectives of Environmental Education	SCE 6345	3
Trends and Issues in Environmental Education	SCE 6644	3
Geosciences
Environmental Restoration	EVR 6334	3
Restoration Implementation and Management	EVR 6358	3
Paleoenvironments and People	EVR 6417	3
Paleoenvironmental Reconstruction	EVR 6931	3
Human-Environmental Interactions	GEA 6277	3
Biogeography	GEO 5305	3
Plants and People	GEO 6317	3
Culture, Conservation and Land Use	GEO 6337	3
Digital Image Analysis	GIS 5033C	3
Remote Sensing of the Environment	GIS 5038C	3
Principles of Geographic Information Systemes	GIS 5051C	3
Applications of Geographic Information Systems	GIS 5100C	3
Programming in Geographic Information Systems	GIS 5103C	3
Photogrammetry and Aerial Photography Interpretation	GIS 6028C	3
LIDAR Remote Sensing and Applications	GIS 6032C	3
Topics in Geoinformation Science	GIS 6120	3
Hyperspectral Remote Sensing	GIS 6127	3
Spatial Data Analysis	GIS 6306	3
Environmental Geochemistry	GLY 5243	3
Environmental Geophysics	GLY 5457	3
Shore Erosion and Protection	GLY 5575C	3
Marine Geology	GLY 5736C	3
Advanced Topics in Applied, Coastal and Hydrogeology	GLY 5934	3
Advanced Environmental Geochemistry	GLY 6246	3
Coastal Environments	GLY 6737	3
Global Environmental Change	GLY 6746	3
Modeling Groundwater Movement	GLY 6836	3
Methods in Hydrogeology	GLY 6838	3
Coastal Hazards	GLY 6888	3
Benchmark Developments in Hydrogeology	GLY 6897	3
Urban and Regional Planning
Statistics for Urban Planning	URP 6211	3
Introduction to GIS in Planning	URP 6270	3
Managing GIS Projects	URP 6272	3
Sustainable Cities	URP 6406	3
Environmental Analysis in Planning	URP 6425	3
Environmental Policy and Programs	URP 6429	3
Transportation Planning	URP 6711	3
Urban and Regional Theory	URP 6840	3
Women, Gender and Sexuality
Women, Environment, Ecofeminism, Environmental Justice	WST 6348	3

 

Marine Science and Oceanography
Master of Science (M.S.)

(Minimum of 37 credits required)

This is an interdisciplinary program designed to provide students with specialized training in Marine Science and Oceanography. It is jointly administered by the Charles E. Schmidt College of Science (CESCS) and the Harbor Branch Oceanographic Institute (HBOI). Participating faculty have appointments at CESCS and HBOI.

Students are required to take most of the coursework spread across the core subject areas listed below. The exact courses taken are to be determined by students and their advisory committees. Application deadline is January 15 for the fall semester and October 15 for the spring semester.

Admission Requirements
In addition to meeting all of the University and College admission requirements for graduate study, each applicant for the M.S. with Major in Marine Science and Oceanography must:

1. Have a minimum 3.0 GPA for the last 60 credits of undergraduate work.
2. Provide two letters of recommendation.
3. Obtain a "sponsor" from within the faculty of this master's program who will then act as the student's advisor until a thesis topic has been chosen.

For sponsor selection suggestions, students should go to the departmental webpages to examine the fields and interests of individual faculty members. Once students find a faculty member in their field of interest, they should contact the faculty member directly. The student's application package must contain a signed sponsor form from the selected faculty member.

Degree Requirements
Students may graduate with a thesis or non-thesis master’s degree; both require the successful completion of 37 credits as described below.

Thesis Option
A student curriculum consists of a minimum of 37 graduate credits taken in the following three categories:

Required Courses: Six courses (12 credits) are required for all students in the master's degree program in Marine Science and Oceanography. 

Required Courses
Physical and Geological Oceanography	OCE 6097	3
Biological Oceanography	OCB 6066	3
Chemical Oceanography	OCC 6050	3
Marine Science and Oceanography Colloquium	OCE 6922	1 or
Marine Science Seminar	BSC 6938	1
Marine Science and Oceanography Thesis Proposal	OCE 6970	1
Marine Science and Oceanography Thesis Defense	OCE 6975	1
Total Research Core		12

Electives:   15 to 21 credits from the approved course list. Up to 6 credits designated as "Special Topics" courses may be taken with the approval of the thesis advisor. No more than 6 credits of electives taken outside the approved course list will be counted toward the degree. No courses under the 5000 level may be taken. No more than 3 credits of Marine Science and Oceanography Directed Independent Research (OCE 6908) may be counted toward this degree.

Thesis:  6 to 12 credits (OCE 6972).

• For Master’s Thesis Proposal Seminar requirements, see MSO regulations.
• For Master’s Thesis Defense Requirements, see MSO regulations and the Graduate College for current University thesis requirements.

Proposal and Defense: OCE 6970 will be taken for 1 credit during the semester in which students intend to propose their research plan. Upon successful completion of their proposal and approval from their committee, students will earn a satisfactory grade. OCE 6975 will be taken for 1 credit during the semester in which students intend to defend their research. Upon successful defense of the student’s research via a public presentation and thesis document, the student will earn a satisfactory grade.

Non-Thesis Option
A student curriculum consists of a minimum of 37 credits taken in the following three categories:

Required Courses: Five courses (11 credits) are required for all students in the master's degree program in Marine Science and Oceanography.

Required Courses
Physical and Geological Oceanography	OCE 6097	3
Biological Oceanography	OCB 6066	3
Chemical Oceanography	OCC 6050	3
Marine Science and Oceanography Comprehensive Exam	OCE 6964	1
Marine Science and Oceanography Colloquium	OCE 6922	1 or
Marine Science Seminar	BSC 6938	1
Total Research Core		11

Electives:   A minimum of 26 credits from the approved course list. Up to 6 credits designated as "Special Topics" courses may be taken with the approval of the student's advisor.

No more than 6 credits of electives taken outside the approved course list will be counted toward the degree. No courses under the 5000 level may be taken. No more than 3 credits of Marine Science and Oceanography Directed Independent Research (OCE 6908) may be counted toward this degree.

Students taking the non-thesis option must take and pass a minimum of three written comprehensive exams given by a committee in designated areas within Marine Science and Oceanography specialties during the semester they are signed up for 1 credit of OCE 6964 (Marine Science and Oceanography Comprehensive Exam). Questions require written essay responses. See the MSO regulations for complete requirements to complete the master’s comprehensive exams.

Integrative Biology PH.D. students choosing MSO for a Master's Along the Way degree will be verified for completion of degree requirements by the Biology Department during the Graduation Audit Check. Consult with the IB Ph.D. advisor early in matriculation to ensure the curriculum followed would satisfy the requirements for the MSO master of science non-thesis option. 

Approved Course List
Advances in Finfish Aquaculture	BSC 6342	3
Scientific Communication	BSC 6846	3
Special Topics (such as Marine Conservation)	BSC 6936	1-4
Seminar	BSC 6938	1
Chemistry for Environmental Scientists	CHS 6611	3
Ocean Optics and Remote Sensing	EOC 6267	3
Restoration Implementation and Management	EVR 6358	3
Biogeography	GEO 5305	3
Digital Image Analysis	GIS 5033C	3
Remote Sensing of the Environment	GIS 5038C	3
Principles of Geographic Information Systems	GIS 5051C	3
Applications in Geographic Information Systems	GIS 5100C	3
Programming in Geographic Information Systems	GIS 5103C	3
Topics in Geoinformation Science	GIS 6120	3
Hyperspectral Remote Sensing	GIS 6127	3
Environmental Geochemistry	GLY 5243	3
Shore Erosion and Protection	GLY 5575C	3
Marine Geology	GLY 5736C	3
Comparative Carbonate Sedimentology	GLY 6352	3
Beach Morphodynamics of Southeast Florida	GLY 6708C	3
Coastal Environments	GLY 6737	3
Global Environmental Change	GLY 6746	3
Methods in Hydrogeology	GLY 6838	3
Coastal Hazards	GLY 6888	3
Special Topics in Applied Geology	GLY 6934	3
Coral Reef Ecosystems	OCB 6266	3
Coral Reef Ecosystems Lab	OCB 6266L	1
Data Processing and Modeling of Marine Systems	OCB 6673	3
Marine Fisheries Ecology and Management	OCB 6715C	4
Natural History of the Indian River Lagoon	OCB 6810	3
Image and Video Processing and Vision in Marine Environment	OCE 5266	3
Marine Global Change	OCE 6019	3
Dynamics of Marine Biogeochemical Processes	OCE 6096	3
Underwater Optical Imaging for Marine Scientists	OCE 6267	3
Ocean Monitoring Systems	OCE 6268	3
Marine Optics	OCE 6269	3
Conservation Biology	PCB 6045	3
Advanced Ecology	PCB 6046	3
Marine Ecology	PCB 6317	3
Marine Ecology Lab and Field Studies	PCB 6317L	2
Ecological Theory	PCB 6406	3
Experimental Design and Biometry	PCB 6456	3
Aquatic Animal Health	PCB 6772	3
Physiology of Marine Animals	PCB 6775	3
Sensory Biology and Behavior of Fishes	PCB 6871	3
Marine Invertebrate Zoology	ZOO 6256	3
Marine Invertebrate Zoology Lab	ZOO 6256L	2
The Biology of Sea Turtles	ZOO 6406	3
Biology of Sharks and Their Relatives	ZOO 6409	3
Natural History of Fishes	ZOO 6456	3
Natural History of Fishes Lab	ZOO 6456L	2
Seminar in Ichthyology	ZOO 6459	3

 

Medical Physics
Professional Science Master (P.S.M.)

(Minimum of 38 41 credits required) (Changes effective spring 2025.)

The Professional Science Master (P.S.M.) with major in Medical Physics degree is an interdisciplinary program that develops advanced scientific knowledge and professional skills. The program provides hands-on learning through on-site training. It aims to engage students with professional goals and help them become scientists uniquely suited to the 21st-century workplace.

Medical physics is an applied branch of physics devoted to the application of concepts and methods from physics to the diagnosis and treatment of human disease. A qualified medical physicist is competent to practice independently in one or more of the subfields (tracks) of medical physics.

The program requires 38 41 credits. It provides professional training in partnership with area hospitals and concentrates on the medical physics radiation therapy track, which employs approximately 75 percent of the medical physicists.

Admission Requirements
In addition to meeting all of the University and College admission requirements for graduate study, applicants for the Medical Physics program must meet all of the following departmental requirements:

1. A B.S. or B.A. in Physics. Candidates with a B.S. in Biology, Chemistry, Computer Science or Engineering with a minor in Physics are considered;
2. At least a 3.0 (of a 4.0 maximum) GPA in science and mathematics courses;
3. Have taken the general GRE. No minimum score is required. (GRE scores more than five years old will not be accepted);
4. Approval from the Department of Physics.

Degree Requirements

Core Courses - 18 credits
Radiation Biology	RAT 6204	3
Radiation Physics	RAT 6686	3
Radiation Therapy Physics	RAT 6628	3
Medical Imaging Physics	RAT 6616	3
Nuclear Medical Physics	RAT 6687	3
Radiation Protection and Safety	RAT 6310	3
Additional Required Courses - 20 credits
Advanced Photon Beam Radiation Therapy	RAT 6629	3
Radiation Therapy: Clinical Practicum and Shadowing	RAT 6947	3
Shielding and Commissioning	RAT 6376	3
Seminar in Medical Physics	RAT 6932	1
Special Topics (such as Human Morphology and Function 1)	BSC 5931	3
Special Topics (such as Human Morphology and Function 2)	BSC 5931	3
Master's Thesis	RAT 6975	4
Elective Course - 3 credits Choose one course from the following with advisor's approval.
Biostatistics	STA 5195	3
Computational Physics	PHZ 5156	3
Bioinformatics: Bioengineering Perspectives	BME 6762	3
Nonlinear Dynamic Systems	ISC 5453	3
Advanced Cell Physiology	PCB 6207	3
Tumor Immunology	PCB 6239	3
Special Topics (including Cell Structure and Function)	BSC 6936	3
Introduction to Biophysics	PHZ 5715	3
Total		38 41

 

Integrative Biology
Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.)

Biomedical Science Concentration
Environmental Science Concentration
Marine Science and Oceanography Concentration
Neuroscience Concentration

(Minimum of 72 credits required)

Integrative biology refers to interdisciplinary, multilevel approaches to education and research in the biological sciences. The Integrative Biology program focuses on the relationship between cell/molecular functions and experimental biology in the broad sense, with a view to connectivity between levels of biological organization and biological processes. Core courses and research elements will emphasize this theme. The curriculum is individually tailored to each student's research interests and built around a set of core courses that emphasize 1) the theme of integrative biology, 2) scientific communication, 3) statistics, 4) elective courses chosen by the student and an supervisory committee, 5) seminar courses and 6) dissertation research.

Faculty from the Department of Biological Sciences, the Charles E. Schmidt College of Medicine, the Harriet L. Wilkes Honors College, the Center for Molecular Biology and Biotechnology, the Brain Institute and Harbor Branch Oceanographic Institute participate in this doctoral program. FAU's Partner Institution, the Max Planck Florida Institute for Neuroscience, also contributes expertise to this program. 

Those applicants seeking a doctorate in Integrative Biology may choose to pursue the Integrative Biology core program (IBIO) or pursue one of the program's four concentrations: Neuroscience (IBNS), Environmental Science (IBES), Biomedical Science (IBBS) or Marine Science and Oceanography (IBMO). These concentrations fall under the umbrella of the Integrative Biology major and all students accepted to the concentrations are subject to all Integrative Biology policies and regulations as well as additional regulations specific to each concentration.

Biomedical Science Concentration (IBBS)
Completion of the Biomedical Science concentration provides students with advanced knowledge and research experience in the biomedical science field. The IBBS curriculum focuses strongly on both knowledge-based and experimental-based biomedical science courses and teaches students appropriate scientific methodology. Students who complete the IBBS concentration develop the skills and expertise they need to succeed both within and outside academia. IBBS faculty are active experts in their respective biomedical science fields and
provide students with research opportunities in a wide variety of emerging biomedical science areas including: Human Genetics and Genomics; Precision Medicine; Cancer Biology and Prevention; Microbiology, Immunology and Infectious Disease; HIV/AIDS Mechanisms and Treatments; Respiratory Physiology and Biophysics; Visual Biology and Diseases; Breast Cancer Mechanisms and Therapy; Huntington’s Disease Mechanisms; Alzheimer’s Disease Mechanisms and Therapy; Vaccine Development; Osteoarthritis Prevention and Treatment; Prostate Cancer Mechanisms; Cardiac Physiology and Disease; Childhood Malaria Mechanisms
and more.

Environmental Science Concentration (IBES)
Completion of the Environmental Science concentration provides students with advanced research and technical training that prepares them to find solutions to some of the world's most difficult environmental problems. Habitat degradation, invasive species, contaminants and climate change challenge land and water managers in South Florida and indeed the world. IBES faculty have considerable experience conducting research to address these difficult conservation problems, particularly in South Florida's extensive freshwater and marine ecosystems. The IBES curriculum emphasizes experiential learning through dissertation research, combined with innovative courses in the fields of ecology, conservation biology, environmental chemistry,
geographic information systems, statistics, and modeling.

Marine Science and Oceanography Concentration (IBMO)
Completion of the Marine Science and Oceanography concentration provides students with a broad understanding of oceanographic science along with the inquiry skills necessary to conduct research independently within their area of specialization. The IBMO curriculum focuses on both knowledge-based and laboratory- and field-based courses that promote the cross-disciplinary training students need to face the complex challenges of 21st century science. IBMO faculty have expertise in diverse ocean ecosystems, including developed and undeveloped coastlines, large estuaries and both deep sea and coastal waters, and provide students with research opportunities in areas of water quality, hydrology, coastal ecology, biogeochemical cycling, endangered and invasive species, ocean megafauna fisheries and aquaculture, harmful algal blooms, urbanization and underwater optical imaging and ocean monitoring systems.

Neuroscience Concentration (IBNS)
Completion of the Neuroscience concentration provides students with both knowledge and practical experience in the neuroscience field at an advanced level. In the evolving and growing field of neuroscience, students who complete the IBNS concentration will have the appropriate training to succeed both within and outside of academia. The Neuroscience curriculum focuses strongly on knowledge-based and experimental-based neuroscience courses and includes training in scientific methodologies. IBNS faculty are active experts in their respective neuroscience fields and provide students with research opportunities in a broad range of areas including neuronal circuitry, synaptic plasticity, learning and memory, cognitive and behavioral neuroscience, neurodegeneration, neuroimmunology, drug discovery, stress neurobiology, neurogenetics and neurodevelopment.

Admission Requirements
The decision to consider an applicant acceptable for admission to the Integrative Biology program includes the following criteria:

1. Applicants must have a baccalaureate degree biological science or a related field.
2. Applicants who meet the minimum University standard for grade point average of 3.0 (on a 4.0 scale). 
3. A minimum of three letters of recommendation and a personal statement. Successful applicants will have strong personal statements and recommendation letters from advisors who are familiar with their recent academic and research experiences. 
4. International applicants whose native language is not English must score at least 550 (paper-based test), 213 (computer-based test) or 79-80 (Internet-based test) on the Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL). Additionally, international applicants whose transcripts are from non-U.S. institutions must have their credentials evaluated course-by-course with a grade point average (GPA) calculation on a 4.0 scale. International applicants must also demonstrate competency in spoken English.
5. Applicants applying to the IBES or IBMO concentration must have a confirmed Ph.D. supervisor from within FAU prior to applying and submit the supervisor verification form with their application. The Ph.D.
   supervisor must be a member of the program's graduate faculty and will chair the supervisory and dissertation research committees (see program faculty lists on respective program webpages). Applicants applying to the IBIO core program or IBNS or IBBS concentration may enter the program with a confirmed Ph.D. supervisor from within FAU or participate in laboratory rotations within the first two semesters in the program. Applicants applying to the IBIO, IBNS or IBBS concentration who would like to participate in laboratory rotations are strongly encouraged to directly contact potential Ph.D. supervisor(s) from within FAU and secure their sponsorship or mentoring interest prior to applying. Applicants eligible to participate in laboratory rotations must identify which program faculty they have contacted on their application (see program faculty lists on respective program webpages). 

Degree Requirements
The Integrative Biology program is research-intensive and requires at least 72 credits beyond the baccalaureate degree. The following are specific requirements for this degree:

1. Students must earn a grade of “B” or higher in all graduate coursework and maintain a cumulative grade point average of 3.0 or higher.
2. Students must have a confirmed Ph.D. supervisor by the end of their second semester in the program (Year 1, Semester 2).
3. Completion of 9 core credits listed in Integrative Biology Core Courses.
4. Completion of at least 9 elective credits (three courses) up to 21 elective credits (seven courses) of graded coursework that support the student’s research plan:
   1. The student's Ph.D. supervisor and/or supervisory committee must approve all elective courses.
   2. Elective courses must be 5000-, 6000- or 7000-level courses in biology, biomedical science, chemistry and biochemistry, complex systems and brain sciences, engineering and computer science, environmental science, ecology, exercise science and health promotion, geosciences, marine science and oceanography, mathematics, neuroscience, physics, psychology, urban and regional planning, special topics or approved cognates.
   3. Students may elect to complete up to 6 credits designated Special Topics with the approval of their Ph.D. supervisor and/or supervisory committee.
   4. Courses designated as proficiency or remedial (4000-level and below) may not be used to satisfy the elective course requirement.
   5. Students participating in an Integrative Biology concentration must select from graduate-level elective courses related to the specific concentration (see the elective lists below for IBNS, IBES, IBBS, and IBMO). The lists of track-specific elective courses below are not exclusive and the selection of elective courses to meet degree requirements will be determined by consultation between the student and the Ph.D. supervisor and/or supervisory committee.

5. Completion of at least 3 credits of seminar/journal club courses taken as individual credits in three separate semesters. A seminar/journal club course is based on student participation in activities, such as student presentations or student/faculty-led discussions of relevant topics.
6. Completion of at least 25 dissertation credits conducting dis sertation research under the direction of the student's dissertation research committee.
7. Remaining credits may include elective coursework, seminar/journal club courses, Integrative Biology lab rotation (BSC 6913), advanced research (BSC 7978) or dissertation (BSC 7980) credits that support the student's research plan with approval from the student's Ph.D. supervisor and/or supervisory committee.
8. Admission to candidacy requires both the successful writing and public presentation of an original dissertation research proposal. The defense of the dissertation proposal will be held with the student’s dissertation research committee following the public dissemination.
9. Degree completion requires both the successful writing and public presentation of original dissertation research. The defense of the dissertation research will be held with the student's dissertation research committee following the public dissemination.

Integrative Biology Core Courses - 9 credits
Integrative Biology 1	BSC 6390	3
Scientific Communication	BSC 6846	3
Choose one of the following courses
Experimental Design and Biometry	PCB 6456	3
Experimental Design 1	PSY 6206	3
Biostatistics	STA 5195	3
Electives - 9 to 21 credits
Choose at least three courses up to a maximum of seven courses at the 5000, 6000 or 7000 level.
Other Requirements - 3 credits
Choose at least three 1-credit seminar or journal club courses taken in three separate semesters.
Research - up to 26 credits
Advanced Research in Integrative Biology is taken every semester while advancing toward candidacy.
Advanced Research in Integrative Biology	BSC 7978	1-9
Dissertation - 25 credits (minimum)
Dissertation	BSC 7980	1-9
Minimum Degree Total		7 2

The degree requirements listed above apply to all Integrative Biology program participants including students accepted to all concentrations. Additional concentration-specific requirements and approved elelctive lists are described below.

Biomedical Science Concentration (IBBS) Core Courses and Electives
IBBS Core Courses
Students who enter the IBBS concentration without a core course or equivalent must complete one of the core courses listed below. When this course is completed, it may be used toward fulfillment of the Integrative Biology elective requirement.

Biomedical Data and Informatics	BSC 6459	3
Data Interpretation and Analysis in the Age of Precision Medicine	GMS 6860	3
Advanced Molecular and Cell Biology	PCB 5532	3
Human Genetics	PCB 6665	3

IBBS Electives
Students may choose from the following approved IBBS electives toward fulfillment of the Integrative Biology elective requirement. Students may elect to complete up to 6 credits designated Special Topics with the approval of their Ph.D. supervisor and/or supervisory committee.

Integrated Morphology 1	BMS 6102C	4
Integrated Morphology 2	BMS 6104C	4
Autonomic Function and Disease	BMS 6523	3
Fundamentals of General Pathology	BMS 6601	3
Brain Diseases: Mechanism and Therapy	BMS 6736	3
Biomedical Data and Informatics	BSC 6459	3
Neural Plasticity	GMS 6021	3
Biomedical Science Core Technologies Laboratory	GMS 6091C	3
Macromolecular for Human Diseases	GMS 6301	3
Molecular Basis of Disease and Therapy	GMS 6302	3
Pharmacology	GMS 6513	3
Advanced Pharmacology	GMS 6551	3
Principles of Neuroimmunology	GMS 6708	3
Biomedical Concepts and Translational Applications	GMS 6847	3
Data Interpretation and Analysis in the Age of Precision Medicine	GMS 6860	3
Host Defense and Inflammation	MCB 6208	3
Advanced Molecular and Cellular Biology	PCB 5532	3
Neurobiology of Addiction	PCB 5844	3
Advanced Cell Physiology	PCB 6207	3
Emerging Applications in Oncology and Pharmacogenomics	PCB 6230	3
Molecular Basis of Human Cancer	PCB 6235	3
Problem-Based Immunology	PCB 6238	3
Tumor Immunology	PCB 6239	3
Human Genetics	PCB 6665	3
Integrating Genomics into Predictive Health	PCB 6667	3
Molecular Biology of the Cardiovascular System and Cardiac Disease	PCB 6705	3
Molecular Mechanism of Aging and Age-Related Diseases	PCB 6817	3
Adult Neurogenesis	PCB 6848	3
Physiology of the Heart	PCB 6885	3
Special Topics	PCB 6933	3
Developmental Neurobiology	PSB 6515	3

Environmental Science Concentration (IBES) Electives
IBES Electives
Students enrolled in the IBES concentration must complete at least one course from each of the two focal areas below toward fulfillment of the Integrative Biology elective requirement. Students may elect to complete up to 6 credits of Special Topics with the approval of their Ph.D. supervisor and/or supervisory committee.

Statistics and Modeling
Experimental Design and Biometry	PCB 6456	3
Modeling Groundwater Movement	GLY 6836	3
Ecological Theory	PCB 6406	3
Ecology and Earth Sciences
Special Topics	BSC 6936	3
Biogeography	GEO 5305	3
Plants and People	GEO 6317	3
Environmental Restoration	EVR 6334	3
Flora of South Florida	BOT 5155	2
Flora of South Florida Lab	BOT 5155L	2
Advanced Plant Physiology	BOT 6506	2
Advanced Plant Physiology Lab	BOT 6506L	2
Conservation Biology	PCB 6045	3
Marine Ecology	PCB 6317	3
Advanced Ecology	PCB 6046	3
Marine Ecology Lab and Field Studies	PSB 6317L	2
Freshwater Ecology	PCB 6307	3
Freshwater Ecology Lab	PCB 6307L	2
Environmental Physiology	PCB 6749	3
Marine Geology	GLY 5736C	3
Advanced Topics in Applied, Coastal, and Hydrogeology	GLY 5934	3
Coastal Environments	GLY 6737	3
Shore Erosion and Protection	GLY 5575C	3
Global Environmental Change	GLY 6746	3
Environmental Geophysics	GLY 6457	3
Methods in Hydrogeology	GLY 6838	3
Natural History of Indian River Lagoon	OCB 6810	3
Marine Global Change	OCE 6019	3
Seminar in Ichthyology	ZOO 6459	1-2
Marine Invertebrate Zoology	ZOO 6256	3
Marine Invertebrate Zoology Lab	ZOO 6256L	2
Natural History of Fishes	ZOO 6456	3
Natural History of Fishes Lab	ZOO 6456L	2
Seminar on Emerging Topics in Avian Ecology	ZOO 6544C	1
Chemistry for Environmental Scientists	CHS 6611	3
Environmental Geochemistry	GLY 5243	3
Physiology of Marine Animals	PCB 6775	3
Introduction to GIS in Planning	URP 6270	3
Principles of Geographic Information Systems	GIS 5051C	3
Applications in Geographic Information Systems	GIS 5100C	3
Programming in Geographic Information Systems	GIS 5103C	3
Remote Sensing of the Environment	GIS 5038C	3
Digital Image Analysis	GIS 5033C	3
Hyperspectral Remote Sensing	GIS 6127	3
Topics in Geoinformation Science	GIS 6120	3

Marine Science and Oceanography (IBMO) Core Courses and Elective Courses
IBMO Core Courses
Students who enter the IBMO concentration without these two courses or equivalent must complete the core courses listed below. Completion of these courses may be used toward fulfillment of the Integrative Biology elective requirement.

Biological Oceanography	OCB 6066	3
Choose one of the following courses
Chemical Oceanography	OCC 6050	3
Physical and Geological Oceanography	OCE 6097	3

IBMO Electives
Students may choose from the following IBMO electives for fulfillment of the Integrative Biology elective requirement. Students may elect to complete up to 6 credits designated Special Topics with the approval of their Ph.D. supervisor and/or supervisory committee.

Marine Biology
Advances in Finfish Aquaculture	BSC 6342	3
Special Topics	BSC 6936	3
Aquatic Animal Health	PCB 6772	3
Physiology of Marine Animals	PCB 6775	3
Sensory Biology and Behavior of Fishes	PCB 6871	3
Marine Invertebrate Zoology	ZOO 6256	3
Marine Invertebrate Zoology Lab	ZOO 6256L	2
The Biology of Sea Turtles	ZOO 6406	3
Biology of Sharks and Their Relatives	ZOO 6409	3
Natural History of Fishes	ZOO 6456	3
Natural History of Fishes Lab	ZOO 6456L	2
Conservation and Ecology
Marine Conservation Biology	BSC 6316	3
Coral Reef Ecosystems	OCB 6266	3
Coral Reef Ecosystems Lab	OCB 6266L	1
Natural History of the Indian River Lagoon	OCB 6810	3
Conservation Biology	PCB 6045	3
Advanced Ecology	PCB 6046	3
Marine Ecology	PCB 6317	3
Marine Ecology Lab and Field Studies	PCB 6317L	2
Ecological Theory	PCB 6406	3
Remote Sensing and Geographic Information Systems
Digital Image Analysis	GIS 5033C	3
Remote Sensing of he Environment	GIS 5038C	3
Principles of Geographic Information Systems	GIS 5051C	3
Applications in Geographic Information Systems	GIS 5100C	3
Programming in Geographic Information Systems	GIS 5103C	3
Topics in Geoinformation Science	GIS 6120	3
Hyperspectral Remote Sensing	GIS 6127	3
Chemistry
Chemistry for Environmental Scientists	CHS 6611	3
Environmental Geochemistry	GLY 5243	3
Marine Optics
Underwater Optical Imaging for Marine Scientists	OCE 6267	3
Ocean Monitoring Systems and Implementation Strategies	OCE 6268	3
Marine Optics	OCE 6269	3
Data Processing for Studies and Modeling of Marine Systems	OCE 6673	3

Neuroscience Concentration (IBNS) Core Courses and Electives
IBNS Core Courses 
Students who enter the IBNS concentration with no prior neuroscience coursework must take two of the following five courses. Completion of these courses may be used toward fulfillment of the Integrative Biology elective requirement.

Cellular and Molecular Neuroscience	PSB 6345	3
Systems and Integrative Neuroscience	PSB 6346	3
Practical Cell Neuroscience	BSC 6417C	3
Neurophysiology	PCB 6835C	3
Advanced Neurophysiology Lab	PCB 6837L	3

IBNS Electives
Students enrolled in the IBNS concentration must select graduate-level elective courses relevant to the field of neuroscience. Students may choose from the following approved IBNS electives toward fulfillment of the Integrative Biology requirement. Students may elect to complete up to 6 credits of designated Special Topics courses with the approval of their Ph.D. supervisor and/or supervisory committee.

General Neuroscience
Special Topics	BSC 6936	3
Cellular and Molecular Neuroscience	PSB 6345	3
Systems and Integrative Neuroscience	PSB 6346	3
Molecular and Cellular Neuroscience
Neurobiology of Addiction	PCB 5844	3
Neural Plasticity	GMS 6021	3
Principles of Neuroimmunology	GMS 6708	3
Advanced Cell Physiology	PCB 6207	3
Developmental Neurobiology	PSB 6515	3
Brain Diseases: Mechanisms and Therapy	BMS 6736	3
Cellular Neuroscience and Disease	PCB 6849	3
Practical Cell Neuroscience	BSC 6417C	3
Autonomic Function and Diseases	BMS 6523	3
Neurophysiology	PCB 6835C	3
Advanced Neurophysiology Lab	PCB 6837L	3
Human Neuroanatomy	ZOO 6748	3
Behavioral Neuroscience
Seminar in Behavioral Neuroscience	PSB 6058	3
Developmental Neuropsychology	PSB 6516	4
Principles of Neuroscience	PSB 6037	3
Cognitive Neuroscience
Seminar in Cognitive Development	DEP 6067	3
Cognitive Neuroscience	ISC 5465	3
Seminar in Cognition	EXP 6609	3
Seminar in Human Perception	EXP 6208	3
Theoretical and Dynamical Neuroscience
Introduction to Neural Networks	CAP 5615	3
Introduction to Data Science	CAP 5768	3
Computational Neuroscience 1	ISC 6460	3
Bioinformatics	BSC 6458C	4
Bioinformatics: Engineering Perspectives	BME 6762	3

 

Neuroscience
Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.)

This doctoral program in Neuroscience is a multi-college, multi-institute interdisciplinary degree program organized in partnership with the FAU Brain Institute. Graduate-level instruction is provided by faculty in multiple departments located in the Charles E. Schmidt College of Science, the Charles Schmidt College of Medicine, the College of Engineering and Computer Science, the College of Education and the Harriet L. Wilkes Honors College. Affiliated faculty from the Max Planck Florida Institute for Neuroscience and Scripps Research Florida also participate in the program. The program aims to equip students with the advanced conceptual and technical skills needed to forge productive, neuroscience-oriented careers in industry, academia and government. Specific details for this doctoral program appear in the  Interdisciplinary Programs  section of this catalog.

Biological Sciences

Faculty:
Milton, S., Chair; Anderson, R.; Baronas-Lowell, D.; Baldwin, J.; Binninger, D.; Brooks, W. R.; Esiobu, N.; Frazier, E.; Godenschwege, T.; Hartmann, J. X.; Hughes, C.; Jia, K.; Kajiura, S.; Koch-Rose, M.; Kumi-Diaka, J.; Lovelace, M.; Lyons, H. J.; Macleod, G.; McCoy, M.; Murphey, R.; Narayanan, R.; Noonburg, E.; Owen, D.; Salmon, M.; Theisen, T.; Weissbach, H., Emeritus; Wyneken, J.; Zhang, X-H.

The Department of Biological Sciences offers undergraduate degree programs leading to the Bachelor of Arts (B.A.) degree and Bachelor of Science (B.S.) degree. A grade of "C-" or better (unless otherwise noted in the course description) is required in all biology AND cognate courses taken as part of the requirements for an undergraduate degree in Biological Sciences. However, students must maintain a "C" average in departmental major courses.

The department also offers a Bachelor of Science in Medical Biology, an Honors Program, the  FAU Max Planck Honors Program, a minor in Biological Sciences, and an undergraduate certificate program in Biotechnology. A Bachelor of Science (B.S.) in Neuroscience and Behavior is offered jointly with the Department of Psychology. This major is detailed under the  Psychology Department section.

Master's-level degree programs include the Master of Science (M.S.), the Master of Science in Teaching (M.S.T.), and a  Professional Science Master (P.S.M.) in Business Biotechnology.

Two combined programs are also available. In one, students earn a B.S./M.S. in Biological Sciences and in the other, a  B.S. in Biological Sciences and an M.S. in Environmental Science.

Recency of Undergraduate Credits Transfer Policy
No credits more than 10 years old may be transferred into or applied to an FAU Biology undergraduate program. Any credits that are transferred in are considered earned in the first semester of enrollment at FAU.

Link to Bachelor of Science Program

Link to Bachelor of Science with Major in Medical Biology Program

Link to Additional Undergraduate Offerings

Link to Combined Programs

Link to Master's Programs

Biological Sciences
Bachelor of Arts (B.A.)

(Minimum of 120 credits required)

The Bachelor of Arts (B.A.) degree is intended to provide maximum flexibility for students pursuing study in interdisciplinary areas such as environmental science or secondary school teaching. In addition to the University and College degree requirements, students seeking a Bachelor of Arts degree in Biological Sciences must complete the following core requirements. All degree programs require a total of 120 credits, 45 of which must be upper-division credits.

Prerequisite Coursework for Transfer Students
Students transferring to Florida Atlantic University must complete both lower-division requirements (including the requirements of the General Education Program) and requirements for the college and major. Lower-division requirements may be completed through the A.A. degree from any Florida public college, university or community college or through equivalent coursework at another regionally accredited institution. Before transferring and to ensure timely progress toward the baccalaureate degree, students must also complete the prerequisite courses for their major as outlined in the  Transition Guides .

All courses not approved by the Florida Statewide Course Numbering System that will be used to satisfy requirements will be evaluated individually on the basis of content and will require a catalog course description and a copy of the syllabus for assessment.

Core Requirements - 40-43 credits
Introduction to Biology at FAU	BSC 1019	0 or
First-Year Interest Group Experience	SLS 1411	1 or
Honors Introduction to Academic Life	SLS 1501	2
Biological Principles and Lab	BSC 1010, 1010L	4
Biodiversity and Lab	BSC 1011, 1011L	4
General Chemistry 1	CHM 2045	3
General Chemistry 1 Lab	CHM 2045L	1
General Chemistry 2	CHM 2046	3
General Chemistry 2 Lab	CHM 2046L	1
Organic Chemistry 1	CHM 2210	3
Organic Chemistry 2	CHM 2211	3
Methods of Calculus	MAC 2233	3
Experimental Design and Statistical Inference	PSY 3234	3
Physical Science	PSC 2121	3
Choose four of the courses below Additional courses chosen from this category beyond the four courses may be applied toward the elective requirement.
One course in Physiology***		4-5
Genetics	PCB 3063	4
Cell Biology	PCB 3023	3
Principles of Ecology	PCB 4043	3
Evolution	PCB 3674	3
***Students who choose the "One course in Physiology" option above may fulfill this option by choosing one of the below course/lab combinations.
Principles of Plant Physiology and Lab	BOT 4503, 4503L	4
Comparative Animal Physiology and Lab	PCB 4723, 4723L	4
Vertebrate Structure Development and Evolution and Lab	ZOO 4690, 4690L	5
Human Morphology and Function 1 and Lab	PCB 3703, 3703L	4
Human Morphology and Function 2 and Lab	PCB 3704, 3704L	4

 

Biology Electives Choose a minimum of 12 upper-division credits from the list below.
Vascular Plant Anatomy and Lab	BOT 3223, 3223L	4
Plant Cell Biology	BOT 4542	3
Plant Biotechnology	BOT 4734C	3
Conservation Biology	BSC 3052	3
Introduction to Biological Research	BSC 3453	1
Biological Research Writing	BSC 3481	2
Molecular Genetics of Aging	BSC 4022	3
Climate Change Biology: Ecosystems to Human Health	BSC 4307	3
Laboratory Methods in Biotechnology	BSC 4403L	3
Concepts in Bioinformatics	BSC 4434C	3
Biology of Cancer	BSC 4806	3
Directed Independent Study*	BSC 4905	1-3
Directed Independent Research in Biological Sciences*	BSC 4910	0-3
Honors Research	BSC 4917	3
Honors Thesis	BSC 4918	3
Special Topics	BSC 4930	1-3
Comparative Animal Behavior	CBH 4024	3
Critical Thinking in Environmental Science	EVS 4021	3
Artificial Intelligence Applications in Biology	IDS 4139	3
General Microbiology and Lab	MCB 3020, 3020L	4
Medical Bacteriology	MCB 4203	3
Virology	MCB 4503	3
Microbial Ecology	MCB 4603	3
Marine Biodiversity and Lab	OCB 4032, 4032L	4
Marine Biology and Lab	OCB 4043, 4043L	4
Marine Microbiology and Molecular Biology and Lab	OCB 4525, 4525L	4
Marine Ecology and Lab	OCB 4633, 4633L	4
Marine Science	OCE 4006	3
Issues in Human Ecology	PCB 3352	3
Genetics Lab	PCB 4067L	3
Immunology	PCB 4233	3
Freshwater Ecology and Lab	PCB 4301, 4301L	4
Molecular Genetics	PCB 4522	3
Genes and Development	PCB 4594	3
Cellular Neuroscience and Disease	PCB 4842	3
Practical Cell Neuroscience	PCB 4843C	3
Invertebrate Zoology and Lab	ZOO 3205, 3205L	5
Introduction to Animal Locomotion	ZOO 4373	3
Ornithology and Lab	ZOO 4472, 4472L	4
Principles of Human Neuroanatomy	ZOO 4742	3

Note:  PHY 2053 may be substituted for PSC 2121.

* Students may enroll in a maximum of 3 research credits within a single semester.

Note:  No more than a total of 5 non-graded (S/U) credits may be used to fulfill biology degree program requirements. Approved non-graded biology electives include:

Directed Independent Study	BSC 4905	1-3
Directed Independent Research in Biological Sciences	BSC 4910	0-3
Seminar	BSC 4932	1
Science Internship	IDS 3941	1-3

Note:   No more than 2 credits of a seminar course (BSC 4932) may be used to fulfill biology degree program requirements.

Note:  Biology department approval is required for students wishing to complete the Science Internship for credit. After a student's Science Internship registration request has been processed by the FAU Career Center, the Career Center will communicate directly with the department to request approval on the student's behalf.

Note:  Students wishing to participate in Medical Shadowing Internship should not enroll in the Science Internship. They should instead enroll in Medical Shadowing Internship (IDS 3940). The Medical Shadowing Internship course cannot be used to fulfill biology degree program requirements.

Students can find detailed flight plan information and General Education Program checklists for biology majors through  University Advising Services.

Environmental Sciences Focus
Complete all of the above and the following electives.

Biology Elective
Issues in Human Ecology	PCB 3352	3  or
Environment and Society	EVR 2017	3

 

General Electives
Macroeconomics Principles	ECO 2013	3
Microeconomics Principles	ECO 2023	3
Environmental Economics	ECP 4302	3
Environmental Ethics	PHI 3640	3

 

Biological Sciences
Bachelor of Science (B.S.)

(Minimum of 120 credits required)

The Bachelor of Science (B.S.) degree is recommended for students planning to be professional biologists in industry or governmental service, for graduate work in the biological sciences and for students planning careers in medicine, dentistry or veterinary medicine. In addition to the University and College degree requirements, students seeking a Bachelor of Science degree in Biological Sciences must complete the following degree requirements.

Prerequisite Coursework for Transfer Students
Students transferring to Florida Atlantic University must complete both lower-division requirements (including the requirements of the General Education Program) and requirements for the college and major. Lower-division requirements may be completed through the A.A. degree from any Florida public college, university or community college or through equivalent coursework at another regionally accredited institution. Before transferring and to ensure timely progress toward the baccalaureate degree, students must also complete the prerequisite courses for their major as outlined in the  Transition Guides .

All courses not approved by the Florida Statewide Course Numbering System that will be used to satisfy requirements will be evaluated individually on the basis of content and will require a catalog course description and a copy of the syllabus for assessment.

Core Requirements - 47-51 credits
Introduction to Biology at FAU	BSC 1019	0 or
First-Year Interest Group Experience	SLS 1411	1 or
Honors Introduction to Academic Life	SLS 1501	2
Biological Principles and Lab	BSC 1010, 1010L	4
Biodiversity and Lab	BSC 1011, 1011L	4
General Chemistry 1 and Lab	CHM 2045, 2045L	4
General Chemistry 2 and Lab	CHM 2046, 2046L	4
Organic Chemistry 1	CHM 2210	3
Organic Chemistry 2	CHM 2211	3
Methods of Calculus	MAC 2233	3 or
Calculus with Analytic Geometry 1	MAC 2311	4
College Physics 1	PHY 2053	4 or
General Physics 1	PHY 2048	4
College Physics 2	PHY 2054	4  or
General Physics 2	PHY 2049	4
General Physics 1 Lab	PHY 2048L	1
General Physics 2 Lab	PHY 2049L	1
Experimental Design and Statistical Inference	PSY 3234	3  or
Introduction to Biostatistics	STA 3173	3
Choose four of the courses below Additional courses chosen from this category beyond the four courses may be applied toward the elective requirement.
One course in Physiology***		4-5
Genetics	PCB 3063	4
Cell Biology	PCB 3023	3
Principles of Ecology	PCB 4043	3
Evolution	PCB 3674	3
***Students who select the "One course in Physiology" option above may fulfill this option by choosing one of the below course/lab combinations.
Principles of Plant Physiology and Lab	BOT 4503, 4503L	4
Comparative Animal Physiology and Lab	PCB 4723, 4723L	4
Vertebrate Structure Development and Evolution and Lab	ZOO 4690, 4690L	5
Human Morphology and Function 1 and Lab	PCB 3703, 3703L	4
Human Morphology and Function 2 and Lab	PCB 3704, 3704L	4

Marine S

Electives Choose a minimum of 18 upper-division credits from the list below.
Biochemistry 1	BCH 3033	3
Biochemistry 2 or Biochemistry Lab	BCH 3034 or BCH 3103L	3
Vascular Plant Anatomy and Lab	BOT 3223, 3223L	4
Plant Cell Biology	BOT 4542	3
Principles of Plant Physiology and Lab	BOT 4503, 4503L	4
Plant Biotechnology	BOT 4734C	3
Conservation Biology	BSC 3052	3
Introduction to Biological Research	BSC 3453	1
Biological Research Writing	BSC 3481	2
Molecular Genetics of Aging	BSC 4022	3
Climate Change Biology: Ecosystems to Human Health	BSC 4307	3
Laboratory Methods in Biotechnology	BSC 4403L	3
Concepts in Bioinformatics	BSC 4434C	3
Biology of Cancer	BSC 4806	3
Directed Independent Study*	BSC 4905	1-3
Directed Independent Research in Biological Sciences*	BSC 4910	0-3
Honors Research	BSC 4917	3
Honors Thesis	BSC 4918	3
Special Topics	BSC 4930	1-3
Comparative Animal Behavior	CBH 4024	3
Organic Chemistry Lab	CHM 2211L	2
Critical Thinking in Environmental Science	EVS 4021	3
Artificial Intelligence Applications in Biology	IDS 4139	3
General Microbiology and Lab	MCB 3020, 3020L	4
Medical Bacteriology	MCB 4203	3
Virology	MCB 4503	3
Microbial Ecology	MCB 4603	3
Marine Biodiversity and Lab	OCB 4032, 4032L	4
Marine Biology and Lab	OCB 4043, 4043L	4
Marine Microbiology and Molecular Biology and Lab	OCB 4525, 4525L	4
Marine Ecology and Lab	OCB 4633, 4633L	4
Marine Science	OCE 4006	3
Issues in Human Ecology	PCB 3352	3
Genetics Lab	PCB 4067L	3
Immunology	PCB 4233	3
Freshwater Ecology and Lab	PCB 4301, 4301L	4
Molecular Genetics	PCB 4522	3
Genes and Development	PCB 4594	3
Cellular Neuroscience and Disease	PCB 4842	3
Practical Cell Neuroscience	PCB 4843C	3
Biological Bases of Behavior	PSB 3002	3
Invertebrate Zoology and Lab	ZOO 3205, 3205L	5
Introduction to Animal Locomotion	ZOO 4373	3
Ornithology and Lab	ZOO 4472, 4472L	4
Principles of Human Neuroanatomy	ZOO 4742	3

 

* Students may enroll in a maximum of 3 research credits within a single semester.

Note:   No more than a total of 5 non-graded (S/U) credits may be used to fulfill biology degree program requirements. Approved non-graded biology electives include:

Directed Independent Study	BSC 4905	1-3
Directed Independent Research in Biological Sciences	BSC 4910	0-3
Seminar	BSC 4932	1
Directed Independent Research in Environmental Science	EVS 4916	0-3
Science Internship	IDS 3941	1-3

Note: No more than 2 credits of a seminar course (BSC 4932) may be used to fulfill biology degree program requirements.

Note:  Biology department approval is required for students wishing to complete the Science Internship for credit. After a student's Science Internship registration request has been processed by the FAU Career Center, the Career Center will cmmunicate directly with the department to request approval on the student's behalf.

Note:   Students wishing to participate in Medical Shadowing Internship should not enroll in the Science Internship. They should instead enroll in Medical Shadowing Internship (IDS 3940). The Medical Shadowing Internship course cannot be used to fulfill biology degree program requirements.

Students can find detailed flight plan information and General Education Program checklists for biology majors through  University Advising Services.

Honors in the Major—Biological Sciences

Eligible undergraduate students may apply to participate in the Department of Biological Sciences' Honors in the Major program. There are two paths to attaining Honors in the Major. Students who fulfill all requirements associated with one of the biology honors pathways successfully and have an overall GPA of 3.2 or greater at the time of degree conferral will receive a designation of Honors in the Major on their transcripts. The transcript designations, "Honors in Biological Sciences—Research Thesis" or "Honors in Biological Sciences—Research," will mark participation in the one of the two paths.

Honors in Biological Sciences—Research Thesis
The Department of Biological Sciences offers an Honors Thesis Program that recognizes research accomplishments of talented undergraduates. Eligible students must have a minimum of 20 credits in biology and an overall GPA of 3.2. Students usually begin the program in their junior year and conduct independent, supervised research during their junior and senior years. A written paper and a seminar describing the results of their research are required in the senior year. Interested students should contact the faculty member whose research interests are closest to those the student wishes to pursue.

Honors in Biological Sciences—Research
The Department of Biological Sciences offers an Honors Research Program that recognizes research accomplishments of talented undergraduates. Eligible students must have a minimum of 20 credits in biology and an overall GPA of 3.2. Students usually begin the program in their junior year and conduct independent, supervised research during their junior and senior years. Submission of a grant proposal is required no later than the second semester of the junior year. Presentation of a poster or seminar at a local, regional, national or international research conference/symposium describing the results of the research is required in the senior year. Interested students should contact a faculty member whose research interests are closest to those the student wishes to pursue. Visit the website for more information.

The FAU Max Planck Honors Program (MPHP)

Eligible College of Science majors in Biology, Psychology, Neuroscience and Behavior and Medical Biology may apply to participate in this Jupiter-specific honors program for undergraduates. For students pursuing the MPHP, 3 to 6 of the elective credits in their individual program must be applied toward the requirements of the MPHP. These include successful completion of a Capstone experience (1 to 3 credits) and three different MPHP Enrichment courses (1 credit each) from those listed below. A minimum grade of "B" must be achieved in graded courses ("S" in non-graded courses) among these exclusive MPHP course options for the credits to count toward the requirements of the MPHP. Visit the MPHP website to apply.

Biological Sciences
Undergraduate Minor

(Minimum of 19 credits required)

A minor in Biological Sciences consists of a minimum of 19 credits in biology courses, to include Biodiversity with Lab (BSC 1011, 1011L), Biological Principles with Lab (BSC 1010, 1010L), Principles of Ecology (PCB 4043) and additional courses at the 3000 level or above, at least one of which must be a lab course. Of the 19 credits, at least 15 must be earned from FAU. All courses must be completed with a grade of "C-" or better.

Biotechnology
Undergraduate Certificate

(Minimum of 15 credits required)

The certificate program in Biotechnology is designed to provide undergraduate students with the necessary foundations for a career in biotechnology in conjunction with their academic major. Particular emphasis is placed on application of biotechnology to studies in botany, biochemistry, environmental sciences, marine biology, microbiology, medicine or pharmacology.

To enter the program, a student must have 15 credits of work at a senior institution with a minimum GPA of 2.5 and a year each of general biology, general chemistry, general physics and mathematics through one semester of calculus. A grade of "C-" or better must be attained in each course in biology, chemistry and biotechnology, and an overall and upper-division GPA of at least 2.5 is required at graduation. Students must also earn a "B-" or better in the following laboratory courses: BCH 3103L, BSC 4403L and MCB 3020L.

Students receiving a bachelor's degree in the Department of Biological Sciences or the Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry will meet the requirements for certification by completing the courses listed below, as well as their prerequisites. Students in other departments should meet with a biotechnology advisor to determine eligibility and requirements for this certification program.

Biochemistry Lab	BCH 3103L	3
Laboratory Methods in Biotechnology	BSC 4403L	3
General Microbiology	MCB 3020	3
General Microbiology Lab	MCB 3020L	1
Genetics	PCB 3063	4
Total Credits		14

Secondary Education Program
A program leading to teacher certification in biology is available through the Department of  Curriculum and Instruction  in the College of Education.

Medical Biology
Bachelor of Science (B.S.)

(Minimum of 120 credits required)

The Bachelor of Science (B.S.) with Major in Medical Biology program provides undergraduate preparation for students interested in pursuing professional degrees in medicine, dentistry, pharmacy, veterinary medicine or graduate degrees in the biomedical sciences. In addition to University and college degree requirements, students seeking a B.S. with Major in Medical Biology must complete the following requirements.

Prerequisite Coursework for Transfer Students
Students transferring to Florida Atlantic University must complete lower-division requirements (including the requirements of the  General Education Program) and requirements for the college and major. Lower-division requirements may be completed through the A.A. degree from any Florida public college, university or state college or through equivalent coursework at another regionally accredited institution. Before transferring and to ensure timely progress toward the baccalaureate degree, students must also complete the prerequisite courses for their major as outlined in the  Transition Guides.

All courses not approved by the Florida Statewide Course Numbering System that will be used to satisfy requirements will be evaluated individually on the basis of content and will require a catalog course description and a copy of the syllabus for assessment.

Core Requirements - 63-64 credits, 25-26 upper-division credits
Biochemistry 1	BCH 3033	3
Biological Principles and Lab	BSC 1010, 1010L	4
Biodiversity and Lab	BSC 1011, 1011L	4
General Chemistry 1 and Lab	CHM 2045, 2045L	4
General Chemistry 2 and Lab	CHM 2046, 2046L	4
Organic Chemistry 1	CHM 2210	3
Organic Chemistry 2 and Lab	CHM 2211, 2211L	3
Life Science Calculus  or	MAC 2241	4  or
Calculus with Analytic Geometry 1	MAC 2311	4
General Microbiology and Lab	MCB 3020, 3020L	4
Genetics	PCB 3063	4
Cell Biology	PCB 3023	3
Human Morphology and Function 1 and Lab  or	PCB 3703, 3703L	4  or
Vertebrate Structure Development and Evolution and Lab	ZOO 4690, 4690L	5
Human Morphology and Function 2 and Lab  or	PCB 3704, 3704L	4  or
Comparative Animal Physiology and Lab	PCB 4723, 4723L	4
College Physics 1  or	PHY 2053	3  or
General Physics 1	PHY 2048	3
College Physics 2  or	PHY 2054	4  or
General Physics 2	PHY 2049	4
General Physics 1 Lab	PHY 2048L	1
General Physics 2 Lab	PHY 2049L	1
Experimental Design and Statistical Inference  or	PSY 3234	3  or
Introduction to Biostatistics	STA 3173	3

 

Electives Choose a minimum of 12 upper-division credits from the list below.
Biochemistry 2  or Biochemistry Lab	BCH 3034  or BCH 3103L	3
Molecular Genetics of Aging	BSC 4022	3
Laboratory Methods in Biotechnology	BSC 4403L	3
Biology of Cancer	BSC 4806	3
Directed Independent Research in Biological Sciences ***	BSC 4910	0-3
Special Topics	BSC 4930	1-3
Comparative Animal Behavior	CBH 4024	3
RI: Introduction to Drug Design	CHM 4273	3
RI: Structural Biochemistry	CHM 4350	3
Directed Independent Study***	CHM 4905	1-4
Senior Seminar	CHM 4930	1
Artificial Intelligence Applications in Biology	IDS 4139	3
Medical Bacteriology	MCB 4203	3
Virology	MCB 4503	3
Evolution	PCB 3674	3
Principles of Ecology	PCB 4043	3
Genetics Lab	PCB 4067L	3
Immunology	PCB 4233	3
Molecular Genetics	PCB 4522	3
Genes and Development	PCB 4594	3
Cellular Neuroscience and Disease	PCB 4842	3
Practical Cell Neuroscience	PCB 4843C	0-3
Directed Independent Study***	PCB 4905	1-3
Directed Independent Research***	PCB 4915	1-3
Directed Independent Research***	PCB 4916	0-3
Special Topics	PCB 4930	1-8

***Students may enroll in a maximum of 3 research credits within a single semester.

Note:   No more than a total of 5 non-graded (S/U) credits may be used to fulfill biology degree program requirements.

Directed Independent Research in Biological Sciences	BSC 4910	0-3
Directed Independent Study***	CHM 4905	1-4
Science Internship	IDS 3941	1-3
Directed Independent Study***	PCB 4905	1-3
Directed Independent Research***	PCB 4915	1-3
Directed Independent Research***	PCB 4916	0-3

Note:  Biology department approval is required for students wishing to complete the Science Internship for credit. After a student's Science Internship registration request has been processed by the  FAU Career Center, the Career Center will communicate directly with the department to request approval on the student's behalf.

Note:  Students wishing to participate in Medical Shadowing Internship should not enroll in the Science Internship. They should instead enroll in Medical Shadowing Internship (IDS 3940). The Medical Shadowing Internship course cannot be used to fulfill biology degree program requirements.

Students can find detailed flight plan information and General Education Program checklists for biology majors through  University Advising Services.

Biological Sciences
Bachelor of Science (B.S.) to Master of Science (M.S.)
Combined Program

(Minimum of 153-156 credits required)

This combined degree program leads to both bachelor's (B.S.) and master's (M.S.) degrees in Biological Sciences with an emphasis in molecular biology and biotechnology. It is a laboratory-intensive curriculum that provides hands-on training for students who are interested in a career in the rapidly expanding field of biotechnology. This program will also provide excellent preparation for pursuing advanced degree studies.

The combined degree program is 153-156 credits, 120 for the undergraduate degree and 33-36 for the master's degree. Students complete the undergraduate degree first, taking no more than 12 credits of graduate coursework in their senior year, which will then be used to satisfy both degrees. See specific program requirements below.

Prerequisite Coursework for Transfer Students
Students transferring to Florida Atlantic University must complete both lower-division requirements (including the requirements of the General Education Program) and requirements for the college and major. Lower-division requirements may be completed through the A.A. degree from any Florida public college, university or community college or through equivalent coursework at another regionally accredited institution. Before transferring and to ensure timely progress toward the baccalaureate degree, students must also complete the prerequisite courses for their major as outlined in the  Transition Guides .

All courses not approved by the Florida Statewide Course Numbering System that will be used to satisfy requirements will be evaluated individually on the basis of content and will require a catalog course description and a copy of the syllabus for assessment.

Requirements and Eligibility
Students would typically begin taking graduate courses in their senior year that would apply to both their B.S. and M.S. degrees. The program can be completed in five years by allowing 12 credits of graduate-level courses to fulfill course requirements for both the B.S. and M.S. degrees. Students must maintain a minimum GPA of 3.0 to remain in the program.

The program requires completion of a research project (6 credits). While there is no formal requirement for a thesis, the research must be described in both a written report and an oral presentation to an advisory committee.

Students are expected to work in a research lab during their last two years of the program completing Directed Independent Study and Thesis credits. The research may be completed in the laboratory of any member of the Center for Molecular Biology and Biotechnology (CMBB). Additionally, the research may be done under the direction of a faculty member in Biological Sciences if the project is appropriate to molecular biology and biotechnology. Faculty in other departments may mentor students with approval of the director or the chair.

Prospective students must formally apply to this graduate program and meet all admission requirements: a minimum undergraduate science GPA of 3.0 and GRE scores of at least 151 (verbal) and 148 (quantitative). Students should take the GRE before the end of their junior year.

Curriculum
The core curriculum for students in the combined B.S./M.S. degree program is the same as for all Biological Sciences students in a Bachelor of Science (B.S.) program. The difference in this combined program is the emphasis on Molecular Biology and Biotechnology.

Molecular Biology and Biotechnology Core and Elective courses
Laboratory Methods in Biotechnology	BSC 4403L	3
Organic Chemistry 2	CHM 2211	3
Organic Chemistry Lab	CHM 2211L	2
General Microbiology	MCB 3020	3
General Microbiology Lab	MCB 3020L	1
Genetics	PCB 3063	4
Practical Cell Neuroscience	PCB 4843C	3
Molecular Genetics	PCB 4522	3
Genetics Lab	PCB 4067L	3
Molecular Genetics of Aging	BSC 4022	3
Immunology	PCB 4233	3
Cellular Neuroscience and Disease	PCB 4842	3
Plant Biotechnology	BOT 4734C	3

Completion of the courses listed above as well general education courses required of all students will fulfill the requirements for the B.S. in Biological Sciences with emphasis on Molecular Biology and Biotechnology in addition to the 15 credits identified in the Biotechnology certificate program. Those six courses must also be taken to fulfill the B.S./M.S. program.

Graduate courses that may count toward both B.S. and M.S. requirements -12 credits
Students may choose 12 credits from the graduate courses listed below:

Advanced Biochemistry	BCH 6740	3
Bioinformatics	BSC 6458C	4
Directed Independent Study	BSC 6905	1-3
Instrumentation	CHM 6157	3
Advanced Molecular Genetics of Aging	PCB 5246	3
Advanced Immunology	PCB 6236	3
Cellular and Molecular Neuroscience	PSB 6345	3
Systems and Integrative Neuroscience	PSB 6346	3  or
Neurophysiology	PCB 6835C	3
Advanced Neurophysiology Lab	PCB 6837L	3
Cellular Neuroscience and Disease	PCB 6849	3
Principles of Neuroscience	PSB 6037	3
Practical Cell Neuroscience	BSC 6417C	3
Human Neuroanatomy	ZOO 6748	3

Students who complete these courses but decide not to pursue the M.S. degree would be required to take one additional 3-credit elective (approved by their faculty advisor) to fulfill the B.S. requirements.

Additional graduate-level courses - 15 credits
In addition to the 12 credits of graduate courses that fulfill requirements for the B.S. degree, the student must take an additional 15 credits of graduate courses from the list shown above or other graduate courses approved by their advisory committee.

Research - 6 credits
An important element of this program is the hands-on laboratory experience. This requirement is met by the formal laboratory courses as well as individual training in a research laboratory, an experience that cannot be duplicated in laboratory courses. Six credits of Master's Thesis (BSC 6971) must be completed. A formal thesis is not required, but the research must be presented as both a written report and oral presentation to an advisory committee.

Comments on Total Credits
A student could complete the requirements of this program and earn both the B.S. and M.S. degree with a minimum of 153-156 credits. Many students will likely finish with more credits.

Biological Sciences to Environmental Science
Bachelor of Science (B.S.) to Master of Science (M.S.)
Combined Program

(Minimum of 156 credits required)

This combined degree program leads to both a bachelor's (B.S.) in Biological Sciences degree and a master's (M.S.) in Environmental Science degree. It is a laboratory and field intensive curriculum that provides hands-on training for students who are interested in a career in the rapidly expanding field of environmental science. This program also provides excellent preparation for the Integrative Biology Ph.D. and the Geosciences Ph.D. The combined degree program is 156 credits, 120 for the undergraduate degree and 36 for the master's degree. Students complete the undergraduate degree first, taking no more than 12 credits of graduate coursework in their senior year, which will then be used to satisfy both degrees. See specific program requirements below.

Prerequisite Coursework for Transfer Students
Students transferring to Florida Atlantic University must complete both lower-division requirements (including the requirements of the General Education Program) and requirements for the college and major. Lower-division requirements may be completed through the A.A. degree from any Florida public college, university or community college or through equivalent coursework at another regionally accredited institution. Before transferring and to ensure timely progress toward the baccalaureate degree, students must also complete the prerequisite courses for their major as outlined in the  Transition Guides .

All courses not approved by the Florida Statewide Course Numbering System that will be used to satisfy requirements will be evaluated individually on the basis of content and will require a catalog course description and a copy of the syllabus for assessment.

Admission Requirements and Eligibility
Students would take the Graduate Record Exam (GRE) and apply to the B.S./M.S. in their junior year.

In addition to meeting all of the University and College admissions requirements for graduate study, each applicant for the M.S. with Major in Environmental Science must:

1. Have a minimum GRE score of 151 on the verbal section and 151 on the quantitative section. GRE scores more than five years old will not be accepted.
2. Have a minimum 3.0 average for the last 60 credits of undergraduate work.
3.  Obtain approval from the Environmental Science Program.

Students would typically begin taking graduate courses in their senior year that would apply to both their B.S. and M.S. degrees. The program can be completed in five years by allowing 12 credits of graduate-level courses to fulfill course requirements for both the B.S. and M.S. degrees. Students must maintain a minimum GPA of 3.0 to remain in the program.

Curriculum
The core curriculum for students in the combined B.S./M.S. degree program satisfies the requirements for the Bachelor of Science (B.S.) in Biological Sciences. The difference in this combined program is the emphasis on environmental science and the 12 credits in graduate courses that count toward the M.S. program taken during the senior year.

Core Requirements - 47-49 credits
Biological Principles and Lab	BSC 1010, 1010L	4
Biodiversity and Lab	BSC 1011, 1011L	4
General Chemistry 1 and Lab	CHM 2045, 2045L	4
General Chemistry 2 and Lab	CHM 2046, 2046L	4
Organic Chemistry 1	CHM 2210	3
Organic Chemistry 2	CHM 2211	3
Methods of Calculus	MAC 2233	3  or
Calculus with Analytic Geometry 1	MAC 2311	4
Principles of Ecology	PCB 4043	3
College Physics 1	PHY 2053	4  or
General Physics 1	PHY 2048	4
College Physics 2	PHY 2054	4  or
General Physics 2	PHY 2049	4
General Physics 1 Lab	PHY 2048L	1
General Physics 2 Lab	PHY 2049L	1
Experimental Design and Statistical Inference	PSY 3234	3  or
Introduction to Biostatistics	STA 3173	3
Select at least three of the courses below The other may be used as an elective.
Genetics	PCB 3063	4
Cell Biology	PCB 3023	3
Principles of Ecology	PCB 4043	3
Evolution	PCB 3674	3

 

Electives Choose at least 21 credits from the list below.
Biochemistry 1	BCH 3033	3
Vascular Plant Anatomy and Lab	BOT 3223, 3223L	4
Principles of Plant Physiology and Lab	BOT 4503, 4503L	4
Plant Biotechnology	BOT 4734C	3
Laboratory Methods in Biotechnology	BSC 4403L	3
Biology of Cancer	BSC 4806	3
Directed Independent Study	BSC 4905	1-3
Honors Research	BSC 4917	3
Honors Thesis	BSC 4918	3
Special Topics (Model Systems Genetics Lab)	BSC 4930	3
Organic Chemistry Lab	CHM 2211L	2
General Microbiology and Lab	MCB 3020, 3020L	4
Medical Bacteriology	MCB 4203	3
Microbial Ecology	MCB 4603	3
Marine Biodiversity and Lab	OCB 4032, 4032L	4
Marine Biology and Lab	OCB 4043, 4043L	4
Marine Microbiology and Molecular Biology and Lab	OCB 4525, 4525L	4
Marine Ecology and Lab	OCB 4633, 4633L	4
Marine Science	OCE 4006	3
Issues in Human Ecology	PCB 3352	3
Human Morphology and Function 1 and Lab	PCB 3703, 3703L	4
Human Morphology and Function 2 and Lab	PCB 3704, 3704L	4 or
Immunology	PCB 4233	3
Molecular Genetics	PCB 4522	3
Comparative Animal Physiology and Lab	PCB 4723, 4723L	4
Cellular Neuroscience and Disease	PCB 4842	3
Practical Cell Neuroscience	PCB 4843C	3
Invertebrate Zoology and Lab	ZOO 3205, 3205L	5
Introduction to Animal Locomotion	ZOO 4373	3
Ornithology and Lab	ZOO 4472, 4472L	4
Vertebrate Structure Development and Evolution and Lab	ZOO 4690, 4690L	5

Students should consult their faculty advisor concerning additional courses that may be applied to their degree requirements.

Graduate courses that may count toward both the B.S. and the M.S. requirements - 12 credits
Students may select 12 credits from the graduate courses listed below to count for both the B.S. in Biological Sciences and the M.S. in Environmental Science. See the M.S. in Environmental Science degree requirements  here  for more courses that count toward the M.S. degree after the B.S. degree is completed.

Colloquium
Environmental Science Colloquium Series (May be taken more than once.)	EVS 6920	1

 

Core Subject Areas
Chemistry
Chemistry for Environmental Scientists	CHS 6611	3
Geographic Information Systems
Introduction to GIS in Planning	URP 6270	3
Principles of Geographic Information Systems	GIS 5051C	3
Remote Sensing of the Environment	GIS 5038C	3
Modeling
Modeling Groundwater Movement	GLY 6836	3
Ecological Theory	PCB 6406	3
Statistics
Experimental Design and Biometry	PCB 6456	3
Conservation and Ecology
Biogeography	GEO 5305	3
Plants And People	GEO 6317	3
Environmental Restoration	EVR 6334	3
Flora of South Florida	BOT 5155	2
Flora of South Florida Lab	BOT 5155L	2
Conservation Biology	PCB 6045	3
Marine Ecology	PCB 6317	3
Advanced Ecology	PCB 6046	3
Marine Ecology Lab and Field Studies	PCB 6317L	2
Scientific Communication	BSC 6846	3
Freshwater Ecology	PCB 6307	3
Freshwater Ecology Lab	PCB 6307L	2
Environmental Physiology	PCB 6749	3
Marine Geology	GLY 5736C	3
Coastal Environments	GLY 6737	3
Shore Erosion and Protection	GLY 5575C	3
Global Environmental Change	GLY 6746	3
Environmental Geophysics	GLY 6457	3
Natural History of the Indian River Lagoon	OCB 6810	3
Marine Global Change	OCE 6019	3
Seminar in Ichthyology	ZOO 6459	1-2
Seminar in Avian Ecology	ZOO 6544C	1
Policy and Planning
Human-Environmental Interactions	GEA 6277	3
Geographic Analysis of Population	GEO 5435C	3
Culture, Conservation and Land Use	GEO 6337	3
Coastal Hazards	GLY 6888	3
Introduction to Transportation Planning	URP 6711	3
Environmental Analysis in Planning	URP 6425	3
Environmental Policy and Programs	URP 6429	3
Sustainable Cities	URP 4403	3
Urban and Regional Theory	URP 6840	3
Women, Environment, Ecofeminism, Environmental Justice	WST 6348	3
Environmental Philosophy	PHM 6035	3

Thesis Option
A student curriculum consists of a minimum of 36 credits taken in the following four categories:

Core Subject Areas:   22-28 credits from the core subject areas with at least one course from four different core subject areas.

Electives:  No more than 6 credits of electives taken outside the core areas will be counted toward the degree, and no more than 6 credits may be 4000-level courses. No more than 3 credits of Directed Independent Study may be counted toward this degree.

Thesis: 6-12 credits (EVS 6971).

Colloquium:  2 credits or more.

Non-Thesis Option
A student curriculum consists of a minimum of 36 credits taken in the following four categories:

Core Subject Areas:   25-31 credits from the core subject areas with at least one course from four different core subject areas.

Directed Independent Study:  3 credits (EVS 6905) required. Up to 3 additional credits may be taken as electives.

Electives:  No more than 6 credits of electives taken outside the core areas will be counted toward the degree.

Colloquium:   2 credits or more.

Master's Programs

Biological Sciences
Master of Science (M.S.) or Master of Science in Teaching (M.S.T.)

Application Deadline: Spring term - October 1; Fall term - January 15

Departmental  Admission Requirements
In addition to meeting all of the University and College admission requirements for graduate study, each applicant for the Master of Science or Master of Science in Teaching degree must have:

1. A minimum 3.0 average for the last 60 credits of undergraduate work;
2. Letters of recommendation: Three are required (letters by previous professors are preferable);
3. Statement of goals and interests;
4. Graduate Student Biology Faculty Advisor Verification  form*;
5. Approval of the Department of Biological Sciences.

*For Biology Faculty Advisor selection suggestions, students should go to the Biology departmental webpages to examine the fields and interests of individual faculty members. Once students find a Biology faculty member in their field of interest, they should contact the faculty member directly.

Degree Requirements
There are three degree programs available: thesis option, non-thesis option 1 and non-thesis option 2. Specific requirements for each degree are described below.

Biological Sciences
Master of Science (M.S.)

(Minimum of 36 credits)

Thesis Option 
This degree program is designed for students whose career goals include a research emphasis. This option is tailored for students doing research or contemplating graduate work for a Ph.D. degree.

This M.S. degree requires a minimum of 36 total credits. Degree requirements include:

1. At least half or 18 credits must be Biology Department courses;
2. 12 credits of graded coursework at the 6000 level (exclusive of any research credits);
3. Before students can register for Master's Proposal Seminar (BSC 6963) (i.e., students formally presenting their research proposal  to their committe and subsequent approval by committee), students conducting exploratory research can take up to 6 credits, which can include: 
   a. Up to 3 credits of Directed Independent Research in Biological Sciences (BSC 6917)
   or up to 3 credits of Directed Independent Study (DIS/DIR), either one taken outside of
   Biology. Any combination of DIS/DIR credits regardless of source cannot total more
   than 3 credits that will count toward the degree.
   b. Up to 3 credits of Master's Thesis (BSC 6971).
4. Master's Thesis Proposal (BSC 6963), 1 credit maximum*;
5. Master's Thesis Defense Seminar (BSC 6975), 1 credit maximum**;
6. Minimum of 6 credits of Master's Thesis (BSC 6971) is required. Note: No more than 12 credits of Master's Thesis can count toward the degree;
7. Maximum of 3 credits in Directed Independent Research in Biological Sciences (BSC 6917) will count toward the degree, or up to 3 credits of Directed Independent Study (DIS/DIR), either one taken outside of Biology. Any combination of DIS/DIR credits regardless of source cannot total more than 3 credits that will count toward the degree;
8. Remaining courses must be 5000 or 6000 level.

* For Master's thesis Proposal Seminar requirements, see  Biology Regulations and Procedures.

** For Master's Thesis Defense requirement, see  Biology Regulations and Procedures  and the Graduate College for current  University thesis requirements.

Non-Thesis Option 1
This degree program is designed for students who wish to improve their knowledge in the biological sciences through a rigorous series of courses and exams or for Integrative Biology Ph.D. students choosing Biology for a  Master's Along the Way  degree.

This M.S. degree requires a minimum of 36 credits. Degree requirements include:

1. At least half or 18 credits must be Biology Department courses;
2. Eighteen (18) of the 36 credits must be at the 6000 level or higher; the remaining 18 credits must be at the 5000 or 6000 level;
3. Two (2) of the 36 credits must involve courses in which the student presented a formal seminar;
4. Maximum of 3 credits in Directed Independent Research in Biological Sciences Study (BSC 6917) will count toward the degree, or up to 3 credits of Directed Independent Study (DIS/DIR), either one taken outside of Biology. Any combination of DIS/DIR credits regardless of source cannot total more than 3 credits that will count toward the degree;
5. One of the 36 credits must be the Master's Comprehensive Exam (BSC 6962). Students must take and pass a minimum of three written comprehensive exams given by a committee in designated areas within the microbiology and organismal specialties. Question types require written responses in essay and definition formats. See  FAU Regulations for Biology Master's Degrees   for complete requirements to complete the Master's Comprehensive Exam course.

Note: Master's Thesis (BSC 6971), Master's Thesis Proposal (BSC 6963) and Master's Thesis Defense (BSC 6975) do not count toward the M.S. Non-Thesis Option 1 degree.

Integrative Biology PH.D. students choosing Biology for a Master's Along the Way degree will be verified for completion of degree requirements by the Biology Department during the Graduation Audit Check. Consult with the IB Ph.D. advisor early in matriculation to ensure the curriculum followed would satisfy the requirements for the M.S./Non-Thesis Option 1.

Biological Sciences
Master of Science in Teaching (M.S.T.)

(Minimum of 30 credits)

Non-Thesis Option 2
This degree program is designed for students who wish to satisfy requirements for teaching in high school or junior college. In addition to regular coursework, students in this option may also elect to complete a Research Report, a short paper describing the results and significance of a circumscribed research project. Depending on background, students may also be required to take 6 credits of an Educational Internship.

The M.S.T. degree requires a minimum of 30 credits, if the student has two years of teaching experience at a secondary or junior college level. The M.S.T. degree requires 36 credits if the student has not completed the student teaching requirement. Degree requirements include:

1.  At least half or 15 credits must be Biology Department courses;
2.  Fifteen (15) of the 30 credits must be at the 6000 level or higher; the remaining 15 credits must be at the 5000 or 6000 level;
3. Two (2) of the 30 credits must involve courses in which the student presented a formal seminar;
4. Maximum of 3 credits in Directed Independent Research in Biological Sciences Study (BSC 6917) will count toward the degree, or up to 3 credits of Directed Independent Study (DIS/DIR), either one taken outside of Biology. Any combination of DIS/DIR credits regardless of source cannot total more than 3 credits that will count toward the degree; 
5.  One of the 30 credits (or 36 credits for students without two years prior teaching experience) must be the Master's Comprehensive Exam (BSC 6962). Students must take and pass a minimum of three written comprehensive exams given by a committee in designated areas within the microbiology and organismal specialties. Question types require written responses in essay and definition formats. See  FAU Regulations for Biology Master's Degrees  for complete requirements to complete the Master's Comprehensive Exam course;
   
   Note: Master's Thesis (BSC 6971), Master's Thesis Proposal (BSC 6963) and Master's Thesis Defense (BSC 6975) do not count toward the M.S. Non-Thesis Option 1 degree.
6. Students must take 6 credits of approved graduate courses in education or another cognate field if they plan to teach in high school and hold a Rank III secondary certificate (obtained independently from this M.S.T. degree), or if the student intends to teach at the college level;
7. Six (6) additional credits of Internship (EDG 6940) are required, except for those with two years of teaching experience at a secondary school or junior college level. Such internships can be completed in the following manner. Students enrolled in EDG 6940 (6 credits) may choose one of the following to fulfill the course requirements:
   1. Do an internship with one of the local public schools (verified by local school contacts). There is no form to be completed, but rather the student independently lines up an internship opportunity. Once confirmed, the Biology Department will contact the FAU Education Department requesting permission for the student to register for the Internship, EDG 6940. At the end of the term in which the student registers for the internship, the FAU Education Department will contact the Biology Department to verify the student has completed the internship successfully so that a satisfactory grade can be applied. This latter confirmation is done based on the teacher/school in which the student does the internship and who verifies in writing that the internship was completed;
   2. Teach a laboratory course in the Biology Department (verified by the lab coordinator for time, effort and teaching responsibilities).
      
      

Business Biotechnology
Professional Science Master (P.S.M.)

(Minimum of 34 credits required)

Application Deadline: Spring term - October 1; Fall term - January 15

The Professional Science Master (P.S.M.) with major in Business Biotechnology is a terminal degree for students interested in entering the workforce directly following completion of the degree. The 34-credit program is tailored for the student with undergraduate training in biology or chemistry who is primarily interested in working in the business side of the emerging biotechnology and pharmaceutical industries. This interdisciplinary program, provided in conjunction with the College of Business, includes traditional classroom courses in both business and science, culminating in two internship experiences. One internship provides experience working side-by-side with a research scientist. The second internship exposes the student to the business side of the biotechnology industry.

Departmental Admission Requirements

1. Baccalaureate degree in biology or chemistry. Degrees in other scientific areas can be considered on an individual basis;
2. Graduating undergraduate science GPA of 3.0 or higher;
3. Personal statement of career goals and how the applicant feels this training will help achieve those goals;
4. Three letters of recommendation with at least one from a former professor;
5. Graduate Student Biology Faculty Advisor Verification form;
6. Approval of the Department of Biological Sciences.

Degree Requirements
The program requires a total of 34 credits. Student curriculum degree requirements include:

Core Courses - 10 credits required
Venture Creation	ENT 6016	3
Biotechnology Business Development	ENT 6196	3
Professional Science Master's (P.S.M.) in Business Biotechnology - Scientific Internship	BSC 6946	2
Profession a Science Master's (P.S.M.) in Business Biotechnology - Business Internship	MAN 6946	2

* Each internship will last one semester. One internship will be science oriented with the student working directly with research scientists. The second will involve working on the business and administrative side of the company or institute, including technology transfer and business development offices. The goal is to place students in one of the biomedical institutes (e.g., Scripps Florida and the Max Planck Institute) or an emerging biotechnology business.

Science Courses  Choose15 credits from the list below. May require instructor permission or prerequisites.**
Biochemistry of the Gene	BCH 5415	3
Advanced Biochemistry	BCH 6740	3
Laboratory Methods in Biotechnology	BSC 6408L	3
Practical Cell Neuroscience	BSC 6417C	3
Computer Graphics for Biologists	BSC 6455	3
Bioinformatics	BSC 6458C	4
Scientific Communication (Note: Priority enrollment given to Integrative Biology Ph.D. students)	BSC 6846	3
Special Topics	BSC 6936	3
Advanced Molecular Genetics of Aging	PCB 5245	3
Advanced Genetics Lab	PCB 5064L	3
Genes and Development	PCB 6595	3
Advanced Cell Physiology	PCB 6207	3
Advanced Immunology	PCB 6236	3
Climate Change: Ecosystems to Human Health	PCB 6409	3
RNS Biology and Disease	PCB 6525	3
Reproductive Endocrinology	PCB 6804	3
Advanced Neurophysiology Lab	PCB 6837L	3
Cellular Neuroscience and Disease	PCB 6849	3
Special Topics, including Macromolecular Structure and Function and Protein Misfolding and Disease (3 credits each)	PCB 6933	6
Principles of Neuroscience	PSB 6037	3
Developmental Neurobiology	PSB 6515	3
Human Neuroanatomy	ZOO 6748	3
Structural Biochemistry	CHM 6351	3
Instrumentation	CHM 6157	3
Macromolecules and Human Disease	GMS 6301	3
Host Defense and Inflammation	MCB 6208	3
Advanced Molecular and Cell Biology	PCB 5532	3
Human Genetics	PCB 6665	3
Autonomic Function and Diseases	BMS 6523	3
Molecular Basis of Disease and Therapy	GMS 6302	3
Neurobiology of Addiction	PCB 5844	3
Molecular Basis of Human Cancer	PCB 6235	3
Problem-Based Immunology	PCB 6238	3
Tumor Immunology	PCB 6239	3
Adult Neurogenesis	PCB 6846	3
Advanced Topics in Biochemistry	BCH 6930	3
Brain Diseases: Mechanism and Therapy	BMS 6736	3
Advanced Plant Biotechnology	BOT 6735C	3
Advanced Drug Development	CHM 6277C	3
Drug Design	CHM 6278	3
Advanced Topics in Organic Chemistry	CHM 6380	3
Advanced Drug Formulation	CHM 6279C	3
Pharmacology	GMS 6513	3
Special Topics	ISC 6930	1-3
Neurophysiology	PCB 6835C	3
Special Topics	PCB 6933	1-8

** The science courses are electives, and their selection will vary depending on student demand, resources, faculty and new courses being developed. The list of science courses above would be appropriate for a student in this program. Other science courses can be taken as science electives with the approval of the faculty advisor.

Business Courses - 9 credits required Choose from list below.
Financial Accounting Concepts	ACG 6027	3
Technology Commercialization Strategies	ENT 6186	3
Developing and Marketing Innovations	MAR 6837	3
Advanced Marketing Management	MAR 6815	3
Marketing Functions/Processes	MAR 6055	3
Entrepreneurship and Venture Capital	ENT 6428	3
Leadership and Organizations	MAN 6296	3
Human Resources Management	MAN 6156	3
Advanced Business Plan Development	ENT 6116	3
Project Management	MAN 6581	3
Cross-Cultural Managment and Human Resources	MAN 6609	3

Important comment about courses.   The list of business courses shown above reflect those currently listed in the University Catalog. Availability will vary depending on the offerings in each department. New courses may have been added since this information was published. Appropriate business courses can be taken as business electives with the approval of the student's graduate program advisor.

For additional information about this degree program, contact David Binninger,  binninge@fau.edu.

Chemistry and Biochemistry

Faculty:
Cudic, P., Chair; Allani, S. K.; Ande, P.; Chamely-Wiik, D. M.; Cudic, M.; Du, D.; Fields, G. B.; Haces, A. M.; Haky, J. E., Emeritus; Huchital, D. H.; Lepore, S.; Louda, J. W.; Merk, V.; Rezler, E. M.; Roche, S. P.; Sempertegui, T.; Snyder, P. A.; Stawikowski, M.; Terentis, A. C.; Weissbach, H., Emeritus; West, L.; Wiesenfeld, J. R., Emeritus; Yildirim, I.

Accreditation: The Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry offers a Bachelor of Science program with a curriculum that is approved by the Committee on Professional Training of the American Chemical Society.

Chemistry is the central science encompassing elements of physics, biology and mathematics as well as unique elements of its own. The Chemistry and Biochemistry Department offers three undergraduate degree programs in Chemistry (one B.A. and two B.S.), which are designed to focus on individual student interests, and an  Honors Program in Chemistry.  A certificate program in  Pharmaceutical Technology  is designed for students who plan to pursue a career in the biopharmaceutical industry. A  Post-Baccalaureate Research Education Program in Chemistry (PREPChem)  certificate program is also offered. At the master's level, the department offers a Master of Science in Chemistry (M.S.) and a Master of Science in Teaching (M.S.T.). A doctoral degree program in Chemistry (Ph.D.) is also available.

Link to Combined Program

Link to Master's Programs

Link to Doctoral Program

The Bachelor of Arts (B.A.) is a liberal arts degree intended for students planning professional careers in chemistry-related professions. These include health professions (medicine, dentistry, pharmacy), environmental consulting, technical sales and secondary school teaching. This degree is often pursued by students studying in related disciplines (e.g., biological sciences, geology, neuroscience and behavior) who wish to obtain a second major or a second degree.

The Bachelor of Science (B.S.) degrees are designed for students preparing for professional careers as chemists in industry, government or academic research. Students interested in pursuing advanced graduate studies in chemistry, biochemistry or related fields should also follow one of the B.S. degree programs.

Two B.S. degree programs in Chemistry are offered:

1. The  ACS-Approved B.S. Program  offers a rigorous program of study in all aspects of inorganic, organic, analytical, biochemical and physical chemistry. Its curriculum corresponds to certification guidelines of the Committee on Professional Training of the American Chemical Society (ACS). An ACS-certified degree can offer advantages in job placement and graduate school admission.
2.  The  B.S. Program with a Concentration in Biochemistry  is designed for students pursuing careers in biochemistry and related disciplines, such as molecular biology, biophysics and pharmacology. Additionally, premedical students who wish to pursue a research-oriented curriculum might be interested in this program.

Prerequisite Coursework for Transfer Students
Students transferring to Florida Atlantic University must complete both lower-division requirements (including the requirements of the General Education Program) and requirements for the college and major. Lower-division requirements may be completed through the A.A. degree from any Florida public college, university or community college or through equivalent coursework at another regionally accredited institution. Before transferring and to ensure timely progress toward the baccalaureate degree, students must also complete the prerequisite courses for their major as outlined in the  Transition Guides .

All courses not approved by the Florida Statewide Course Numbering System that will be used to satisfy requirements will be evaluated individually on the basis of content and will require a catalog course description and a copy of the syllabus for assessment.

Core Curriculum
All Chemistry majors must take a minimum of 16 credits of chemistry at Florida Atlantic University. The following courses are required for all Chemistry majors:

Biochemistry 1	BCH 3033	3
General Chemistry 1	CHM 2045	3
General Chemistry 1 Lab	CHM 2045L	1
General Chemistry 2	CHM 2046	3
General Chemistry 2 Lab	CHM 2046L	1
Organic Chemistry 1	CHM 2210	3
Organic Chemistry 2	CHM 2211	3
Organic Chemistry Lab	CHM 2211L	2
Quantitative Analysis	CHM 3120	2
Quantitative Analysis Lab	CHM 3120L	2
General Physics 1 Lab	PHY 2048L	1
General Physics 2 Lab	PHY 2049L	1

 

Chemistry
Bachelor of Arts (B.A.)

In addition to the core curriculum, the B.A. degree program requires the following courses:

Biochemistry Lab	BCH 3103L	3
Introduction to Physical Chemistry	CHM 3400	3 or
Physical Chemistry 1	CHM 3410	3
Inorganic Chemistry	CHM 3609	3
Inorganic Chemistry Lab	CHM 3609L	1
College Algebra	MAC 1105	3
Methods of Calculus	MAC 2233	3
College Physics 1	PHY 2053	4 or
General Physics 1	PHY 2048	3
College Physics 2	PHY 2054	4 or
General Physics 2	PHY 2049	3

 

Chemistry
Bachelor of Science (B.S.)

ACS-Approved Program

In addition to the core curriculum, the ACS-Approved B.S. degree program requires the following courses.

Chemical Literature	CHM 3060	1
Physical Chemistry 1	CHM 3410	3
Physical Chemistry 1 Lab	CHM 3410L	2
Physical Chemistry 2	CHM 3411	3
Physical Chemistry 2 Lab	CHM 3411L	2
Inorganic Chemistry	CHM 3609	3
Inorganic Chemistry Lab	CHM 3609L	1
Bioanalytical Instrumentation	CHM 4139	2
Bioanalytical Instrumentation Lab	CHM 4139L	2
Calculus with Analytic Geometry 1	MAC 2311	4
Calculus with Analytic Geometry 2	MAC 2312	4
General Physics 1	PHY 2048	4
General Physics 2	PHY 2049	4

 

Choose one of the following.
Calculus with Analytic Geometry 3	MAC 2313	3
Differential Equations 1	MAP 2302	3

 

Choose three of the following.
Biochemistry 2	BCH 3034	3
RI: Advanced Biochemistry	BCH 4035	3
Environmental Chemistry	CHM 3080	3
Organic Chemistry 3	CHM 4220	3
RI: Introduction to Drug Design	CHM 4273	3
Introduction to Drug Development	CHM 4274C	3
RI: Structural Biochemistry	CHM 4350	3
Materials Chemistry	CHM 4714	3
Directed Independent Study	CHM 4905	3
Directed Independent Research in Chemistry	CHM 4915	1-3
Directed Independent Research in Chemistry	CHM 4916	0-3
Special Topics (Added, effective spring 2025.)	CHM 4933	1-4

Chemistry
Bachelor of Science (B.S.)

Biochemistry Concentration

In addition to the core curriculum, the B.S. in Chemistry (Biochemistry concentration) program requires the following courses.

Biochemistry 2	BCH 3034	3
Biochemistry Lab	BCH 3103L	3
RI: Advanced Biochemistry	BCH 4035	3
Biological Principles	BSC 1010	3
Biological Principles Lab	BSC 1010L	1
Chemical Literature	CHM 3060	1
Physical Chemistry 1	CHM 3410	3
Physical Chemistry 1 Lab	CHM 3410L	2
Calculus with Analytic Geometry 1	MAC 2311	4
Experimental Design and Statistical Inference	PSY 3234	3
General Physics 1	PHY 2048	4  or
College Physics 1	PHY 2053	4
General Physics 2	PHY 2049	4  or
College Physics 2	PHY 2054	4

 

Choose a minimum of one of the following.
Environmental Chemistry	CHM 3080	3
Inorganic Chemistry	CHM 3609	3
Inorganic Chemistry Lab	CHM 3609L	1
Bioanalytical Instrumentation	CHM 4139	2
Bioanalytical Instrumentation Lab	CHM 4139L	2
Organic Chemistry 3	CHM 4220	2
RI: Introduction to Drug Design	CHM 4273	3
Introduction to Drug Development	CHM 4274C	3
RI: Structural Biochemistry	CHM 4350	3
Materials Chemistry	CHM 4714	3

 

Choose a minimum of one of the following.
General Microbiology	MCB 3020	3
General Microbiology Lab	MCB 3020L	1
Genetics	PCB 3063	3
Cell Biology	PCB 3023	3
Biological Bases of Behavior	PSB 3002	3

 

Choose a minimum of one of the following.
Seminar	BSC 4932	1
Directed Independent Study	CHM 4905	1-3
Science Internship	IDS 3941	1-3
Directed Independent Research in Chemistry	CHM 4915	1-3
Directed Independent Research in Chemistry	CHM 4916	0-3
Special Topics (Added, effective spring 2025.)	CHM 4933	1-4

Additional courses for Pre-Professional majors:

Required
Biodiversity	BSC 1011	3
Biodiversity Lab	BSC 1011L	1

 

Suggested Electives
Comparative Animal Behavior	CBH 4024	3
Medical Shadowing Internship	IDS 3940	1
Human Morphology and Function 1	PCB 3703	3
Human Morphology and Function 1 Lab	PCB 3703L	1  or
Comparative Vertebrate Morphology	ZOO 4690	3
Comparative Vertebrate Morphology Lab	ZOO 4690L	1
Human Morphology and Function 2	PCB 3704	3
Human Morphology and Function 2 Lab	PCB 3704L	1  or
Comparative Animal Physiology	PCB 4723	3
Comparative Animal Physiology Lab	PCB 4723L	1

Secondary Education Program
A program leading to teacher certification in chemistry is available. For information, contact the Department of  Curriculum and Instruction  in the College of Education.

Honors Program in Chemistry
The Honors Program in Chemistry provides an enriched learning experience for high-performing students. The program focuses on the enhancement of research and communication skills required for scientists. Students gain a positive perspective on working in the interdisciplinary research field becoming prepared to continue their education in a graduate program or within the highly competitive STEM job market.

Admission Requirements
Students enter the Honors Program in Chemistry in one of two ways:

1. Students who have not completed any upper-level courses are eligible to enter the program if they have an overall GPA of 3.5 or higher.
2.  Students who have completed upper-level chemistry courses are eligible to enter the program if they have an overall GPA of 3.3 or higher and are nominated by a faculty member.

Students must download and submit a completed application, along with all supporting documents on the checklist, in a single email to  honorschemistry@fau.edu.

Standards for Maintaining Active Status
Students admitted to the Honors Program in Chemistry must maintain high academic and ethical standards. Students may be dismissed from the program if they fail to maintain an overall GPA of 3.0, fail to maintain a GPA of 3.3 in their major or violate the code of academic integrity. In the event of withdrawal or dismissal from the Honors Program, credits earned will be applied to a traditional bachelor’s degree in chemistry with no penalty.

Honors-Level Enrichment
Honors compacts apply to a total of at least three upper-level chemistry and biochemistry courses. Each of the honors compacts has established criteria including written assignments and an oral presentation. Honors compacts also require individual or group assignments. Chemical Literature, CHM 3060, for 1 credit with a supplemental honors component, is a required course for students in the program.

Capstone Experience 

1. The capstone experience consists of at least two semesters of Honors Directed Independent Research in Chemistry, CHM 4915, for a minimum of 2 credits; and
2. A senior-level thesis must be produced by students taking CHM 4915 with an honors designation and they must register for Honors Thesis in Chemistry, CHM 4972, for credits. The thesis has additional criteria for which students should consult qualified research faculty members.

Graduation Requirements
To be eligible for Honors in Chemistry at graduation, students must have:

1.  Achieved an overall 3.0 GPA or higher;
2. A Chemistry GPA of 3.3 or higher;
3.  Completed a minimum of three (7 credits) upper-level honors compacts; and
4.  Completed the Honors Thesis in Chemistry, CHM 4972 for 2 credits, obtaining a grade of “B+” or higher.
   

Pharmaceutical Technology
Undergraduate Certificate

(Minimum of 14 credits required)

The Pharmaceutical Technology certificate program provides students with a unique opportunity to understand the drug development process, emphasizing the roles that biology, chemistry, biochemical, analytical, formulation and regulatory issues play in the process of drug discovery.

This 14-credit certificate program is designed for individuals who have completed higher undergraduate level courses including Organic Chemistry 2 and Biochemistry 1. This certificate is also intended for individuals who plan to pursue a career in the biopharmaceutical industry.

Required Courses - 10 credits
Bioanalytical Instrumentation	CHM 4139	2
Bioanalytical Instrumentation Lab	CHM 4139L	2
RI: Introduction to Drug Design	CHM 4273	3
Introduction to Drug Development	CHM 4274C	3
Elective Courses - 4 credits
Biochemistry Laboratory	BCH 3103L	3
RI: Advanced Biochemistry	BCH 4035	3
Seminar	BSC 4932	1
Organic Chemistry 3	CHM 4220	3
Introduction to Drug Formulation	CHM 4276C	3
RI: Structural Biochemistry	CHM 4350	3
Special Topics (i.e., Organic Spectroscopy)	CHM 4933	3
Special Topics (i.e., Chemical Biology)	CHM 4933	3
Science Internship	IDS 3941	1-3

Post-Baccalaureate Research Education Program in Chemistry (PREPChem)
Graduate Certificate

(Minimum of 15 credits required)

The PREPChem certificate is intended for undergraduates who hold a recent bachelor’s degree and who have the desire to further build their knowledge and research skills to become more competitive candidates for admission to graduate school.

The program requires students to take traditional graduate courses in chemistry (9 credits) and undergraduate/graduate courses in the field of artificial intelligence (AI) (6 credits). AI is being used more frequently by chemists to perform various tasks and is becoming an integral part of modern drug discovery processes.

All required graduate courses, including Graduate Research, are offered through the department of Chemistry and Biochemistry. Data Science and AI courses are offered in the College of Science or the College of Engineering and Computer Science.

Upon completion of 15 credits, students receive a post-baccalaureate certificate. When admitted to the M.S. or Ph.D. program in Chemistry at FAU, up to 12 graduate credits from this certificate program may be applied to the degree program. For questions concerning the transfer of credits to a degree program, contact the department of Chemistry and Biochemistry.

Required Coursework
Chemistry - 9 credits
Introduction to Chemical Research	CHM 5944	1
Instrumentation	CHM 6157	3
Graduate Research	CHM 6918	4
Graduate Seminar	CHM 6935	1
Artificial Intelligence (6 credits)
Applications of Artificial Intelligence	CAP 2603	3
Computational Foundations of Artificial Intelligence	CAP 5625	3  or
Introduction to Data Science	CAP 5768	3

 

combined program

Chemistry
Bachelor of Science (B.S.) to Master of Science (M.S.)
combined program

(Minimum of 150 credits required)

The joint B.S./M.S. degree program allows students to complete both a B.S. degree and a non-thesis M.S. degree in Chemistry within five years. The combined degree program includes a minimum of 150 credits, where the undergraduate degree program requires 120 credits, and the graduate program requires 30 credits at graduate level. Students may count 12 credits of graduate coursework (5000 level or higher) taken as an undergraduate to satisfy both degrees. Students apply to the program during their junior year or upon completion of 60 credits in the B.S. in Chemistry program at FAU.

Admission Requirements
Students must have completed 60 credits in the B.S. in Chemistry program at FAU and have a minimum undergraduate science GPA of 3.25. The GRE exam is not required.

Graduate Courses to Be Shared (12 credits)
Graduate courses that will count toward both the B.S. and M.S. degrees must be at the 5000 level or higher. The application of 12 graduate credits to both the undergraduate and graduate degrees is justified because of the academic continuity of the two programs.

Graduate Core Courses Required for the M.S. Degree (10 credits)
All students must register for Introduction to Chemical Research (CHM 5944) once admitted into the program. To fulfill requirements for the M.S., students must also take the required core courses.

Required Core Courses - 10 credits
Introduction to Chemical Research	CHM 5944	1
Bioanalytical Methods and Applications	CHM 6137	2
Kinetics and Energetics of Reactions	CHM 6720	3
Synthesis and Characterization	CHM 6730	3
Current Topics in Bioanalysis	CHM 6937	1

Graduate Elective Courses Required for the MS Degree (20 credits)
Students must take 20 credits of elective courses in Chemistry (5000 or 6000-level) to complete requirements for the MS degree Non-Thesis option.

Degree Requirements
Students admitted to the program will fulfill all the requirements for both the BS and MS degree.

Funding Opportunities
Students admitted to the program are eligible for financial support in the form of Pathways Scholarships offered through the Graduate College.

Master's Programs

Chemistry
Master of Science (M.S.)

Link to Doctoral Program

Admission Requirements
In addition to the University's general graduate admission requirements, the typical prerequisite for admission to the Master of Science in the Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry is the Bachelor of Science degree in Chemistry or its equivalent. Students must have achieved a minimum 3.0 GPA in the last 60 credits of undergraduate work, a "B" average in chemistry courses taken at the junior and senior undergraduate levels, or scores of at least 150 (verbal) and 152 (quantitative) on the Graduate Record Exam.

Degree Program 
Master of Science (M.S.) students will be required to complete the five core courses as well as three electives. These electives may be selected from graduate-level courses offered in the Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry or other departments in the University. Elective courses must be approved by the student's research advisory committee. Students must also write a thesis describing their research, which must be approved by the research advisory committee. The thesis must be defended successfully by the student in an oral exam with the research advisory committee. The student's research advisory committee must consist of at least three members, two of whom are members of the Chemistry and Biochemistry graduate faculty. One committee member must be from outside the Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry and must also hold an appointment to the graduate faculty. The minimum degree requirements are listed below. Students taking the non-thesis option may take a maximum of 3 credits of Graduate Research under the direction of a chemistry faculty member and are not required to have a research advisory committee.

Core Courses - 10 credits
Introduction to Chemical Research	CHM 5944	1
Bioanalytical Methods and Applications	CHM 6137	2
Synthesis and Characterization	CHM 6730	3
Kinetics and Energetics of Reactions	CHM 6720	3
Current Topics in Bioanalysis	CHM 6937	1
Elective courses - 9 credits Select three courses at the 5000, 6000 or 7000 level from the Chemistry Department		9
Thesis Option - 11 credits
Graduate Seminar	CHM 6935	1
Master's Thesis	CHM 6971	10
Non-Thesis Option - 11 credits
Graduate Seminar	CHM 6935	1
The remaining 10 credits will be taken from the following courses
Advanced Biochemistry	BCH 6740	3
Advanced Topics in Biochemistry	BCH 6930	3
Organic Chemistry 3	CHM 5224	3
Materials Chemistry	CHM 5716	3
Advanced Drug Development	CHM 6277C	3
Drug Design	CHM 6278	3
Advanced Drug Formulation	CHM 6279C	3
Structural Biochemistry	CHM 6351	3
Advanced Topics in Organic Chemistry	CHM 6380	3
Medicinal Chemistry	CHM 6428	3
Graduate Research	CHM 6918	1-3
Chemistry for Environmental Scientists	CHS 6611	3
Minimum Degree Total		30

Chemistry
Master of Science (M.S.) Along the Way to the Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.)

Master’s en Passant

Ph.D. students wishing to earn the non-thesis master's degree along the way are required to have passed the Ph.D. candidacy exam and have completed the following courses:

Introduction to Chemical Research	CHM 5944	1
Bioanalytical Methods and Applications	CHM 6137	2
Current Topics in Bioanalysis	CHM 6937	1
Synthesis and Characterization	CHM 6730	3
Kinetics and Energetics of Reactions	CHM 6720	3
Graduate elective courses		9
Graduate seminar (non-thesis)	CHM 6935	1
Advanced Research in Chemistry (1 - 9 cr.)	CHM 7978	10
Minimum Degree Total		30

Chemistry
Master of Science in Teaching (M.S.T.)

In addition to the University's general graduate admission requirements, the typical prerequisite for admission to the Master of Science in Teaching degree program in the Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry is the Bachelor of Arts degree in chemistry or its equivalent. Students must have achieved a minimum 3.0 GPA in the last 60 credits of undergraduate work or scores of at least 148 (verbal) and 147 (quantitative) on the Graduate Record Exam.

Degree Program
The M.S.T. in Chemistry program provides post-baccalaureate education for secondary teachers, community college instructors and other individuals who wish to pursue these careers. The degree program requires a minimum of 30 credits of graduate coursework. Students also perform independent study (graduate research) under the supervision of a Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry faculty member, typically with a chemical education theme, and culminating in the presentation of a graduate seminar. The minimum degree requirements are listed below.

Core Courses - 10 credits
Introduction to Chemical Research	CHM 5944	1
Bioanalytical Methods and Applications	CHM 6137	2
Current Topics in Bioanalysis	CHM 6937	1
Synthesis and Characterization	CHM 6730	3
Kinetics and Energetics of Reactions	CHM 6720	3
Electives - 9 credits Choose three courses from the following, maximum of 3 credits at the 5000 level
Advanced Biochemistry	BCH 6740	3
Advanced Topics in Biochemistry	BCH 6930	3
Organic Chemistry 3	CHM 5224	3
Materials Chemistry	CHM 5716	3
Advanced Organic Chemistry	CHM 6225	3
Advanced Drug Development	CHM 6277C	3
Drug Design	CHM 6278	3
Advanced Drug Formulation	CHM 6279C	3
Structural Biochemistry	CHM 6351	3
Advanced Topics in Organic Chemistry	CHM 6380	3
Medicinal Chemistry	CHM 6428	3
Chemistry for Environmental Scientists	CHS 6611	3
Other Requirements - 5 credits
Graduate Research (may be taken over multiple terms)	CHM 6918	4
Graduate seminar (non-thesis)	CHM 6935	1
Education Requirements - 6 credits Choose two courses from the College of Education.
Minimum Degree Total		30

Doctoral Program

Chemistry
Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.)

Admission Requirements
The minimum admission requirements for the Ph.D. program in the Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry are a minimum 3.0 GPA in the last 60 credits of undergraduate work, a "B" average in chemistry courses taken at the junior and senior undergraduate levels or scores of at last 150 (verbal) and 152 (quantitative) on the Graduate Record Exam.  The Ph.D. program in Chemistry requires 80 credits, minimum.

Degree Program
Students will be required to complete five core courses as well as three electives. If students have completed graduate-level courses previously, they may be substituted for one or more electives at the discretion of the Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry Graduate Programs Committee. Elective courses must be approved by the student's research advisory committee. Students must also complete Introduction to Chemical Research and present a seminar to the department (1 credit each). In addition to the courses listed below, Ph.D. students are required to earn Advanced Research in Chemistry (CHM 7978) credits until they are admitted to candidacy.

Core Courses - 10 credits
Introduction to Chemical Research	CHM 5944	1
Bioanalytical Methods and Applications	CHM 6137	2
Synthesis and Characterization	CHM 6730	3
Kinetics and Energetics of Reactions	CHM 6720	3
Current Topics in Bioanalysis	CHM 6937	1
Electives - 9 credits  - Select three courses at the 5000, 6000 or 7000 level from the Chemistry Department. May not select Graduate Research, CHM 6918, as an elective.
Other Requirements - 36 credits
Graduate Seminar (non-thesis)	CHM 6935	1
Research - up to 35 credits - Advanced Research in Chemistry credits are taken to fulfill full-time enrollment requirements while advancing toward candidacy
Advanced Research in Chemistry	CHM 7978	1-9
Dissertation - 25 credits (minimum) - taken after admission to candidacy
Dissertation (minimum)	CHM 7980	25
Minimum Degree Total		80

Each student's research advisory committee must have at least four members, three of whom are members of the Chemistry and Biochemistry Ph.D. program's graduate faculty. One committee member must be from outside the Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry and have graduate faculty status.

Admission to Candidacy
The Candidacy Exam must be attempted within three months of finishing all coursework and successfully completed within five months. This exam will be specifically designed for each student by the student's research advisory committee according to department guidelines and will focus on the student's selected area of research. Students will be admitted to candidacy upon successful completion of the Candidacy Exam and thereafter must enroll in CHM 7980, Dissertation.

Research Proposal
In addition to presenting a proposed plan for thesis research activities to the advisory committee, students must also complete an independent research proposal in a field distinct from their thesis research. This proposal is to be completed within three months of completing the Candidacy Exam. The goal of this exercise is for the student to prepare an original written research proposal and successfully defend this orally to his/her committee. This is designed to test the student's ability to identify and design a research project, which will test problem-solving skills and ability to distill relevant literature and design appropriate experiments to address specific research questions.

Dissertation
Students must also write a dissertation describing their research, which must be approved by the research advisory committee. The dissertation must be successfully defended by the student in an oral exam with the research advisory committee.

Complex Systems and Brain Sciences

(This program is being phased out and no longer accepting students.)

Faculty:
Perry, G. W., Interim Director; Kelso, J. A. S., Eminent Scholar in Science; Alexander, W.; Anzures, G.; Barenholtz, E.; Blanks, J.; Bressler, S.; Engeberg, E.; Ester, E.; Fuchs, A.; Hock, H.; Hong, S.; Pandya, A. S.; Prentice, H. M.; Shen, W.; Sheremata, S.; Stackman, R.; Vertes, R. P.; Wu, J. Y.

Complex Systems and Brain Sciences
Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.)

(Minimum of 80 credits required)

The Center for Complex Systems and Brain Sciences offers a Ph.D. degree that encompasses diverse areas of study. These areas are organized around a unifying conceptual framework that is both timely and exciting since the mathematical and computational tools of non-linear dynamics will provide major breakthroughs in the understanding of mind, brain and behavior. Students will acquire research skills in specific experimental systems in the brain and behavioral sciences while developing theoretical concepts and tools within a specially tailored graduate program.

Admission to Doctoral Study
In addition to meeting all of the University and College requirements for admission to graduate study, applicants for the Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) degree must meet each of the following criteria:

1. The student must have a baccalaureate degree from an accredited college or university;
2. The student must have a quantitative score of 155 or higher on the Graduate Record Examination;
3. The student must have a minimum 3.0 average in the last 60 credits of undergraduate work; and
4. The student must be approved for admission to the program by the faculty of the Center for Complex  Systems and Brain Sciences.

Degree Requirements
Students must complete, with grades of "B" or better, a minimum of 80 graduate credits. This must include the following six core courses: Cognitive Neuroscience, Nonlinear Dynamic Systems, Methods in Complex Systems, Cellular and Molecular Neuroscience and Systems and Integrative Neuroscience and Proseminar on Research in Complex Systems. Students must also participate in a weekly journal club. The remaining credits may be completed through additional courses, directed research and dissertation credits at the discretion of the student and advisor. A minimum of 12 dissertation credits is required. In addition, the student must complete a research paper, directed by program faculty, by the end of the second year.

A central requirement for the Ph.D. degree program is submission and defense of a dissertation based on original work in an area of specialization acceptable to the student's doctoral committee. Approval of a dissertation proposal by the doctoral committee must precede the experimental and/or theoretical work required.

Admission to Candidacy
Admission to doctoral candidacy depends on the student's successful completion of the core coursework, successful completion of the qualifying research paper, satisfactory annual reviews of the student's progress by program faculty and selection of a program faculty member who is willing to chair the student's doctoral dissertation.

Transfer Credits
Any transfer credits toward requirements for the Ph.D. degree program must be approved by the program faculty as well as by the University. A maximum of 30 credits may be transferred.

Core Courses - 18 credits
Nonlinear Dynamic Systems	ISC 5453	3
Cognitive Neuroscience	ISC 5465	3
Methods in Complex Systems	ISC 6450	3
Proseminar in Research in Complex Systems	ISC 6937	3
Cellular and Molecular Neuroscience	PSB 6345	3
Systems and Integrative Neuroscience	PSB 6346	3
Electives - 9 credits Choose 9 credits from the following prefixes: EXP, ISC, PSB, and PSY		9
Other Requirements - 41 credits Choose 41 credits from additional graduate courses, directed independent study (ISC 6908) and dissertation credits (ISC 7980) as approved by the advisor		41
Dissertation - 12 credits
Dissertation (taken over multiple terms)	ISC 7980	12
Minimum Degree Total		80

 

Environmental Science

(See  Interdisciplinary Programs  at the beginning of this Charles E. Schmidt College of Science section for the undergraduate Environmental Science certificate, the graduate Environmental Restoration certificate and the Master of Science with Major in Environmental Science.)

Exercise Science and Health Promotion

Faculty:
Zourdos, M.,  Chair; Artese, A.; Boerum, C.; Canteri, L.; Carzoli, J.; Fico, B.; Graves, B. S.; Hall, M.; Huang, C-J.; Khamoui, A.; Papania, M.; Penhollow, T.; Pyka, I.; Schmidt, A.; Visavadiya, N.

Purpose/Mission Statement
The Department of Exercise Science Health Promotion (ESHP) offers interdisciplinary undergraduate and graduate degrees designed to prepare students for careers in clinical, corporate and community/nonprofit-based physical fitness and health promotion, postgraduate study in applied health sciences (e.g., physical therapy physician assistant) as well as advanced study in human biology/physiology. Whether in the role of practitioner or scientist, the ESHP graduate is uniquely prepared to influence the health and well-being of their fellow citizens. Importantly, the impact of ESHP graduates includes the potential to reduce healthcare costs when those they touch adopt a healthy lifestyle and dramatically reduce the occurrence and severity of diseases (obesity, heart disease, hypertension, diabetes, cancer) associated with sedentary living.

Link to Combined Programs

Link to Master's Program

Exercise Science and Health Promotion
Bachelor of Science (B.S.)

Exercise Physiology Concentration
Pre-Physical Therapy and Occupational Therapy Concentration

To be eligible for the B.S., all Exercise Science and Health Promotion majors must complete all ESHP upper division and prerequisite courses with a grade of "C" or better. Upon completion of the Exercise Science and Health Promotion baccalaureate program, students will be prepared to take the American College of Sports Medicine examination for the Certified Exercise Physiologist (EP) and the National Strength and Conditioning Association examination for Certified Strength and Conditioning Specialist (CSCS) and Certified Personal Trainer (CPT).

General Admission Requirements

1. Satisfy all University and program entrance requirements;
2. Satisfy the General Education Program requirements;
3. Meet with your assigned ESHP advisor each semester.

Prerequisite Coursework for Transfer Students
Students transferring to Florida Atlantic University must complete both lower-division requirements (including the requirements of the General Education Program) and requirements for the college and major. Lower-division requirements may be completed through the A.A. degree from any Florida public college, university or community college or through equivalent coursework at another regionally accredited institution. Before transferring and to ensure timely progress toward the baccalaureate degree, students must also complete the prerequisite courses for their major as outlined in the  Transition Guides .

All courses not approved by the Florida Statewide Course Numbering System that will be used to satisfy requirements will be evaluated individually on the basis of content and will require a catalog course description and a copy of the syllabus for assessment.

Concentrations
The B.S. degree in Exercise Science and Health Promotion offers two concentrations:

1. Exercise Physiology 
2. Pre-Physical Therapy and Occupational Therapy (Pre-PT/OT) 
   
   

Undergraduate Program Lower-Division Requirements for Exercise Physiology Concentration
The Exercise Physiology concentration is available in person or fully online. Students planning on majoring in Exercise Science and Health Promotion can satisfy some University and general education requirements while simultaneously satisfying ESHP program requirements. All prerequisite courses require a grade of "C" or better. The following prerequisites or their equivalents are required for all ESHP majors in the Exercise Physiology concentration:

Required Prerequisite Courses
Health, Fitness for Life	HSC 2100	2
First Aid and CPR	HSC 2400	2
Mathematics
College Algebra	MAC 1105	3
Information Systems Fundamentals	ISM 2000	3
Introductory Statistics	STA 2023	3
Social Sciences
Anatomy/Physiology 1 and 2 (including labs)	BSC 2085, 2085L and BSC 2086, 2086L	8
General Chemistry 1 (including lab)	CHM 2045, 2045L	4
General Psychology	PSY 1012	3
PEM/PEN courses (2 separate) 1 to 2 credits each		2-4
Sciences (Natural)		3

Note:  Both Biochemistry and General Physics are recommended for students planning on graduate study.

Upper-Division Requirements
Third Year Fall Semester - 16 credits
Exercise Physiology 1	APK 4110	3
Exercise Lab Techniques	APK 4110L	1
Perspectives in Health	HSC 3102	3
Introduction to Health and Exercise Science	PET 3102	3
Nutrition in Health and Exercise	PET 3361	3
Elective 1	Varies	3
Spring Semester - 16 credits
Exercise Physiology 2	APK 4134	3
Health Promotion	HSC 4581	3
Applications of Training Physiology 1	PEP 3192	3
Exercise Testing and Prescription	PET 4550	4
Elective 2	Varies	3
Fourth Year Fall Semester - 16 credits
Applications of Training Physiology 2	PEP 4138	3
Neurophysiology of Human Movement	PET 3050	3
Biomechanics	PET 4340C	4
Elective 3	Varies	3
Elective 4	Varies	3
Spring Semester - 12 credits
Internship (permission required and all required courses must be completed)	PET 4946	3-9
Elective 5	Varies	3
Electives Choose five courses from the following.
Biological Principles	BSC 1010	3
Biodiversity	BSC 1011	3
General Chemistry 2	CHM 2046	3
Organic Chemistry 1	CHM 2210	3
Organic Chemistry 2	CHM 2211	3
Psychopathology	CLP 4144	3
Psychology of Human Development	DEP 3053	3
Health Care Medical Terminology	HSA 3534	3
Stress Management	HSC 4104	3
Sexual Health Peer Education	HSC 4133	3
Weight Management	HSC 4139	3
Substance Abuse	HSC 4143	3
Methods of Calculus	MAC 2233	3
Genetics	PCB 3063	4
Tactical Strength and Conditioning	PET 4093	3
Obesity: Biological, Psychological and Cultural Factors	PET 4263	3
Management Principles in Exercise Science and Health Promotion	PET 4404	3
Directed Independent Study (faculty supervision required)	PET 4905	3
Directed Independent Research (faculty supervision required) (New as of spring 2025.)	PET 4916	0-3
Special Topics	PET 4930	3
Practicum in Exercise Science and Health Promotion	PET 4947	3
College Physics 1	PHY 2053	3
College Physics 2	PHY 2054	3
Directed Independent Research (faculty supervision required) (New as of spring 2025.)	PET 2916	0-3
Sociological Perspectives	SYG 1000	3

Undergraduate Program Lower-Division Requirements for Pre-Physical Therapy and Occupational Therapy Concentration
Students planning on majoring in Exercise Science and Health Promotion can satisfy some University and general education requirements while simultaneously satisfying ESHP program requirements. All prerequisite courses require a grade of "C" or better. The following prerequisites or their equivalents are required for all ESHP majors  in the Pre-PT/OT concentration. This concentration is available in person only with some online course options.

Note:  All students are advised to take Methods of Calculus (MAC 2233) instead of Information Systems Fundamentals (ISM 2000) because MAC 2233 is a prerequisite for the required course, College Physics 1
(PHY 2053).

Required Prerequisite Courses
Health, Fitness for Life	HSC 2100	2
First Aid and CPR	HSC 2400	2
Mathematics
College Algebra	MAC 1105	3
Information Systems Fundamentals	ISM 2000	3  or
Methods of Calculus	MAC 2233	3
Introductory Statistics	STA 2023	3
Social Sciences
Anatomy/Physiology 1 and 2 (including labs)	BSC 2085, 2085L and BSC 2086, 2086L	8
General Chemistry 1 (including lab)	CHM 2045, 2045L	4
General Psychology	PSY 1012	3
PEM/PEN courses (2 separate) 1 to 2 credits each		2-4
Sciences (Natural)		3

Note:   Students must have at least 45 credits of 3000 level or higher courses. Students are advised to be cognizant of the courses required for their potential PT or OT program. College Physics 2 is often required. In this case, the remaining 11 electives after College Physics 2 should be taken at the 3000 level or higher to meet the 45\-credit rule.

Upper-Division Requirements
Third Year Fall Semester - 16 credits
Biological Principles	BSC 1010	3
Biological Principles	BSC 1010L	1
Perspectives in Health	HSC 3102	3
Introduction to Health and Exercise Science	PET 3102	3
Nutrition in Health and Exercise	PET 3361	3
Elective 1	Varies	3
Spring Semester - 16 credits
Exercise Physiology 1	APK 4110	3
General Chemistry 2	CHM 2046	3
General Chemistry 2 Lab	CHM 2046L	1
Psychopathology	CLP 4144	3
Applications of Training Physiology 1	PEP 3192	3
Elective 2	Varies	3
Fourth Year Fall Semester - 18 credits
Exercise Lab Techniques	APK 4110L	1
Neurophysiology of Human Movement	PET 3050	3
Biomechanics	PET 4340C	4
College Physics 1	PHY 2053	4
Elective 3	Varies	3
Elective 4	Varies	3
Spring Semester - 12 credits
Internship (permission required and all required courses must be completed)	PET 4946	3-9
Elective 5	Varies	3
Electives Choose  five courses from the following.
Exercise Physiology 2	APK 4134	3
Biodiversity	BSC 1011	3
Biodiversity Lab	BSC 1011L	1
Organic Chemistry 1	CHM 2210	3
Organic Chemistry 2	CHM 2211	3
Psychopathology	CLP 4144	3
Psychology of Human Development	DEP 3053	3
Health Care Medical Terminology	HSA 3534	3
Stress Management	HSC 4104	3
Sexual Health Peer Education	HSC 4133	3
Weight Management	HSC 4139	3
Substance Abuse	HSC 4143	3
Health Promotion	HSC 4581	3
General Microbiology	MCB 3020	3
General Microbiology Lab	MCB 3020L	1
General Pathophysiology	NUR 4125	3
Genetics	PCB 3063	4
Applications of Training Physiology 2	PEP 4138	3
Tactical Strength and Conditioning	PET 4093	3
Obesity: Biological, Psychological and Cultural Factors	PET 4263	3
Management Principles in Exercise Science and Health Promotion	PET 4404	3
Exercise Testing and Prescription	PET 4550	3
Directed Independent Study (faculty supervision required)	PET 4905	3
Directed Independent Research (faculty supervision required) (New as of spring 2025.)	PET 4916	0-3
Special Topics	PET 4930	3
Practicum in Exercise Science and Health Promotion	PET 4947	3
College Physics 2	PHY 2054	3
Directed Independent Research (faculty supervision required) (New as of spring 2025.)	PET 2916	0-3
Interpersonal Communication Skills	SDS 4410	3
Sociological Perspectives	SYG 1000	3

General Advice (Changes below effective fall 2024.)

1. Meet with an ESHP-assigned advisor at least once each semester.
   2. Work with your ESHP advisor to complete and sign an official plan of study, "the contract" after meeting foreign language and Writing Across Curriculum (Gordon Rule) requirements; after receiving the College of Education welcome letter; and after attaining a "C" or better in all prerequisite courses for the ESHP program.
2. Student must have current student professional liability insurance during the internship. See internship coordinator for specific information. 

Program Completion Criteria
Students who elect to fulfill the University foreign language requirement in addition to the ESHP requirements will receive a Bachelor of Science (B.S.) degree. To be eligible for graduation, the student must satisfy all University, College, department and program requirements and complete the ESHP upper-division requirements and prerequisite courses with a grade of "C" or better in each course. 

Combined Programs

Health Science to Exercise Science and Health Promotion
Bachelor of Arts (B.A.) to Master of Science (M.S.)
Combined Program

This accelerated program leads to both a Bachelor of Arts (B.A.) and a Master of Science (M.S.) degree. Students enrolled in the B.A. with Major in Health Science may only enter the combined program through the Health Promotion concentration. Students apply to the B.A./M.S. program in the first semester of their senior year and begin taking graduate courses during the last semester of their senior year; those courses would apply to both the B.A. and M.S. degrees. The combined degree program is 138 credits, regardless of thesis option. That is, 120 for the undergraduate degree and 18 for the additional credits in the health promotion graduate area within Exercise Science and Health Promotion (ESHP).

Students complete the undergraduate degree first. Up to12 credits of graduate work taken in the senior year can be counted toward both the undergraduate and graduate degrees. Students wishing to apply to the accelerated M.S. program may do so in semester 10 of their undergraduate program. Students must achieve a “B” or higher in the three core courses (listed below) and have a 3.25 cumulative GPA in their academic work. This program may be useful for students wishing to enter a profession that requires a master’s degree; however, the department generally does not advise obtaining a B.A., if the goal is to obtain a Ph.D. eventually.

Prerequisite Coursework for Transfer Students
Students transferring to Florida Atlantic University must complete both lower-division requirements (including the requirements of the General Education Program) and requirements for the college and major. Lower-division requirements may be completed through the A.A. degree program from any Florida public college, university or community college or through equivalent coursework at another regionally accredited institution. Before transferring and to ensure timely progress toward the baccalaureate degree, students must also complete the prerequisite courses for their major as outlined in theTransition Guides.

All courses not approved by the Florida Statewide Course Numbering System that will be used to satisfy requirements will be evaluated individually on the basis of content and will require a catalog course description and a copy of the syllabus for assessment.

Requirements and Eligibility
In addition to the University and Charles E. Schmidt College of Science requirements, students seeking a B.A. in Health Science and M.S. in Exercise Science and Health Promotion (Health Promotion Track) must complete the following courses.

Undergraduate Health Science Core Curriculum
To meet University degree requirements, students in ESHP must also have completed required credits in courses outside the Charles E. Schmidt College of Science.

B.A./M.S. candidates must complete all core courses listed in the  Bachelor of Science with Major in Health Science  section of this catalog, along with the requirements for their specific track within Health Science.

Substitutions for required courses within the B.A. in Health Science program are allowed with prior approval from the department's undergraduate advising committee. Graduate courses are listed below.

Required Courses - 18 credits
Personal and Community Health	HSC 5203	3
Evaluation of Health Promotion and Health Education Programs	HSC 6115	3
Needs Assessment and Program Planning in Health Promotion	HSC 6248	3
Epidemiological Basis of Health	HSC 6505	3
Health Behavior, Health Education and Health Promotion	HSC 6585	3
Research and Evaluation	PET 6505C	3

Electives - 12 credits Required courses for other tracks may be used for electives and/or students may choose from the following.
Advanced Exercise Physiology 1	APK 6111	3
Advanced Exercise Physiology 2	APK 6116	3
Advanced Sports Nutrition	HUN 6247	3
Drug Abuse Behavior	HSC 5156	3
Chronic Stress and Population Health	HSC 5177	3
Human Obesity	HSC 5178	3
Advanced Concepts in Health Promotion	HSC 5587	3
Exercise Neuroscience	PET 5077	3
Strength and Conditioning Program Design	PET 5391	3
Advanced Exercise Testing and Prescription	PET 5521	3
Special Topics	PET 5930	1-4
Practical Applications in Exercise Science and Health Promotion	PET 5947	1-3
Skeletal Muscle Physiology	PET 6382	3
Directed Independent Study	PET 6905	1-5
Thesis option		6
Total	30 credits

Read the following information thoroughly.

1. A master's degree is a minimum of 30 credits.
2. If choosing the thesis option, there could be a maximum of 6 additional credits.
3. Up to 3 credits of Directed Independent Study (PET 6905) may be counted toward this degree.
4. FAU students who applied through the accelerated B.S./M.S. program may count 12 credits for both degrees.
5. Thesis students must adhere to thesis deadlines. See the ESHP graduate coordinator and thesis chair.
6. All students must turn in a graduate application according to the FAU academic calendar.
   

Exercise Science and Health Promotion
Bachelor of Science (B.S.) to Master of Science (M.S.)
Combined Program

This accelerated program leads to both a Bachelor of Science (B.S.) and a Master of Science (M.S.) degree. Students apply to the B.S./M.S. program during their senior year and begin taking graduate courses during the first semester of their senior year. Those courses would apply to both the B.S. and M.S. degrees. The combined degree program is either 138 or 144 credits depending on the graduate track or thesis versus non-thesis options. That is, 120 for the undergraduate degree and 18 (non-thesis), or 24 (thesis) additional credits for the graduate degree.

Students complete the undergraduate degree first. Up to 12 credits of graduate work taken in the senior year can be counted toward both the undergraduate and graduate degrees. Students wishing to apply to the accelerated M.S. program may do so in semester 10 of their undergraduate program. Students must have a 3.25 cumulative GPA in their academic work.

Prerequisite Coursework for Transfer Students
Students transferring to Florida Atlantic University must complete both lower-division requirements (including the requirements of the General Education Program) and requirements for the college and major. Lower-division requirements may be completed through the A.A. degree program from any Florida public college, university or community college or through equivalent coursework at another regionally accredited institution. Before transferring and to ensure timely progress toward the baccalaureate degree, students must also complete the prerequisite courses for their major as outlined in the  Transition Guides.

All courses not approved by the Florida Statewide Course Numbering System that will be used to satisfy requirements will be evaluated individually on the basis of content and will require a catalog course description and a copy of the syllabus for assessment.

Requirements and Eligibility
In addition to the University and Charles E. Schmidt College of Science requirements, students seeking a B.S. in Exercise Science and Health Promotion and M.S. in Exercise Science and Health Promotion (Health Promotion Track) must complete the following courses.

Undergraduate Health Science Core Curriculum
To meet University degree requirements, students in ESHP must also have completed required credits in courses outside the Charles E. Schmidt College of Science.

Substitutions for required courses are allowed with prior approval from the department's undergraduate advising committee. Graduate courses are listed below.

Exercise Physiology - 18 credits
Advanced Exercise Physiology 1	APK 6111	3
Advanced Exercise Physiology 2	APK 6116	3
Advanced Sports Nutrition	HUN 6247	3
Exercise Neuroscience	PET 5077	3
Strength and Conditioning Program Design	PET 5391	3
Advanced Exercise Testing and Prescription	PET 5521	3
Research and Evaluation	PET 6505C	3
Electives - 12 credits
Drug Abuse Behavior	HSC 5156	3
Chronic Stress and Population Health	HSC 5177	3
Human Obesity	HSC 5178	3
Personal and Community Health	HSC 5203	3
Advanced Concepts in Health Promotion	HSC 5587	3
Evaluation of Health Promotion Education	HSC 6115	3
Needs Assessment and Program Planning in Health Promotion	HSC 6248	3
Epidemiological Basis of Health	HSC 6505	3
Health Behavior, Health Education and Health Promotion	HSC 6585	3
Exercise Neuroscience	PET 5077	3
Special Topics	PET 5930	1-4
Practical Applications in Exercise Science and Health Promotion	PET 5947	1-3
Skeletal Muscle Physiology	PET 6382	3
Directed Independent Study	PET 6905	1-5
Thesis option		6
Total	30 credits
Health Promotion (18  credits)
Personal and Community Health	HSC 5203	3
Evaluation of Health Promotion and Health Education Programs	HSC 6115	3
Needs Assessment and Program Planning in Health Promotion	HSC 6248	3
Epidemiological Basis of Health	HSC 6505	3
Health Behavior, Health Education and Health Promotion	HSC 6585	3
Research and Evaluation	PET 6505C	3
Electives - 12 credits
Advanced Exercise Physiology 1	APK 6111	3
Advanced Exercise Physiology 2	APK 6116	3
Advanced Sports Nutrition	HUN 6247	3
Drug Abuse Behavior	HSC 5156	3
Chronic Stress and Population Health	HSC 5177	3
Human Obesity	HSC 5178	3
Advanced Concepts in Health Promotion	HSC 5587	3
Exercise Neuroscience	PET 5077	3
Strength and Conditioning Program Design	PET 5391	3
Advanced Exercise Testing and Prescription	PET 5521	3
Special Topics	PET 5930	1-4
Practical Applications in Exercise Science and Health Promotion	PET 5947	1-3
Skeletal Muscle Physiology	PET 6382	3
Directed Independent Study	PET 6905	1-5
Thesis option		6
Total	30 credits

Exercise Science and Health Promotion
Master of Science (M.S.)

Exercise Physiology Concentration
Health Promotion Concentration

The master's degree with major in Exercise Science and Health Promotion may be structured with a concentration in Exercise Physiology or Health Promotion. Both concentrations are offered online only. 

Admission Requirements 

1. The student must meet College and University requirements.
2. Any applicant seeking admission into the M.S. program with a major in Exercise Science and Health Promotion must have a minimum grade point average of 3.0 in the last 60 credits of undergraduate work attempted prior to receiving the bachelor's degree.
3. Graduate students are required to have CITI certification

Exercise Physiology - 18 credits
Advanced Exercise Physiology 1	APK 6111	3
Advanced Exercise Physiology 2	APK 6116	3
Advanced Sport Nutrition	HUN 6247	3
Strength and Conditioning Program Design	PET 5391	3
Advanced Exercise Testing and Prescription	PET 5521	3
Research and Evaluation	PET 6505C	3
Electives - 12 credits
Drug Abuse Behavior	HSC 5156	3
Chronic Stress and Population Health	HSC 5177	3
Human Obesity	HSC 5178	3
Personal and Community Health	HSC 5203	3
Advanced Concepts in Health Promotion	HSC 5587	3
Evaluation of Health Promotion and Health Education Programs	HSC 6115	3
Needs Assessment and Program Planning in Health Promotion	HSC 6248	3
Epidemiological Basis of Health	HSC 6505	3
Health Behavior, Health Education and Health Promotion	HSC 6585	3
Exercise Neuroscience	PET 5077	3
Special Topics	PET 5930	1-4
Practical Applications in Exercise Science and Health Promotion	PET 5947	1-3
Skeletal Muscle Physiology	PET 6382	3
Directed Independent Study	PET 6905	1-5
Thesis option		6
Total	30 credits

 

Health Promotion - 18 credits
Personal and Community Health	HSC 5203	3
Evaluation of Health Promotion and Health Education Programs	HSC 6115	3
Needs Assessment and Program Planning in Health Promotion	HSC 6248	3
Epidemiological Basis of Health	HSC 6505	3
Health Behavior, Health Education and Health Promotion	HSC 6585	3
Research and Evaluation	PET 6505C	3
Electives - 12 credits
Advanced Exercise Physiology 1	APK 6111	3
Advanced Exercise Physiology 2	APK 6116	3
Advanced Sports Nutrition	HUN 6247	3
Drug Abuse Behavior	HSC 5156	3
Chronic Stress and Population Health	HSC 5177	3
Human Obesity	HSC 5178	3
Advanced Concepts in Health Promotion	HSC 5587	3
Exercise Neuroscience	PET 5077	3
Strength and Conditioning Program Design	PET 5391	3
Advanced Exercise Testing and Prescription	PET 5521	3
Special Topics	PET 5930	1-4
Practical Applications in Exercise Science and Health Promotion	PET 5947	1-3
Skeletal Muscle Physiology	PET 6382	3
Directed Independent Study	PET 6905	1-5
Thesis option		6
Total	30 credits

Read the following information thoroughly:

1. A master's degree is a minimum of 30 credits.
2. If choosing the thesis option, there could be a maximum of 6 additional credits.
3. Up to 3 credits of Directed Independent Study (PET 6905) may be counted toward this degree.
4. FAU students who applied through the accelerated B.S./M.S. program may count 12 credits for both degrees.
5. Thesis students must adhere to thesis deadlines. See the ESHP graduate coordinator and thesis chair.
6. All students must turn in a graduate application according to the FAU academic calendar.
7. Advanced Exercise Physiology courses are not sequential.
   
   

Geosciences

Faculty:
Briggs, T. R., Chair; Berry, L., Emeritus; Comas, X.; Fadiman, M.; Gammack-Clark, J.; Hindle, T.; Ivy, R. L.; Johanson, E.; Liu. W.; Markwith, S.; Oleinik, A.; Petuch, E. J., Emeritus; Polsky, C.; Prokocki, E.; Restrepo, J. I., Emeritus; Roberts, C. E., Emeritus; Xie, Z.; Zhang, C.; Zhang, X.; Zhu, Y.

The Department of Geosciences offers undergraduate degree programs leading to a Bachelor of Arts (B.A.) or a Bachelor of Science (B.S.) with a major in Geosciences. Minors in Geography, Geographic Information Science and Geology are also available as well as two certificate programs in Geographic Information Systems. Descriptions and requirements for all these programs follow.

A grade of "C" or better is required in all courses taken in the department that are part of the minimum degree requirements.

Students who enter FAU as freshmen and major in Geosciences must meet the University's General Education Program requirements as listed in the  Degree Requirements section  of this catalog. All Geosciences students seeking the B.A. or B.S. degree must also meet the University's foreign language requirement as listed in the Degree Requirements section.

In the graduate area, Geosciences offers a Master of Science (M.S.) with major in Geosciences. This program offers a thesis and non-thesis option. The department also offers a Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) in Geosciences and two graduate certificates, one in Geographic Information Systems and the other in Remote Sensing. Descriptions of all these programs are provided below.

Link to Bachelor of Arts in Geosciences

Link to Bachelor of Science in Geosciences

Link to Honors Programs

Link to Minors 

Link to Undergraduate Certificates

Link to Combined B.S./M.S. in Geosciences

Link to Master's Program in Geosciences

Link to Graduate Certificates

Link to Doctoral Program in Geosciences

Geosciences
Bachelor of Arts (B.A.)

Geography Concentration
Geology Concentration

(Minimum of 120 credits required)

The Geosciences core courses below (10 credits) are required of all students for the B.A. in Geosciences. Students then choose between a concentration in either Geography or Geology. The Geography concentration is available in person or fully online. The Geology concentration is available in person only. 

Prerequisite Coursework for Transfer Students
Students transferring to Florida Atlantic University must complete both lower-division requirements (including the requirements of the General Education Program) and requirements for the college and major. Lower-division requirements may be completed through the A.A. degree from any Florida public college, university or community college or through equivalent coursework at another regionally accredited institution. Before transferring and to ensure timely progress toward the baccalaureate degree, students must also complete the prerequisite courses for their major as outlined in the  Transition Guides .

All courses not approved by the Florida Statewide Course Numbering System that will be used to satisfy requirements will be evaluated individually on the basis of content and will require a catalog course description and a copy of the syllabus for assessment.

Geosciences Core Courses (required of all students)
Weather, Climate and Climate Change	MET 2010	3
Introductory Statistics	STA 2023	3
Introduction to Mapping and GIS	GIS 3015C	3
Geosciences Honors Colloquium	GEO 4920	1
Core Total		10

Geography Concentration 
In addition to the Geosciences core courses noted above, students selecting the Geography Concentration  are required to complete the GeographyConcentration core courses (12 credits) noted below. Students then select 33-34 credits from the three areas of emphasis (Environmental Systems, Human Systems and GIScience). A minimum of 6 credits must be chosen from each area. Total credits for the B.A. in Geosciences with a Geography Concentration are 55-56 credits.

Geography Concentration Core Courses
World Geography	GEA 2000	3
Introduction to Physical Geography	GEO 2200C	3
Quantitative Methods	GEO 4022	3
RI: Human-Environmental Interactions in South Florida	GEA 4275	3
Core Total		12

 

Areas of Emphasis Choose 33-34 credits from the emphasis areas below with a minimum of 6 credits from each.
Environmental Systems
The Blue Planet	ESC 2000	3
Introduction to Coastal Freshwater Resources	EVR 4453	3
Physical Geology/Evolution of the Earth	GLY 2010C	4
History of the Earth and Life	GLY 2100	3
Environmental Issues in Atmospheric and Earth Science	ESC 3704	3
Coastal and Marine Science	GLY 3730	3
Water Resources	GEO 4280C	3
Biogeography	GEO 4300	3
Geomorphology	GLY 4700C	3
Hydrogeology	GLY 4822	3
Atmospheric Hazards	MET 3052	3
Tropical Climatology	MET 3112	3
Climate Data Applications	MET 4142	3
Human Systems
Climate Change: Myths, Realities and Solutions	EVR 3114	3
Hazards, Climate and People	EVR 4112	3
Culture and Environment: Latin America and the Caribbean	GEA 4405	3
American Cultural Landscape	GEO 4422	3
Tourism and Commercial Recreation	GEO 4542	3
Urban Geography	GEO 4602	3
Transportation and Spatial Organization	GEO 4700	3
GIScience
Photogrammetry and Aerial Photograph Interpretation	GIS 4021C	3
Remote Sensing of the Environment	GIS 4035C	3
Digital Image Analysis	GIS 4037C	3
Principles of GIS	GIS 4043C	3
Applications in GIS	GIS 4048C	3
Web GIS	GIS 4054C	3
Programming in GIS	GIS 4102C	3
Geospatial Databases	GIS 4118	3
Geovisualization and GIS	GIS 4138C	3
Mobile GIS and Drone Technology	GIS 4140C	3
Spatial Data Analysis	GIS 4115C	3
Areas of Emphasis Total		33-34

Geology Concentration 
In addition to the Geosciences core courses noted above (10 credits), students selecting the Geology Concentration are required to complete a Science core (19 credits), the Geology Concentration core (10 credits), and Geosciences electives (18-22 credits) as noted below. Total credits for the B.A. in Geosciences with a Geology Concentration are 57-61 credits.

Science Core Courses
Biological Principles and Lab	BSC 1010/1010L	4  or
Biodiversity and Lab	BSC 1011/1011L	4
College Algebra	MAC 1105	3
Introduction to Astronomy	AST 2002	3
General Chemistry 1 and Lab	CHM 2045, 2045L	4
General or College Physics and Lab	PHY 2048 or PHY 2053 and 2048L	5
Science Core Total		19

 

Geology Concentration Core Courses
Physical Geology/Evolution of the Earth	GLY 2010C	4
History of the Earth and Life	GLY 2100	3
Geology Field Methods	GLY 4750C	3
Core Total		10

 

Geosciences Electives Choose six courses from the list below to total 18 - 22 credits.
Paleontology	GLY 3603C	3
Environmental Issues in Atmospheric and Earth Science	ESC 3704	3
Introduction to Coastal Freshwater Resources	EVR 4453	3
Coastal and Marine Science	GLY 3730	3
Environmental Geochemistry	GLY 4241	3
Water Resources	GEO 4280C	3
Mineralogy and Petrology	GLY 4310C	4
Structural Geology	GLY 4400C	4
Stratigraphy and Sedimentation	GLY 4500C	4
Geomorphology	GLY 4700C	3
Hydrogeology	GLY 4822	3
Geosciences Electives Total		18-21

Geosciences
Bachelor of Science (B.S.)

Climate Change Concentration
Geography Concentration
Geology Concentration

(Minimum of 120 credits required) 

The Geosciences core courses below (11 credits) are required of all students for the B.S. in Geosciences. Students then choose one of three concentrations: Climate Change, Geography or Geology. The Geography concentration is available in person or fully online. The other concentrations are available in person only. 

Prerequisite Coursework for Transfer Students
Students transferring to Florida Atlantic University must complete both lower-division requirements (including the requirements of the General Education Program) and requirements for the college and major. Lower-division requirements may be completed through the A.A. degree from any Florida public college, university or community college or through equivalent coursework at another regionally accredited institution. Before transferring and to ensure timely progress toward the baccalaureate degree, students must also complete the prerequisite courses for their major as outlined in the  Transition Guides .

All courses not approved by the Florida Statewide Course Numbering System that will be used to satisfy requirements will be evaluated individually on the basis of content and will require a catalog course description and a copy of the syllabus for assessment.

Geosciences Core Courses (required of all students)
Introductory Statistics	STA 2023	3
General Chemistry 1 and Lab	CHM 2045, 2045L	4
Introduction to Mapping and GIS	GIS 3015C	3
Geosciences Honors Colloquium	GEO 4920	1
Core Total		11

Climate Change Concentration 
In addition to the Geosciences core courses noted above (11 credits), students selecting the Climate Change Concentration are required to complete a Science core (9-11 credits), the Climate Change Concentration core (30 credits), and Geosciences and Interdisciplinary electives (21 credits) as noted below. Total credits for the B.S. in Geosciences with a Climate Change Concentration are 71-73 credits.

Science Core Courses
Biological Principles and Lab	BSC 1010/1010L	4 or
Biodiversity and Lab	BSC 1011/1011L	4 or
Life Science and Life Science Lab or RI: Life Science Lab	BSC 1005/1005L	3
The Blue Planet	ESC 2000	3  or
Introduction to Physical Geography	GEO 2200C	3  or
Physical Geology / Evolution of the Earth	GLY 2010C	4
Methods of Calculus	MAC 2233	3
Science Core Total		9-11

 

Climate Change Concentration Core Courses
Environmental Issues in Atmospheric and Earth Science	ESC 3704	3
Climate Change: The Human Dimensions	EVR 1110	3
Climate Change: Myths, Realities and Solutions	EVR 3114	3
Hazards, Climate and People	EVR 4112	3
Quantitative Methods	GEO 4022	3
Remote Sensing of the Environment	GIS 4035C	3
Principles of Geographic Information Systems	GIS 4043C	3
Weather, Climate and Climate Change	MET 2010	3
Atmospheric Hazards	MET 3052	3
Tropical Climatology	MET 3112	3
Core Total		30

 

Geosciences and Interdisciplinary Electives Choose 21 credits from the courses below.
Conservation Biology	BSC 3052	3
Climate Change Biology: Ecosystems to Human Health	BSC 4307	3
Microeconomic Principles	ECO 2023	3
Environmental Economics	ECP 4302	3
Environmental Science and Engineering	ENV 3001C	3
RI: Human-Environmental Interactions in South Florida	GEA 4275	3
Sea-Level Rise: Impacts and Responses	GEO 3342	3
Spatial Data Analysis	GIS 4115C	3
Water Resources	GEO 4280C	3
Biogeography	GEO 4300	3
Directed Independent Research in Geosciences	GEO 4915	1-6
Mobile GIS and Drone Technology	GIS 4140C	3
Coastal and Marine Science	GLY 3730	3
Environmental Geochemistry	GLY 4241	3
Hydrogeology	GLY 4822	3
Directed Independent Study	GLY 4905	1-3
Comparative Environmental Politics	INR 4054	3
Global Environmental Politics and Policies	INR 4350	3
Climate Data Applications	MET 4142	3
Disaster and Emergency Management	PAD 4393	3
Principles of Ecology	PCB 4043	3
Sociology of Climate and Disaster	SYP 4464	3
RI: Sustainable Cities	URP 4403	3
Environmental Planning Methods	URP 4420	3
Planning for Hazards/Disasters	URP 4430	3
Geosciences and Interdisciplinary Electives Total		21

Geography   Concentration
In addition to the Geosciences core courses noted above, students selecting the Geography Concentration are required to complete a Science core (7 credits), the Geography Concentration core (24 credits), and Geosciences electives (30-31 credits) as noted below. Total credits for the B.S. in Geosciences with a Geography Concentration are 72-73 credits.

Science Core Courses
Biological Principles and Lab	BSC 1010/1010L	4 or
Biodiversity and Lab	BSC 1011/1011L	4
Methods of Calculus	MAC 2233	3
Science Core Total		7

 

Geography Concentration Core Courses
World Geography	GEA 2000	3
Introduction to Physical Geography	GEO 2200C	3
Weather, Climate and Climate Change	MET 2010	3
Quantitative Methods	GEO 4022	3
Principles of GIS	GIS 4043C	3
Remote Sensing of the Environment	GIS 4035C	3
RI: Human-Environmental Interactions in South Florida	GEA 4275	3
Biogeography	GEO 4300	3
Core Total		24

 

Geosciences Electives Choose 30-31 credits from the courses below.
The Blue Planet	ESC 2000	3
Introduction to Coastal Freshwater Resources	EVR 4322	3
Physical Geology/Evolution of the Earth	GLY 2010C	4
History of the Earth and Life	GLY 2100	3
Climate Change: Myths, Realities and Solutions	EVR 3114	3
Environmental Issues in Atmospheric and Earth Science	ESC 3704	3
Coastal and Marine Science	GLY 3730	3
Applications in GIS	GIS 4048C	3
Photogrammetry and Aerial Photograph Interpretation	GIS 4021C	3
Digital Image Analysis	GIS 4037C	3
Web GIS	GIS 4054C	3
Programming in GIS	GIS 4102C	3
Hazards, Climate and People	EVR 4112	3
Geospatial Databases	GIS 4118	3
Geovisualization and GIS	GIS 4138C	3
Mobile GIS and Drone Technology	GIS 4140C	3
Spatial Data Analysis	GIS 4115C	3
Water Resources	GEO 4280C	3
Tourism and Commercial Recreation	GEO 4542	3
Urban Geography	GEO 4602	3
Transportation and Spatial Organization	GEO 4700	3
Geomorphology	GLY 4700C	3
Hydrogeology	GLY 4822	3
Atmospheric Hazards	MET 3052	3
Tropical Climatology	MET 3112	3
Climate Data Applications	MET 4142	3
Geosciences Electives Total		30-31

Geology Concentration 
In addition to the Geosciences core courses noted above (11 credits), students selecting the Geology Concentration  are required to complete a Science core (15-16  credits), the Geology Concentration  core (38 credits), and Geosciences electives (9 credits) as noted below. Total credits for the B.S. in Geosciences with a Geology Concentration are  73-74  credits.

Science Core Courses
General Physics 1	PHY 2048	4
General Physics 1 Lab	PHY 2048L	1
General Physics 2	PHY 2049	4
Calculus with Analytic Geometry 1	MAC 2311	4
Calculus with Analytic Geometry 2	MAC 2312	4
Science Core Total		17

 

Geology Concentration Core Course
Physical Geology/Evolution of the Earth	GLY 2010C	4
History of the Earth and Life	GLY 2100	3
Mineralogy and Petrology	GLY 4310C	4
Structural Geology	GLY 4400C	4
Solid Earth Geophysics	GLY 4451	3
Stratigraphy and Sedimentation	GLY 4500C	4
Geology Field Methods	GLY 4750C	3
Field Camp	GLY 4790	6
Hydrogeology	GLY 4822	3
Core Total		34

 

Geosciences Electives Choose four courses from the list below, only one of which may have a GIS prefix.
Introduction to Coastal Freshwater Resources	EVR 4453	3
Geology of Florida	GLY 4155C	4
Paleontology	GLY 3603C	3
Coastal and Marine Science	GLY 3730	3
Remote Sensing of the Environment	GIS 4035C	3
Principles of GIS	GIS 4043C	3
Environmental Geochemistry	GLY 4241	3
Geomorphology	GLY 4700C	3
Groundwater Numerical Modeling	GLY 4832C	3
Geosciences Electives Total		12-13

 

Honors Programs

Honors Program in Geography

Qualified students may apply to participate in the upper-division Honors Program in the Geography concentration for both the B.A. and B.S. degrees. The Honors Program recognizes research accomplishments of talented undergraduates. Students normally begin the program in their sophomore or junior year and conduct independent research with mentor supervision during their junior and senior years.

To enter the program, students must have:

1. A minimum of 9 credits in geography courses with GEA, GEO, GIS, EVR, ESC prefixes;
2. A cumulative GPA of at least 3.3, and must maintain a 3.3 to remain in the program;
3. The support of a faculty mentor. Interested students should contact the faculty member whose research interests are closest to those the student wishes to pursue.  

To be awarded the Honors undergraduate degree, students must:

1. Complete all requirements for the B.A. or B.S. Geosciences, Geography concentration;
2. Complete 6 credits of: GEO 4920, Geosciences Honors Colloquium (1 credit, repeated twice); GEO 4948C, Field Experience (1 credit); GEO 4915, 4916, Directed Independent Research in Geosciences (3 credits);
3. Meet the capstone requirement, which entails presenting research findings from the Field Experience and the Directed Independent Research in Geosciences in both a written thesis format as well as an oral presentation at the Geosciences Colloquium Series or an appropriate academic conference, including FAU undergraduate research symposium, approved by both the faculty mentor and the department chair;
4. Complete an honors compact with their faculty mentor, which is an agreement that the projects will be conducted at the honors level.   

In the Honors Colloquium course, students are exposed to talks from prominent researchers and professionals in the various subfields of the geosciences, introducing them to current important research themes in the geosciences, as well as reinforcing the scientific method and appropriate methodologies for problem solving in the geosciences. Speakers change every semester. Students enroll in the Field Experience course while doing the field work, lab work and/or data collection for their research project and in the Directed Independent Research in Geosciences course while working in the analysis and write-up phases of their research.

Honors Program in Geology

Qualified students may apply to participate in the upper-division Honors Program in the Geology concentration for both the B.A. and B.S. degrees. The Honors Program recognizes research accomplishments of talented undergraduates. Students normally begin the program in their sophomore or junior year and conduct independent research with mentor supervision during their junior and senior years.

To enter the program, students must:

1. Have a minimum of 9 credits in geology courses with GLY prefix;
2. Have completed the Geology core courses and a cumulative GPA of at least 3.3, which must be maintained to remain in the program. The GPA will be monitored throughout student’s study in the Honors Program;
3. Formally apply for the Honors Program with a letter addressed to the honors committee. The application and overall GPA will be assessed by an appointed faculty committee;
4. Have the support of a faculty mentor. Interested students should contact the faculty member whose research interests are closest to those the student wishes to pursue;  
5. Complete an honors contract with their faculty mentor, which is a joint commitment between the student and mentor that the projects will be conducted at the honors level.

To be awarded the Honors in Geology designation, students must:

1. Complete all requirements for the B.A. or B.S. in Geociences, Geology concentration;
2. Complete 2 credits of GEO 4920, Geosciences Honors Colloquium (1 credit, repeated twice), which is an honors-specific course;
   
   In the Honors Colloquium course, students are exposed to talks from prominent researchers and professionals in the various subfields of the geosciences, introducing them to current important research themes in the geosciences, as well as reinforcing the scientific method and appropriate methodologies for problem solving in the geosciences. Speakers change every semester.
   
   
3. Complete 4 credits selected from GEO 4948C, Field Experience (1-4 credit total) and GLY 4915, 4916, Directed Independent Research in Geosciences (1-4 credits total);
   
   Students should consult with their faculty mentor to determine whether they should enroll in Field Experience or Directed Independent Research in Geosciences credits for the preliminary portions of their research projects (data collection, model development, method development, etc.). While working in the analysis and write-up portions of their research projects, students should enroll in Directed Independent Research in Geosciences credits.
   
   
4. Meet the capstone requirement, which entails presenting research findings from the independent research in both a written thesis format, as well as an oral presentation at the Geosciences Colloquium Series or an appropriate academic conference, including FAU undergraduate research symposium, approved by both the faculty mentor and the department chair.
   
   

honors program in Climate change

Qualified students may apply to participate in the upper-division Honors Program in the B.S. Geosciences, Climate Change concentration. The Honors Program recognizes research accomplishments of talented undergraduates. Students normally begin the program in their sophomore or junior year and conduct independent research with mentor supervision during their junior and senior years.

To enter the program, students must have:

1. A minimum of 9 credits in geoscience courses with EVR, ESC, GEA, GEO, GIS, GLY, MET prefixes;
2. A cumulative GPA of at least 3.0, and must maintain a 3.3 to remain in the program;
3. The support of a faculty member. Interested students should contact the faculty member whose research interests are closest to those the student wishes to pursue.

To be awarded the Honors undergraduate degree, students must:

1. Complete all requirements for the B.S. Geosciences, Climate Change concentration;
2. Complete 6 credits of: GEO 4920, Geosciences Honors Colloquium (1 credit, repeated twice); GEO 4948C, Field Experience (1 credit); GEO 4915, 4916, Directed Independent Research in Geosciences (3 credits);
3. Meet the capstone requirement, which entails presenting research findings from the Field Experience and the Directed Independent Researchin Geosciences in both a written thesis format as well as an oral presentation at the Geosciences Colloquium Series or an appropriate academic conference, including FAU undergraduate research symposium, approved by both the faculty mentor and the department chair;
4. Complete an honors compact with their faculty mentor, which is an agreement that the projects will be conducted at the honors level. 

In the Honors Colloquium course, students are exposed to talks from prominent researchers and professionals in the various subfields of the geosciences, introducing them to current important research themes in the geosciences, as well as reinforcing the scientific method and appropriate methodologies for problem solving in the geosciences. Speakers change every semester. Students enroll in the Field Experience course while doing the field work, lab work and/or data collection for their research project and in the Directed Independent Research in Geosciences course while working in the analysis and write-up phases of their research.

undergraduate minors

Geography
Undergraduate Minor

(Minimum of 15 credits required)

Students minoring in Geography will earn a "C" or better in a minimum of 15 credits.  Note:  Courses used to fulfill requirements for a major may not be used for the minor. Requirements include:

1. GIS 3015C and 12 additional credits in geography beyond the minimum requirements for the major;
2.  Within the 12 credits, a minimum of 6 credits with a GEA or GEO prefix at the 4000 level;
3. The remaining 6 credits from all department course listings with ESC, EVR, MET, GEA or GEO prefixes.
4. Of the 15 credits, a minimum of 12 earned at FAU.
   
   

Geographic Information Science
Undergraduate Minor

(Minimum of 15 credits required)

Students minoring in Geographic Information Science will complete a minimum of 15 credits with a grade of "C" or better in each course. Of the 15 credits, a minimum of 12 must be earned at FAU.  Note:  Courses used to fulfill requirements for a major may not be used for the minor. Required courses are:

Required Courses
Introduction to Mapping and GIS	GIS 3015C	3
Principles of GIS	GIS 4043C	3
Choose 9 credits from the list below:
Spatial Data Analysis	GIS 4115C	3
Photogrammetry and Aerial Photograph Interpretation	GIS 4021C	3
Remote Sensing of the Environment	GIS 4035C	3
Digital Image Analysis	GIS 4037C	3
Applications in GIS	GIS 4048C	3
Web GIS	GIS 4054C	3
Programming in GIS	GIS 4102C	3
Geovisualization and GIS	GIS 4138C	3
Mobile GIS and Drone Technology	GIS 4140C	3

Geology
Undergraduate Minor

(Minimum of 15 credits required)

Students minoring in Geology will earn a "C" or better in a minimum of 15 credits.  Note: Courses used to fulfill requirements for a major may not be used for the minor. Requirements include:

1. GLY 2010C and 12 additional credits in geology beyond the minimum requirements for the major;
2.  Within the 12 credits, a minimum of 6 credits with a GLY prefix at the 4000 level;
3. The remaining 6 credits from all department course offerings with ESC, EVR or GLY prefixes.
4. Of the 15 credits, a minimum of 12 earned at FAU.
   
   

Undergraduate Certificates

Geographic Information Systems
Undergraduate Certificate

(Minimum of 12 credits required)

The Department of Geosciences offers undergraduates a certificate in Geographic Information Systems. Departmental majors or other students who complete the four required courses (12 credits) below with a grade of "C" or better in each course are entitled to the GIS certificate. Students should consult their departmental advisor or another faculty member about registration for this program. Students may use these courses in the completion of a major. The certificate is available in person or fully online. 

Required Courses
Introduction to Mapping and GIS	GIS 3015C	3
Principles of Geographic Information Systems	GIS 4043C	3
Remote Sensing of the Environment	GIS 4035C	3
Choose one of the following elective courses
Digital Image Analysis	GIS 4037C	3
Applications of GIS	GIS 4048C	3
Web GIS	GIS 4054C	3
Geospatial Databases	GIS 4118	3
Geovisualization and GIS	GIS 4138C	3
Mobile GIS and Drone Technology	GIS 4140C	3

 

Advanced Geographic Information Systems
Undergraduate Certificate

(Minimum of 9 credits required)

The Department of Geosciences offers an advanced certificate in Geographic Information Systems that permits students to develop an in-depth understanding of programming and spatial data analysis beyond the basic GIS certificate. Two required courses and one additional course in an applied area of geographic information science complete the advanced GIS certificate. The certificate is available in person or fully online. 

Required Courses
Programming in GIS	GIS 4102C	3
Spatial Data Analysis	GIS 4115C	3
Choose one of the following applied courses
Applications of GIS	GIS 4048C	3
Web GIS	GIS 4054C	3
Geospatial Databases	GIS 4118	3
Geovisualization and GIS	GIS 4138C	3
Photogrammetry and Aerial Photograph Interpretation	GIS 4021C*	3
Mobile GIS and Drone Technology	GIS 4140C	3
Introduction to Laser Mapping Technology	CCE 4514C	3

*SUR 4331C - Digital Photogrammetry Principles and Applications is an approved substitute for Geomatics Engineering students.

Combined Program

Geosciences
Bachelor of Science (B.S.) to Master of Science (M.S.)
Combined Program

(Minimum of 154 credits required)

This accelerated, five-year program leads to both a Bachelor of Science (B.S.) in Geosciences with Geography Concentration and a Master of Science with a focus on Human Environment and Sustainable Science or Geographic Information Science. Students apply to the B.S./M.S. program in the second semester of their junior year and begin taking graduate courses in their senior year that would apply to both the B.S. and M.S. degrees. The combined program is 154 credits, 120 for the undergraduate degree and 34 for the master's degree. Students complete the undergraduate degree first, taking no more than 12 credits of graduate coursework in their senior year, which will then be used to satisfy both degrees. Students must maintain a GPA of 3.0 in upper-division and graduate courses. Due to the accelerated nature of the program, students should take the GRE by the end of the first semester in their junior year.

Prerequisite Coursework for Transfer Students
Students transferring to Florida Atlantic University must complete both lower-division requirements (including the requirements of the General Education Program) and requirements for the college and major. Lower-division requirements may be completed through the A.A. degree from any Florida public college, university or community college or through equivalent coursework at another regionally accredited institution. Before transferring and to ensure timely progress toward the baccalaureate degree, students must also complete the prerequisite courses for their major as outlined in the  Transition Guides .

All courses not approved by the Florida Statewide Course Numbering System that will be used to satisfy requirements will be evaluated individually on the basis of content and will require a catalog course description and a copy of the syllabus for assessment.

Requirements and Eligibility
In addition to the University and Charles E. Schmidt College of Science requirements, students seeking a combined degree in Geosciences with Geography Concentration  must complete the following courses. The Geosciences core courses (11 credits) are required for all students in the Bachelor of Science program in Geosciences. Students selecting the Geography Concentration then complete a Science core (7 credits), the Geography Concentration core (24 credits) and Geosciences electives (30-31 credits) as noted below.

The graduate courses that would apply to both the B.S. and M.S. degrees must be 5000 level or higher. Some courses, denoted with asterisks, have a 5000--level version that can be counted toward the graduate degree.

Geosciences Core Courses (required of all students)
Introductory Statistics	STA 2023	3
General Chemistry 1 and Lab	CHM 2045, 2045L	4
Introduction to Mapping and GIS	GIS 3015C	3
Geosciences Honors Colloquium	GEO 4920	1
Core Total		11

 

Science Core Courses
Biological Principles and Lab	BSC 1010, 1010L	4 or
Biodiversity and Lab	BSC 1011, 1011L	4
Methods of Calculus	MAC 2233	3
Core Total		7

 

Geography Concentration Core Courses
World Geography	GEA 2000	3
RI: Human-Environmental Interactions in South Florida	GEA 4275	3
Introduction to Physical Geography	GEO 2200C	3
Quantitative Methods	GEO 4022	3
Biogeography*	GEO 4300	3
Remote Sensing of the Environment*	GIS 4035C	3
Principles of Geographic Information Systems*	GIS 4043C	3
Weather, Climate and Climate Change	MET 2010	3
Core Total		24

 

Geosciences Electives Choose 30-31 credits from the courses below.
The Blue Planet	ESC 2000	3
Physical Geology/Evolution of the Earth	GLY 2010C	4
History of the Earth and Life	GLY 2100	3
Climate Change: Myths, Realities and Solutions	EVR 3114	3
Environmental Issues in Atmospheric and Earth Science	ESC 3704	3
Coastal and Marine Science	GLY 3730	3
Applications in GIS*	GIS 4048C	3
Photogrammetry and Aerial Photograph Interpretation	GIS 4021C	3
Digital Image Analysis*	GIS 4037C	3
Web GIS	GIS 4054C	3
Programming in GIS*	GIS 4102C	3
Hazards, Climate and People	EVR 4112	3
Geospatial Databases	GIS 4118	3
Geovisualization and GIS*	GIS 4138C	3
Mobile GIS and Drone Technology*	GIS 4140C	3
Spatial Data Analysis	GIS 4115C	3
Water Resources	GEO 4280C	3
Tourism and Commercial Recreation	GEO 4542	3
Urban Geography	GEO 4602	3
Transportation and Spatial Organization	GEO 4700	3
Geomorphology	GLY 4700C	3
Hydrogeology	GLY 4822	3
Geosciences Electives Total		30-31

 

Additional Graduate-Level Courses for the Master's Degree Up to 12 credits can be taken as a senior. All courses must be at the 5000 or 6000 level.
Human-Environmental Interactions	GEA 6277	3
Research in the Geosciences	GEO 6118	3
Geosciences Colloquium Series	GEO 6920	1
Geosciences Focus - 12 credits Choose 12 credits from one of the following areas of focus.
Focus	Focus Courses
Geographic Information Science	course prefix GIS
Human Environment and Sustainable Science	course prefixes EVR, GEA or GEO
Electives - 15 credits
Choose five courses (total of 15 credits) from the following course prefixes: EVR, GEA, GEO, GIS, GLY and no more than 3 credits of independent study (GEO 6908 or GLY 6908). Students may choose up to 6 credits from cognate areas (any 5000 or 6000 level course within the College of Science) approved by their advisors.

 

Master's Program

Link to Graduate Geographic Information Systems Certificate

Link to Graduate Remote Sensing Certificate

Link to Doctoral Program in Geosciences

Geosciences
Master of Science (M.S.)

The department offers a thesis (31 credits) and non-thesis option (34 credits) for the Master of Science (M.S.) in Geosciences. The requirements for both options are outlined below. Students must choose between the thesis and non-thesis options and a focus area by the end of their second semester of study when the plan of study is filed. The non-thesis option with the Geosciences focus is available in person or fully online. All other options and areas of focus are available in person only. 

Thesis students are required to form a committee (advisor and two additional committee members) during the second semester of study. Students who do not have a thesis committee formed by the end of the second semester are automatically transferred to the non-thesis option.

Admission Requirements 
In addition to meeting the University and College admission requirements for graduate study, applicants for the master's degree in the Department of Geosciences must meet the following requirements:

1. Hold a bachelor's degree in an appropriate discipline from an accredited college or university;
2. Have earned a minimum grade point average of 3.0 (on a 4.0 scale) in the last 60 credits of undergraduate work attempted;
3. A minimum of one letter of recommendation from a reference familiar with the applicant's recent academic and/or professional experiences;
4. Applicants applying to the thesis option must provide a written letter of support from a Geosciences facuty member with graduate faculty status at FAU or an approved cognate faculty member with graduate faculty status at FAU indicating a willingness to supervise the applicant's thesis research;
5. International students whose native language is not English must score at least 550 on the paper-based TOEFL, at least 61 on the computer-based test or an IELTS band score of at least 6.0.

General Degree Requirements

1. Students must maintain a GPA of 3.0 or higher throughout their graduate program. Failure to do so will subject the student to dismissal from the program.
2. Students must achieve a grade of at least "C+" in order for a course to be counted as part of the minimum credits toward the degree.

Course Requirements
All courses must be taken at the 5000 level or higher. No more than 3 credits of directed independent study (such as GEO 6908 or GLY 6908) may be used to fulfill the minimum credits for either degree option. A minimum of 24 credits should be taken from the Geosciences curriculum.

Thesis Option - 31 credits
Core Courses - 7 credits
Research in the Geosciences	GEO 6118
Thesis Seminar	GLY 6931
Geosciences Colloquium Series	GEO 6920
Geosciences Focus - 12 credits
Choose 12 credits from one of the following areas of focus:
Geology: course prefix GLY
Human Environment and Sustainable Science: course prefixes EVR, GEA or GEO
Geographic Information Science: course prefix GIS
Thesis - 6 credits
Complete a minimum of 6 credits from one of the following two options
Master's Thesis (may be taken over multiple terms)	GEO 6971
Master's Thesis (may be taken over multiple terms)	GLY 6971
Electives - 6 credits
Choose two courses (total of 6 credits) at the 5000 or 6000 level from the following course prefixes: EVR, GEA, GEO, GLY, GIS and no ore than 3 credits of independent study (GEO 6908 or GLY 6908). May choose up to 6 credits from cognate areas approved by the student's advisor. Any 5000 or 6000 level course within the College of Science or any 5000 or 6000 level course with the prefix of URP.
Non-Thesis Option - 34 credits
Core Courses - 7 credits
Human-Environmental Interactions	GEA 6277
Research in the Geosciences	GEO 6118
Geosciences Colloquium Series	GEO 6920
Geosciences Focus - 12 credits
Choose 12 credits from one of the following areas of focus.
Geology: course prefix GLY
Human Environment and Sustainable Science: course prefixes EVR, GEA or GEO
Geographic Information Science: course prefix GIS
Electives - 15 credits
Choose five courses (total of 15 credits) at the 5000 or 6000 level from the following course prefixes: EVR, GEA, GEO, GLY, GIS and no ore than 3 credits of independent study (GEO 6908 or GLY 6908). May choose up to 6 credits from cognate areas approved by the student's advisor. Any 5000 or 6000 level course within the College of Science or any 5000 or 6000 level course with the prefix of URP.

Other Requirements
Students enrolled in the thesis option must defend their thesis proposal successfully no later than the beginning of the third semester for full-time students or the beginning of the fourth semester for part-time students.

Geographic Information Systems
Graduate Certificate

(Minimum of 15 credits required)

The Geographic Information Systems (GIS) certificate for graduate students is offered jointly by the Department of Geosciences and the Department of Urban and Regional Planning in the Charles E. Schmidt College Science. Graduate students who complete the program below with a grade of "B" or better in each course are entitled to receive the certificate. Students should consult with the director of the GIS Center or their graduate advisor about registration for this program. Students shall use the courses below to complete the certificate. The certificate is available in person or fully online. 

Required Courses  - 9 credits
Principles of Geographic Information Systems*	GIS 5051C	3
OR
Introduction to GIS in Planning	URP 6270	3
AND
Applications in Geographic Information Systems	GIS 5100C	3
Spatial Data Analysis	GIS 6306	3
Choose two of the following courses (6 credits)
Programming in Geographic Information Systems	GIS 5103C	3
Web GIS	GIS 6061C	3
Geospatial Databases	GIS 6112C	3
Environmental Analysis in Planning	URP 6425	3
Managing GIS Projects	URP 6272	3

* If the undergraduate version of this course was already counted for the undergraduate GIS certificate, this graduate version cannot be counted toward the graduate GIS certificate.

Remote Sensing
Graduate Certificate

(Minimum of 12 credits required)

The Department of Geosciences offers graduate students a certificate in Remote Sensing. Graduate students who complete the required courses with a grade of "B" or better in each course will earn the certificate program. Students should consult with the director of the GIS Center or their graduate advisor about registration for this program. Students shall use the courses below to complete the certificate. The certificate is available in person or fully online.

Choose four of the following courses.
Remote Sensing of the Environment*	GIS 5038C	3
Digital Image Analysis*	GIS 5033C	3
Hyperspectral Remote Sensing	GIS 6127	3
LiDAR Remote Sensing and Applications	GIS 6032C	3
Photogrammetry and Aerial Photograph Interpretation	GIS 6028C	3

 

Doctoral Program

Geosciences
Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.)

The Department of Geosciences at Florida Atlantic University offers advanced graduate training leading to the degree of Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) in Geosciences. This professionally oriented program combines department specialties in geography and geology with other cognate areas in the College and the University through an innovative curriculum that includes ecology and conservation biology, chemistry, anthropology, civil engineering, ocean engineering and urban and regional planning. The program provides advanced research and technical training to allow its graduates to find solutions to problems. While the main focus of the degree is on traditional, full-time students, the degree program also welcomes part-time students who wish to maintain their professional employment while earning their doctoral degree.

Admission Requirements 
Individuals will be admitted to the doctoral program in Geosciences based on the following requirements:

1. Minimum of a bachelor's degree in a field of geosciences or related area. Students who have already earned a master's degree or equivalent in geography, geology or related field may be admitted to the doctoral program and may be awarded up to 30 credits toward the Ph.D. in Geosciences. Geosciences-related areas include anthropology, biology, chemistry, civil engineering, environmental science, public administration and urban and regional planning.
2. International students whose native language is not English must score at least 550 on the paper-based TOEFL or at least 79-80 on the computer-based test or a score of 6 or higher on the IELTS.
3. A minmum of three letters of recommendation from references familiar with the applicant's recent academic and/or professional experiences.
4. A written letter of support from a Geosciences faculty member with graduate faculty status at FAU or an approved cognate faculty member with graduate faculty status at FAU indicating a willingness to supervise the applicant's doctoral research.

Degree Requirements
A total of 90 credits beyond the bachelor's degree or 60 credits beyond an earned master's degree in a related field (as defined under Admission Requirements), admission to candidacy and successful defense of a research dissertation in an approved area within the geosciences will earn students the Ph.D. in Geosciences. Students must maintain a cumulative GPA of 3.0 or higher and a grade of "B" or higher in any course applied to the degree program.

A minimum of 54 credits out of the 90 credits presented for the degree must be earned from the Geosciences Department (courses with EVR, ESC, GEA, GEO, GIS and GLY prefixes). Therefore, no more than 36 credits for those admitted with a bachelor's degree or 6 credits for those entering with a master's degree may come from outside the Geosciences Department.

All students are required to complete a core of 9 credits in the Geosciences as listed below. All must be completed prior to applying for candidacy.

Geosciences Core - 9 credits required
Research in the Geosciences	GEO 6118	3
Thesis Seminar	GLY 6931	3
Geosciences Colloquium Series*	GEO 6920	3

* This is a 1-credit course with content that varies each semester. Students are required to take this course for three semesters for a total of 3 credits. Students may not apply for candidacy until all colloquium requirements have been completed.

Additional Courses
For students entering directly from a bachelor's degree program, 57 additional course credits are required. For students entering with a master's degree in geography, geology or a related field, 27 additional course credits are required. All coursework must be at the 5000 or 6000 level in geography, geology and interdisciplinary cognates as appropriate to the student's research plan. These courses must be approved by the student's dissertation advisor and the director of the Ph.D. program. No more than 18 credits beyond the bachelor's degree and 9 credits beyond the master's degree of 5000-level work may be applied to the degree without approval from the student's dissertation advisor and the director of the Ph.D. program.

No more than 3 credits of Directed Independent Study (GEO 6908 or GLY 6908) may be used to meet course requirements without approval from the student's dissertation advisor and the director of the Ph.D. program.

No more than 15 credits beyond the bachelor's degree and 9 credits beyond the master's degree of GEO 6918, Graduate Research, may be used to meet the course requirement without approval from the student's dissertation advisor and the director of the Ph.D. program.

Note:   Courses designated as undergraduate deficiency courses, generally for students coming into the program with a non-related undergraduate degree, may not be used to satisfy course requirements for the degree. Undergraduate deficiency courses will be outlined in the admissions notification.

Admission to Candidacy

1. Formation of a dissertation committee. This committee includes a minimum of the advisor plus three other members. All members must have graduate faculty status in the FAU Graduate College. The majority of the committee members must be from the FAU Geosciences Department. The remaining committee members may include affiliate graduate faculty from another department at FAU, another university or doctoral holding professionals with expertise pertinent to the research program designed. Affiliate graduate faculty members may not serve as the sole committee chair but may co-chair a committee with a FAU Geosciences graduate faculty member.
2. Satisfactory completion of written and oral examinations covering graduate-level material in the field of geosciences. The material for the exams will be determined by the student's committee as appropriate to the student's research plan. The exam should be taken during the academic term immediately following the completion of the coursework outlined in section 1 of the degree requirements. Two attempts at the examinations are permitted. A second failure on the qualifying exams will result in dismissal from the program. Full-time students should become candidates by the end of their fifth semester in the program. Part-time students should become candidates by the end of semester seven.
3. Submission, public presentation and successful defense of an original research proposal.

Doctoral Research

1. Dissertation research must be conducted under the direction of a graduate faculty member in the Geosciences Department serving as chair or co-chair of the student's dissertation committee. While conducting the doctoral research, a minimum of 24 credits must be included comprised of any combination of credits from GEO 7978, Advanced Research, and GEO 7980, Dissertation, including at least 6 credits of GEO 7980. A student may not enroll in GEO 7978, Advanced Research credits, until the semester the student plans to take the candidacy exams and may not enroll in GEO 7980, Dissertation credits, until the student has reached candidacy.
2. Written submission, public presentation and defense of a satisfactory research dissertation. The defense will include an oral examination of the research presented by the student's dissertation committee.

mathematics and Statistics

Faculty:
Wang, Y., Chair; Abraha, Y.; Bai, S.; Bhattacharjee, P.; Booton, B. O.; Chang, L-C.; Drees, K.; Edwards, P. B.; Escuder, A. T.; Ford, T. J.; Greenberg, A.; Hahn, W.; Hoffman, F.; Ito, K.; Kalies, W. D.; Klingler, L. C., Emeritus; Kuchta, V.; Li, Y.; Lin, Y.; Locke, S. C.; Long, H.; Lubarsky, R.; Lundberg, E.; Magliveras, S. S., Emeritus; Meyerowitz, A. D.; Milman, M. M., Emeritus; Mireles-James, J.; Moosai, S.; Motta, F.; Mullin, R. C., Emeritus; Murray, M.; Naudot, V.; Nawarathna, R. H. H.; Niederhausen, H., Emeritus; Nikolova, D. B.; Peitgen, H. O., Emeritus; Persichetti, E.; Pina, P. A.; Radulovic, A. B. S.; Radulovic, D.; Richman, F., Emeritus; Rosen, Z.; Sagher, Y.; Schmidmeier, M.; Schonbek, T. P.; Schroeck, F. E., Emeritus; Sica, F.; Stadnik, M.; Tuncer, N.; Voss, R.; Winkowska-Nowak, K.; Yin, Z.; Yiu, P., Emeritus; Zhang, X. D.

The Department of Mathematics and Statistics offers undergraduate programs leading to the Bachelor of Arts (B.A.) degree and to the Bachelor of Science (B.S.) degree. Either of these two programs, with suitably chosen electives, constitutes an excellent background for a wide range of careers, in particular as a systems analyst, mathematics teacher, actuary and statistician. Students interested in advanced or professional degrees, for example in the medical sciences, benefit from rigorous training in mathematics. Furthermore, the Bachelor of Science degree program is designed to prepare students for graduate work in mathematics and related areas. Two certificate programs, one in Statistics and one in Actuarial Science, are also available for undergraduates, as well as an Honors Program in Mathematics and two minors, one in Mathematics and one in Statistics.

The department offers an accelerated five-year program leading to both the Bachelor of Science (B.S.) and Master of Science (M.S.) degrees. Students in this combined program take graduate credits in their senior year that count toward both degrees. An additional combined programs is offered in conjunction with the Wilkes Honors College.

A  Data Science certificate  program, designed jointly by the departments of Electrical Engineering and Computer Science and Mathematics and Statistics, provides an in-depth study of the methods to manage, analyze and extract knowledge from data.

For graduate students, the Department of Mathematics and Statistics offers programs leading to the Master of Science (M.S.), Master of Science in Teaching (M.S.T.) and Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) degrees.

Outstanding scholarship in the mathematics program is recognized by membership in the Florida Zeta Chapter of Pi Mu Epsilon, the national mathematics honorary society for university students, and by the annual Pi Mu Epsilon award at the Honors Convocation. Students in the Department of Mathematics and Statistics have performed well on the William Lowell Putnam Mathematical Examination, the annual North American mathematical competition for undergraduates.

The Department of Mathematics and Statistics works in close cooperation with the Career Planning and Placement Office and the Cooperative Education Office in counseling and assisting mathematics students seeking permanent, part-time or vacation employment.

Students are strongly urged to meet with an advisor so that their programs can be tailored to individual needs and interests. Students in the major programs in mathematics are required to consult with a faculty advisor each year.

Link to B.S. with Major in Data Science and Analytics

Link to Honors Program

Link to Minors

Link to Undergraduate Certificates

Link to Combined Programs

Link to Master's Programs

Link to Doctoral Program

Link to Cyber Security Graduate Certificate

Baccalaureate Degree Requirements

(Minimum of 120 credits required)

In addition to the University and Charles E. Schmidt College of Science requirements, students seeking a Bachelor of Arts or a Bachelor of Science degree in Mathematics must satisfy the following requirements.

Prerequisite Coursework for Transfer Students
Students transferring to Florida Atlantic University must complete both lower-division requirements (including the requirements of the General Education Program) and requirements for the college and major. Lower-division requirements may be completed through the A.A. degree from any Florida public college, university or community college or through equivalent coursework at another regionally accredited institution. Before transferring and to ensure timely progress toward the baccalaureate degree, students must also complete the prerequisite courses for their major as outlined in the  Transition Guides .

All courses not approved by the Florida Statewide Course Numbering System that will be used to satisfy requirements will be evaluated individually on the basis of content and will require a catalog course description and a copy of the syllabus for assessment. 

Mathematics
Bachelor of Arts (B.A.)

Calculus 1	MAC 2311	4
Calculus 2	MAC 2312	4
Calculus 3	MAC 2313	4
Discrete Mathematics	MAD 2104	3
Introduction to Computational Math	MAD 2502	3
Matrix Theory or Linear Algebra	MAS 2103	3
Introduction to Advanced Mathematics	MHF 3202	3
Introductory Complex Analysis	MAA 4402	3
Vector Calculus	MAS 3156	3
Modern Algebra	MAS 4301	3
Probability and Statistics 1	STA 4442	3
Upper-division math electives		12
Mathematics Total		48
Required Minimum GPA 2.2

Mathematics
Bachelor of Science (B.S.)

The B.S. degree program in Mathematics consists of four concentrations:

1. Mathematical Biology
2. Mathematical Cryptology
3. Pure Mathematics
4. Statistics and Data Science

To complete the B.S. degree program, students will take the specific courses for one of the four concentrations. All students will take two courses in Calculus, at least one statistics course, Discrete Mathematics and at least one programming course.

Mathematical Biology Concentration
Methods of Calculus	MAC 2233	3 or
Life Science Calculus 1	MAC 2241	3 or
Calculus with Analytic Geometry 1	MAC 2311	4 or
Mathematics for Biological Sciences 1	MAP 2491	3
Biological Principles	BSC 1010	3
Biodiversity	BSC 1011	3
Applied Machine Learning and Data Mining	CAP 4612	3
General Chemistry 1	CHM 2045	3
General Chemistry 2	CHM 2046	3
Artificial Intelligence Applications in Biology	IDS 4139	3
Discrete Mathematics	MAD 2104	3
Introduction to Computational Mathematics	MAD 2502	3
Mathematics for Biological Sciences 2	MAP 2492	4
Applied Mathematical Modeling	MAP 4103	3
Genetics	PCB 3063	3 or
Principles of Ecology	PCB 4043	3
Introductory Statistics	STA 2023	3
Introduction to Biostatistics	STA 3173	3
Choose two upper-division math electives		6
Choose two upper-division science electives with BCH, BOT, BSC, CHM, IDS, MCB, OCB, PCB, PHY, PHZ, ZOO prefixes		6
Choose one Research-Intensive elective		3
RI: Introduction to Data Science	CAP 3786	3
RI: Industrial Problems in Applied Math	MAP 4913	3
RI: Neurophysiology	PCB 4832C	3
RI: Neurobiology of Learning and Memory	PSB 4810	3
RI: Statistical Learning	STA 4241	3
Concentration Total (including Science) Note: For this concentration, MAP 2492 can be replaced by the combination of the three courses MAC 2312 and MAP 2302 and MAS 2103.		59-60
Mathematical Cryptology Concentration
Calculus and Analytic Geometry 1	MAC 2311	4
Calculus and Analytic Geometry 2	MAC 2312	4
Calculus and Analytic Geometry 3	MAC 2313	4
General Chemistry 1 and Lab or	CHM 2045/2045L	or
General Physics 1 and Lab	PHY 2048, 2048L	4-5
Cryptography and Information Security	CIS 4362	3
Programming 1 (effective summer 2025)	COP 2220C	3
Programming 2	COP 3014	3
Data Structures and Algorithm Analysis	COP 3530	3
Discrete Mathematics	MAD 2104	3
Matrix Theory	MAS 2103	3
Introductory Number Theory	MAS 3203	3
Modern Algebra	MAS 4301	3
Introduction to Advanced Mathematics	MHF 3202	3
Probability and Statistics 1	STA 4442	3
Choose two, not limited to the following courses, from the approved list of upper-division math electives. * Courses apply to the undergraduate Cybersecurity Certificate program.		6
Numerical Methods	MAD 3400	3
Graph Theory	MAD 4301	3
Numerical Analysis 1	MAD 4401
Post-Quantum Cryptography	MAD 4475	3
Cryptography of Blockchain	MAD 4476	3
Introduction to Coding Theory *	MAD 4605	3
Engineering Mathematics 1	MAP 3305	3
Introduction to Methods in Complex Systems	MAP 4112	3
Mathematics of Cybersecurity *	MAP 4190	3
Vector Calculus	MAS 3156	3
Linear Algebra 2	MAS 4107	3
Mathematics for Cryptography *	MAS 4206	3
Topology for Data Science	MTG 4325	3
Computational Statistics	STA 3100	3
Choose three, not limited to the following courses, from the approved list of upper-division EECS electives in the Cybersecurity Certificate program.		9
Applied Machine Learning and Data Mining	CAP 4612	3
Introduction to Deep Learning	CAP 4613	3
Introduction to Artificial Intelligence	CAP 4630	3
Introduction to Data Mining and Machine Learning	CAP 4770	3
Introduction to Cryptographic Engineering	CDA 4321	3
Applied Cryptography and Security	CIS 4634	3
Network and Data Security	CNT 4411	3
Introduction to Database Structure	COP 3540	3
Python Programming	COP 4045	3
Computer Operating Systems	COP 4610	3
Design and Analysis of Algorithms	COT 4400	3
Theory of Computation	COT 4420	3
Concentration Total (excluding Science)		57
Pure Mathematics Concentration
Calculus with Analytic Geometry 1	MAC 2311	4
Calculus with Analytic Geometry 2	MAC 2312	4
Calculus with Analytic Geometry 3	MAC 2313	4
General Chemistry 1 and Lab or	CHM 2045, CHM 2045L	or
General Physics 1 and Lab	PHY 2048, PHY 2048L	4-5
Introductory Analysis 1	MAA 4226	3
Introductory Complex Analysis	MAA 4402	3
Discrete Mathematics	MAD 2104	3
Introduction to Computational Mathematics	MAD 2502	3
Differential Equations 1	MAP 2302	3
Matrix Theory	MAS 2103	3
Vector Calculus	MAS 3156	3
Linear Algebra 2	MAS 4107	3
Modern Algebra	MAS 4301	3
Introductory Abstract Algebra 1	MAS 4304	3
Introduction to Advanced Mathematics	MHF 3202	3
Probability and Statistics 1	STA 4442	3
Upper-division math electives		9
Concentration total (excluding Science)		57
Statistics and Data Science Concentration
Calculus with Analytic Geometry 1	MAC 2311	4
Calculus with Analytic Geometry 2	MAC 2312	4
Calculus with Analytic Geometry 3	MAC 2313	4
General Chemistry 1 and Lab or	CHM 2045, CHM 2045L	or
General Physics 1 and Lab	PHY 2048, PHY 2048L	4-5
Programming 1 (effective summer 2025)	COP 2220C	3
Programming 2	COP 3014	3
Data Structures and Algorithm Analysis	COP 3530	3
Introduction to Complex Analysis	MAA 4402	3
Discrete Mathematics	MAD 2104	3
Introduction to Computational Mathematics	MAD 2502	3
Matrix Theory	MAS 2103	3
Modern Algebra	MAS 4301	3
Introduction to Advanced Mathematics	MHF 3202	3
Applied Statistics  1	STA 4234	2 and
Applied Statistics 1 Lab	STA 4202L	1
Probability and Statistics 1	STA 4442	3
Choose two of the Approved Math Electives, at least one upper-division course		6
Choose two of the Concentration Electives		6
RI: Introduction to Data Science	CAP 3786	3
Introduction to Deep Learning	CAP 4613	3
Introduction to Data Mining and Machine Learning	CAP 4770	3
Introduction to Data Science and Analytics	CAP 4773	3
Theory of Computation	COT 4420	3
Applied Mathematical Modeling	MAP 4103	3
Introduction to Methods in Complex Systems	MAP 4112	3
RI: Industrial Problems in Applied Math	MAP 4913	3
Topology for Data Science	MTG 4325	3
Computational Statistics	STA 3100	3
RI: Statistical Learning	STA 4241	3
Applied Time Series and Forecasting	STA 4853	3
Concentration Total (excluding Science)		57
Required Minimum GPA 2.5

Notes:

1. Upper-division mathematics electives: These electives must be chosen from courses offered by the Department of Mathematics and Statistics and numbered 3000 or higher. The following courses may not be used as upper-division mathematics electives: STA 3163, STA 3949, MAT 3949, MAP 4945, or STA 4821. 
2. In calculation of the departmental GPA, where relevant, the highest grade in the course will be used.
3. Because of overlap in course content, Mathematics majors may receive credit for at most one course in each of the following pairs: (MAP 2302, MAP 3305) and (STA 4443, STA 4032).
4. The upper-division mathematics courses required for these programs that are completed at FAU must be completed with at least a 2.2 GPA (B.A. program) or 2.5 GPA (B.S. program).
5. Any mathematics course taken at another institution must be completed with a grade of at least
   "C" to be considered part of either baccalaureate program.
6. Mathematics majors are required to consult with their advisors at least once a year.
   
   

Data Science and Analytics
Bachelor of Science (B.S.)

Data Science in the Natural Sciences Concentration
Data Science and Engineering Concentration
Data Science in Business Concentration

The Bachelor of Science with Major in Data Science and Analytics (BSDSA) program is a multi-college, interdisciplinary program administered jointly by the Department of Mathematics and Statistics in the Charles E. Schmidt College of Science, the Department of Electrical Engineering and Computer Science in the College of Engineering and Computer Science, the Department of Information Technology and Operations Management (ITOM) in the College of Business, the Department of Political Science in the Dorothy F. Schmidt College of Arts and Letters and the School of Criminology and Criminal Justice in the College of Social Work and Criminal Justice. For details about this this program, see the  Interdisciplinary Programs  section of this catalog.

Honors Program in Mathematics

Qualified students are invited to participate in the undergraduate Mathematics Honors Program. This program encourages students to participate in mathematics more deeply while increasing student participation in research and inquiry.

Entry Requirements
The following requirements must be met before applying to the Honors Program in Mathematics:

1. Written support from a faculty member willing to serve as a mentor for the capstone experience.
2. Written commitment from at least one additional faculty member willing to review the capstone experience.
3. Completion of Calculus, 1, 2 and 3 and at least 12 additional credits in mathematics at the 2000 level or higher with at least half of these credits taken at FAU.
4. A GPA of at least a 3.3 in mathematics courses at FAU at the 2000 level or higher and an overall FAU GPA of 3.3.

Students should complete the application form and submit it to the honors coordinator. The department honors committee will decide on acceptance into the program.

Standards to Maintain Status
A student must maintain a 3.3 GPA in mathematics courses at FAU at the 2000 level or higher and an FAU overall GPA of 3.3 while in the Honors Program in Mathematics. If a student in the program subsequently drops below a 3.3 GPA, the honors coordinator will inform the student that the honors designation will not be received unless the student's GPA is 3.3 or greater at the time of graduation. Students must adhere to the FAU Code of Academic Integrity, which may be found  here.

Honors-Level Enrichment
Complete at least two of the following activities, which may be repeated:

1. Complete a graduate course in mathematics at FAU at the 5000 level or higher (MST and DIS courses are excluded) with a grade of "B+" or higher.
2. Complete an honors course or a course with an honors compact in mathematics at FAU at the 3000 level or 4000 level (DIS courses are excluded) with a grade of "B+" or higher.
3. Submit a mathematics paper to a student journal (or research journal) or the FAU Undergraduate Research Journal. Submission must be pre-approved by the faculty mentor.
4. Submit a solution to a mathematics problem posed in a student journal. Submission must be pre-approved by the faculty mentor.
5. Give an hour presentation at the Mathematics and Statistics Colloquium or the Math Club explaining a research article that the student has read or an original result the student has obtained.
6. Give a presentation or poster in mathematics at a conference or the FAU Undergraduate Research Symposium.
7. Pass one actuarial exam.

Capstone Requirement
Complete one of the following capstone experiences:

1. Write an honors thesis and achieve a grade of "B+" or better in MAT 4970, Honor Thesis in Mathematics. At least one published research article must be read and related published papers must be appropriately referenced in the thesis. The thesis must be reviewed and accepted by the faculty mentor and reviewer(s). The student must give a presentation, separate from item 5 above, at the Mathematics and Statistics Colloquium or the Math Club explaining the thesis.
2. Complete a semester-long internship and write a report, which must be reviewed and accepted by the faculty mentor and reviewer(s). The student must give a presentation at the Mathematics and Statistics Colloquium or the Math Club describing the internship activities.
3. Complete a Research Experience for Undergraduates program and write a report, which must be reviewed and accepted by the faculty mentor and reviewer(s). The student must give a presentation, separate from item 5 above, at the Mathematics and Statistics Colloquium or the Math Club explaining the program activities and results.

Honors theses and capstone reports will be stored by the department and will be available to department members.

Upon completion of the program, students will receive the designation "Honors in Mathematics" on their transcripts.

Mathematics
Undergraduate Minor

(Minimum of 12 or 13 credits required)

Students are expected to complete MAC 2311 (Calculus 1) and MAC 2312 (Calculus 2) or their equivalents as prerequisites for the Minor in Mathematics (8 credits). The minor requires four Mathematics courses, 12 or 13 credits, with minimum grades of "C" in each course, with at least 9 of these credits completed at Florida Atlantic University.

Choose three courses from the list
Calculus 3	MAC 2313	4
Discrete Mathematics	MAD 2104	3
Introduction to Computational Mathematics	MAD 2502	3
Differential Equations 1	MAP 2302	3 or
Engineering Mathematics 1	MAP 3305	3
Matrix Theory	MAS 2103	3

The remaining course must be an upper-division mathematics course (3000 level or above), excluding MAP 3305. The total number of credits, including the MAC 2311 and MAC 2312 prerequisites, is 20 or 21.

Statistics
Undergraduate Minor

(Minimum of 26 credits required)

The minor in Statistics enables students to gain knowledge in the field while pursuing a major in other disciplines, including mathematics. The required curriculum provides the necessary statistical foundations of the field and practical applications relevant to the student's area of specialization.

Each course must be completed with a minimum grade of "C." The total number of credits required for this minor is 26. To obtain the minor in Statistics, the student must complete the following required/elective courses:

Prerequisites
Calculus 1	MAC 2311	4
Calculus 2	MAC 2312	4
Matrix Theory	MAS 2103	3
Core Required Courses
Applied Statistics Lab	STA 4202L	1
Applied Statistics 1	STA 4234	2
Probability and Statistics 1	STA 4442	3
Probability and Statistics 2 or Probability and Statistics for Engineers	STA 4443 or STA 4032	3
Choose two electives from the following list
Intermediate Econometrics	ECO 4422	3
Introduction to Queueing Theory	MAP 4260	3
Statistical Physics	PHY 4523	3
RI: Introduction to Data Science or SAS for Data and Statistical Analyses	CAP 3786  or  STA 3024	3
Computational Statistics	STA 3100	3
RI: Statistical Learning	STA 4241	3
Statistical Designs	STA 4222	3
Applied Statistics 2	STA 4702	3
Applied Time Series and Forecasting	STA 4853	3
Mathematics and Statistics Total		26

As with all degree programs, the authoritative source for the degree requirements is the University Catalog that was in effect for the academic year in which the student entered the University.

Undergraduate Certificates

Artificial Intelligence (AI) for Cybersecurity
Undergraduate Certificate

(Minimum of 12 credits required)

Introduction
Cybersecurity involves studying methods, tools, mathematical principles and operational practices to safeguard the integrity of information, systems, and networks. Artificial Intelligence, leveraging its capacity to process extensive datasets, detect patterns, and dynamically respond to emerging threats in real-time, emerges as an indispensable tool for enhancing the security of information infrastructures, system functionalities, network architectures and cryptographic protocols.

This program aims to equip students with knowledge and tools that leverage AI technologies to develop more robust and efficient cybersecurity solutions, allowing for proactive identification and response to cyber threats.

For track details, see College of Engineering and Computer Science.

Actuarial Science
Undergraduate Certificate

(Minimum of 24 credits required)

Actuarial Sciences is a career that is in high demand. Actuaries are professionals who use their mathematical training to solve problems in insurance and finances. The certificate requires 15 credits of prerequisite courses and 24 credits of required courses, with at least 18 of these credits taken at FAU.

Prerequisites
Calculus 1, 2 and 3	MAC 2311, 2312, 2313	12
Macroeconomic Principles	ECO 2013	3

 

Requirements
Microeconomic Principles	ECO 2023	3
Principles of Financial Management	FIN 3403	3
Actuarial Mathematics 1	MAP 4172	3
Actuarial Mathematics 2	MAP 4173	3
Internship-Actuarial Science	MAP 4945	6
Probability and Statistics 1, 2	STA 4442, 4443	6

It is recommended that students also complete STA 4234, STA 4202L and STA 4702. These courses will prepare students for the third actuarial exam.

Cybersecurity
Undergraduate Minor and Undergraduate Certificate

(Minimum of 12 credits required)

Cybersecurity is the study of methods to ensure information and system security. Industry and government need an educated workforce to serve as information and systems security analysts, security and network administrators and more. Due their extensive expertise and facilities, the departments of Information Technology and Operations Management (in the College of Business), Electrical Engineering and Computer Science (In the College of Engineering and Computer Science) and Mathematics and Statistics (in the College of Science) have jointly designed the Cybersecurity Minor and Certificate. Three tracks, each requiring 12 credits, constitute the minor and certificate: Information Technology (IT), Computer Science (CS) and Mathematical Sciences (MS). Details for this certificate program can be found in the  Interdisciplinary Programs  section of this catalog.

Data Science
Undergraduate Certificate

(Minimum of 15 credits required)

A  Data Science certificate  program, designed jointly by the departments of Electrical Engineering and Computer Science and Mathematics and Statistics, provides an in-depth study of the methods to manage, analyze and extract knowledge from data. Admission and course requirements are detailed  here.

Statistics
Undergraduate Certificate

(Minimum of 23 credits required)

The certificate program in Statistics enables students to pursue an interdisciplinary course of study in statistics. The required curriculum provides students with necessary statistical foundations of the field and exposes them to practical applications relevant to their chosen areas of specialization.

Each of the following courses must be completed with a minimum grade of "C-." The total number of credits required for this certificate is 23. To obtain the certificate in Statistics, the student must complete the following required/elective courses:

Required Courses
Calculus 1	MAC 2311	4
Calculus 2	MAC 2312	4
Applied Statistics Lab	STA 4202L	1
Applied Statistics 1	STA 4234	2
Probability and Statistics 1	STA 4442	3
Choose one from this list
Probability and Statistics 2	STA 4443	3
Probability and Statistics for Engineers	STA 4032	3
Stochastic Models for Computer Science	STA 4821	3
Stochastic Processes and Random Signals	EEL 4541	3
Recommended mathematics courses
Calculus 3	MAC 2313	4
Matrix Theory	MAS 2103	3
Choose two elective courses
Intermediate Econometrics	ECO 4422	3
Introduction to Queueing Theory	MAP 4260	3
Statistical Physics	PHY 4523	3
RI: Introduction to Data Science* or SAS for Data and Statistical Analyses*	CAP 3786  or  STA 3024	3
Computational Statistics*	STA 3100	3
Statistical Designs*	STA 4222	3
RI: Statistical Learning*	STA 4241	3
Applied Statistics 2*	STA 4702	3
Applied Time Series and Forecasting*	STA 4853	3
Total		23

*Recommended elective courses

As with all degree programs, the authoritative source for the degree requirements is the University Catalog that was in effect for the academic year in which the student entered the University.

Secondary Education Program
A program leading to teacher certification in mathematics is available through the Department of  Curriculum and Instruction  in the College of Education.

Combined Programs

Mathematics
Bachelor of Science (B.S.) to Master of Science (M.S.)
Combined Program

(Minimum of 150 credits required)

This accelerated, five-year program leads to both Bachelor of Science (B.S.) and a Master of Science (M.S.) degrees. The combined degree program is 150 credits: 120 credits for the undergraduate degree and 30 for the master's degree, with a maximum of 12 credits of graduate coursework used to satisfy both degrees. Once admitted into the program, students shall follow the suggested course sequence.  To allow for maximum flexibility in career aspirations, students may select from five concentrations.

• Pure Mathematics
• Applied Analysis
• Biostatistics
• Cryptology and Information Security
• Financial Mathematics

Once admitted into the program, students shall follow the suggested course sequence within a single concentration.  The baccalaureate degree will be conferred before the master’s degree.

Students must maintain a GPA of 3.0 in upper-division and graduate courses. Students interested in the combined B.S./M.S. should consult with the graduate advisor before taking upper-division mathematics coursework to ensure that their coursework will apply toward the combined degree. Students must apply for admission to candidacy by the end of their junior year. 

Prerequisite Coursework for Transfer Students
Students transferring to Florida Atlantic University must complete both lower-division requirements (including the requirements of the General Education Program) and requirements for the college and major. Lower-division requirements may be completed through the A.A. degree from any Florida public college, university or community college or through equivalent coursework at another regionally accredited institution. Before transferring and to ensure timely progress toward the baccalaureate degree, students must also complete the prerequisite courses for their major as outlined in the  Transition Guides .

All courses not approved by the Florida Statewide Course Numbering System that will be used to satisfy requirements will be evaluated individually on the basis of content and will require a catalog course description and a copy of the syllabus for assessment.

B.S. Curriculum
Students must complete the requirements of the B.S. degree in Mathematics. Twelve graduate credits will count toward both B.S. and M.S. degree requirements. Students must select 12 credits from the graduate courses within a single concentration.

Pure Mathematics Concentration Choose four courses from the following list.
Introductory Analysis 1	MAA 5228	3
Introductory Analysis 2	MAA 5229	3
Linear Algebra	MAS 5145	3
Introductory Abstract Algebra 1	MAS 5311	3
Introductory Abstract Algebra 2	MAS 5312	3
Applied Analysis Concentration Choose four courses from Lists A and B, with at least one from List A.
List A
Introductory Analysis 1	MAA 5228	3
Linear Algebra	MAS 5145	3
Computational Mathematics	MAD 6403	3
Numerical Analysis	MAD 6407	3
Ordinary Differential Equations	MAP 6336	3
Partial Differential Equations	MAP 6345	3
List B
Introduction to Data Science	CAP 5768	3
Multivariable Analysis	MAA 5105	3
Introductory Analysis 2	MAA 5229	3
Real Analysis	MAA 6306	3
Complex Analysis 1	MAA 6406	3
Introduction to Dynamical Systems and Chaos 1	MAP 6211	3
General Topology 1	MTG 6313	3
Regression Analysis	STA 6236	3
Mathematical Statistics	STA 6326	3
Mathematical Probability	STA 6444	3
Applied Time Series Analysis	STA 6857	3
Biostatistics Concentration Choose four courses from Lists A and B, with at least one from List A.
List A
Linear Algebra	MAS 5145	3
Biostatistics	STA 5195	3
Mathematical Statistics	STA 6326	3
Mathematical Probability	STA 6444	3
List B
Introduction to Data Science	CAP 5768	3
Multivariable Analysis	MAA 5105	3
Numerical Analysis	MAD 6407	3
Linear Algebra	MAS 5145	3
Statistical Computing	STA 6106	3
Survival Analysis	STA 6177	3
Biostatistics - Longitudinal Data Analysis	STA 6197	3
Applied Statistical Methods	STA 6207	3
Regression Analysis	STA 6236	3
Topics in Probability and Statistics (Stochastic Calculus)	STA 6446	3
Applied Time Series Analysis	STA 6857	3
Cryptology and Information Security Concentration Choose four courses from Lists A and B, with at least one from List A.
List A
Introduction to Cryptology and Information Security	MAD 5474	3
Cryptanalysis	MAD 6478	3
Coding Theory	MAD 6607	3
Linear Algebra	MAS 5145	3
List B
Introductory Analysis 1	MAA 5228	3
Introductory Analysis 2	MAA 5229	3
Enumerative Combinatorics	MAD 6206	3
Graph Theory	MAD 6307	3
Computational Mathematics	MAD 6403	3
Introductory Abstract Algebra 1	MAS 5311	3
Introductory Abstract Algebra 2	MAS 5312	3
Algebraic Number Theory	MAS 6215	3
Algebraic Curves	MAS 6315	3
Commutative Algebra	MAS 6333	3
Topics in Algebra	MAS 6396	3
Special Topics	MAS 6933	1-4
Mathematical Statistics	STA 6326	3
Mathematical Probability	STA 6444	3
Financial Mathematics Concentration Choose four courses from Lists A and B, with at least one from List A.
List A
Introductory Analysis 1	MAA 5228	3
Linear Algebra	MAS 5145	3
Mathematical Statistics	STA 6236	3
Mathematical Probability	STA 6444	3
List B
Multivariable Analysis	MAA 5105	3
Introductory Analysis 2	MAA 5229	3
Statistical Computing	STA 6106	3
Applied Statistical Methods	STA 6207	3
Regression Analysis	STA 6236	3
Topics in Probability and Statistics	STA 6446	3
Applied Time Series Analysis	STA 6857	3
Directed Independent Study	STA 6907	3

The 12 graduate credits may be counted as upper-division math electives or as a substitute for a required course as follows:

MAA 5228 may be substituted for MAS 3156
MAA 6406 may be substituted for MAA 4402
MAS 5145 may be substituted for MAS 4107
MAS 5311 may be substituted for MAS 4301

M.S. Curriculum
Students complete all requirements for the M.S. degree with major in Mathematics.

Liberal Arts and Sciences to Mathematics
Bachelor of Arts (B.A.) to Master of Science (M.S.)
Combined Program

Mathematical Sciences Concentration

Biological and Physical Sciences to Mathematics
Bachelor of Arts (B.A.) or
Bachelor of Science (B.S.) to Master of Science (M.S.)
Combined Program

Mathematics Concentration

The Department of Mathematics and Statistics  offers a combined program with the Wilkes Honors College: the  B.A. with Major in Liberal Arts and Sciences, with Concentration in Mathematical Sciences, or B.A./B.S. with Major in Biological and Physical Sciences, with Concentration in Mathematics, to M.S. with Major in Mathematics. Details for the undergraduate portions of the program can be found  here.

Master's Programs

Data Science and Analytics
Master of Science (M.S.)

Data Science via Scientific Inquiry Concentration
Data Science and Engineering Concentration
Data Science and Business Concentration
Data Science in Society Concentration

The  Master of Science with Major in Data Science and Analytics  (MSDSA) is a multi-college interdisciplinary program jointly administered by the Department of Mathematics and Statistics in the Charles E. Schmidt College of Science, the Department of Electrical Engineering and Computer Science in the College of Engineering and Computer Science, the Department of Information Technology and Operations Management (ITOM) in the College of Business and the Department of Political Science in the Dorothy F. Schmidt College of Arts and Letters. The program aims to prepare students with essential skill sets needed to analyze small, fast, big, massive and complex data. To allow for maximum flexibility in career aspirations, students may select from four concentrations:

• Data Science via Scientific Inquiry Concentration, Department of Mathematics and Statistics.
• Data Science and Engineering Concentration, Department of Electrical Engineering and Computer Science.
• Data Science in Business Concentration, Department of Information Technology and Operations Management.
• Data Science in Society Concentration, Department of Political Science.

For more information about the Master of Science with Major in Data Science and Analytics degree program, see the  Interdisciplinary Program  section of this catalog.

Mathematics
Master of Science (M.S.)

Pure Mathematics Concentration
Applied Analysis Concentration
Biostatistics Concentration
Cryptology and Information Security Concentration
Financial Mathematics Concentration

This program is designed to provide a foundation for mathematical work and application of mathematics in scientific or technical fields and industry. It should normally take a full-time student two years to complete. Five concentrations are offered: Pure Mathematics, Applied Analysis, Biostatistics, Cryptology and Information Security, and Financial Mathematics.

Admission Requirements
In addition to meeting the University graduate admission requirements, applicants must have a bachelor's degree in mathematics or coursework that includes the equivalent of Introduction to Advanced Mathematics, Modern Algebra, and Probability and Statistics 1, as well as computer competency. Applicants who do not meet all of the requirements will still be considered for conditional admission. 

Degree Requirements
To complete the M.S. degree in Mathematics the candidate must complete at least 30 credits of graduate coursework and satisfy the following criteria in addition to University requirements:

1. Earn at least 24 credits in courses specified in a degree concentration, pre-approved by the graduate advisor in mathematics; at least 15 credits of all credits applied to the degree must be at the 6000 level;
2. If pre-approved by the department graduate committee, up to 12 credits of FAU coursework from outside of the Department of Mathematics and Statistics may count toward the degree.
   
3. Complete one of the following three capstone options:
   
   1.  Successfully complete and defend a master's thesis, earning at least 6 credits of MAT 6971, Master's Thesis;
      
   2.  Successfully complete and report on an industrial internship, earning at least 6 credits; or
      
   3. Successfully complete a master's examination. The exam should be scheduled during the semester before the anticipated completion of coursework for the degree. Students should contact the departmental graduate director to schedule the exam.

Capstone Options
Thesis - 6 credits
Master's Thesis (may be taken over multiple terms)	MAT 6971	1-6
Internship - 6 credits
Internship in Applied Mathematics	MAP 6941	1-6
Non-Thesis, Non-Internship - 6 credits
Choose 6 credits of graduate courses approved by the department and complete M.S. exam.
Concentration Options
Pure Mathematics - 24 credits
Common Core Course
Linear Algebra	MAS 5145	3
Additional Core Courses - 9 credits, choose three of the following four courses.
Introductory Analysis 1	MAA 5228	3
Introductory Analysis 2	MAA 5229	3
Introductory Abstract Algebra 1	MAS 5311	3
Introductory Abstract Algebra 2	MAS 5312	3
At least four elective courses - 12 credits. Choose 12 credits at the 5000 or 6000 level from courses in the Mathematics and Statistics Department. A minimum of 9 credits must be at the 6000 level.
Applied Analysis - 24 credits
Common Core Course
Linear Algebra	MAS 5145	3
Additional Core Courses - 9 credits
Introductory Analysis 1	MAA 5228	3
Computational Mathematics	MAD 6403	3  or
Numerical Analysis	MAD 6407	3
Ordinary Differential Equations	MAP 6336	3  or
Partial Differential Equations	MAP 6345	3
At least four elective courses - 12 credits
Introduction to Data Science	CAP 5768	3
Multivariable Analysis	MAA 5105	3
Introductory Analysis 2	MAA 5229	3
Real Analysis	MAA 6306	3
Complex Analysis 1	MAA 6406	3
Introduction to Functional Analysis	MAA 6506	3
Computational Mathematics	MAD 6403	3
Numerical Analysis	MAD 6407	3
Introduction to Dynamical Systems and Chaos 1	MAP 6211	3
Ordinary Differential Equations	MAP 6336	3
Partial Differential Equations	MAP 6345	3
Supervised University Instruction in Mathematics	MAT 5946	1-3
General Topology 1	MTG 6316	3
Regression Analysis	STA 6236	3
Mathematical Statistics	STA 6326	3
Mathematical Probability	STA 6444	3
Applied Time Series Analysis	STA 6857	3
Biostatistics - 24 credits
Common Core Course
Linear Algebra	MAS 5145	3
Additional Core Courses - 9 credits
Biostatistics	STA 5195	3
Mathematical Statistics	STA 6326	3
Mathematical Probability	STA 6444	3
At least four elective courses - 12 credits
Introduction to Data Science	CAP 5768	3
Data Mining and Machine Learning	CAP 6673	3
Multivariable Analysis	MAA 5105	3
Numerical Analysis	MAD 6407	3
Supervised University Instruction in Mathematics	MAT 5946	1-3
Statistical Computing	STA 6106	3
Survival Analysis	STA 6177	3
Biostatistics - Longitudinal Data Analysis	STA 6197	3
Applied Statistical Methods	STA 6207	3
Regression Analysis	STA 6236	3
Topics in Probability and Statistics (Stochastic Calculus)	STA 6446	3
Applied Time Series Analysis	STA 6857	3
Cryptology and Information Security - 24 credits
Common Core Course
Linear Algebra	MAS 5145	3
Additional Core Courses - 9 credits
Introduction to Cryptology and Information Security	MAD 5474	3
Cryptanalysis	MAD 6478	3
Coding Theory	MAD 6607	3
Three courses - 9 credits from the following
Introductory Analysis 1	MAA 5228	3
Introductory Analysis 2	MAA 5229	3
Introductory Abstract Algebra 1	MAS 5311	3
Introductory Abstract Algebra 2	MAS 5312	3
Mathematical Statistics	STA 6326	3
Mathematical Probability	STA 6444	3
At least one elective course - 3 credits
Computer Data Security	CIS 6370	3
Distributed Systems Security	CIS 6375	3
Analysis of Algorithms	COT 6405	3
Secret Sharing Protocols	COT 6427	3
Randomized Algorithms	COT 6446	3
Computer Networks	CNT 5008	3
Data Analysis and Modeling for Cybersecurity	CAI 6803	3
Information Theory	EEL 6532	3
Enumerative Combinatorics	MAD 6206	3
Graph Theory	MAD 6307	3
Computational Mathematics	MAD 6403	3
Algebraic Number Theory	MAS 6215	3
Algebraic Curves	MAS 6315	3
Commutative Algebra	MAS 6333	3
Topics in Algebra	MAS 6396	3
Supervised University Instruction in Mathematics	MAT 5946	1-3
Special Topics	MAT 6933	1-4
Mathematical Statistics	STA 6326	3
Mathematical Probability	STA 6444	3
Financial Mathematics - 24 credits
Common Core Course
Linear Algebra	MAS 5145	3
Additional Core Courses - 18 credits
Introductory Analysis 1	MAA 5228	3
Mathematical Statistics	STA 6326	3
Mathematical Probability	STA 6444	3
Topics in Probability and Statistics (Stochastic Calculus)	STA 6446	3
Applied Time Series Analysis	STA 6857	3
Directed Independent Study	STA 6907	1-4
At least one elective course - 3 credits
Data Mining and Machine Learning	CAP 6673	3
Financial Markets	FIN 6246	3
Financial Management	FIN 6406	3
Portfolio Theory	FIN 6525	3
Multivariable Analysis	MAA 5105	3
Introductory Analysis 2	MAA 5229	3
Supervised University Instruction in Mathematics	MAT 5946	1-3
Statistical Computing	STA 6106	3
Applied Statistical Methods	STA 6207	3
Regression Analysis	STA 6236	3
Topics in Probability and Statistics	STA 6446	3
Directed Independent Study	STA 6907	3

 

Mathematics
Master of Science in Teaching (M.S.T.)

This degree program, with emphasis on issues of teaching, provides post-baccalaureate education for any students seeking a deeper understanding of and appreciation for mathematics. This M.S.T. degree program does not provide teaching certification; students interested in teaching at the state college level should consult with an advisor in the Department of Mathematics and Statistics. This program is offered only available fully online. (Change effective spring 2025.)

Admission Requirements
Admission requirements for the M.S.T. program are the same as for the M.S. in Mathematics.

Degree Requirements
This program requires 24 credits of mathematics courses and 6 credits of education courses at or above the 5000 level, and at least half of all credits applied to the degree must be in 6000-level courses. (Candidates without a valid secondary certificate or with fewer than two years of teaching experience might be required to complete a 6-credit internship.) The Mathematics and Statistics Department offers one or two 6000-level classes specifically designed for the M.S.T. program each semester (including summers), see the table below; but other 5000- or 6000-level Math courses may be applied toward this degree for students wishing to complete the program more quickly. Candidates may complete 6 of the 24 credits in mathematics by writing a master's thesis.

Online courses designed for the M.S.T. Program
Advanced Euclidean Geometry	MTG 6226	3
Advanced Algebra and Geometry	MAS 6318	3
Mathematics and Technology (Effective spring 2025.)	MAT 6715	3
Number Theory of Cryptography	MAS 6217	3
Dynamical Systems, Chaos, and Computing	MTG 6418	3
Problem Solving and Recreational Mathematics	MAT 6516	3
Calculus from a Historical Perspective	MHF 6410	3
Fractal Geometry	MTG 6415	3
Introductory  Discrete Mathematics	MAD 6108	3
Survey of  Statistics and Probability	STA 6116	3

Cyber Security
Graduate Certificate

(Minimum of 12 credits required)

Cybercrime-related issues especially impact the State of Florida because a significant part of the state's economic development comes from tourism, international banking and high-tech industries. The number of scientists, engineers and experts needed with special skills in cyber security exceeds the number available. The Cyber Security certificate provides opportunities for graduate students to expand their knowledge and skills to meet the needs of the cyber security field. Due to their extensive expertise and facilities, the departments of Electrical Engineering and Computer Science and Mathematics and Statistics have jointly designed the certificate. This 12-credit certificate program has two tracks: Computer Science (CS) and Mathematics (Math). Details for both tracks can be found in the  Interdisciplinary Programs  section of this catalog.

Doctoral Program

Mathematics
Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.)

The degree of Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) is conferred upon those candidates who have demonstrated the ability to make original and independent contributions in mathematics. This quality is evaluated through a dissertation that the candidate must submit to a supervisory committee and defend in an open presentation.

Admission to Doctoral Study
Although each candidate will be considered individually, the admission requirements include:

1. A baccalaureate in Mathematics or a related field completed with an average of "B" or better;
2. A TOEFL score, if applicable;
3. Three letters of recommendation and a statement of personal objectives; and
4. Approval of the FAU Mathematics and Statistics Department graduate committee.

Requirements to be admitted to candidacy

1. The student must complete the following courses: Introductory Analysis 1 and 2 (MAA 5228 and 5229), Introductory Abstract Algebra 1 and 2 (MAS 5311 and 5312), Linear Algebra (MAS 5145) and Multivariable Analysis (MAA 5105).
2. Satisfy one of the following:
   
   Option A. Pass two of the three exams (Algebra, Analysis, Probability and Statistics) within five semesters (not counting the summer terms) of admission to doctoral study. Then form a supervisory committee as outlined in Item 3.
   
   Option B. Complete the following steps within six semesters (not counting the summer terms) of admission to doctoral study.
   1. Earn a pass on one exam and a constructive attempt on a different exam within four semesters (not counting the summer terms) of admission to doctoral study.
   2. Select a prospective research advisor, and complete two courses at the 6000 level, selected by the prospective research advisor and approved by the departmental graduate committee. These courses will need to be passed with a combined GPA of at least 3.5. They will count toward Degree Requirement 1a below, but not 1b or 1c. The prospective research advisor may propose additional requirements.
   3. Receive a positive recommendation by the prospective research advisor and the graduate committee. Then form a supervisory committee as outlined in Item 3 with the prospective research advisor serving as research advisor.
3. Form a supervisory committee of at least four members including the research advisor and at least two other members of the graduate faculty of the Department of Mathematics and Statistics.

Degree Requirements

1. Credits and course requirements:
   1. Earn a minimum of 72 credits;
   2. Complete 6000-level or higher courses with at least four of these prefixes: MAA, MAD, MAP, MAS, MHF, MTG and STA;
      c. For at least two of the prefixes in Item 1b, complete at least two 6000-level or higher courses.
2. Successful completion of a preliminary examination covering specific areas of study and set by the student's supervisory committee.
3. Presentation and oral defense of a dissertation.
4. Completion of all University requirements, including at least 18 credits at FAU beyond the master's level.
   
   

Core - 18 credits
Multivariable Analysis	MAA 5105	3
Introductory Analysis 1	MAA 5228	3
Introductory Analysis 2	MAA 5229	3
Linear Algebra	MAS 5145	3
Introductory Abstract Algebra 1	MAS 5311	3
Introductory Abstract Algebra 2	MAS 5312	3
Electives - 18 credits  Choose18 credits at the 6000 or 7000 level from the Mathematics and Statistics Department
Remaining Requirements - 35 credits Choose 35 credits at the 5000, 6000 or 7000 level from the Mathematics and Statistics Department. Students may take MAT 7978, but not MAS 6318, MHF 6405 or MHF 6410.
Dissertation - 1 credit (minimum)
Dissertation	MAT 7980	1

Physics

Faculty:
Wille, L. T., Chair; Beetle, C.;  Engle, J. S.;  Gross, R.; Han, M.; Hotiu, A.; Kreymerman, G.; Lau, A. W. C.; Leventouri, T.; Miller, W. A.; Muhammad, W.; Sarajedini, A.; Sarajedini, V.; Sorge, K. D.; Starling, E.; Tichy, W.;

Faculty Emeritus:
Bruenn, S. W.; Dean, N.; Jordan, R. G.; Medina, F.

The Department of Physics offers undergraduate programs leading to the Bachelor of Arts (B.A.) and Bachelor of Science (B.S.) degrees. It also offers an Honors program, a Minor in Astronomy, and a Minor in Physics at the undergraduate level. The department offers graduate programs leading to Master of Science (M.S.), Professional Science Master (P.S.M.) in Medical Physics, Master of Science in Teaching (M.S.T.) and Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) degrees. It also offers a dual-degree program leading to both the B.S. and P.S.M. in Medical Physics on an accelerated schedule requiring only one year of additional study beyond the B.S.

The Department of  Curriculum and Instruction  in the College of Education also offers specialized programs leading to the Bachelor of Arts (B.A.) or Bachelor of Arts in Education (B.A.E.) degrees in Secondary Education with a focus on Physics (6-12) Education. The physics content-area courses required for these degrees are offered through the Department of Physics, and the content-area requirements in both physics and mathematics are outlined below. Contact the  Department of Curriculum and Instruction  with questions or to enroll in these degree programs.

Link to Minors

Link to Combined Program

Link to Master's Programs

Link to Doctoral Program

Undergraduate Information
Students considering a major or minor degree in physics should schedule a meeting with a member of the department's undergraduate advising committee to discuss their personal objectives and suitable degree options. A list of current committee members and contact information is available from the department office in SE 108 on the Boca Raton campus.

The department is committed to allowing undergraduate majors maximum flexibility in designing curricula tailored to their specific educational and career objectives. The undergraduate advising committee has been charged to consider student requests for waivers from otherwise required physics courses in favor of specific courses from outside the department that may be more directly suited to an individual student's needs. Such waivers must be obtained in advance and must be based on a clear educational objective set forth by the student. Ideally, students should plan and agree with the committee on any deviations from the standard curriculum for their degree at or near the time they declare a major in physics.

In addition to meeting University and College standards, students in any physics degree program must receive a grade of "C" or better in every required course offered within the Charles E. Schmidt College of Science.

Scholarship funds are available through the physics scholarship fund to outstanding graduates of the State of Florida's community (or state) college system. For more details, contact the Department of Physics.

Undergraduate Physics Core
All students seeking a major or minor degree in physics are required to complete the same introductory physics and mathematics sequences as well as an introductory natural science sequence outside the department. Students may opt for introductory sequences in either biology or chemistry. The undergraduate advising committee may approve alternative sequences, even retroactively, on a case-by-case basis.

Introductory Physics Courses
General Physics 1	PHY 2048	4
General Physics 1 Lab	PHY 2048L	1
General Physics 2	PHY 2049	4
General Physics 2 Lab	PHY 2049L	1
First-Year Physics Seminar	PHY 1090	1
Total		11

 

Introductory Mathematics Courses
Calculus with Analytic Geometry 1	MAC 2311	4
Calculus with Analytic Geometry 2	MAC 2312	4
Calculus with Analytic Geometry 3	MAC 2313	4
Total		12

 

Additional Introductory Mathematics Course
Differential Equations 1  or	MAP 2302	3  or
Engineering Mathematics 1	MAP 3305	3
Total		3

 

Courses in Related Sciences, either
General Chemistry 1	CHM 2045	3
General Chemistry 1 Lab	CHM 2045L	1
General Chemistry 2	CHM 2046	3
General Chemistry 2 Lab	CHM 2046L	1
or
Biological Principles	BSC 1010	3
Biological Principles Lab	BSC 1010L	1
Biodiversity	BSC 1011	3
Biodiversity Lab	BSC 1011L	1
Total		8

To meet University degree requirements, students in any physics program must also complete 32 additional lower-division general education credits in courses outside the Charles E. Schmidt College of Science.

Physics
Bachelor of Arts (B.A.)

(Minimum of 120 credits required)

The Bachelor of Arts (B.A.) degree program is offered for students seeking exposure to analytical methods in contemporary physics within a broader, liberal arts-style curriculum. Course requirements are significantly reduced compared with the department's flagship B.S. program described later in this section. The department does not recommend its B.A. degree for students planning graduate or professional work in physics. However, this program may be well suited to students planning work in related fields. Potential candidates should consult with the departmental undergraduate advisor to ensure this program will help meet their personal educational objectives before enrolling.

Prerequisite Coursework for Transfer Students
Students transferring to Florida Atlantic University must complete both lower-division requirements (including the requirements of the General Education Program) and requirements for the college and major. Lower-division requirements may be completed through the A.A. degree from any Florida public college, university or community college or through equivalent coursework at another regionally accredited institution. Before transferring and to ensure timely progress toward the baccalaureate degree, students must also complete the prerequisite courses for their major as outlined in the  Transition Guides .

All courses not approved by the Florida Statewide Course Numbering System that will be used to satisfy requirements will be evaluated individually on the basis of content and will require a catalog course description and a copy of the syllabus for assessment.

In addition to the Undergraduate Physics Core described above, B.A. candidates must complete the following required courses:

Intermediate Physics Courses
Survey of Modern Physics	PHY 3101C	3
Classical Mechanics	PHY 3221	3
Electromagnetism 1	PHY 3323	3
Quantum Mechanics 1	PHY 4604	3
Third-Year Physics Seminar	PHY 3932	1
Choose at least one course from the following list.
Statistical Physics	PHY 4523	3
Physical Electronics	PHY 3722C	3
Computational Physics	PHZ 3151C	3
Total		16

Overall, this degree program requires 34 credits of lower-division mathematics and science courses and 16 credits of upper-division physics courses. Substitutions for required courses are allowed with prior approval from the department's undergraduate advising committee.

Science Education
Bachelor of Arts (B.A.) or Bachelor of Science (B.S.) or Bachelor of Science in Education (B.S.E.)

Physics Education Concentration

(Minimum of 120 credits required)

The Bachelor of Arts (B.A.) in Science Education with concentration in Physics Education is offered through the Department of  Curriculum and Instruction  in the College of Education. It is intended for students interested in teaching physics professionally at the secondary level. Students may also earn this program with a Bachelor of Science (B.S.) or Bachelor of Science in Education (B.S.E.) degree. Students in this program will be advised through the Department of  Curriculum and Instruction. However, content-course requirements are listed here for students interested in this program.

Prerequisite Coursework for Transfer Students
Students transferring to Florida Atlantic University must complete both lower-division requirements (including the requirements of the General Education Program) and requirements for the college and major. Lower-division requirements may be completed through the A.A. degree from any Florida public college, university or community college or through equivalent coursework at another regionally accredited institution. Before transferring and to ensure timely progress toward the baccalaureate degree, students must also complete the prerequisite courses for their major as outlined in the  Transition Guides .

All courses not approved by the Florida Statewide Course Numbering System that will be used to satisfy requirements will be evaluated individually on the basis of content and will require a catalog course description and a copy of the syllabus for assessment.

In addition to the Undergraduate Physics Core courses described above, candidates must complete the following required courses:

Intermediate Physics Courses
Survey of Modern Physics	PHY 3101C	3
Electromagnetism 1	PHY 3323	3
Physical Electronics	PHY 3722C	3
Choose at least 8 credits from the following list.
Classical Mechanics	PHY 3221	3
Statistical Physics	PHY 4523	3
Quantum Mechanics 1	PHY 4604	3
Computational Physics	PHZ 3151C	3
Total		20

Overall, this degree program requires 73 lower-division credits, including general education requirements for the B.A., B.S. or B.S.E. degree, as well as math, science and education courses. It also requires 20 credits of upper-division physics courses and 24 credits of upper-division education courses. See the Department of  Curriculum and Instruction  in the College of Education for details.

Physics
Bachelor of Science (B.S.)

(Minimum of 120 credits required)

The Bachelor of Science (B.S.) degree program is the flagship of the department's undergraduate curriculum. It is designed to help students prepare for careers in physics, related sciences or closely related fields such as engineering. The emphasis is on analytical methods in contemporary theoretical and experimental physics. Students considering graduate work in physics or related areas are strongly encouraged to complete this program.

Prerequisite Coursework for Transfer Students
Students transferring to Florida Atlantic University must complete both lower-division requirements (including the requirements of the General Education Program) and requirements for the college and major. Lower-division requirements may be completed through the A.A. degree from any Florida public college, university or community college or through equivalent coursework at another regionally accredited institution. Before transferring and to ensure timely progress toward the baccalaureate degree, students must also complete the prerequisite courses for their major as outlined in the  Transition Guides .

All courses not approved by the Florida Statewide Course Numbering System that will be used to satisfy requirements will be evaluated individually on the basis of content and will require a catalog course description and a copy of the syllabus for assessment.

In addition to the undergraduate physics core described above, B.S. candidates must complete the following required courses:

Intermediate Physics Courses
Survey of Modern Physics	PHY 3101C	3
Classical Mechanics	PHY 3221	3
Electromagnetism 1	PHY 3323	3
Electromagnetism 2	PHY 3324	3
Statistical Physics	PHY 4523	3
Quantum Mechanics 1	PHY 4604	3
Physical Electronics	PHY 3722C	3
Undergraduate Laboratory 1	PHY 3802L	1
Undergraduate Laboratory 2	PHY 4803L	1
Third-Year Physics Seminar	PHY 3932	1
Computational Physics	PHZ 3151C	3
Mathematical Methods for Physics	PHZ 4113	3
Approved Electives		6
Total		36

Overall, this degree program requires 34 credits of lower-division mathematics and science courses and 36 credits of upper-division physics courses. Substitutions for required courses are allowed with prior approval from the department's undergraduate advising committee.

Honors Program in Physics

Qualified physics majors may elect to complete an Honors Program (thesis) prior to graduation. The thesis will describe participation in current research under the supervision of a member of the department faculty. A student completing a satisfactory thesis will receive the distinction "honors in physics" upon graduation.

To qualify for the program, students must maintain a GPA of at least 3.0 in required courses within the College of Science and complete a minimum of 30 credits of physics courses by the end of their junior year. Candidates should apply for this program through the undergraduate advising committee roughly one year prior to graduation.

Astronomy
Undergraduate Minor

(Minimum of 12 credits required)

The primary goal of this minor is to prepare undergraduate B.S. Physics majors at FAU to attend graduate school intending to earn a master's or doctorate in Astronomy and Astrophysics. The minor builds on the existing Physics major and provides students the background needed in astronomy and astrophysics to succeed in graduate school. In addition, students in other majors, such as Engineering, Journalism and Communications, Marketing, History and Philosophy may also want to have a minor in Astronomy to enhance their career potential.

In addition to courses listed below, this program will require a "C" or better in (MAC 1105 or MAC 2311) and (PHY 2053 or PHY 2048) in fulfillment of prerequisites for the upper-division coursework.

Students are required to earn at least 12 credits (9 of which must be upper division) with a minimum grade of C from among the required courses listed below. At least 9 of these credits must be completed at Florida Atlantic University.

Required Courses
Introduction to Astronomy	AST 2002	3
Astronomy and Astrophysics	AST 3018	3
Select at least two courses from the following list
Solar System Astronomy	AST 3110	3
Techniques of Observational Astronomy	AST 3722	3
Stars and the Galaxy	AST 4300	3
Galaxies and Cosmology	AST 4402	3

Overall, this degree program requires 10-11 lower-division credits and 9 upper- division credits, including prerequisites.

Physics
Undergraduate Minor

(Minimum of 36 credits required)

The department offers a minor in Physics to interested students seeking bachelor's degrees in other fields. It is expected that most students interested in this program will major in fields sufficiently closely related that most of the undergraduate physics core will also fulfill major requirements. Students interested in this program should consult with the department's undergraduate advising committee prior to enrolling.

In addition to the undergraduate physics core described above, candidates for a minor in Physics must complete the following required courses:

Intermediate Physics Course
Survey of Modern Physics	PHY 3101C	3
Choose at least one course from the following list.
Classical Mechanics	PHY 3221	3
Electromagnetism 1	PHY 3323	3
Physical Electronics	PHY 3722C	3
Statistical Physics	PHY 4523	3
Quantum Mechanics 1	PHY 4604	3
Computational Physics	PHZ 3151C	3
Total		6

Overall, this degree program requires 30 lower-division credits in physics and mathematics and 6 credits of upper-division physics. Some of the lower-division credits may also satisfy candidates' major requirements. At least 75 percent of all credits required for the minor must be earned from FAU.

Combined Program

Physics to Medical Physics
Bachelor of Science (B.S.) to Professional Science Master (P.S.M.) Combined Program

(Minimum of  158 161 credits required) (Changes effective spring 2025.)

This accelerated, five-year program leads to both a Bachelor of Science (B.S.) and a Professional Science Master (P.S.M.) degree. Students apply to the B.S./P.S.M. program in the first semester of their junior year and begin taking graduate courses after completion of their junior year (summer prior to senior year); those courses would apply to both the B.S. and P.S.M. degrees. The combined degree program is 158 161 credits, 120 for the undergraduate degree and 38 41 for the graduate degree. Students complete the undergraduate degree first. Up to 12 credits of graduate work taken in the senior year can be counted toward both the undergraduate and graduate degrees. Students must maintain a minimum GPA of 3.0 in upper-division and graduate courses. Because of the accelerated nature of the program, students should take the GRE by the end of their first year junior semester.

Prerequisite Coursework for Transfer Students
Students transferring to Florida Atlantic University must complete both lower-division requirements (including the requirements of the General Education Program) and requirements for the college and major. Lower-division requirements may be completed through the A.A. degree from any Florida public college, university or community college or through equivalent coursework at another regionally accredited institution. Before transferring and to ensure timely progress toward the baccalaureate degree, students must also complete the prerequisite courses for their major as outlined in the  Transition Guides.

All courses not approved by the Florida Statewide Course Numbering System that will be used to satisfy requirements will be evaluated individually on the basis of content and will require a catalog course description and a copy of the syllabus for assessment.

Requirements and Eligibility
In addition to the University and Charles E. Schmidt College of Science requirements, students seeking a B.S. in Physics/P.S.M. in Medical Physics must complete the following courses.

Undergraduate Physics Core
Students are required to complete the introductory physics and mathematics sequences as well as an introductory natural science sequence outside the department as noted in the  Undergraduate Physics Core.  Students may opt for introductory sequences in either biology or chemistry. The undergraduate advising committee may approve alternative sequences, even retroactively, on a case-by-case basis.

To meet University degree requirements, students in any physics program must also complete 32 additional lower-division general education credits in courses outside the Charles E. Schmidt College of Science.

Curriculum
In addition to the Undergraduate Physics Core, B.S./P.S.M. candidates must complete the following required courses.

Upper Division Physics Courses
Survey of Modern Physics	PHY 3101C	3
Classical Mechanics	PHY 3221	3
Electromagnetism 1	PHY 3323	3
Electromagnetism 2	PHY 3324	3
Statistical Physics	PHY 4523	3
Quantum Mechanics 1	PHY 4604	3
Physical Electronics	PHY 3722C	3
Undergraduate Laboratory 1	PHY 3802L	1
Undergraduate Laboratory 2	PHY 4803L	1
Third-Year Physics Seminar	PHY 3932	1
Computational Physics	PHZ 3151C	3
Mathematical Methods for Physics	PHZ 4113	3
Approved Electives		6
Total		44

Substitutions for required courses are allowed with prior approval from the department's undergraduate advising committee. Graduate courses are listed below.

Beginning in the first semester of their junior year, students may take Radiation Biology (RAT 6204, 3 credits). Then in the summer, they may take Seminar in Medical Physics (RAT 6932, 1 credit), Radiation Protection and Safety (RAT 6310, 3 credits) and Shielding and Commissioning (RAT 6376, 3 credits). In their senior year, they may take Radiation Physics (RAT 6686, 3 credits), Medical Imaging Physics (RAT 6616, 3 credit), Nuclear Medical Physics (RAT 6687, 3 credits) and one 5000-level elective (3 credits). This plan gives a total of 22 credits out of the 41 needed for the P.S.M. in Medical Physics program.

Graduate Courses
Core Courses - 15 credits
Radiation Biology	RAT 6204	3
Radiation Physics	RAT 6686	3
Radiation Therapy Physics	RAT 6628	3
Medical Imaging Physics	RAT 6616	3
Nuclear Medical Physics	RAT 6687	3
Additional Required Courses - 23 credits
Radiation Protection and Safety	RAT 6310	3
Advanced Photon Beam Radiation Therapy	RAT 6629	3
Radiation Therapy: Clinical Practicum and Shadowing	RAT 6947	3
Shielding and Commissioning	RAT 6376	3
Seminar in Medical Physics	RAT 6932	1
Special Topics (such as Human Morphology and Function 1)	BSC 5931	3
Special Topics (such as Human Morphology and Function 2)	BSC 5931	3
Master's Thesis	RAT 6975	4
Elective Course - 3 credits Choose one course from the following with advisor's approval.
Biostatistics	STA 5195	3
Computational Physics	PHZ 5156	3
Bioinformatics: Bioengineering Perspectives	BME 6762	3
Nonlinear Dynamic Systems	ISC 5453	3
Advanced Cell Physiology	PCB 6207	3
Tumor Immunology	PCB 6239	3
Special Topics (including Cell Structure and Function)	BSC 6936	3
Introduction to Biophysics	PHZ 5715	3
Total		38 41

 

Master's Programs

Physics
Master of Science (M.S.)

The Department of Physics offers the Master of Science (M.S.) degree with major in Physics. The degree should be particularly attractive to those intending to seek jobs in industry or in teaching at the secondary or community college levels. The coursework and research experience provided by the M.S. program will also be of value to students whose eventual goal is a Ph.D., although those students are strongly encouraged to enroll directly into the Ph.D. program if possible. The M.S. in Physics normally requires four semesters beyond the B.S. in Physics, or equivalent. The Department also offers a Professional Science Master (P.S.M.) with Major in Medical Physics, an interdisciplinary program, which is described in the Interdisciplinary Programs section.

Admission Requirements 
In addition to meeting all of the University and College admission requirements for graduate study, applicants for the M.S. in Physics must meet all of the following the departmental requirements:

1. Hold a B.S. degree, or equivalent, in Physics or a closely related field;
2. Earn a cumulative GPA of 3.0 or higher, or equivalent, in the last 60 credits of undergraduate work;
3. Be approved by the Department of Physics; and
4. Pass a recent TOEFL exam with a minimum score of 550 (PBT), 213 (CBT) or 79 (IBT).  This requirement is waived for students from countries whose official languages include English. 

Degree Requirements
This M.S. degree has two variants, one requiring a thesis, and the other requiring a passing grade in a Comprehensive Exam administered by the department. Both require 30 credits.

Graduate Core Courses - 12 credits required
Mechanics	PHY 6247	3
Electromagnetism	PHY 6346	3
Statistical Mechanics	PHY 6536	3
Quantum Mechanics 1	PHY 6645	3
Mathematical Physics Course - 3 credits required
Mathematical Physics 1	PHZ 5115	3  or
Mathematical Physics 2	PHZ 5116	3
Computational Physics Course - 3 credits required
Computational Physics	PHZ 5156	3
Elective Courses, Thesis Variant - 12 credits required
Master's Thesis	PHY 6971	6
Approved Electives*, **		6
Elective Courses, Non-Thesis Variant - 12 credits required
Approved Electives*, **		12
Non-Thesis M.S. candidates must pass a written or oral Comprehensive Exam administered by the department.
Total		30

* All electives must be approved the department's graduate advisor.
** Only 3 credits of Graduate Research (PHY 6918) may be counted toward this degree.

Physics
Master of Science in Teaching (M.S.T.)

The Master of Science in Teaching (M.S.T.) is designed for physics teachers in secondary schools and community colleges. The cognate area will usually be Mathematics.

Admission Requirements
In addition to meeting all University and College admission requirements for graduate study, applicants for the M.S.T. degree must satisfy the following departmental requirements:

1. A B.A. or B.S. degree, or equivalent, in physics or a closely related subject; 
2. A GPA of 3.0 or higher in the last 60 credits of undergraduate coursework; and
3. Approval from the Deapartment of Physics.

Degree Requirements

Two courses from the following list - 6 credits
Mechanics	PHY 6247	3
Electromagnetism	PHY 6346	3
Statistical Mechanics	PHY 6536	3
Quantum Mechanics 1	PHY 6645	3
Mathematical Physics 1	PHZ 5115	3
Mathematical Physics 2	PHZ 5116	3
Take each of the following courses - 24 credits
Topics in Physics	PHY 5935	6
Master's Thesis*	PHY 6971	6
Physics Electives approved by the department**		6
Education Electives approved by the department**		6
Total		30
* Credits in Master's Thesis may be replaced with additional electives with department approval. ** All electives must be graduate courses and must be approved by the department's graduate advisor prior to enrollment.

Doctoral Program

Physics
Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.)

(Minimum of 72 credits required)

The Department of Physics offers graduate study leading to a Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) degree. The department is active in research in experimental, theoretical and computational physics as well as astronomy. The Ph.D. will be conferred only for work of distinction in which the student displays original scholarship, achievement and ability.

Admission Requirements
In addition to meeting all of the University and College admission requirements for graduate study, applicants for the Ph.D. in Physics must meet all of the following the departmental requirements:

1. Hold a B.S. degree, or equivalent, in Physics or a closely related field;
2. Earn a GPA of 3.0 or higher, or equivalent, in the last 60 credits of undergraduate work;
3. Be approved by the Department of Physics; and
4. Pass a recent TOEFL exam with a minimum score of 550 (PBT), 213 (CBT) or 79 (IBT). This requirement is waived for students from countries whose official languages include English.

In addition, the Department strongly encourages applicants to secure two or more letters of support from faculty familiar with their past work and to provide a report of a recent score on the GRE Physics subject exam. Although not required, these items will be considered in the admissions process if available.

Degree Requirements  (minimum of 72 credits)

1. Students in the Physics Ph.D. program must satisfy the following course requirements.
   

   Graduate Core Courses - 12 credits required
   Mechanics	PHY 6247	3
   Electromagnetism	PHY 6346	3
   Statistical Mechanics	PHY 6536	3
   Quantum Mechanics 1	PHY 6645	3
   Mathematical Physics Course - 3 credits required
   Mathematical Physics 1	PHZ 5115	3 or
   Mathematical Physics 2	PHZ 5116	3
   Computational Physics Course - 3 credits required
   Computational Physics	PHZ 5156	3
   Ph.D. Elective and Research Courses - 54 credits required
   Approved Electives *, **		24
   Dissertation**	PHY 7980	30

   
   * All electives must be approved by the department's graduate advisor. At most, 6 elective credits may be earned in Directed Independent Study (AST/PHY/RAT 6907) courses offered the department faculty. 
   ** Up to 6 credits of other graduate-level research courses offered by the department may be counted toward the dissertation requirement. 

2. The department may apply up to 24 transfer credits from another institution toward this degree. Approval of transfer credits is at the discretion of the department faculty. However, all students in the Ph.D. program must complete the Ph.D. core courses listed above at FAU.

Admission to Candidacy
To be admitted to candidacy, students must satisfy the following requirements within five semesters (excluding summers) of beginning the Ph.D. program:

1. Complete the four Graduate Core Courses listed above with a grade of "B" or higher in each.
2. Complete at least 36 credits of graduate-level courses (including the Graduate Core Courses and approved transfer credits from other institutions, but excluding research or dissertation credits) with a cumulative GPA of at least 3.0.
3. Form a Supervisory Committee:
   a. Identify a member of the department faculty who agrees to serve as Ph.D. supervisor and chair (or co-chair) of the Supervisory Committee overseeing a dissertation project on a specific topic selected by the student in consultation with the supervisor.
   b. Identify at least three additional members of the FAU graduate faculty who agree to serve as members of the Supervisory Committee. At least one member of the Supervisory Committee must be from outside the FAU Department of Physics, but a (simple) majority of Committee members must be graduate faculty from within the department.
   c. Submit all required paperwork to FAU’s Graduate College to form the Supervisory Committee and finalize the student’s Plan of Study.
   d. Membership of the Supervisory Committee and the revised Plan of Study (if any) must be approved by the department’s graduate advisor.
4. Present a general outline of the proposed dissertation project at a Physics Colloquium.
5. Pass a Comprehensive Oral Exam administered by the Supervisory Committee. The exam will cover topics from graduate-level coursework that the Committee considers relevant to the student’s proposed research.

Doctoral Research
Ph.D. candidates in Physics are expected to demonstrate consistent progress toward timely graduation, typically within six years of entering the Ph.D. program. Accordingly, candidates shall organize a meeting at least once per year with their Supervisory Committee. Candidates shall prepare a one-page, written report describing progress in their dissertation research project since the Supervisory Committee last met, which shall be sent to the Committee members and the department’s graduate advisor at least one week prior to the Committee meeting.

Candidates must complete a significant program of original research, participate in advanced seminars in their area of specialization and defend completed dissertations in the Physics Department Colloquium Series. Each dissertation must be clearly written, complete and demonstrate an original contribution to the sum of existing knowledge. Each completed dissertation must be approved by the candidate's Supervisory Committee, the department chair and the deans of the Charles E. Schmidt College of Science and of the Graduate College.

Psychology

Faculty:
Vallacher, R. R., Interim Chair.; Bjorklund, D. F., Associate Chair; Rosselli, M., Associate Chair; Alexander, W.; Anzures, G.; Barenholtz, E.; Barnhardt, T.; Darby, K.; Forbes, C; Gerstein, E.; Hoff, E.; Hong, S. W.; Hughes, K. M.; Jakubow, J.; Jones, L.; Jones, N.; Kelso, J. A. S.; Kersten, A.; Laursen, B.; Maniaci, M.; Marion, D.; Mavica, L. W.; Nowak, A.; Perry, G. W.; Sheremata, S.; Stackman, R.; Varela Castro, M.; Vertes, R.; Wetherell, G.; Wilcox, T., Wolgin, D. L.

Psychology in the Charles E. Schmidt College of Science defines itself as a science that focuses on mental processes and cognition, social influences on the individual and the biological and neural bases of human and animal behavior. The main mission of the faculty in psychology is to prepare students for graduate training and professional work in psychology as well as to provide a sound undergraduate education for students wishing to work in areas outside of psychology, such as business, law or education.

The department offers the Bachelor of Arts (B.A.) degree in Psychology and the  Bachelor of Science (B.S.) degree in Neuroscience and Behavior,  as well as an upper-division  Honors Program in Psychology,  the  FAU Max Planck Honors Program, a  minor in Psychology  and a certificate in  Applied Mental Health Services.

In the graduate area, the Department of Psychology offers the Master of Arts (M.A.) degree in Psychology and the Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) degree in Experimental Psychology.

Two  combined programs  - a Bachelor of Arts (B.A.) in Psychology to a Master of Arts (M.A.) in Psychology and a Bachelor of Science (B.S.) in Neuroscience and Behavior to a Master of Arts (M.A.) in Psychology - offer ways in which interested students may earn both a bachelor's and master's degree within five years.

Note: The Department of Psychology considers scientific misconduct, including such activities as inventing or intentionally misrepresenting data, as interfering with its educational mission and subject to the same penalties and procedures as other Honor Code violations and academic irregularities

Link to Combined Programs

Link to Master's Program

Link to Doctoral Program

Psychology
Bachelor of Arts (B.A.)

(Minimum of 120 credits required)

The B.A. degree in Psychology is intended for students interested in pursuing graduate study in psychology (experimental psychology, clinical or counseling psychology, applied psychology). The departmental program offers a focus in psychology and maximum flexibility in choice of electives. Thus, it may be tailored to the interests of the individual student and to further professional plans. A grade of "C-" or better (unless otherwise noted in the course description) is required in all psychology and cognate courses taken as part of the requirements for a B.A. with major in Psychology. However, students must maintain a "C" average in departmental major courses. Facilities are available for experimental research in cognitive psychology, neuroscience and behavior, social/personality psychology and developmental psychology. Qualified students are strongly encouraged to become involved in such research (normally via a Directed Independent Research or a special research course).

Prerequisite Coursework for Transfer Students
Students transferring to Florida Atlantic University must complete both lower-division requirements (including the requirements of the General Education Program) and requirements for the college and major. Lower-division requirements may be completed through the A.A. degree from any Florida public college, university or community college or through equivalent coursework at another regionally accredited institution. Before transferring and to ensure timely progress toward the baccalaureate degree, students must also complete the prerequisite courses for their major as outlined in the  Transition Guides .

All courses not approved by the Florida Statewide Course Numbering System that will be used to satisfy requirements will be evaluated individually on the basis of content and will require a catalog course description and a copy of the syllabus for assessment.

In addition to the University and College requirements, all students are required to complete at least 40 credits in college-level psychology coursework, and a minimum of 31 credits of the 40 credits must be upper-division (3000/4000) level. A minimum of 28 of the upper-division credits must be taken at Florida Atlantic University. Up to 12 credits of transfer psychology coursework may be applied to the psychology major, upon approval of the department. Please note that no more than 9 credits of the transfer coursework applied to the major can be at the lower-division level.

General Psychology Requirements
Nine core courses are required of all majors.
Psychology of Human Development	DEP 3053*	3
Cognition	EXP 3505*	3
Biological Bases of Behavior	PSB 3002*	3
General Psychology	PSY 1012	3
Research Methods in Psychology	PSY 3213*	3
Experimental Design and Statistical Inference	PSY 3234*	3
Social Psychology	SOP 3004*	3
Intermediate Statistics Lab	STA 3163L*	1
Laboratory in Psychology (see below)**		3

* For transfer students: If a lower-division course has been taken in any of the core areas that have an upper-division course requirement, the student may, with the approval of a psychology advisor, substitute a different upper-division course in the same content area for the original course.

**Laboratory Requirement
The laboratory requirement may be met with any of the following:

1. Existing laboratory courses: DEP 4797C, Human Development Lab; EXP 4934C, Cognition Laboratory; PSB 3002L, Computer Lab in Psychobiology; SOP 4230C, Social Behavior Laboratory; OR
2. Special topics laboratory courses with the words “Research in…” or “Laboratory in…” in the title, e.g., PSY 4930, Research in (Varied Topics); OR
3. Upper-division, Directed Independent Research lab courses taken for 3 credits (PSY 4915 or PSY 4916); OR
4. An Honors Thesis, PSY 4970.

Psychology Elective Requirements
A minimum of 15 additional credits are to be chosen from the following.
Comparative Animal Behavior	CBH 4024	3
Psychopathology	CLP 4144	3
Clinical Psychology	CLP 4343	3
Forensic Psychology	CLP 4390	3
Personality and Social Development	DEP 4095	3
Infant Development	DEP 4115	3
Language Acquisition	DEP 4130	3
Cognitive Development	DEP 4163	3
Psychology of Adolescence	DEP 4305	3
Human Development Laboratory	DEP 4797C	3
Human Perception	EXP 4204	3
Psychology of Motivation	EXP 4304	3
Psychology of Learning	EXP 4404	3
Human Memory	EXP 4525	3
Cognition Laboratory	EXP 4934C	3
Industrial Organizational Psychology	INP 4003	3
Interpersonal Processes	PCO 4734	3
Personality Theories	PPE 4003	3
Experimental Studies of Personality	PPE 4700	3
Computer Lab in Psychobiology	PSB 3002L	3
Biological Bases of Behavior 2	PSB 4006	3
Neuropsychology	PSB 4240	3
Human Psychophysiology	PSB 4323	3
Psychopharmacology	PSB 4444	3
Developmental Psychobiology	PSB 4504	3
RI: Neurobiology of Learning and Memory	PSB 4810	3
Neuroscience of Sleep	PSB 4842	3
University Honors Seminar in Psychology	PSY 1930	3
Special Topics	PSY 2930	1-3
Careers in Psychology	PSY 3070	3
Cooperative Education	PSY 3949	1-3
Psychometrics and Psychological Testing	PSY 4302	3
History and Systems of Psychology	PSY 4604	3
Evolutionary Psychology	PSY 4810	3
Directed Independent Study*	PSY 4906	1-3
Directed Independent Research in Psychology**	PSY 4915	1-3
Directed Independent Research in Psychology**	PSY 4916	0-3
Special Topics in Psychology	PSY 4930	1-3
Honors Seminar***	PSY 4932	3
Honors Critical Questions in Psychology***	PSY 4935	3
Psychology Study Abroad	PSY 4957	1-6
Honors Thesis***	PSY 4970	1-3
Psychology of Women	SOP 3742	3
Social Behavior Laboratory	SOP 4230C	3
Police Psychology	SOP 4750	3
Psychology and the Law	SOP 4751	3
Current Issues in Social Psychology	SYP 4002	3

* Maximum of 3 credits of Directed Independent Study may be counted as a psychology elective for the major.
** Maximum of 3 credits of Directed Independent Research may be counted as a psychology elective for the major.
*** Enrollment is limited to students in the Honors Program.

The same course section cannot be used to satisfy two different requirements for the major at the same time. A course counted as a Psychology laboratory cannot be counted as a Psychology elective simultaneously.

Cognate Area Requirements
All students must have 6 credits of biological science (to be chosen from BSC 1010, BSC 1011 , BSC 2085, BSC 2086 or equivalents) and 6 credits of mathematics at the level of college algebra or higher (in addition to statistics). The following math courses are accepted as meeting the math graduation requirement for the B.A. in psychology:

College Algebra	MAC 1105	3
Trigonometry	MAC 1114	3
Precalculus Algebra	MAC 1140	3
Precalculus Algebra and Trigonometry	MAC 1147	4 or 5
Methods of Calculus	MAC 2233	3
Calculus with Analytic Geometry 1	MAC 2311	4
Calculus with Analytic Geometry 2	MAC 2312	4
Calculus with Analytic Geometry 3	MAC 2313	4

Laboratories for the cognate courses are NOT required for the major, but students should check with their academic advisors and the controlling departments to determine whether laboratories are needed in order to satisfy (other) departments’ requirements or general graduation requirements.

Upper-Division Honors Program in Psychology

Qualified students are invited to participate in an Honors Program within the undergraduate Psychology major programs. Students may be admitted to the Honors Program after completion of 45 credits and prior to the completion of 105 hours. Students must have a grade point average of 3.2 overall and in the major for all college-level coursework to be admitted to and to be retained in the Honors Program. Both B.A. Psychology and B.S. Neuroscience and Behavior students are eligible to participate in the Honors Program.

Students in the Honors Program must complete Honors Seminar (PSY 4932, 3 credits), Honors Critical Questions in Psychology (PSY 4935, 3 credits) and Honors Thesis (PSY 4970, normally 1 credit taken one semester and 2 credits the other semester). The Honors Seminar and Honors Critical Questions in Psychology courses may be taken in a student's junior or senior year, either before, after or simultaneously with completion of the Honors Thesis.

Students in the Honors Program are also strongly encouraged to enroll for a Directed Independent Research (PSY 4915 or PSY 4916 for Psychology majors and PSB 4915 or PSB 4917 for Neuroscience and Behavior majors) as soon as they have identified a faculty member to work with to develop their thesis ideas. This should be done as early as possible, but no later than the start of the senior year.

Students must find a faculty member who agrees to supervise them in conducting an honors thesis. An honors thesis is typically an empirical project in which the student participates in all aspects of the research and prepares a written, APA-style report of the project. Alternative options may be approved by the student's faculty advisor.

The FAU Max Planck Honors Program (MPHP)

Eligible College of Science majors in Biology, Psychology, and Neuroscience and Behavior may apply to participate in this Jupiter-specific honors program for undergraduates. For students pursuing the MPHP, 3 to 6 of the elective credits in their individual program must be applied toward the requirements of the MPHP. These include successful completion of a Capstone experience (1 to 3 credits) and three different MPHP Enrichment courses (1 credit each) from those listed below. A minimum grade of "B" must be achieved in graded courses ("S" in non-graded courses) among these exclusive MPHP course options for the credits to count toward the requirements of the MPHP. Visit the MPHP website to apply.

Psychology
Undergraduate Minor

(Minimum of 18 credits required)

A minor in Psychology is available for students who complete a minimum of 18 credits in psychology, including the following required courses. Of the 18 credits, at least 15 must be earned from FAU. A grade of "C-" or better (unless otherwise noted in the course description) is required in all courses taken as part of the requirements for a minor in Psychology.

Psychology of Human Development	DEP 3053	3
Cognition	EXP 3505	3
Biological Bases of Behavior 1	PSB 3002	3
General Psychology	PSY 1012	3
Experimental Design and Statistical Inference	PSY 3234	3
Social Psychology	SOP 3004	3

 

Neuroscience and Behavior
Bachelor of Science (B.S.)

(Minimum of 120 credits required)

The B.S. degree in Neuroscience and Behavior is administered jointly by the Department of Psychology and the Department of Biological Sciences. The Neuroscience and Behavior program provides undergraduate preparation for students interested in pursuing graduate degrees in behavioral neuroscience, neurobiology and/or behavioral biology, or in pursuing professional degrees in medicine or veterinary medicine. Qualified students are strongly encouraged to become involved in neuroscience and behavior research projects (normally via a Directed Independent Study, Directed Independent Research or special research course). An optional Honors Thesis, PSY 4970, is available to those students who meet the academic requirements. A grade of "C-" or better (unless otherwise noted in the course description) is required in all psychology, biology and cognate courses taken as part of the requirements for a B.S. with major in Neuroscience and Behavior. However, students must maintain a "C" average in departmental major courses.

Prerequisite Coursework for Transfer Students
Students transferring to Florida Atlantic University must complete both lower-division requirements (including the requirements of the General Education Program) and requirements for the college and major. Lower-division requirements may be completed through the A.A. degree from any Florida public college, university or community college or through equivalent coursework at another regionally accredited institution. Before transferring and to ensure timely progress toward the baccalaureate degree, students must also complete the prerequisite courses for their major as outlined in the  Transition Guides .

All courses not approved by the Florida Statewide Course Numbering System that will be used to satisfy requirements will be evaluated individually on the basis of content and will require a catalog course description and a copy of the syllabus for assessment.

In addition to the University and College requirements, students are expected to complete all of the following courses. A minimum of 24 of the upper-division credits in the B.S. Neuroscience and Behavior program must be taken at Florida Atlantic University.

Core Requirements

Biological Principles	BSC 1010	3
Biological Principles Lab	BSC 1010L	1
Biodiversity	BSC 1011	3
Biodiversity Lab	BSC 1011L	1
Comparative Animal Behavior	CBH 4024	3
General Chemistry 1	CHM 2045	3
General Chemistry 1 Lab	CHM 2045L	1
General Chemistry 2	CHM 2046	3
General Chemistry 2 Lab	CHM 2046L	1
Math through Calculus	MAC 2233, 2311, 2312 or 2313	3
Genetics	PCB 3063	4
Organic Chemistry 1 and 2	CHM 2210 and CHM 2211	6
General Physics 1 and 2* or College Physics 1 and 2*	PHY 2048 and PHY 2049 or PHY 2053 and PHY 2054	8
Organic Chemistry Lab	CHM 2211L	2
Biochemistry	BCH 3033	3
Biological Bases of Behavior	PSB 3002	3
General Psychology	PSY 1012	3
Research Methods in Psychology	PSY 3213	3
Experimental Design and Statistical Inference	PSY 3234	3
Intermediate Statistics Lab	STA 3163L	1

* This degree program does not require that students take Physics lab courses. However, students considering medical school should take the lab sequences. The Physics Department may require labs as corequisites for lecture courses.

Elective Requirements
Students are expected to complete a minimum of 12 credits of elective courses. Students are free to choose their elective courses from those listed below.

Behavioral Neuroscience
Cognition	EXP 3505	3
Human Perception	EXP 4204	3
Practical Cell Neuroscience	PCB 4843C	3
Comparative Animal Physiology	PCB 4723	3
Comparative Animal Physiology Lab	PCB 4723L	1
Biological Bases of Behavior II	PSB 4006	3
Neuropsychology	PSB 4240	3
Human Psychophysiology	PSB 4323	3
Psychopharmacology	PSB 4444	3
Developmental Psychobiology	PSB 4504	3
RI: Neurobiology of Learning and Memory	PSB 4810	3
Neuroscience of Sleep	PSB 4842	3
Special Topics*	BSC 4930	1-3
Special Topics*	PSY 4930	1-3
Special Topics in Neuroscience and Behavior*	PSB 4930	3
Developmental Neurobiology	PSB 6515	3
Principles of Human Neuroanatomy	ZOO 4742	3
Directed Independent Research in Neuroscience and Behavior**	PSB 4915	1-3
Directed Independent Research in Neuroscience and Behavior**	PSB 4917	0-3

 

Cellular Molecular Neuroscience
Cellular Neuroscience and Disease	PCB 4842	3
Practical Cell Neuroscience	PCB 4843C	3
Human Morphology and Function 1	PCB 3703	3
Human Morphology and Function 1 Lab	PCB 3703L	1
Human Morphology and Function 2	PCB 3704	3
Human Morphology and Function 2 Lab	PCB 3704L	1
Cell Biology	PCB 3023	3
Comparative Animal Physiology	PCB 4723	3
Comparative Animal Physiology Lab	PCB 4723L	1
RI: Neurobiology of Learning and Memory	PSB 4810	3
Special Topics*	BSC 4930	1-3
Special Topics*	PSY 4930	1-3
Special Topics in Neuroscience and Behavior*	PSB 4930	3
Directed Independent Research in Neuroscience and Behavior**	PSB 4915	1-3
Directed Independent Research in Neuroscience and Behavior**	PSB 4917	0-3

 

Ethology/Comparative Psychology
Psychology of Motivation	EXP 4304	3
Marine Biology	OCB 4043	2
Marine Biology Field Studies and Lab	OCB 4043L	2
Principles of Ecology	PCB 4043	3
Evolution	PCB 3674	3
Comparative Animal Physiology	PCB 4723	3
Comparative Animal Physiology Lab	PCB 4723L	1
Computer Laboratory in Psychobiology	PSB 3002L	3
Developmental Psychobiology	PSB 4504	3
Invertebrate Zoology	ZOO  3205	3
Invertebrate Zoology Lab	ZOO  3205L	2
Ornithology	ZOO 4472	2
Ornithology Lab	ZOO 4472L	2
Vertebrate Structure Development and Evolution	ZOO 4690	3
Vertebrate Structure and Development Lab	ZOO 4690L	2
Special Topics*	BSC 4930	1-3
Special Topics*	PSY 4930	1-3
Special Topics in Neuroscience and Behavior*	PSB 4930	3
Directed Independent Research in Neuroscience and Behavior**	PSB 4915	1-3
Directed Independent Research in Neuroscience and Behavior**	PSB 4917	0-3

 

Upper-Division Honors Program in Psychology Sequence ***
Honors Seminar	PSY 4932	3
Honors Critical Questions in Psychology	PSY 4935	3
Honors Thesis	PSY 4970	1-3

* Applies to Special Topics courses that are relevant to the neurosciences. Interested students should confirm with the B.S. degree program faculty advisors.
** Maximum of 3 credits of Directed Independent Research may be counted as an elective for the major.
*** Enrollment is limited to students in the Psychology Honors Program.

Applied Mental Health Services
Undergraduate Certificate

(Minimum of 17 credits required)

The undergraduate certificate in Applied Mental Health Services, offered jointly by the Department of Psychology and by the Department of Counselor Education in the College of Education, provides a curricular experience for students who wish to pursue careers in clinical psychology, mental health counseling and allied human services that enhances the student's chosen major. This program is also specialized training for students who wish to pursue graduate degrees in these critical-need careers. For details, see the  Interdisciplinary  section of this catalog.

Combined Programs

Psychology
Bachelor of Arts (B.A.) to Master of Arts (M.A.)
Combined Program

(Minimum of 156 credits required)

Neuroscience and Behavior to Psychology
Bachelor of Science (B.S.) to Master of Arts (M.A.)
Combined Program

(Minimum of 156 credits required)

The combined bachelor’s/master’s programs in Psychology will allow highly qualified students to complete the requirements for both a B.A. degree in Psychology or a B.S. degree in Neuroscience and Behavior and an M.A. degree in Psychology in five years. The programs require 156 credits, of which 120 are for the bachelor’s degree and 36 credits are for the master’s degree. Students apply to the programs in the second semester of their junior year or upon completion of 60 credits in the bachelor’s program at FAU. Once admitted, students may take up to 12 credits of graduate coursework in their senior year, which may be used to satisfy the requirements of both the undergraduate and graduate degrees.

Admissions Requirements
To be eligible for the programs, students must have a minimum GPA of 3.6 in upper division coursework. In addition, they must have research experience either through Directed Independent Research (PSB 4917, PSB 4915, PSY 4915, PSY 4916) or an equivalent research venue (e.g., as a grant-funded research assistant). Finally, students must have secured the agreement of a faculty member to serve as their graduate mentor prior to applying to the program. The Graduate Record Exam (GRE) is not required.

Shared Graduate Courses
All graduate courses must be at the 5000 level or higher. Students may enroll in graduate courses from any of the core areas of the program (Behavioral Neuroscience, Cognition, Developmental or Social) only after completing the corresponding undergraduate core course in that area (PSB 3002, Biological Bases of Behavior; EXP 3505, Cognition; DEP 3053, Psychology of Human Development; SOP 3004, Social Psychology, respectively). Similarly, students may enroll in graduate statistics courses (e.g., PSY 6206) only after completing PSY 3234, Experimental Design and Statistical Inference, and STA 3163L, Intermediate Statistics Laboratory.

Degree Requirements
Students admitted to the programs will fulfill all of the requirements for both the bachelor's and master's degrees, including a master's thesis.

Funding Opportunities
Students admitted to the programs are eligible for financial support in the form of  Pathways Scholarships  offered through the Graduate College.

Behavioral Neuroscience
Principles of Neuroscience	PSB 6037	3
Seminar in Behavioral Neuroscience	PSB 6058	3
Cellular and Molecular Neuroscience	PSB 6345	3
Systems and Integrative Neuroscience	PSB 6346	3
Developmental Neuropsychology	PSB 6516	3
Special Topics in Behavioral Neuroscience	PSB 6930	3

 

Cognition
Seminar in Cognitive Development	DEP 6067	3
Seminar in Individual Differences in Children's Thinking	DEP 6932	3
Seminar in Human Perception	EXP 6208	3
Seminar in Cognition	EXP 6609	3
Special Topics in Cognition	EXP 6930	3
Cognitive Neuroscience	ISC 5465	3
Special Topics (Cognition)	PSY 5930	3

 

Developmental
Seminar in Cognitive Development	DEP 6067	3
Parent-Child Relationships	DEP 6609	3
Evolutionary Developmental Psychology	DEP 6610	3
Special Topics in Developmental Psychology	DEP 6930	3
Seminar in Development of Social Cognition	DEP 6931	3
Seminar in Individual Differences in Children's Thinking	DEP 6932	3

 

Social/Personality
Special Topics in Personality/Social Psychology	PPE 6930	3
Advanced Social Behavior	SOP 6079	3

 

Master's Program

Psychology
Master of Arts (M.A.)

(Minimum of 36 credits required)

(Change below effective spring 2025.)

Admission Requirements
In addition to meeting all of the University and College admission requirements for graduate study, applicants for the Master of Arts (M.A.) degree must meet each of the following criteria:

1. The student must have a baccalaureate degree from an accredited college or university. It is not essential for this to be a degree in psychology.
2. GRE scores are optional. For students submitting scores, we recommend The student must have a score of at least 150 on the verbal component and 150 on the quantitative component of the Graduate Record Examination.
3. The student must have a minimum 3.0 GPA in the last 60 credits of undergraduate work.
4. The student must attain approval for graduate admission from the Department of Psychology.
   
   

Degree Requirements
A minimum of 30 credits of coursework and 6 M.A. thesis credits are required to complete the M.A. program.

Three quantitative courses (7 credits) are required, including the 3-credit Experimental Design I course (PSY 6206), the 1-credit Experimental Design 1 Lab course (PSY 6206L) and an additional 3-credit quantitative course approved by the Department of Psychology graduate committee chair. Only courses offered by the Department of Psychology (or other units in the College of Science) can be used to satisfy this additional 3-credit quantitative course requirement.

An additional seven courses (21 credits) are required. Of this total, at least 6 courses must consist of approved Department of Psychology graduate seminars, including a minimum of one regularly offered seminar in each of the following areas: behavioral neuroscience, cognition, developmental and social/personality. Any single course will satisfy the requirement of only one area (e.g., Seminar in Personality and Social Development can fulfill the developmental or social/personality area requirement, but not both). With the approval of the Department of Psychology graduate committee chair, one course taken outside the department may be included in this seven-course requirement.

A total of 6 M.A. thesis credits (PSY 6971) is required. Students must register for M.A. thesis credits the semester after the M.A. thesis proposal is approved by the supervisory committee and during each subsequent regular academic (fall and spring) semester.

An additional 2 credits are required, which may be filled with electives and/or Directed Independent Study (EXP 6908). Students are encouraged (but not required) to take at least 1 credit of Directed Independent Study.

Students are required to maintain a grade point average of "B" (3.0) or better. Courses with grades of "C+" or lower will not satisfy program requirements.

Quantitative Requirements - 7 credits
Experimental Design 1	PSY 6206	3
Experimental Design 1 Lab	PSY 6206L	1
Third quantitative course approved by advisor		3
Thesis - 6 credits
Master's Thesis (may be taken over multiple terms)	PSY 6971	1-6
Psychology Graduate Seminars and Electives - 23 credits
Choose seven courses (21 credits) from the following four areas. At least one seminar course must come from each of the four areas. An additional 2 credits of electives must be taken, which can include EXP 6908, Directed Independent Study.
Cognition
Seminar in Cognitive Development	DEP 6067	3
Seminar in Individual Differences in Children's Thinking	DEP 6932	3
Seminar in Human Perception	EXP 6208	3
Seminar in Cognition	EXP 6609	3
Special Topics in Cognition	EXP 6930	3
Cognitive Neuroscience	ISC 5465	3
Special Topics (Cognition)	PSY 5930	3

 

Developmental
Seminar in Cognitive Development	DEP 6067	3
Parent-Child Relationships	DEP 6609	3
Evolutionary Developmental Psychology	DEP 6610	3
Special Topics in Developmental Psychology	DEP 6930*	3
Seminar in Development of Social Cognition	DEP 6931	3
Seminar in Individual Differences in Children's Thinking	DEP 6932	3

* Special Topics courses (DEP 6930) must be reviewed and approved by the Developmental area coordinator and the student's faculty advisor.

Social/Personality
Special Topics in Personality/Social Psychology	PPE 6930	3
Advanced Social Behavior	SOP 6079	3

 

Behavioral Neuroscience
Principles of Neuroscience	PSB 6037	3
Seminar in Behavioral Neuroscience	PSB 6058	3
Cellular and Molecular Neuroscience	PSB 6345	3
Systems and Integrative Neuroscience	PSB 6346	3
Developmental Neuropsychology	PSB 6516	3
Special Topics in Behavioral Neuroscience	PSB 6930	3

Transfer Students
Students may transfer up to 6 credits of graduate coursework completed at other institutions toward their M.A. degree. Approval for such transfer is made by the Department of Psychology graduate committee chair.

Thesis Advisor and Thesis Committee
By the end of the first semester of enrollment in the program, students must identify an M.A. thesis advisor. Students are responsible for securing their own advisors. By the second semester, all students must have an advisor to continue in the program. Students without an advisor will be subject to dismissal.

Students are encouraged to file an M.A. plan of study during the second semester of enrollment in the program. Students pursuing an M.A. along the way to a Ph.D. should also file a Ph.D. plan of study at the same time.

By the end of the second semester of enrollment, students must hold a meeting of their supervisory committee for the purpose of approving the M.A. thesis prospectus. There must be a minimum of three faculty members on the supervisory committee, and at least half of the supervisory committee must be graduate faculty in the Department of Psychology, including the committee chair. Committee composition must be approved by the Department of Psychology graduate committee.

Approval of a written thesis proposal by the supervisory committee must precede the experimental work required for thesis. Approval of the thesis proposal must be obtained during a meeting of the full committee. Additional meetings of the thesis supervisory committee should be held at least once a year to review the student's progress toward the degree. Approval of a written thesis during a full meeting of the supervisory committee is required.

Annual Review
All M.A. students will be evaluated by the entire graduate faculty during an annual meeting. Students who receive two consecutive unsatisfactory evaluations will be subject to dismissal.

Doctoral Program

Experimental Psychology
Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.)

(Minimum of 81 credits required)

(Changes below effective spring 2025.)

The Department of Psychology offers graduate study leading to a Doctor of Philosophy in Experimental Psychology. Students may select major and minor areas of study from four areas of psychology: behavioral neuroscience, cognition, developmental psychology and social/personality.

Admission to Doctoral Study
In addition to meeting all of the University and College admission requirements for graduate study, applicants for the Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) degree must meet each of the following criteria:

1. The student must have a baccalaureate degree from an accredited college or university. It is not essential for this to be a degree in psychology.
2. GRE scores are optional. For students submitting scores, we recommend The student must have a score of at least 153 on the verbal component and 152 on the quantitative component of the Graduate Record Examination.
3. The student must have a minimum 3.0 GPA in the last 60 credits of undergraduate work.
4. The student must attain approval for graduate admission from the Department of Psychology.

An admitted applicant will usually have a strong record of achievement that is higher than the minimum requirements. In considering applications for admission to the Ph.D. program, the decision of the graduate admissions committee will be based on an evaluation of a student's record and the likelihood of success in the program. The committee will consider a number of factors that include, but are not limited to:

1. The applicant's record of achievement based on GPA, optional GRE scores and letters of recommendation;
2. The applicant's promise for research productivity while in graduate school; and
3. The availability and willingness of a faculty member to serve as a mentor for the student.

Students admitted to the Ph.D. program will be assigned an advisor by the Department of Psychology graduate committee who will supervise their research and chair their M.A. thesis and Ph.D. dissertation committees. Considerable effort is devoted to matching students with advisors. As a consequence, few students change advisors. Changing advisors is not generally recommended because it slows progress toward graduation. The best time to change advisors is after completion of the M.A. degree but before admission to doctoral status. Students who change advisors must do so in consultation with the Department of Psychology graduate committee chair. Students without an advisor cannot continue in the program.

Course Requirements
Ph.D. students will complete the M.A. degree requirements as described above.

A total of 81 credits is required to complete the Ph.D. program. Up to 36 credits (30 credits of coursework and 6 thesis credits) that were used to satisfy the M.A. degree requirements are typically counted toward the Ph.D. degree requirements. No more than 6 M.A. thesis credits may be transferred to satisfy the doctoral degree requirements.

Quantitative Requirements - 10 credits
Experimental Design 1	PSY 6206	3  or
Experimental Design 2	PSY 6207	3
Experimental Design 1 Lab	PSY 6206L	1
Additional 6 credits at the 6000 level from the College of Science		6
OR
Experimental Design 1	PSY 6206	3
Experimental Design 2	PSY 6207	3
Experimental Design 1 Lab	PSY 6206L	1
Additional 3 credits at the 6000 level from the College of Science		3
Thesis - 6 credits
Master's Thesis (may be taken over multiple terms)	PSY 6971	1-6
Major Requirements - 15 credits
Choose five courses (21 credits) from the following four areas. Must choose at least one course from each of the four areas. Fifth course can be from any area.
Cognition
Seminar in Cognitive Development	DEP 6067	3
Seminar in Individual Differences in Children's Thinking	DEP 6932	3
Seminar in Human Perception	EXP 6208	3
Seminar in Cognition	EXP 6609	3
Special Topics in Cognition	EXP 6930	3
Cognitive Neuroscience	ISC 5465	3
Special Topics (Cognition)	PSY 5930	3

 

Developmental
Seminar in Cognitive Development	DEP 6067	3
Parent-Child Relationships	DEP 6609	3
Evolutionary Developmental Psychology	DEP 6610	3
Special Topics in Developmental Psychology	DEP 6930*	3
Seminar in Development of Social Cognition	DEP 6931	3
Seminar in Individual Differences in Children's Thinking	DEP 6932	3

* Special Topics courses (DEP 6930) must be reviewed and approved by the Developmental area coordinator and the student's faculty advisor.

Developmental Psychology Doctoral Students Only:  Psychology graduate courses not listed above may count toward one of the developmental psychology graduate courses required to complete the area requirements in the major field of study, with the permission of the student's faculty advisor.

Social/Personality
Special Topics in Personality/Social Psychology	PPE 6930	3
Advanced Social Behavior	SOP 6079	3

 

Behavioral Neuroscience
Principles of Neuroscience	PSB 6037	3
Seminar in Behavioral Neuroscience	PSB 6058	3
Cellular and Molecular Neuroscience	PSB 6345	3
Systems and Integrative Neuroscience	PSB 6346	3
Developmental Neuropsychology	PSB 6516	3
Special Topics in Behavioral Neuroscience	PSB 6930	3
Electives - 9 credits
Select three courses (9 credits), one from each of the areas not in the student's major area.
Dissertation - 9 credits (minimum)
Dissertation	PSY 7980	1-9
Additional Electives and Dissertation - 32 credits
Choose 32 credits of electives (from areas above), dissertation credits (PSY 7980), Advanced Research in Psychology, (PSY 7978), or Directed Independent Study (EXP 6908).

A total of four quantitative courses (10 credits) is required. All doctoral students must take the 3-credit Experimental Design I course (PSY 6206) or the 3-credit Experimental Design 2 course (PSY 6207), but they need not take both. The 1-credit Experimental Design 1 Lab course (PSY 6206L) is required, but this requirement may be waived with the written approval of the advisor. All quantitative courses outside of the Experimental Design sequence must be approved by the Department of Psychology graduate committee chair. For students who take both Experimental Design I and Experimental Design 2, the third 3-credit quantitative course must be a course offered by the Department of Psychology (or another unit in the College of Science).

Students must take five courses (15 credits) in their major area.

An additional three courses (9 credits) are required, consisting of one regularly offered Department of Psychology seminar in each the following areas of study (excluding the student's major area): behavioral neuroscience, cognition, developmental and social/personality. Any single course will satisfy the requirement of only one area (e.g., Seminar in Personality and Social Development can fulfill the developmental or social/personality area requirement, but not both).

A minimum of 9 Ph.D. dissertation credits (PSY 7980) are required. Students must register for dissertation credits starting the semester after they are admitted to candidacy and during each subsequent regular academic (fall and spring) semester.

An additional 32 credits are required, which may be filled with electives, dissertation credits, Advanced Research in Psychology (PSY 7978) and Directed Independent Study (EXP 6908).

Taken together, doctoral students must complete a minimum of 10 graduate courses (30 credits) in the Department of Psychology (excluding thesis and dissertation credits, advanced research in psychology and directed independent study).

Students are required to maintain a grade point average of "B" (3.0) or better. Courses with grades of "C+" or lower will not satisfy program requirements.

Transfer Students
Students admitted to the Ph.D. program may transfer up to 30 graduate credits taken at other institutions. Transfer courses must be relevant to the student's program of study and must be approved by the student's advisor and the Department of Psychology graduate studies director. Requests to transfer credits into the student's area of study are not typically approved.

Doctoral students who have completed an M.A. thesis at another university or in another department at FAU may substitute this thesis for the M.A. thesis as part of the requirement for admission to doctoral candidacy if it is approved by the student's advisor and the Department of Psychology graduate committee chair.

Admission to Doctoral Status
Admission to doctoral status requires successful completion of Ph.D. coursework, successful completion and approval of a written M.A. thesis, the formation of a doctoral dissertation supervisory committee and approval of a written dissertation proposal by the doctoral dissertation committee.

In addition, comprehensive exams must be completed before a doctoral student is admitted to candidacy. Comprehensive exams are designed to demonstrate a breadth of knowledge in the student's area. A student's comprehensive exam committee must include at least three members of the graduate faculty in the FAU Department of Psychology. The comprehensive exam committee is chaired by the student's advisor. The minimum comprehensive exam includes an eight-hour, closed-book essay exam, which may be spread across two separate, preferably consecutive, days. Exams may be separated by no more than 72 hours. The student must complete at least two written essays for each member of the committee.  Additional evaluation material (e.g., more essays, short answer questions, oral questions) may be requested by the comprehensive exam committee. Exams are graded as follows: pass, fail or conditional pass (a pass grade contingent on successful demonstration of competence not evident in the initial exam). A unanimous pass vote from the committee is required to complete the comprehensive exam degree requirement. Conditional pass results must be satisfactorily addressed within one month of receipt of written feedback or they will be treated as a fail.

Dissertation Advisor and Dissertation Committee
The doctoral dissertation committee must consist of at least five members. At least half of the committee must be graduate faculty in the Department of Psychology, including the committee chair. At least one member of the doctoral committee must be a faculty member from outside of the Department of Psychology. Committee composition must be approved by the Department of Psychology graduate committee chair. As per University policy, outside committee members must be appointed affiliate members of the graduate faculty. Candidates and advisors must work with the department chair and the director of graduate studies to ensure that the appointment is made in a timely manner.

A central requirement for the Ph.D. degree is submission and defense of a dissertation based on original work in an area of specialization acceptable to the student's doctoral dissertation supervisory committee. The dissertation must be approved by the doctoral dissertation supervisory committee, the department chair and the Graduate College.

Doctoral dissertation supervisory committee approval of a written dissertation proposal must precede the experimental work required for the dissertation. Approval of the dissertation proposal must be obtained during a meeting of the full doctoral dissertation supervisory committee. Additional meetings of the doctoral dissertation supervisory committee should be held at least once a year to review the student's progress toward the degree.

Students who change supervisory committee members after a dissertation proposal has been approved must obtain permission to change the committee from the Graduate College and the Department of Psychology graduate committee chair. A meeting of the new dissertation committee is required to review and approve of the dissertation proposal.

Approval of a written dissertation during a full meeting of the doctoral dissertation supervisory committee is required. A publicly announced departmental lecture summarizing the Ph.D. dissertation research is expected upon successful defense of the dissertation.

Annual Review
All Ph.D. students will be evaluated by the entire graduate faculty during an annual meeting. Students who receive two consecutive unsatisfactory evaluations will be subject to dismissal.

Mission
The Department of Urban and Regional Planning is a locus of scholars, teachers, practitioners, agents and students committed to the continuous improvement of urban regions and the planning enterprise through research, teaching and service.

The Department provides an environment to discuss, develop and disseminate new ideas and concepts and contribute to the practice of planning directed toward a future that is environmentally, economically and humanly beneficial. The focus of work relies on the recognition and use of multi-scalar connections and interactions of systems and planning activities. The Department encourages involvement in a range of governance activities, including policy framework development, participatory decision-making and community stewardship. It also seeks to exploit the potential of emerging technologies and collaborative engagement in creative and innovative ways.

Current initiatives include global urban networks, climate change, metropolitan form, disaster management, place making, healthy cities and housing market issues.

Information
Students who seek additional information should contact the Department of Urban and Regional Planning at 954-762-5652.

Link to Bachelor of Urban Design

Link to Honors Program

Link to Advanced Standing Bachelor's/Master's Programs

Link to Master's Program

Link to Graduate Certificates

Urban and Regional Planning
Bachelor of Urban and Regional Planning (B.U.R.P.)

(Minimum of 120 credits required)

The Bachelor Urban and Regional Planning (B.U.R.P.) is a professional program that provides students with the knowledge base and analytical and design skills to address issues that affect the quality of life in neighborhoods, suburbs, cities and regions. The curriculum consists of planning lecture courses, design courses and professional practice courses that give students real-world planning experience. Students select courses from a wide variety of electives that allow them to focus on topics of particular interest. Graduates of the program qualify for positions in a variety of public and private organizations, including local and state planning departments, nonprofit organizations and private-sector planning and development firms.

Admission Requirements
All students must meet minimum admission requirements of the University. Please refer to the  Admissions section  of this catalog for a more detailed discussion.

Prerequisite Coursework for Transfer Students
Students transferring to Florida Atlantic University must complete both lower-division requirements (including the requirements of the General Education Program) and requirements for the college and major. Lower-division requirements may be completed through the A.A. degree from any Florida public college, university or state college or through equivalent coursework at another regionally accredited institution.

Before transferring and to ensure timely progress toward the baccalaureate degree, students must also complete the prerequisite courses for their major as outlined in the  Transition Guides .  All prerequisite courses must be completed by the Department's designated date or within the first year after transferring to FAU and before reaching senior status (90 total credits).

All courses not approved by the Florida Statewide Course Numbering System that will be used to satisfy requirements will be evaluated individually on the basis of content and will require a catalog course description and a copy of the syllabus for assessment.

Degree Requirements
All students in the Bachelor of Urban and Regional Planning program must complete a minimum of 120 credits, including the following:

1. Satisfaction of all University requirements for baccalaureate degrees;
2. The last 30 upper-division credits (3000/4000-level courses) must be earned in residence at FAU;
3. At least 39 credits of Planning Core courses;
4. At least 9 credits of approved upper-division Elective courses from specific departments, see list below;
5. At least 12 credits of Free Electives;
6. A minimum grade of "C" is required for each core course.

Urban and Regional Planning Program

Planning Core Courses - 39 credits
Introduction to Urban Planning and Design	URP 3000	3
Planning Methods	URP 4011	3
City Structure and Change	URP 4055	3
Planning Implementation Strategies	URP 4120	3
Public Budgeting and Finance	PAD 4223	3
Introduction to Mapping and GIS	GIS 3015C	3
Introduction to Visual Planning Technology	URP 4254	3
Plan Making and Zoning (1)	URP 4343	3
Sustainable Cities	URP 4403	3
Capital Facilities Planning	URP 4730	3
Site Planning	URP 4870	3
RI: Planning Capstone (3)	URP 4979	3
Advanced Visual Planning Technologies (2)	URP 4255	3

Notes:
1. URP 3000 is a prerequisite or must be taken at the same time.
2. URP 4254 is a prerequisite.
3. URP 4570 is a prerequisite.

Elective Courses -  9  credits
Students must choose two upper-division electives appropriate to their field of study; these may be any 3000/4000-level course from the following departments/schools: Architecture, Civil Engineering, Criminal Justice, Communications, Economics, Finance, Geosciences, History, Public Administration, Political Science, Sociology, Urban and Regional Planning or other departments with approval. Below is a list of suggested electives.
American Environmental History	AMH 3630	3
Economics of the Public Sector	ECO 4504	3
Urban and Regional Economics	ECP 3603	3
Environmental Economics	ECP 4302	3
Environmental Issues in Atmospheric and Earth Science	EVR 3019	3
Tourism and Commercial Recreation	GEO 4542	3
Introduction to Mapping and GIS	GIS 3015C	3
Remote Sensing of Environment	GIS 4035C	3
Coastal and Marine Sciences	GLY 3731	3
Earth Systems and Resources	GLY 4012C	3
Public Management and Administration	PAD 3003	3
Managing for Excellence in the Public and Nonprofit Sectors	PAD 4332	3
Administrative Process and Ethics	PAD 4604	3
State and Local Government Administration	PAD 4806	3
Environmental Ethics	PHI 3640	3
Law and American Society	POS 3691	3
Politics of Community Development	PUP 4623	3
Principles of Real Estate	REE 3043	3
The Urban Community	SYD 4602	3
Environmental Planning Methods	URP 4420	3
Planning for Hazards/Disasters	URP 4430	3
Urban Development Planning Methods	URP 4546	3
Housing Policy and Planning	URP 4741	3
Urban Design: Theories and Methods	URP 4883	3
Urban Design Studio 1	URP 4920	3
Planning Internship	URP 4945	3
Planning Abroad	URP 4955	3
Free Electives -  12  credits

Urban Design
Bachelor of Urban Design (B.U.D.)

(Minimum of 120 credits required)

The Bachelor of Urban Design (B.U.D.) program provides a broad knowledge of the principles and practices of urban design. It is ideal for students who are interested in design of the built environment at the neighborhood, community and city scale, with an emphasis on sustainable development. The program offers an interdisciplinary approach for students who plan to pursue a professional career in an urban discipline, such as urban and regional planning, urban development policy, real estate development, municipal and planning law, as well as design disciplines, including architecture and landscape architecture at the graduate level.

The program utilizes the South Florida metropolitan region as an "urban living laboratory" for the students to exercise their urban design creativity, but also covers national and global context.  Students’ experience will also benefit from partnerships forged between the B.U.D. program and practitioners from private design and consulting firms in the South Florida metropolitan area, with both local and international experience.

Admission Requirements
All students must meet minimum admission requirements of the University. Please refer to the  Admissions section  of this catalog for a more detailed discussion.

Prerequisite Coursework for Transfer Students
Students transferring to Florida Atlantic University must complete both lower-division requirements (including the requirements of the General Education Program) and requirements for the college and major. Lower-division requirements may be completed through the A.A. degree from any Florida public college, university or state college or through equivalent coursework at another regionally accredited institution.

Before transferring and to ensure timely progress toward the baccalaureate degree, students must also complete the prerequisite courses for their major as outlined in the  Transition Guides .  All prerequisite courses must be completed by the Department's designated date or within the first year after transferring to FAU and before reaching senior status (90 total credits).

All courses not approved by the Florida Statewide Course Numbering System that will be used to satisfy requirements will be evaluated individually on the basis of content and will require a catalog course description and a copy of the syllabus for assessment.

Degree Requirements
The interdisciplinary nature of the program allows students the option to take electives from a variety of different departments and schools. The core courses are offered in the Department of Urban and Regional Planning and the School of Architecture. There are three types of core courses: lectures, studio/lab and participation in professional seminars. All students in the Bachelor of Urban Design program must complete a minimum of 120 credits, including the following:

1. Satisfaction of all University requirements for baccalaureate degrees;
2. The last 30 upper-division credits (3000/4000-level courses) must be earned in residence at FAU;
3. At least 36 credits of Urban Design Core courses;
4. At least 12 credits of upper-division-approved Elective courses from specific departments, see list below;
5. At least 12 credits of Free Elective courses; and
6. A minimum grade of “C” is required for each core course.

The course materials taught in the core courses build upon each other. Therefore, students are highly recommended to follow the term schedules identified below. Following the term schedule is also very important in order to ensure the timely graduation of the students.

Urban Design Core Courses - 36 credits
Introduction to Mapping and GIS	GIS 3015C	3
Introduction to Urban Planning and Design	URP 3000	3
City Structure and Change	URP 4055	3
Introduction to Visual Planning Technology	URP 4254	3
Advanced Visual Planning Technologies (1)	URP 4255	3
Plan Making and Zoning (2)	URP 4343	3
Sustainable Cities	URP 4403	3
Site Planning	URP 4870	3
Urban Design: Theories and Methods	URP 4883	3
Urban Design Studio 1 (2)	URP 4920	3
RI: Urban Design Studio 2 (3)	URP 4922	3
RI: Urban Design Capstone (4)	URP 4923	3

Notes:

1. URP 4254 is a prerequisite.
2. URP 3000 is a prerequisite or must be taken at the same time.
3. URP 4920 is a prerequisite.
4. URP 4922 is a prerequisite.

Elective Courses - 12 credits
Students must select at least 12 credits of upper-division electives appropriate to their field of study; these may be any 3000/4000-level course from the following departments/schools: Architecture, Civil Engineering, Criminal Justice, Communications, Economics, Finance, Geosciences, History, Public Administration, Political Science, Sociology, Urban and Regional Planning or other departments with approval. Below is a list of suggested electives.
Planning Methods	URP 4011	3
Planning Implementation Strategies	URP 4120	3
Environmental Planning Methods	URP 4420	3
Capital Facilities Planning	URP 4730	3
Directed Independent Study	URP 4905	3
Planning for Hazards/Disasters	URP 4430	3
Urban Development Planning Methods	URP 4546	3
Housing Policy and Planning	URP 4741	3
Planning Internship	URP 4945	3
Planning Abroad	URP 4955	3
Dynamic Design Methods 1	ARC 4057	3
Ethics and Architecture	ARC 4202	3
Contemporary Design Theories	ARC 4220	3
Designing Safer Communities with CPTED	ARC 4384	3
Architecture and Urbanism Study Abroad	ARC 4950	3
American Cultural Landscape	GEO 4422	3
Tourism and Commercial Recreation	GEO 4542	3
Urban Geography	GEO 4602	3
Transportation and Spatial Organization	GEO 4700	3
Introduction to Mapping and GIS	GIS 3015C	3
Environmental Ethics	PHI 3640	3
The Urban Community	SYD 4602	3
Introduction to the Nonprofit Sector	PAD 4144	3
Principles of Real Estate	REE 3043	3
Law and American Society	POS 3691	3
Politics of Community Development	PUP 4623	3
Note. 1. URP 3000 is a prerequisite or must be taken at the same time. Free Electives Course - 12 credits Free electives are taken in other FAU Colleges. Students are advised to consider additional courses listed under "Suggested Elective Courses," although other choices are permitted.

Honors Program

Advanced Standing Programs

Architecture to Urban and Regional Planning
Bachelor of Architecture (B.Arch.) to
Master of Urban and Regional Planning (M.U.R.P.)
Advanced Standing Program

This program offers FAU Bachelor of Architecture students the opportunity to complete the M.U.R.P. degree program in less time than would be required normally after graduating with the B.Arch. B.Arch. students complete up to 12 credits of M.U.R. P. core courses during their senior and thesis (fourth and fifth) years. These courses count as electives toward the the B.Arch. The remaining 36 credits required for the M.U.R.P. may be completed in as few as 15 months following graduation with the B.Arch.

Admission Requirements and Academic Standing

1. Applications to the advanced standing program may be submitted by B.Arch. students during their senior or thesis (fourth or fifth) year of study. Applicants must have no academic deficiencies a the time of application.
2. Applicants must have a minimum undergraduate FAU GPA of 3.25 in order to be admitted to the program. The GRE will be waived for these students. Students who meet the GPA requirement, provide a positive letter of support from a full-time School of Architecture faculty member and provide a strong letter of intent will be eligible for admission. Other students will follow graduate application procedures as well as departmental requirements for admission to this program.
3. Students must graduate with the B.Arch. as soon as all of the requirements for that degree have been met. Students must maintain a minimum GPA of 3.0 across all courses applied to the M.U.R. P., including the credits that apply to both the B.Arch. (as electives) and the M.U.R.P. Both degrees require a total of 207 credits: 159 for the undergraduate degree and 48 for the master's degree, with a maximum of 12 graduate, URP credits used to satisfy requirements for both degrees.

Degree Requirements

The following course schedule gives an example of how B.Arch. students who enroll in the advanced standing M.U.R.P. program could complete the requirements for that program.

Required M.U.R.P. courses
B.Arch. Senior Year - Fall - 3 credits
History and Theory of Planning	URP 6101*	3
B.Arch. Senior Year - Spring - 3 credits
Sustainable Cities	URP 6406*	3
B.Arch. Thesis Year - Spring - 3 credits
Planning Methods	URP 6200*	3
B.Arch. Thesis Year - Fall - 3 credits
Legal Aspects of Planning	URP 6873*	3
Receive B.Arch. degree
Master Year - First Summer - 6 credits
Planning Internship	URP 6945	3
Graduate elective		3
Master Year - Fall - 12 credits
Urban Spatial Structure	URP 6840	3
Introduction to GIS in Planning	URP 6270	3
Urban Governance	URP 6115	3
Planning Workshop	URP 6920	3
Master Year - Spring - 12 credits
Site Planning	URP 6873**	3
Statistics for Urban Planning	URP 6211	3
Graduate elective		3
Planning Project	URP 6979	3
Master Year - Second Summer - 6 credits
Graduate elective		3
Graduate elective		3
Receive M.U.R.P. degree

* Graduate courses used as electives toward the bachelor's degree.
** B.Arch. students with a grade of "B" or better in ARC 3374 may substitute a graduate elective for URP 6873.

Urban Design to Urban and Regional Planning
Bachelor of Urban Design (B.U.D.) to
Master of Urban and Regional Planning (M.U.R.P.)
Advanced Standing Program

Urban and Regional Planning
Bachelor of Urban and Regional Planning (B.U.R.P.) to
Master of Urban and Regional Planning (M.U.R.P.)
Advanced Standing Program

This program allows FAU Bachelor of Urban Design and Bachelor of Urban and Regional Planning students the opportunity to complete the M.U.R.P. in less time than would be required normally after completing the B.U.D. or B.U.R.P. B.U.D. and B.U.R.P. students may complete up to 12 credits of M.U.R.P. core courses during their senior year. These courses count as electives toward the B.U.D. or B.U.R.P. The remaining 36 credits required for the M.U.R.P. may be completed in as few as15 months following graduation with the B.U.D. or B.U.R.P.

Admission Requirements and Academic Standing

1. Applications to the advanced standing program may be submitted by B.U.D. or B.U.R.P. students during their senior year of study. Applicants must have no academic deficiencies at the time of application.
2. Applicants must have a minimum undergraduate FAU GPA of 3.25 in order to be admitted to the program. The GRE will be waived for these students. Students who meet the GPA requirement, provide a positive letter of support from a full-time Department of Urban and Regional Planning faculty member and provide a strong letter of intent will be eligible for admission. Other students will follow graduate application procedures as well as departmental requirements for admission to this program.
3. Students must graduate with the B.U.D. or B.U.R.P. as soon as all of the requirements for those degrees have been met. Students must maintain a minimum GPA of 3.0 across all courses applied to the M.U.R. P, including the credits that apply to both the B.U.D. or B.U.R.P. (as electives) and the M.U.R.P. Both degrees require a total of 168 credits: 120 for the undergraduate degree and 48 for the master's degree, with a maximum of 12 graduate, URP credits used to satisfy requirements for both degrees.

Degree Requirements
The following course schedule gives an example of how B.U.D. and B.U.R.P. students who enroll in the advanced standing M.U.R. P. program could complete the requirements for that program.

Required M.U.R.P. courses
B.U.D. or B.U.R.P. Senior Year - Fall - 6 credits
Planning Methods	URP 6200*	3
History and Theory of Planning	URP 6101*	3
B.U.D. or B.U.R.P. Senior Year - Spring - 6 credits
Graduate elective		3
Legal Aspects of Planning	URP 6873*	3
Receive B.U.D. or B.U.R.P. degree
Master Year - First Summer - 6 credits
Planning Internship	URP 6945**	3
Graduate elective		3
Master Year - Fall - 12 credits
Urban Spatial Structure	URP 6840	3
Introduction to GIS in Planning	URP 6270	3
Urban Governance	URP 6115	3
Planning Workshop	URP 6920	3
Master Year - Spring - 12 credits
Site Planning	URP 6873**	3
Statistics for Urban Planning	URP 6211	3
Sustainable Cities	URP 6406**	3
Planning Project	URP 6979	3
Master Year - Second Summer - 6 credits
Graduate elective		3
Graduate elective		3
Receive M.U.R.P. degree

* Graduate courses used as electives toward the bachelor's degree.
** B.U.R.P. students who have completed URP 4945 with a grade of "S" may substitute a graduate elective for URP 6945. B.U.R.P. students with a grade of "B" or better in both URP 4254 and URP 4870 may substitute a graduate elective for URP 6873. B.U.D. students with a grade of "B" or better in both ARC 3374 and URP 4254 may substitute a graduate elective for URP 6873. B.U.D. and B.U.R.P. students with a grade of "B" or better in URP 4403 may substitute a graduate elective for URP 6406.

Master's Program

Urban and Regional Planning
Master of Urban and Regional Planning (M.U.R.P.)

(Minimum of 48 credits required)

The Master of Urban and Regional Planning (M.U.R.P.) is a fully accredited professional degree designed for individuals interested in careers as urban and/or regional planners. Individuals from a wide variety of undergraduate backgrounds, including architecture, design, applied arts, engineering, humanities, social sciences, geography and urban and environmental studies, are encouraged to apply.

Admission Requirements 
Applicants for admission must hold a bachelor's degree from an accredited school. Each applicant should have a grade point average (GPA) of 3.0 or higher in the last 60 credits. A personal statement of no more than 1,000 words is also required. A Graduate Record Examination (GRE) is not required but may be submitted as additional evidence of an applicant's readiness for the program.  

An international student for whom English is a second language is required to achieve a minimum score of 550 (IBT of 61 or higher) on the Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL). A graduate of a college or university outside of the United States who has completed an academic program equivalent to an American bachelor's degree may apply for admission. All international applicants whose transcripts are from non-U.S. institutions must have their credentials evaluated course by course, including the GPA, by a professional evaluation service. A service may be found at  www.NACES.org.

Degree Requirements
The M.U.R.P. curriculum is a two-year, 48-credit program. It is designed and structured to allow timely completion for both full-time (9-12 credits per semester) and part-time (6 credits per semester) students.

The M.U.R.P. curriculum is structured into three components: core courses (27 credits), electives (15 credits) and synthesis (6 credits).

Core Courses - 27 credits
History and Theory of Planning	URP 6101	3
Urban Governance	URP 6115	3
Legal Aspects of Planning	URP 6131	3
Planning Methods 1	URP 6200	3
Statistics for Urban Planning	URP 6211	3
Introduction to GIS in Planning	URP 6270	3
Urban Spatial Structure	URP 6840	3
Site Planning	URP 6873	3
Sustainable Cities	URP 6406	3
Synthesis - 6 credits
Thesis Option  (two semesters of 3 credits each)
Master's Thesis	URP 6971	3
Non-Thesis Option
Planning Workshop	URP 6920	3
Planning Project	URP 6979	3
Electives - 15 credits Choose five courses in consultation with advisor.

The core component  provides planning knowledge, skills and values. Planning knowledge includes: the structure and functions of urban settlements, history and theory of planning processes and practices, and administrative, legal and political aspects of plan-making and policy implementation. Planning skills focus on: problem formulation, research skills and data gathering; quantitative analysis and computers; written, oral and graphic communications; collaborative problem solving, plan-making and program design; and the synthesis and application of knowledge to practice. Discussion of planning values provides students with the basis for becoming ethical practitioners who are aware of, and responsible for, the ways their activities affect and promote societal and individual concerns.

Electives  permit advanced study in planning subfields. Elective courses are offered in such areas as:

• Environmental Planning
• Housing, Community and Economic Development
• Urban Design
• Transportation and Land Use Planning

Academic Standing
Students are considered to be in good academic standing if they are making satisfactory progress toward the M.U.R.P. degree. Students are expected to maintain a minimum 3.0 cumulative average throughout the course of study; failure to maintain this average for two successive semesters will result in recommended dismissal. Students admitted conditionally shall satisfy all the conditions prior to earning 18 M.U.R.P. credits to avoid recommended dismissal. Only grades of "C" or higher are acceptable ("C-" is not acceptable) in fulfilling the requirements for the M.U.R.P. degree. Students may not graduate with more than one grade below a "B-" in core courses (in such cases, these courses must be repeated for a grade of "B-" or higher).

Acceptance of transfer credits from approved institutions is dependent upon the pertinence of the work to the M.U.R.P. degree requirements. Transfer of credit should normally occur at the time of admission and is limited to 6 credits. Transfer credit can be given only for courses that have not been applied to another degree or preparatory work.

Waivers from specific course (but not the associated credit) requirements may be granted upon approval of the Department Director.

Certificate Programs

Urban and Regional Planning participates in interdisciplinary certificate programs in conjunction with the College of Science, including the graduate  Geographic Information Systems  certificate and the graduate  Environmental Restoration  certificate.  The Department also offers two certificate programs described below; however, these are currently on hiatus.

Economic Development and Tourism
Graduate Certificate

(Minimum of 12 credits required)

This program is on hiatus and currently not accepting students.

This certificate provides students with the knowledge and skills needed to help cities with their built and natural attractions to enhance their revenue base and improve their citizens' quality of life. The role of the economic development planner today is frequently directed at tourism in the form of urban entertainment centers, reinvigorated downtowns and waterfronts or assessing the potential value to the cost of a convention center or stadium. Urban physical attributes like greenways, urban river trails and parks also provide a base for enhancing economic development while contributing to the area's quality of life.

Students pursuing this program are required to maintain a 3.0 cumulative grade point average throughout the completion of the certificate. Students cannot complete a certificate program with more than one grade below a "B-."

The Economic Development and Tourism certificate program requires three courses that emphasize the varied inputs to a good economic development plan and an approved elective. The courses are:

Urban Revitalization Strategies	URP 6545
Economic Development Planning	URP 6549
Elective	URP

Sustainable Community Planning
Graduate Certificate

Environmental Analysis in Planning	URP 6425
Urban Revitalization Strategies	URP 6545
Site Planning	URP 6873
Elective

 

Link to Course Descriptions for the Charles E. Schmidt College of Science