Christopher R. Zito, Ph.D.
“I believe you can teach a student a lesson for a day, for a week, even for a year, and while some lessons are retained, most are forgotten,” he said. “It is the spark of curiosity, though, that gives a student the tools to learn, and makes her a student for life.” Students in his classes are “sparked” by Dr. Zito’s real-life passion, knowledge, and expertise.
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Biology: Master of Science
Are you interested in increasing your knowledge and competency in the biological sciences? Whether your interest lies in the fields of research or education, a master's degree in biology from Saint Joseph College will enhance your capability and prepare you for professional advancement. Specifically designed to meet the needs of those with a baccalaureate degree, our graduate program combines flexibility, knowledge and opportunity. Highlights to the program include:
A Comprehensive Curriculum
Following the completion of 30 graduate-level credits in biology or a biology-related field, students select from a thesis or non-thesis option. Students who select the thesis option complete a research project under the direction of a biology department faculty member. The thesis is presented in writing and then defended as a culminating activity to the project. Students who choose the non-thesis option complete a comprehensive exam as part of their graduation requirement.
Courses available include Ecology, Cell Biology, Animal Behavior, Endocrinology, Immunology, Genetics, Medical Bacteriology, Parasitology, Biotechnology, Advanced Physiology, Advanced Pathophysiology, and Laboratory Techniques for Teachers. Throughout, the curriculum presents opportunities for independent study and research. View our course descriptions here.
Flexible Schedule
Courses offered on campus are held in the evening to accommodate professional schedules. Additionally, the College holds classes online. The option exists to complete the graduate degree in either format, or to combine on-site with online courses. Learn more about our online biology program.
State-of-the-art Laboratories
Included among the College's eight science laboratories is the newly refurbished biology lab, home of the Freshwater Institute. Equipped with an indoor riffle tank, the lab is designed to enhance the research and learning opportunities for both the College and professional communities. All campus laboratories contain up-to-date equipment like fluorescent and phasecontrast microscopes, a CO2 incubator, a laminar flow hood, gel apparatus and gene cyclers.
Research Opportunities
Saint Joseph College graduate students participate in a wide range of research projects including, neuro-immune interactions, cancer research, animal behavior studies, environmental studies on the quality of Connecticut rivers, cardiovascular research and many other exciting disciplines. Research opportunities exist at Saint Joseph College and a variety of off-campus sites.
Career Opportunities
Graduates of our program go on to exciting careers in research and education at institutions like Bayer Pharmaceuticals, Hartford Hospital, UCONN Health Center and numerous public school systems. Others pursue doctoral degrees at institiutions like Yale University and the University of Connecticut. Alumnae from our graduate program have also been accepted into various medical schools and physician's assistant programs.
For further information, contact the Graduate Office at graduate@sjc.edu, or 860.231.5261, or by visiting our Biology Graduate Program website.
Mary Helen Pombo '08"I want to exercise the skills I learned at the College in order to develop further insight into our global society."
