Degree Programs

A Master of Science degree in Fisheries Biology is offered for students interested in pursuing either research or management careers in fisheries biology. The Plan A degree is designed for students who desire research experience and requires production of a thesis based on original research conducted by the student. The Plan B option is designed for individuals with previous fisheries administrative experience who do not desire research training.  

The Plan A option for a master’s degree requires preparation of a thesis and 30 credits of course work, including at least 24 credits in residency and 6-15 semester credits of thesis research. The semesters during which a student registers for thesis credit should correspond as closely as possible to the semesters in which the thesis work is done and faculty supervision is provided. The Plan B option requires the production of a paper and 2-3 credits of thesis research. No more than 3 credits of thesis credit can be included on the Program of Study. 

With committee approval, graduate credit may be transferred from other colleges and universities with accredited graduate programs, provided the minimum residency requirement (including thesis and dissertation credit) at USU is met. Transfer credit, which must not have been used for any other degree, will be shown on official USU transcripts at completion of the degree.

Specializations

Specializations are available in Conservation Biology and Fisheries Management.