Graduate Program in Physiology and Integrative Biology
Master of Science Degree Learning Goals and Assessment
The Master program in Physiology and Integrative Biology trains students at an advanced level in physiology and biology in order for them to continue graduate studies or to meet professional goals.
Learning Goal 1 for Students: Attain mastery of molecular, cellular or system physiology or pathophysiology
Assessment of student achievement of Goal 1:
• Grades in graduate courses
• Review by faculty of student progress with close advising and mentoring
• Placement in positions and careers that require understanding and techniques of biology, particularly in aspects of molecular endocrinology, cardiovascular research, cancer biology, membrane structure and signal transduction and host-microbial.
Role of the program in helping students to achieve Goal 1:
• Close advising to assure that students are being prepared in a coherent and academically rigorous fashion
• Effective monitoring of student progress
o Includes annual review on research progress from both the student and the student’s advisory committee
• Evaluations of teaching effectiveness of instructors in graduate courses
o If effectiveness is below expectations, work with instructors to improve effectiveness
• Periodic review of curricular offerings and assessment tools
o By program faculty
o In consultation with the office of the dean of the graduate school and/or the unit dean
Learning Goal 2 for Students: Engage in and conduct original research
Assessment of graduate student achievement of Goal 2:
• Preparation of research-based MS thesis
• Assessment of quality of MS dissertation:
o Critical reading of dissertation by committee of graduate faculty members and a committee member outside of the PIB graduate program.
• Achievement of students as evidenced by professional placements.
Role of the graduate program in helping students achieve Goal 2:
• Provide early introduction to research methods and opportunities for research
• Provide comprehensive advising and assist in the identification of mentors
Learning Goal 3 for Students: Prepare to be professionals in careers that require training in biology, particularly in aspects of molecular endocrinology, cardiovascular research, cancer biology, membrane structure and signal transduction, host-microbial interaction and the physiological bases of diseases.
Assessment of graduate student achievement of Goal 3:
• Evaluations of teaching effectiveness of graduate student instructors
• Collection of placement data
• Review by external advisory committees, both inside of and external to the academy.
• Survey alumni/ae
Role of the program in helping students achieve Goal 3:
• Encourage participation in professional development programs in interview skills, presentation skills, development of CVs, use of research tools, and training in the responsible conduct of research
• Teach students how to do assessments in their future professional capacities
• Provide flexible options for students with interdisciplinary interests related to physiology
• Develop or enhance programs related to job and networking skills, including activity in professional societies and preparation for necessary certifications
• Acquaint students with non-academic career opportunities
The leadership of the PIB program will regularly review the structure and content of the program and the feedback received from assessments and surveys. These reviews will be used to provide the best possible education to students in order to meet the needs for individuals trained in physiology, particularly in aspects of molecular endocrinology, cardiovascular research, cancer biology, membrane structure and signal transduction, host-microbial interaction and the physiological bases of diseases.