Department of Biological and Health Sciences
Biology M.S.
The Department of Biological and Health Sciences offers a Master of Science (M.S.) degree in Biology. This degree is not topic specific, and can cover subjects related to ecology, GIS, molecular biology, genetics, microbiology, or other specialties found in the department.
Students can choose one of the three degree options: (i) thesis option, (ii) research project option, or (iii) course-work only option.
Additionally, the Department of Biological and Health Sciences offers a graduate level certificate in Health Sciences. Students will receive the certificate upon completing all courses stated in course requirements and will be displayed on your University transcript.
Fiscal support for qualified graduate students is available through scholarships, research assistantships and teaching assistantships. Many research projects are funded through federal and private sources.
Dietetic Internship (D.I.) Program
The Texas A&M University-Kingsville Dietetic Internship prepares entry-level Registered Dietitian Nutritionists for careers in a variety of health care settings including hospitals, health care agencies, government, food industries, wellness, restaurants, schools and private practice. Dietitians assist individuals in choosing food for adequate nutrition in health and disease throughout the life cycle. The Texas A&M University-Kingsville Dietetic Internship, supervise the preparation of students in completing dietetic practicum to serve their nutrition-related community needs.
TAMUK offers accredited Dietetic Internship (DI) tracks to students to become professional Registered Dietitian Nutritionists (RD/RDN):
- Ten-month non-degree Dietetic Internship, open only to graduates from accredited with Didactic Program in Dietetics (DPD) with DPD verification statement.
TAMUK’s Dietetic Internship program is currently accredited by the Accreditation Council for Education in Nutrition and Dietetics (ACEND), part of the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics (AND), (800) 877-1600, ext 5400, https://www.eatrightpro.org/acend.
Department Faculty
Aguilar, Shannon Assistant Professor of Practice, Department of Biological and Health Sciences; B.S., Texas A&M University-Kingsville; M.S., Texas A&M University-Kingsville.
Bohm, Rudolf Associate Professor, Department of Biological and Health Sciences; B.S., The University of Texas at Austin; Ph.D., The University of Texas at Austin.
Deyhim, Farzad Professor, Department of Biological and Health Sciences; B.S., California State University; M.S., California State University; Ph.D., Colorado State University; Ph.D., Oklahoma State University.
Galloway, Cynthia M Professor, Department of Biological and Health Sciences; B.S., California State Polytechnic University-Pomona; M.S., California State Polytechnic University-Pomona; Ph.D., University of California, Riverside.
He, Fang Associate Professor, Department of Biological and Health Sciences; B.S., Jiangxi Institute of Education (China); M.S., Nanjing University (China); Ph.D., Louisiana State University.
Kim, Haeyoung Associate Professor, Department of Biological and Health Sciences; B.A., Chonnam National University (South Korea); M.A., Chonnam National University (South Korea).
Kumro, Shawnda Lecturer I, Department of Biological and Health Sciences; B.S., Texas A&M University-Kingsville; M.S., Texas A&M University-Kingsville.
Laughlin, Richard Associate Professor, Department of Biological and Health Sciences; Chair; B.S., Stetson University; Ph.D., Clemson University.
Massa, Enrique Associate Professor, Department of Biological and Health Sciences; B.S., Pan American University; M.S., University of Michigan; Ph.D., University of Michigan.
Perez-Ballestero, Rafael Professor, Department of Biological and Health Sciences; B.S., Universidad Autónoma de Madrid; M.S., University of Michigan; Ph.D., University of Michigan.
Powell, Randy Professor, Department of Biological and Health Sciences; B.S., Logan College of Chiropractic; D.C., Logan College of Chiropractic; B.S., Southern Illinois University at Carbondale; M.S., Southern Illinois University at Carbondale; Ph.D., The University of Texas at El Paso.
Shaney, Kyle Assistant Professor, Department of Biological and Health Sciences; B.I.S., Weber State University; Ph.D., University of Texas - Arlington.
Soto, Manuel A Associate Professor, Department of Biological and Health Sciences; B.S., Texas A&M University-Kingsville; M.A., Texas A&M University-Kingsville; Ph.D., University of Southern Mississippi.
Sung, Chang K Associate Professor, Department of Biological and Health Sciences; B.S., Yeungnam University (South Korea); M.S., Illinois Institute of Technology; Ph.D., University of Illinois.
Velez-Hernandez, Maria Associate Professor, Department of Biological and Health Sciences; Associate Dean, College of Arts & Sciences; B.S., University of Puerto Rico at Mayaquez (Puerto Rico); Ph.D., University of Puerto Rico at Mayaquez (Puerto Rico).
Xi, Weimin Professor, Department of Biological and Health Sciences; B.S., Capital Normal University (China); M.S., Southwest University (China); Ph.D., University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill.
Emeritus
Peacock, J. Talmer Professor of Biology, Department of Biological and Health Sciences; B.S., Maryville College; M.S., University of Alabama; Ph.D., The University of Texas at Austin.
Perez, John Professor of Biological and Health Sciences, Department of Biological and Health Sciences; Regents Professor; B.S., University of Utah; M.A., Mankato State College; Ph.D., Utah State University.
Wood, Carl Professor of Biology, Department of Biological and Health Sciences; B.S., Texas A&M University; M.S., Texas A&M University; Ph.D., Texas A&M University.
Biology (BIOL)
BIOL 5102 Research Problems I 1 SCH (0-1)
Individual problems assigned, defined and supervised by a Biology graduate faculty member with permission of the department chair. Provides experience in individual design, execution and reporting of small units of research of professional caliber. The Research Problems I, II and III courses may be repeated in any combination for a total maximum of 6 semester credit hours applied towards the graduate degree.
BIOL 5104 Graduate Seminar 1 SCH (0-1)
An advanced study of biological literature and research with critical class reports. Must be taken four times for credit.
BIOL 5202 Research Problems II 2 SCH (0-2)
Individual problems assigned, defined and supervised by a biology graduate faculty member with permission of the department chair. Provides experience in individual design, execution and reporting of small units of research of professional caliber. The Research Problems I, II and III courses may be repeated in any combination for a total maximum of 6 semester credit hours applied towards the graduate degree.
BIOL 5302 Advanced Topics in Biology 3 SCH (3-0)
Lectures in selected topics. May be repeated for credit once under a different topic. Prerequisites: 12 semester hours of biology or equivalent.
BIOL 5305 Graduate Research Project 3 SCH (3)
Designed for project option students and requires completion of research project. Prerequisite: departmental approval. May be repeated for a maximum of 6 semester hours.
BIOL 5306 Thesis 3 SCH (3)
Designed for thesis option students. The course requires completion of thesis research. Prerequisite: departmental approval. May be repeated for maximum of 6 semester hours.
BIOL 5308 Advanced Molecular Genetics 3 SCH (3-0)
This course will familiarize students with fundamental concepts of molecular genetics, including gene structure and diversity, transcription and advanced concepts in cellular and molecular genetics.
BIOL 5309 Epigenetics 3 SCH (3-0)
This course will introduce fundamental concepts of epigenetics, including chromatin structure, DNA and histone modifications, and non-coding RNAs, and advanced concepts in gene expression regulation. Furthermore, this course will discuss up-to-date research articles to correlate concepts in epigenetics to practical examples.
BIOL 5310 Systems Neurobiology 3 SCH (3-0)
This course covers the fundamental concepts of systems neurobiology, including neuronal physiology, sensory and motor systems and complex brain functions like addiction and memory.
BIOL 5311 Advanced Immunology 3 SCH (3-0)
The fundamentals of immunology, including the anatomical, physiological, cellular and molecular aspects of both innate and adaptive immunity will be covered. Basic diagnostic tools, counter measures against infections, and provide an overview of human and animal immunity will also be discussed.
BIOL 5312 Advanced Bacteriology 3 SCH (3-0)
A showcase of current topics in microbiology including antibiotic resistance, mircobiome, metabolism, or any other topic agreed upon. Students will be expected to read, understand, and analyze published literature, present these papers in front of the class, and dissect the strengths and weaknesses of the published work.
BIOL 5313 Biotechniques 3 SCH (3-2)
Interactive lecture course in molecular biology for graduate students; introduction to tools and methodologies used in prokaryotic and eukaryotic molecular labs; choosing the appropriate experimental technique for a given scientific question; virtual experiments will reinforce the applications and introduce useful bioinformatics tools. Required for the Health Science Post-baccalaureate Certificate.
BIOL 5314 Medical Anatomy & Physiology 3 SCH (3-2)
Course will examine the relationships and organization of the human body at a level required for clinical medicine and basic research in medical physiology. The course covers normal physiology, as well as selected diseases. Organization of human anatomy is correlated with diagnostic imaging and pathophysiology. Counts as an elective for the Health Science Post-baccalaureate Certificate.
BIOL 5315 Cell Biology 3 SCH (3-2)
Fundamental concepts of neurobiology, including neuronal electrical signaling, synaptic transmission, signal transduction, neurotransmitter diversity, neural development, and synaptic function on a graduate level. Counts as an elective for the Health Science Post-baccalaureate Certificate.
BIOL 5317 Medical Ethics 3 SCH (3-0)
Grounding in the major theories and methods of bioethical decision-making, including contemporary controversies about the role of theory, principles, cases, narrative, and virtues. Required for the Health Science Post-baccalaureate Certificate.
BIOL 5318 Medical Neurobiology 3 SCH (3-2)
Fundamental concepts of neurobiology, including neuronal electrical signaling, synaptic transmission, signal transduction, neurotransmitter diversity, neural development, and synaptic function on a graduate level. Counts as an elective for the Health Science Post-baccalaureate Certificate.
BIOL 5320 Research Problems III 3 SCH (0-3)
Individual problems assigned, defined and supervised by a biology graduate faculty member with permission of the department chair. Provides experience in individual design, execution and reporting of small units of research of professional caliber. The Research Problems I, II and III courses may be repeated in any combination for a total maximum of 6 semester credit hours applied towards the graduate degree.
BIOL 5321 Advanced Pathophysiology 3 SCH (3-2)
Fundamental concepts of pathophysiology, including changes at the cellular, organ, system, and whole-organism levels during the disease state on a graduate level. Counts as an elective for the Health Science Post-baccalaureate Certificate.
BIOL 5322 Infectious Disease 3 SCH (3-2)
Lecture and research activities involving infectious disease and host immune response at the graduate level. Counts as an elective for the Health Science Post-baccalaureate Certificate.
BIOL 5402 Advanced Topics in Biology 4 SCH (3-3)
Lectures, literature, investigation and research at the graduate level in selected advanced topics. May be repeated for credit under different topics.
Fee: $20.00
Human Nutrition (HMNT)
HMNT 5350 Issues in Food and Nutr Sci 3 SCH (3-0)
Current trends and issues in human nutrition, focusing on interrelationships of nutrients in metabolism and their impact on health.
HMNT 5351 Nutrition and Aging 3 SCH (3-0)
Study of the aging process and physiological changes with implications for food intake and utilization of nutrients.
HMNT 5352 Nutritional Care Mgmt I 3 SCH (3-0)
Advanced medical nutrition therapy. Includes principles and practical application of medical nutrition therapy and delivery of services to clientele with common and complex medical conditions. Topics include principles of diseases; development of care plans; enteral/parenteral nutrition, issues and formularies; principles of counseling; and menu writing. Prerequisite: enrollment in Dietetic Internship Program.
HMNT 5353 Nutritional Care Mgmt II 3 SCH (3-0)
Systems management of clinical and community nutrition services. Topics include leadership versus management; managed care; critical care pathways; outcomes research; grant writing; marketing and media; administrative proposals; business plans; and nutrition education of clientele with low-literacy skills. Prerequisite: enrollment in Dietetic Internship Program or permission of instructor.
HMNT 5390 T: Adv Topics Human Nutrition 3 SCH (3-0)
Detailed study of one or more specific sub-disciplines of human sciences. Course may be repeated for credit when topic changes.
HMNT 5650 Prac in Nutr Care Mgt I and II 3-6 SCH (0-0-3-6)
Practical experience in applying nutritional care management principles in clinical, community and foodservice settings. Part-time Dietetic Internship students take 3 hours per semester; full-time students take 6 hours per semester. Students must complete a total of 12 graduate hours in HMNT 5650.
Biology, M.S.
The Thesis option is research-oriented and requires completion of a thesis. This program is for students who plan to pursue a Ph.D. or who want research experience. The Research Project option is content-oriented, and a shorter research problem is required. This program is for those needing more background in formal course work. The coursework-only option is for students who are interested in earning an MS degree but do not intend to complete a thesis or project. The prerequisites for full admission are a grade point average of 3.0 on a 4.0 scale and a Graduate Record Examination (quantitative plus verbal) score of 294. Additional information is provided in the Biology Graduate Handbook, which may be obtained form the Graduate Coordinator or Department Chair.
Master of Science in Biology (Thesis Degree; 30 credit hours)
| Year 1 | Semester Credit Hours | |
|---|---|---|
| BIOL 5104 | Graduate Seminar | 1 |
| Prescribed Elective Courses 1 | 7 | |
| Free Elective Courses 2 | 6 | |
| Semester Credit Hours | 14 | |
| Year 2 | ||
| BIOL 5104 | Graduate Seminar | 1 |
| BIOL 5306 | Thesis | 3 |
| BIOL 5306 | Thesis | 3 |
| Prescribed Elective Courses 1 | 3 | |
| Free Elective Courses 2 | 6 | |
| Semester Credit Hours | 16 | |
| Total Credit Hours Required: | 30 | |
- 1
Graduate courses offered by the Department of Biological and Health Sciences
- 2
Graduate courses offered by any department
Students may take a maximum of 6 credit hours of the Research Programs courses including BIOL 5102, BIOL 5202 and BIOL 5320 (these courses are repeatable).
Master of Science in Biology (Research Projects Degree Plan; 36 Credit hours)
| Year 1 | Semester Credit Hours | |
|---|---|---|
| BIOL 5104 | Graduate Seminar | 1 |
| Prescribed Elective Courses 1 | 11 | |
| Free Elective Courses 2 | 6 | |
| Semester Credit Hours | 18 | |
| Year 2 | ||
| BIOL 5104 | Graduate Seminar | 1 |
| BIOL 5305 | Graduate Research Project | 3 |
| Prescribed Elective Courses 1 | 8 | |
| Free Elective Courses 2 | 6 | |
| Semester Credit Hours | 18 | |
| Total Credit Hours Required: | 36 | |
- 1
Graduate courses offered by the Department of Biological and Health Sciences
- 2
Graduate courses offered by any department
Students may take a maximum of 6 credit hours of the Research Problems courses, including BIOL 5102, BIOL 5202, and BIOL 5320 (these courses are repeatable).
Master of Science in Biology (Course-Work Only Degree Plan; 36 credit hours)
| Year 1 | Semester Credit Hours | |
|---|---|---|
| BIOL 5104 | Graduate Seminar | 1 |
| Prescribed Elective Courses 1 | 11 | |
| Free Elective Courses 2 | 6 | |
| Semester Credit Hours | 18 | |
| Year 2 | ||
| BIOL 5104 | Graduate Seminar | 1 |
| Prescribed Elective Courses 1 | 11 | |
| Free Elective Courses 2 | 6 | |
| Semester Credit Hours | 18 | |
| Total Credit Hours Required: | 36 | |
- 1
Graduate courses offered by the Department of Biological and Health Sciences
- 2
Graduate courses offered by any department
Students may take a maximum of 6 credit hours of the Research Programs courses, includingBIOL 5102,BIOL 5202 and BIOL 5320 (these courses are repeatable).
Health Sciences Post-Baccalaureate, Transcripted Certificate
| Code | Title | Semester Credit Hours |
|---|---|---|
| BIOL 5313 | Biotechniques | 3 |
| BIOL 5314 | Medical Anatomy & Physiology | 3 |
| BIOL 5315 | Cell Biology | 3 |
| BIOL 5317 | Medical Ethics | 3 |
| BIOL 5318 | Medical Neurobiology | 3 |
| BIOL 5321 | Advanced Pathophysiology | 3 |
| BIOL 5322 | Infectious Disease | 3 |
| CHEM 5345 | Medical Biochemistry | 3 |
Dietetic Internship (D.I.)
The Department of Biological and Health Sciences offers a Dietetic Internship with graduate level coursework. Students who have a Bachelor degree and verification statement from the Accreditation Council for Education in Nutrition and Dietetics (ACEND) accredited Didactic Program in Dietetics (DPD) can apply to the TAMUK DI.
Interns are required to take a minimum of six hours of graduate work in Human Sciences (HMNT 5352 and HMNT 5353) in Summer Session II starting the first week of July before beginning their Internship rotation in August. HMNT 5352 and HMNT 5353 can only be taken at TAMUK. No graduate course substitution will be allowed as HMNT 5352 and HMNT 5353 are part of TAMUK Dietetic Internship Program. The TAMUK DI provides 18 graduate credit hours that can be applied toward the 36 graduate credit hours required to complete the Master of Science in Biology. Applicants with a master’s degree can be accepted into the internship; however, the eighteen hours of graduate coursework is required and no substitutions are allowed.
HSCI 5352 and HSCI 5353 are taught on the Kingsville campus Summer II (first week of July). Each course earns three graduate credit hours. Interns must achieve a grade of “C” or higher in HSCI 5352 and HSCI 5353 in order to begin HSCI 5650. Interns not achieving a minimum of “C” should withdraw from HSCI 5650 and would need to re-apply and be re- accepted into the internship if they want to continue. HSCI 5650 provides 30 weeks of practical experience for which an intern earns 12 hours of graduate credit over two semesters. Interns will complete 32 hours of practical experience per week (1,200 hours of internship per year) which is supervised by registered dietitians or other trained professionals under the direction of the internship director.