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WEST LIBERTY -- Beginning this fall, students seeking careers in fields from pharmaceutical research to dentistry and medicine can take the next step in their educational journeys at West Liberty University.
The university announced Wednesday it has received approval from the Higher Learning Commission for two new science degrees -- a master of arts in biology and a master of science in biology. Student applications are being accepted for the fall launch of the programs.
"We are pleased to offer these new master's degrees to our region and the state of West Virginia," said WLU President Stephen Greiner. "Currently, no small college in the state offers the master's of biology, so we are excited to be the first and we encourage undergraduates to take a look at the opportunities that these degrees offer."
The masters in science degree in biology often leads to jobs such as research technicians for the pharmaceutical industry or academic labs, environmental consulting work, or entry into doctoral programs, while the masters in arts degree in biology prepares students for professional schools such as dental or medical school, officials noted.
"There are a number of reasons that I believe these are important degrees for West Liberty University," said Joseph Horzempa, associate professor of biology and program director for the new degrees. "One is simply to increase scholarly activities in the sciences in the Mountain State. The other is that these graduate degrees will certainly help our residents find careers in their field."
Robert Kreisberg, dean of WLU's College of Sciences, said the recent announcement is the culmination of more than two years of work.
For information, visit westliberty.edu/mamsbiology, call Horzempa at (304) 336-8284 or e-mail to joseph.horzempa@westliberty.edu.