Professional Science Master's Degree (PSM): Biological Sciences

Department of Biological Sciences, Fort Hays State University

The PSM is an innovative graduate degree designed to allow you to pursue advanced training and excel in science without a Ph.D., while simultaneously developing highly-valued business skills without an MBA. PSM programs prepare you for science careers in business, government, or nonprofit organizations, where workforce needs are increasing. Programs are characterized by “science-plus,” combining rigorous study in science or mathematics with skills-based coursework in management, policy, or law. Our PSM program emphasizes writing and communication skills, and requires a final project, as well as a “real-world” internship in a business or public-sector enterprise.

Contact: Dr. Elmer Finck, Department of Biological Sciences
                 efinck@fhsu.edu  |  785-628-4214

Courses required (36 credit hours total):

• GBUS 801 Economics and Quantitative Methods 3 credits (available on-line)
• GBUS 802 Management and Marketing Concepts 3 credits (available on-line)
• GBUS 803 Accounting Theories and Practice 3 credits (available on-line)
• BIOL 620 Biostatistics and Lab 4 credits (on campus, fall semesters only)
• BIOL 825 Biological Scientific Writing 2 credits (on campus, fall semesters only)
• BIOL 807 Graduate Topics in Biology: Posters and Presentations 1 credit (on campus, fall semesters only)
• A minimum of 14 credit hours in an area of concentration (microbiology, botany, wildlife management, etc.). Courses must be approved by your graduate committee.
• BIOL 892 Research in Biology (Professional Project) 3 credits
• BIOL 876 Graduate Apprenticeship in Biology 3 credits

Admission to this program requires a personal statement specifying the exact research area and 2 letters of recommendation.

Current FHSU PSM Advisory Board Members:

• Jeff Glimpse, Human Resources Supervisor, Hospira Corporation, McPherson, KS
• Greg Flax, President, Flax BioTech, Overland Park, KS
• Dan Meyerhoff, State Conservationist, Natural Resources and Conservation Services, Hays, KS
• Bryce Young, Chief Operating Officer, Hays Medical Center, Hays, KS
• Keith Sexson, Kansas Department of Wildlife and Parks, Topeka, KS
• Dr. Jeff Briggs, Dean, Health and Life Sciences, FHSU, Hays, KS