The MSc program is a research degree that, nominally, lasts for 24 months. In practice, the median time to completion is 34 months. The maximum time allowed is 60 months. The university requires a minimum of 15 units to be completed for a Master’s degree, however, Biology requires a minimum of 16 units in order to obtain a MSc in the area of Biology. • 12 units for the thesis (BIOL 599) • 1 unit for grad symposium (BIOL 560) • 3 units for course work (2 courses)