Master of Arts in Biology - Cellular and Molecular Biology (STEM)

at Kent State University USA

The Master of Arts degree in Visual Communication Design is recommended for students who already hold an undergraduate degree and are looking to enter the design industry or related fields and wish to advance their studio skills in print design, illustration, web design, 3-D design, motion graphics, interactive design, corporate identity, information architecture, interaction design or information graphics. The program offers individualized plans of study, experiential learning, design history and research. Interdisciplinary study is encouraged.

Program Learning Outcomes
Graduates of this program will be able to:

• Demonstrate an understanding of basic skills and knowledge of design processes, principles, vocabulary and history.
• Develop a body of creative work at a level appropriate for a graduate designer/illustrator/photographer.

The Bachelor of Science degree in American Sign Language/English Interpreting prepares students to work with deaf and hard-of-hearing individuals in both educational and community settings, including schools and universities, businesses, medical and mental health agencies and social service offices, among others.

The coursework and nationally certified instructors guide students in developing interpreting expertise, sign language fluency and professional ethics. Coursework encompasses interpreting process models and their application; analytical approaches to professional and ethical decision-making; and interpreting comparative analyses of English and American Sign Language through the study of linguistics, discourse structures and features, pragmatics and sociolinguistics. Students learn self-assessment strategies for lifelong learning and gain 500 hours of practicum and experience with interpreter mentors.

Graduates may apply for licensure from the State of Ohio to interpret from pre-kindergarten to grade 12. They also have preparation toward the National Interpreter Certification (NIC) and the Educational Interpreter Performance Assessment (EIPA).

Program Learning Outcomes

Graduates of this program will be able to:

• Demonstrate native or near-native fluency in spoken and written English (80% of the time as per the NCEIC), American Sign Language, Deaf and non-Deaf cultures
• Effectively interpret audio and video texts, as well as live presentations, across a variety of genres and be able to adapt interpretations to consumer modality preferences
• Demonstrate appropriate interpersonal skills and professionalism across all classroom/program-related settings, while interacting with others, with an awareness of linguistic, cultural, contextual and personality differences
• Make appropriate and effective ethical decisions, both in practical and authentic interpreting situations in alignment with RID's Code of Professional Conduct and Kent State University's Code of Student Conduct
• Demonstrate adaptability and teachability
• Articulate the impact of interpreting models, theories and best practices and how they inform one's work
• Recognize substantive linguistic and paralinguistic cues from others from a distance of 3-10 feet in a variety of environments

The Master of Arts in Economics degree provides prepares graduates for a career as an analyst in government or the private sector, as well as for doctoral study.

The Economics major comprises the following concentrations:

• The Economic Analysis concentration has a distinct advantage for students in its focus on the development of strong analytical and quantitative skills. Students are well-trained in the application of economic theory and methods of statistical analysis.

Program Learning Outcomes
Graduates of this program will be able to:

• Understand and apply fundamental economic concepts.
• Formulate and test hypotheses.
• Access and use appropriate information.
• Demonstrate analytic and quantitative skills.

The B.S. degree in Sports Medicine will focus on the knowledge and skills that are required for sports medicine and athletic training professionals with specific coursework in anatomy, physiology, kinesiology, biomechanics, chemistry, physics, basics of sports medicine, strength and conditioning, first aid, pathologies of injury and illness, pathologies of general medical conditions, pharmacology, therapeutic intervention in health care (including modality application and rehabilitation), healthcare organization and management, emergency medical skills, documentation and record keeping in health care and psychology.

Students completing this program will gain experience in direct patient care and patient care skills, preparing them for their specific career path. Direct patient care skills taught and evaluated include, but are not limited to, first aid and CPR, assessment of biomechanics, gait analysis, goniometry, manual muscle testing, postural assessment, palpation, auscultation, emergency management, and obtaining medical and family histories through patient encounters.

Program Learning Outcomes

Graduates of this program will be able to:

• Develop foundational knowledge for admission to advanced studies in graduate athletic training programs or employment in associated sports medicine fields
• Demonstrate sound decision-making through analysis and application in the prevention, management, and resolution of health-related issues associated with sports medicine issues
• Engage in comprehensive sports medicine care while integrating disciplined-specific, synthesized, creative, respectful and ethical elements
• Develop confidence and competence to successfully transition into practice and/or higher education programs in sports medicine

The Bachelor of Science in Education degree in Integrated Language Arts prepares students for teacher licensure in integrated language arts reading, writing, speaking and listening) for grades 7-12. The combination of content and methods courses provides a strong foundation for graduates of the program, who will be licensed to teach English/language arts, journalism, communication and theater. (Please note that those with Ohio licensure in integrated language arts are able to teach theater for grades seven and eight only.) The program uniquely features a methods course devoted to the teaching of new media.

Students are required to complete Bureau of Criminal Investigation and Identification (BCII) and Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) background checks.

Program Learning Outcomes

Graduates of this program will be able to:

• Plan and implement research-based instruction in the teaching of reading, literature, language, and composition.
• Implement response-centered literacy instruction that is culturally relevant and sustaining.
• Implement fair and equitable assessment strategies to analyze students’ literacy learning.
• Engage in reflective practice and pursue continued professional growth and collaboration with colleagues.

The Bachelor of Science degree in Aeronautics provides an education in aviation that produces professionals to operate the National Airspace System in the 21st century.

The Aeronautics major comprises the following concentrations:

• The Aeronautical Studies concentration prepares students for entry-level technological positions in aviation and related areas. Although focused on a broad foundation of aeronautically related subjects, the program also provides a significant number of electives that allow students to explore other areas of interest or earn a minor in a particular area of study. It is well suited for those entering the program with previous flight experience or transfer credits from an accredited university.
• The Air Traffic Control concentration prepares students for professional work in air traffic control and management. Originally, as part of the Federal Aviation Administration’s Air Traffic–Collegiate Training Initiative (CTI), the concentration provides practical simulation-based training in air traffic control that enables the CTI graduates to work as air traffic controllers and managers in the National Airspace System.
• The Aviation Management concentration prepares students for entry-level management supervisory and administrative positions in aviation and other aviation-related professional fields. This course of study combines technical and aeronautical courses with courses in management and information systems. Students entering this program should have a technical interest, mathematical proficiency and an ability to develop analytical and communicative capabilities.
• The Professional Pilot concentration is designed for students who aspire to become professional pilots. This concentration stresses subjects associated with flight systems, propulsion, structures and electronics. Students entering this program should have a strong desire for excellence in aviation as well as the flying skills required of a professional pilot.
• The Unmanned Aircraft Systems Flight Operations concentration is for students who aspire to become professional Unmanned aircraft pilots (drone pilot).  This concentration is focused on the safe operations of unmanned aircraft systems, regulations, the technology of autonomous systems and policy regarding the operations of unmanned aerial elements. 

Program Learning Outcomes

Graduates of this program will be able to:

• Apply knowledge of math, science and the applied sciences to aviation-related disciplines.
• Analyze and interpret data.
• Understand and master the fundamental concepts and skills of airplane flight.
• Communicate effectively through written and oral means.
• Recognize the need and develop the cognitive abilities to engage in life-long learning by successfully contending with changing technologies, regulatory policies and procedures, market forces and the highly dynamic operational environment of commercial flight and professional aviation.
• Understand contemporary issues that affect aviation.
• Use the techniques, skills and modern technology necessary for professional practice.
• Understand the national and international aviation environment.
• Apply pertinent knowledge in identifying and solving problems.
• Know and understand the technical details involved in the effective management of employees and operational systems in professional aviation.

The Master of Arts degree in Music Composition is designed to advance the music composition creative skills of advanced students and to prepare them for admission to doctoral study. The program emphasizes mastery of composition of large-scale works for media, including orchestra, choir, band and/or chamber music ensembles.

Based on a solid undergraduate music degree, the M.A. degree further develops abilities in music theory, including analytical, aural, written, keyboard and pedagogical skills. The program further develops breadth and depth in the area of Western music history and literature.

Program Learning Outcomes
Graduates of this program will be able to:

• Compile a body of completed compositions.
• Demonstrate and apply compositional techniques for creation of new works, including musical style and structure.
• Analyze music from a wide range of styles and style periods and communicate results in written and oral formats.
• Recognize, identify and analyze representative literature from different historical periods, countries and composers.
• Communicate knowledge of composition, theory and other aspects of music as would be done in classroom and private teaching.

The Bachelor of Science degree in Nutrition provides students with a broad general education and a strong foundation in nutrition, dietetics and the sciences. The emphasis is integrating theory, research and application of knowledge to the profession of dietetics. The curriculum meets the didactic program in dietetics requirements of the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics, and graduates are eligible for admission to accredited internships. The faculty has expertise in nutritional sciences, exercise science, clinical and community practice and leadership studies.

Program Learning Outcomes

Graduates of this program will be able to:

• Apply knowledge and skills necessary to plan and evaluate menus and diets of individuals/groups to promote nutritional health and well-being.
• Demonstrate the ability to use oral and written communication skills effectively in the practice of nutrition and dietetics.
• Demonstrate the ability to interpret current research and utilize critical thinking skills in the practice of nutrition and dietetics.
• Apply acquired knowledge and skills to enroll in a supervised practice program, advanced/professional study or employment.

The Master of Arts degree in History offers students the opportunity for advanced study in a variety of areas. Coursework emphasizes interpretation, methodology and original research. A student's program of study allows for the opportunity to conduct historical inquiry, research and analysis at the highest level. While students will be able to develop a core competence in their chosen field study, they will also study the histories of regions and times far removed from their central interests. Students may also pursue interdisciplinary work in cognate fields composed of courses in outside disciplines.

Students who anticipate continuing their graduate study beyond the M.A. should pursue one of the thesis tracks. Those who choose the thesis option, which is required of students on graduate assistantships, will produce a thesis based on original primary source research that engages a historiographically significant research question. Non-thesis options are available for those who do not expect to go on to doctoral work.

The program develops graduates who are educated scholar-citizens committed to historical empathy and in possession of critical thinking and communication skills honed by rigorous training.

The History major includes the following optional concentration:

• The History for Secondary School Teachers concentration is for educators interested in the advanced study of history. Coursework is focused on current scholarship and approaches to history. While the concentration's focus is not in history pedagogy, it is designed to encourage the application of current historical scholarship to the work responsibilities of the practicing teacher. The program provides school professionals with a structured but flexible approach to analyzing and teaching history while permitting interdisciplinary work in related fields or areas particularly relevant to students' professional objectives.

The Master of Fashion Industry Studies degree in Fashion Industry Studies robustly addresses the highly interdisciplinary character of practice within fashion as a product-driven industry with a unique set of parameters that transverse many traditional academic boundaries.

Fashion Industry Studies is an initial master's level degree for the academic advancement of students to engage in learning and experiences applicable to the fashion industry. The degree program prepares professionals who intentionally use cross-disciplinary and applied research methods to address complex issues derived from the industry setting and provide impactful research-based solutions for the fashion industry.

Program Learning Outcomes
Graduates of this program will be able to:

• Demonstrate a capacity for critical analysis of the fashion industry supply chain from fiber to the consumer to identify pertinent issues.
• Demonstrate the ability to utilize cross-disciplinary and applied research methods with appropriate knowledge and technologies.
• Demonstrate the critical generation of pragmatic solutions based on testing and experimentation that connect research findings to fashion industry issues.
• Demonstrate abilities to effectively synthesize and present innovative and pragmatic research-based solutions applicable to the fashion industry.