Applications now being accepted through July, (Deadline now extended to September 1 !!) 2005 for Master Degree Program in BioSecurity beginning Fall 2005

In December 2004, the Saint Louis University Board of Trustees granted approval for the Institute for Bio-Security to begin a new Master's Degree program in Biosecurity. The North Central Association of Colleges and Schools has also granted accreditation. To our knowledge, it is the first all distance-based program of its kind in the United States. The degree can be completed in two years.

Students may participate in this program at one of three levels:

1. Master of Science Degree in Biosecurity
This 35 credit hour Master in Science program is taught entirely by distance technology with an optional three week summer residency at the University. The degree is designed to be completed in two years if two courses are completed each semester.

2. Accredited Certificate Program in Biosecurity
A subset of the courses will also be offered as a graduate certificate (14 credit hours), for those individuals unable to pursue the Master of Science degree. The certificate program is fully accredited through Saint Louis University. Courses that are completed in this program may be later applied towards the MS Biosecurity degree.

3. Continuing Education for Professional Enrichment. (no degree or certificate)

All courses can be taken individually as continuing education at reduced tuition without going through the Graduate School application process. However, these courses cannot be used for credit toward a degree at a later date without paying full tuition.

The program is designed to meet the growing need of public health professionals, physicians, physician assistants, nurses, veterinarians, emergency management professionals, corporate security and health personnel, law enforcement, and related professionals. Successful students in this program are self-directed, motivated adult learners who are critical thinkers and who can work independently in a non-traditional environment. Distance technology permits a student to decide when they will study and how long it will take them to get their degree.

Additional information regarding the program (curriculum, entrance requirements, and tuition information) is available at the Institute website, bioterrorism.slu.edu.

As a result of the establishment of the degree program, the Institute has been accepted into membership in the Homeland Security/Defense Education Consortium sponsored by USNORTHCOM.

Have a question or comment? Email bioterr@slu.edu