MASTER OF SCIENCE IN PLANT ECOLOGY

Admission requirements
a)    The common regulations for all Master of Science degrees in the University shall apply.
b)    The general regulations for all Master of Science degrees in the Department of Biological Sciences shall apply.
c)    The following shall be eligible for registration for the Master of Science degree in Plant Ecology in the Department of Biological sciences.
(i)    A holder of at least Second Class Honours (Upper Division) in Biological Sciences having studied Biological sciences as a major or regular subject from University of Embu or its equivalent from  a University recognised by the Senate.
(ii)    Under exceptional circumstances, at the discretion of the Department, a holder of a Second Class Honours (Lower Division) degree in Biological Sciences having studied Biological sciences as a major or regular subject may be admitted. Such a candidate shall produce evidence of having conducted research or having worked in a relevant area from an institution recognised by the University for a period of at least two years.
(iii)    At the discretion of the Department, any other qualifications considered equivalent to i and ii may be considered.

Duration of Study
Two academic years

Expected learning outcomes
Upon successful completion of the program students will be:
1.    Competent in ecosystem management and utilization of the ecosystem resources for sustainable development.
2.    Well versed with current trends in ecological research.
3.    Prepared for doctoral studies in ecology.

Career prospects
Postgraduates in Plant ecology can pursue doctoral studies or work in industry, research institutions, and universities at the national and international level.  They can also work in areas involving utilization of the ecosystem resources for sustainable development and the control of pollution of natural ecosystems.

Coursework requirements.
A student is required to attend at least two thirds of class attendance to be allowed to sit the final examination.

Duration and Pattern of the Course
i)    The minimum duration of the Master of Science course shall be at least TWO academic years (18 months) from the date of registration.
ii)    No candidate for the degree of Master of Science shall be registered as a full-time student for more than four (4) academic years or as a part-time student for more than five (5) academic years without submitting his thesis, except by permission of the University.
iii)    Master of Science course in Ecology shall be by course work, examination and thesis.
iv)    In the first year, students shall take 10 units which shall be assessed by course-work and examination. A student may take up to two additional units during the first year.
v)    A candidate may opt do composite microbiology where s/he becomes conversant with all aspects of microbiology by taking the prescribed units or may choose to specialize in one of the options as prescribed.
vi)    Each unit shall comprise lectures which shall include tutorials, discussions and practicals.  In addition, the students will be required to attend/present Departmental seminars.
vii)    In the second year, students will undertake research, seminar presentation (at least two seminars on their research work) and thesis writing.
viii)    That the departmental regulations for thesis shall apply.


Courses/Unit Distribution for Master of Science in Plant Ecology
First Year

Second year
Core

Requirements for graduation
To be considered for the Award of a Master of Science degree in Plant Ecology
a)    A candidate must have been admitted into the program and taken ten (10) required units. After fulfilling the required 10 units, a student can opt to take two (2) additional units at the discretion of the Department.
b)    A candidate must undertake a research project, submit a written thesis and pass all respective examinations.

Award of Degree
A Master of Science in Plant Ecology shall be awarded