New degree programs to be offered at Mississippi State

Approval for the programs was given by the state Board of Trustees, Institutions of Higher Learning at its June meeting.

A doctorate in molecular biology will be offered in the Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology.

"Genetic engineering is one of the most visible facets of molecular biology, and Mississippi State's degree will focus on its agricultural applications," said Dr. John Boyle, head of biochemistry and molecular biology.

"For example, we would look at one kind of corn that is more resistant to insects and try to transfer that information to another kind of corn. I'm also using the technology to try to identify a virus in catfish."

A master of fine arts in electronic visualization will be offered by the Department of Art, with support from the university's National Science Foundation Engineering Research Center.

"This degree is an example of technology having a positive influence on the arts," said engineering Dean Robert A. Altenkirch.

"Through recent advances in computer hardware and software, digital images and animations of incredible detail are now possible and are changing the tools used by artists. By bringing together the technological capability of engineering and the expertise of the Department of Art and the School of Architecture, Mississippi State will be able to offer a cutting-edge degree in the high-demand field of digital graphic arts and visualization."