Master of Science in Biology

The Biology and Microbiology M.S. degrees cover a wide spectrum of biology and include both laboratory and field study. Graduate students in our program work with a faculty advisor on original scientific research to complete and defend their thesis. We value faculty-student relationships as key determinants of graduate student success. As such, prior to admittance, prospective students should receive confirmation from a faculty advisor about acceptance into their laboratory. Please review our list of research faculty and contact faculty whose research aligns with your interests to inquire about space in their research laboratory. The department considers both undergraduate qualifications and relevant life and research experience to admit students to the Biology and Microbiology M.S. degree programs. The degree is a good fit for students looking to prepare for further studies at the doctoral level and for professional careers in education, industry, consulting, research, and government. Our Biology and Microbiology M.S. degrees are also appropriate choices for students seeking to increase their competitiveness for training in health professions (medicine, dentistry, veterinary medicine) and many specialized and competitive programs in allied health (Nurse Practitioner, Physician Assistant, etc.). In addition, an M.S. degree in either Biology or Microbiology, combined with appropriate courses in education, can be utilized for a career in teaching.

A bachelor's degree in the biological or related sciences from an accredited institution. Students with alternative undergraduate degrees or minors in the Biological Sciences will be considered, but should email the Graduate Advisor or the Graduate Services Coordinator;
An undergraduate GPA of at least 3.0 in all completed science and mathematics courses OR a GPA of at least 3.00 in the last 40 semester (60 quarter) units of completed science and mathematics courses. Students with an overall math and science GPA of at least 2.7 will be considered with a mentorship plan developed with their confirmed faculty thesis advisor. Students who do not meet the minimum required criteria for acceptance are encouraged to take post-baccalaureate courses to bring up their GPA.

Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL): Paper-based 550; Minimum TOEFL iBT score of 90 is required. (No other test can be used to replace the TOEFL.)

IELTS 6.0 each sub-section

Pearson Test of English 58

March 15 is the deadline for both the Biological Sciences Department application and the University application for the following Fall semester.