13 Best Biology Masters Programs | Best Schools, Programs, Cost Requirements

Biology affects us everything we do. We basically live our lives engaging with biological elements every day. As much our knowledge of biology can help us relate comfortably, an advancement can spur growth.

So, you should consider a career in Biology. However, a master’s in Biology gives you an edge and helps you to climb the professional ladder faster. So, this article on the best biology masters program in 2024 will give you all you like where you can get them and how much it cost.

Biology is the natural science that studies life and living organisms, including their physical structure, chemical processes, molecular interactions, physiological mechanisms, development, and evolution.

Despite the complexity of science, there are certain unifying concepts that consolidate it into a single, coherent field. Also, there are many different fields of study under the umbrella of biological sciences, including biochemistry, microbiology, and evolutionary biology.

Most biology masters programs prepare students for jobs that are based in research. For example, biological scientists may work in laboratory environments that assess natural resource management or pharmaceuticals.

So, just take your time and carefully read through the article, we have put down every detail you need to know about the best biology masters program in 2024 and the list of best schools that offer Biology.

So, before we continue, let’s go through the table of content below to get an overview of what the article entails.

Table of contents

What Is Masters In Biology?

Overall, a master’s degree in biology provides students with advanced training in the biological sciences through both coursework and independent research. Upon completion, students can pursue a professional career in the field or enrollment in a Ph. D. program.

Our awareness of the living world has accelerated at a fast pace, providing a more thorough understanding of complex issues like ecology, neuroscience, stem cell therapy and evolutionary processes.

The degree in biology may be offered as a terminal degree or as additional preparation for doctoral study.

Master’s in biology is sometimes related to as a professional degree. As an obligation to earn this certificate, students are expected to submit their thesis especially, when offered as a terminal degree.

You can apply in any of the Ph.D. Scholarships in Biology, Australia to help you pay off your academic expenses

Why a master’s degree in biology?

certainly, a bachelor’s in biology can give you a job. But, going for a graduate degree will enable you to climb the path to greatness faster.

Suppose you are good at biology and you what to have more understanding of complex issues like ecology, neuroscience, stem cell therapy, and evolutionary processes. In that case, it is important you consider earning a master’s in biology.

However, For many students who want to work in the field of biology, a first degree is not sufficient for them to get the kind of job they most aspire to.

Once they have passed a master’s qualification a far wider range of opportunities become available, including those which come with added responsibilities and a significantly higher salary.

In addition, To get the peak of education, which is the doctoral level, earning a master’s degree in biology is necessary. Whether your degree is earned online or on campus, this master’s degree is ideal for every student because it teaches students to have foundational skills, gain networking opportunities, and even avail students’ employment resources upon graduating.

What Can I Do With Masters Degree In Biology?

Suppose a bachelor’s degree can get you an entry-level position. In that case, a master’s degree will open more professional doors than you may initially imagine and a better position in the company.

Also, a biology degree opens the door to many career possibilities. If you’re a student who loves science and is intrigued by the study of living things, a biology degree might be the perfect choice to launch you on your career path.

Therefore, below are the list of careers you can get with masters degree in biology

  • Biological Technician
  • Biochemist
  • Genetic Counselor
  • Health Communications Specialist
  • Health Educator
  • Pharmaceutical/Medical Sales Product Representative
  • Physician Assistant and Nurse Practitioner
  • Medical and Health Sevice Manager
  • Attorney
  • Financial Analyst

How Much Will I Earn With A With Master’s Degree In Biology?

Actually, becoming a well-paid biologist needs you to earn a master’s degree or even a Ph.D. However, a lot of factors can affect a worker’s income, such as experience, location, education, and employer. 

Your salary will vary based on the occupation and industry in which you choose to work. In May 2019, the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) reported the median annual pay for several professions.

However, Below are the list of jobs you can earn with a master’s degree in Biology:

Biological Technician

The biological technician is also known as laboratory assistants, biological technicians use the laboratory skills and techniques that biology majors learn in their labs, academic research, and collaborative research with faculty.

The Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) estimates that biological technicians earned a median annual salary of $45,860 in May 2019.

The top 10% earned $73,350 or more and the bottom 10% earned $29,540 or less. The BLS projected that employment in this field will grow by 7% between 2018 and 2028, faster than average for all occupations.

Biochemist

Biologists play a key role in the fast-growing fields of biotechnology and biomedical research. Studying biology equips you with the laboratory and scientific research skills and knowledge to design and execute studies for developing new products.

The Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) estimates that biochemists earned a median annual salary of $94,490 in May 2019.

The top 10% earned $182,870 or more and the bottom 10% earned $50,620 or less. The BLS projected that employment in this field will grow by 6% between 2018 and 2028, about as fast as average for all occupations.

Genetic Counselor

Genetic counselors assess the genetic makeup of clients and communicate with them about the risk of transmitting a genetic disease or disability to their offspring.

They might also work with adults who are concerned about the chances of showing symptoms of genetic disorders later in life.

The Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) estimates that genetic counselors earned a median annual salary of $81,880 in May 2019.

The top 10% earned $114,750 or more and the bottom 10% earned $61,310 or less. The BLS projected that employment in this field will grow by 27% between 2018 and 2028, much faster than average for all occupations.

Health Communications Specialist

Health communications specialists are qualified for educating communities about health concerns, particularly public health issues, including communicable diseases, health management, and healthy living.

However, they are often employed in hospitals or other healthcare companies, They may also coordinate the institution’s public relations campaigns, marketing strategies, and community involvement.

According to PayScale, health communications specialists earn an average annual salary of $63,335. The top 10% earned $84,000 or more and the bottom 10% earned $50,000 or less.

Health Educator

Health educators teach people about certain practices and behaviors that promote wellness. They must be able to digest complex information and interpret research about public health concerns. 

Also, they need a solid understanding of human biology as well as verbal communication skills to convey scientific information in a language that their clients can easily comprehend.

The Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) estimates that health educators earned a median annual salary of $46,910 in May 2019.

The top 10% earned $68,350 or more and the bottom 10% earned $26,660 or less. The BLS projected that employment in this field will grow by 11% between 2018 and 2028, much faster than average for all occupations.

Pharmaceutical / Medical Product Sales Representative

Pharmaceutical or medical product sales representatives sell medical supplies, IT products, medicines, and more to hospitals, clinics, and other medical practices.

The Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) estimates that sales representatives of technical and scientific products earned a median annual salary of $81,020 in May 2019.

However, the top 10% earned $158,580 or more, and the bottom 10% earned $41,080 or less. The BLS projected that employment in this field will grow by 2% between 2018 and 2028, slower than average for all occupations.

Physician Assistant and Nurse Practitioner

Physician assistants and nurse practitioners are in high demand as front-line service providers. Biology provides an excellent foundation for graduate work in these similar professions.

Also they must have a sound understanding of human biological systems, anatomy, and physiology to diagnose medical problems.

For Physician Assistant earned a median annual salary of $112,260 in May 2019. The top 10% earned $157,120 or more and the bottom 10% earned $72,720 or less.

The BLS projected employment in this field to grow by 31% between 2018 and 2028, much faster than average for all occupations.

While a Nurse Practitioner earned a median annual salary of $115,800 in May 2019. The top 10% earned $184,180 or more and the bottom 10% earned $82,460 or less.

Also, the BLS projected that employment in this field will grow by 26% between 2018 and 2028, much faster than average for all occupations.

What Are The Requirement For A Master’s Degree In Biology Program?

If you need a master’s in biology program, it depends on the choice of school and program mode. For example, an online master’s in biology program and an on-campus master’s program may have different requirements even though they are both offered by the same university.

Also, Each school that offers a biology master’s program has its own set of prerequisites, so you can contact your accredited institution for detailed information on their policies/admission requirements.

For example, You must have a bachelor’s degree or equivalent from an accredited institution before applying for an MA biology program. It should have been earned in biology or a topic closely linked to it. Also, for students from abroad, the equivalent qualification will be expected.

You could be asked to take a test set by the faculty, or present a Test of English as a Foreign Language or an International English Language Testing System certificate, to demonstrate that you meet the university entry requirements.

most especially, students who do not speak English as a first language as proof of your language skills.

Depending on the program, you may need job experience of about two years in the field before applying for a master course whether paid or unpaid to know if you have practical knowledge of the industry and real commitment.

Moreover, most master’s programs whether online or on-campus will demand transcripts from any universities, statements of purpose, and two or three letters of recommendation.

How much does it Cost to Earn a Masters in Biology?

Well, the average tuition for a master’s degree in biology will vary depending on the institution, mode of classes, and the particular program. 

However, the tuition for all graduate degrees at a public university will be just over $11,000 per year while at a private non-profit institution the cost will be around $25,000 per year, according to the National Center for Educational Statistics (2015-16 estimates).

So, it is important to know that public schools tend to be cheaper than private institutions.

What are The Best Masters in Biology Programs in the World?

Enrolling in a master’s degree in biology offers graduate students the chance to step higher in their education and specialize their skills in a profession of their choice. Biological sciences are the basis of all-natural life that the human eye can and cannot see. 

So, with one of the following 13 Best Master’s Degrees in Biology, students can search into the biological world through laboratory and literature-based research.

 However, we are compiled the following 35 Best Master’s Degrees in Biology for the 2024 academic school year based on public data released from educational, commercial, and government databases.  The relevant authorities fully accredit all programs here.

Below are the best biology masters programs in the world:

University of California, Berkeley

Master of Science in Integrative Biology

Graduate Tuition/Fees: $14,184 in-state; $43,176 out-of-state

Founded in 1868, The University of California Berkeley now has close research relationships with three United States Department of Energy National Laboratories.

Berkeley researchers have discovered 16 chemical elements of the periodic table and invented the cyclotron particle accelerator.

The university’s Master of Science in Integrative Biology is only provided to students who are admitted to the Ph.D. in Integrative Biology program.

Master’s students may choose to follow a thesis plan that requires 20-semester units of graduate study. Alternatively, students can choose a non-thesis plan requiring 24 units and culminating in a comprehensive exam.

However, Graduate course offerings include seminars in bio-mechanics, ecology, evolution, isotopics, and paleontology. 

Program Website

University of California, Los Angeles

Master of Science in Oral Biology

Graduate Tuition/Fees: $13,226 in-state; $42,218 out-of-state 

Founded in 1919, UCLA is the Southern Branch of the University of California. Originally a teacher training school, it is now a public research university and a member of the University of California system.

 Also, the university is a land-grant institution, Notable UCLA health discoveries include the first AIDS diagnosis and developments in the use of brain scanning technology and nitric oxide. 

The University of California, Los Angeles awards a Master of Science in Oral Biology through its School of Dentistry. 

Also, the degree program is open to scholars with dental degrees and seeks additional research experience. It requires 36 units of study, which includes core courses, electives, and a culminating thesis and defence.

Fields of study include bone biology, cancer surveillance, neurobiology, and pathology.

Program Website

You can read through this article 13 Best Biology Schools in the World | 2024 to know which to apply

 Stanford University, Stanford CA

Master of Science in Biology

Graduate Tuition/Fees: $51,354

Stanford University is founded in 1885. U.S. News & World Report ranks Stanford seventh overall in the nation and fifth for both value and innovation. The university is also ranked first nationally in graduate-level Biological Sciences programs.

Stanford University offers a Master of Science in Biology. The co-terminal master’s program is only available to current Stanford students, such as undergraduates and students enrolled in other graduate programs.

It is suitable for students seeking advanced coursework and research experience in biology.

However, The MS degree requires 45 units of academic credit. Stanford designed the MSB to be a terminal degree and is not a route to the doctoral program.

Program Website

 University of California, Irvine CA

Master of Science in Biotechnology

Graduate Tuition/Fees: $13,700 in-state; $42,692 out-of-state 

UC Irvine is a public land-grant university is classified in the top tier of research universities by the Carnegie Foundation.

Also, UC Irvine is noted for its teaching hospital and health sciences system, for its arboretum and natural reserve, and the nation’s first university earth system science department.

The University of California, Irvine awards a Master of Science in Biotechnology. However, The degree program teaches students to apply an understanding of biology, chemistry, and chemical engineering to solve problems in agriculture, chemical manufacturing, and medicine.

The MSB’s areas of study also include the structure and biosynthesis of nucleic acids and proteins, product development and marketing, and research methods. 

Program Website

University of Pennsylvania. Philadelphia, PA

Master of Science in Oral Biology

Graduate Tuition/Fees: $55,584

UPenn was founded in 1740 by Founding Father Benjamin Franklin and home to the nation’s first collegiate schools of business and medicine and its first student union.

The University of Pennsylvania offers a Master of Science in Oral Biology. The degree program is only available as a concurrent program for students enrolled in one of the university’s postgraduate dental training programs. 

However, The MS in Oral Biology is designed to offer students opportunities for extensive research and evidence-based learning in oral biology. 

So, base on the  U.S. News & World Report ranks Penn at No. 32 in innovation, No. 12 for the best value, and eighth nationally. The university ranks at No. 23 in graduate-level Biological Sciences programs.

Program Website

Texas A&M University. College Station, TX

Master of Science in Biology

Graduate Tuition/Fees: $11,870 in-state; $37,495 out-of-state 

Texas A&M has grown into the largest university in Texas and the second-largest in the United States by student enrollment. Located in College Station.

However, Texas A&M has grown into the largest university in Texas and the second-largest in the United States by student enrollment. Located in College Station.

TAMU’s thesis track requires 32 credits of study, while the non-thesis track requires 36 credits. The non-thesis program typically culminates in a final comprehensive exam.

Also, the Course offerings include Biological Clocks, Cell Biology, Microbial Genetics, and Plant Molecular Biology.

Therefore, base on the U.S. News & World Report ranks A&M at No. 66 nationally, No. 44 for the best value, No. 37 for innovation, and No. 24 among public schools. The university’s graduate biology programs are ranked at No. 62 nationally. 

Program Website

Tufts University. Medford and Somerville, MA

Master of Science in Biology

Graduate Tuition/Fees: $56,382

Founded in 1852 by Christian universalists. Originally a nonsectarian liberal arts college, it is now a private research university. It emphasizes active citizenship, public service, and internationalism. 

Tufts University offers a Master of Science in Biology. The degree program builds students’ creative and critical thinking skills through coursework, seminars, and research experience in contemporary biology.

However, students can choose from five concentrations: Developmental Biology; Ecology, Behavior, and Evolution; Genetics and Molecular Biology; Global Change Biology; and Physiology, Neurobiology, and Biomechanics. 

Also, The MS program is available in a full-time format and a part-time format designed for working professionals. The part-time program involves evening courses and can be completed within two years. 

University of Maryland, College Park MD

Master of Science in Biological Sciences

Graduate Tuition/Fees: $10,595 in-state; $35,216 out-of-state 

The University of Maryland is a Carnegie-classified top-tier research institution and a member of the Association of American Universities.

The University of Maryland, College Park awards a Master of Science in Biological Sciences. The degree program is offered only as a step toward the Ph.D. program.

However, It requires 30 credit hours of graduate study, including six credits of master’s thesis research. The curriculum includes two core required courses: Responsible Conduct of Research for Biologists and Teaching & Professional Development in Biology. 

So, base on U.S. News & World Report ranks UMD at No. 63 nationally and No. 22 among public schools. The university’s graduate-level Biological Sciences programs rank at No. 62 nationally. 

Program Website

 University of Minnesota, Twin Cities

Master of Biological Sciences

Graduate Tuition/Fees: $14,760 in-state; $30,438 out-of-state 

Established in the Twin Cities of Minneapolis and Saint Paul, it is the oldest and largest campus within the system.

The University of Minnesota, Twin Cities designed its Master of Biological Sciences for working professionals, the degree program is multidisciplinary and career-focused. 

However, the MBS requires 30 credit hours of graduate study, where students can choose to follow a degree plan which includes a research project, or one that is built around coursework only.

So, these courses must include the areas of biochemistry and bioethics, as well as in two of the following three areas: cellular and organismal biology, environmental and population biology, and molecular biosciences.

In addition, students can personalize the remainder of their study plan with an academic adviser. The MBS can be completed on a full-time or part-time basis.

Program Website

University of Virginia

Master of Science/Arts in Biology 

Graduate Tuition/Fees: $17,653 in-state; $49,032 out-of-state 

UVA was founded by Founding Father Thomas Jefferson in 1819. Beyond these historic beginnings, the public research university is also noted for its secret societies and student-run honor code.

The university’s significant research areas include astrophysics, hypersonic flight, neurological diseases, and wind turbines.

So, the University of Virginia offers both Master of Arts and Master of Science degree options in Biology. The degree program is designed to prepare graduates for doctoral study or careers in conservation, education, public policy, and research.

However, the degree requires 30 credit hours of graduate study. This includes four lectures or labs and a colloquium or journal club. 

So, base on the  U.S. News & World Report lists UVA at No. 32 for Most Innovative Schools, No. 28 for Best Value Schools, 25 for National Universities, and third for Top Public Schools. The university is ranked at No. 46 nationally in graduate-level biology programs.

Program Website

Northeastern University

Master of Science in Marine Biology

Graduate Tuition/Fees: $51,522

Northeastern is a private research university that spreads through four neighborhoods of Boston. However, the University awards a Master of Science in Marine Biology.

The degree program is designed for students who want to either broaden or refine their marine biology understanding. It prepares graduates for doctoral study or careers in marine biology research. 

However, Courses include Biology of Corals, Marine Invertebrate Zoology and Botany, and Tropical Terrestrial Ecology. The MS in Marine Biology spans over 15 months of intensive study. 

 So, base on the U.S. News & World Report lists NEU at No. 72 for Best Value Schools. No. 44 for National Universities, and eighth for Most Innovative Schools. The university is ranked at No. 98 in graduate-level Biological Sciences programs.

Program Website

New York University

Master of Science in Biology

Master of Business Administration

Graduate Tuition/Fees: $51,828 

NYU was established in 1831 due to the efforts of former United States Secretary of Treasury Albert Gallatin. It has a historic main campus in Greenwich Village of New York City.

New York University offers a dual degree program leading to a Master of Science in Biology and a Master of Business Administration. The dual MSB/MBA is designed for students who are interested in careers at the intersection of business and life sciences.

The first year of the program is focused on biology courses, while the remaining two years are primarily spent on business requirements. 

Also, Biology courses include Genomics and Global Public Health and Hot Topics in Microbiology and Infectious Diseases. MBA courses include Firms and Markets and Leadership in Organizations.

However,  At the graduate level, the university is ranked No. 62 in Biological Sciences, No. 12 in Business, and ninth for its executive MBA program.

Program Website

California State University, Long Beach

Master of Science in Biology

Graduate Tuition/Fees: $6,798 in-state; $18,678 out-of-state 

Long Beach State was established in 1949 by the then-governor of California with the original purpose of serving the educational needs of returning World War II veterans.

California State University, Long Beach hosts a Master of Science in Biology. Offered through the university’s College of Natural Sciences & Mathematics, the degree program is focused on marine biology in particular.

Also, the MSB trains students in experimental design, field and laboratory research, science communication, and statistical analysis.

Graduates of the MS program are prepared to work in biological consulting firms, community colleges, or resource management agencies, or to pursue doctoral study.

So, base on the U.S. News & World Report lists CSULB at No. 26 in Regional Universities West and third for Top Public Schools.

Program Website

How long Does It Take To Earn A Masters In Biology?

Typically, a master’s degree program can be completed in 2 years. However, some programs can be completed faster than 2 years and some may take more than 2 years to complete, depending on a number of factors. The average master’s program involves 8-10 courses and 32 to 36 credit hours.

However, the factors we are looking at are likely to be the length is the subject of the degree or the program format.

You can also read this Top 10 Careers in Biology That are Marketable in 2024 to know the once that are marketable

CONCLUSION

In conclusion, Biology is the natural science that studies life and living organisms, including their physical structure, chemical processes, molecular interactions, etc. However, a master’s degree in biology provides students with advanced training in the biological sciences through both coursework and independent research.

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