Online Masters in
Biology
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Biology is the science of living organisms. The study of Biology helps the students to get a complete understanding of life, natural sciences, and the biological processes. Online Master’s in Biology comprises extensive coursework comprising of a diverse subject area, giving the students flexibility to pursue many advanced career paths in the sciences. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the average salary of Microbiologists is around $79,260; Zoologists and Wildlife Biologists earn approximately $ 64,650 as a median salary. And students looking for a healthcare occupation with a bachelor’s degree in biology have anticipated job growth of 18% by 2026.
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Southern New Hampshire University
PROGRAM: Online Masters Degrees
Southern New Hampshire University is a private, nonprofit, accredited institution with more than 3,000 on-campus students and over 60,000 online students, making us one of the fastest-growing universities in the country. Founded in 1932, we’ve been relentlessly reinventing higher education ever since and have gained national recognition for our dedication to helping students transform their lives and the lives of those around them.
We’re proud to provide affordable, accessible education that students can pursue on our 300-acre campus in Manchester, NH, over our innovative online platform or at our regional centers in Manchester, Nashua, Portsmouth and Salem, NH, and Brunswick, ME.
SNHU has earned the GetEducated.com Best Buy and Best of Business – Best Online Degree awards and is consistently ranked as a top Military Friendly® School by G.I Jobs®.
Best Online Biology Master’s Programs
The best online biology master’s programs covered by picking information from IPEDs that comprise important factors like tuition cost, program requirements, retention fees, and more. Apart from these, one has to get the right information about the kind of certifications and licenses these programs would be offering to get the best output from the students. Below is the list of best programs:
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| College Name & Address | Tuition | Graduation Rate |
|---|---|---|
| #1 Lehigh University 27 Memorial Drive West, Bethlehem, Pennsylvania 18015 | $27,000 | 90% |
| #2 University Of Maryland, College Park College Park, Maryland 20742 | $13,158 | 87% |
| #3 Clemson University 201 Sikes Hall, Clemson, South Carolina 29634 | $10,600 | 84% |
| #4 Colorado State University 102 Administration Building, Fort Collins, Colorado 80523 | $10,520 | 83% |
| #5 University of Saint Joseph 1678 Asylum Avenue, West Hartford, Connecticut 06117 | $14,202 | 55% |
| #6 Texas A&M University, College Station JKW Administration Building, Suite 200, College Station, Texas 77843 | $6,677 | 82% |
| #7 Johns Hopkins University 3400 N Charles St, Baltimore, Maryland 21218 | $55,350 | 97% |
| #8 Worcester Polytechnic Institute 100 Institute Road, Worcester, Massachusetts 01609 | $28,188 | 89% |
| #9 University of Florida 341 Tigert Hall 300 SW 13th St, Gainesville, Florida 32611 | NA | NA |
| #10 North Carolina State University 2101 Hillsborough Street, Raleigh, North Carolina 27695 | $9,095 | 82% |
| #11 University Of Missouri 105 Jesse Hall, Columbia, Missouri 65211-1050 | $9,264 | 71% |
| #12 George Washington University 1918 F Street, NW, Washington, District of Columbia 20052 | $31,770 | 82% |
| #13 Mississippi State University Lee Boulevard, Mississippi State, Mississippi 39762 | $8,800 | 61% |
| #14 University of Nebraska, Kearney 2504 9th Avenue, Kearney, Nebraska 68849 | $6,048 | 56% |
| #15 Illinois Institute Of Technology 10 West 35th Street, Chicago, Illinois 60616 | $29,487 | 70% |
| #16 Western Kentucky University 1906 College Heights Blvd, Bowling Green, Kentucky 42101 | $12,140 | 48% |
| #17 Indiana State University 210 N 7th St, Terre Haute, Indiana 47809 | $7,542 | 41% |
| #18 University Of West Alabama Station One, Livingston, Alabama 35470 | $6,678 | 35% |
Source – Integrated Post Secondary Education Data System & University Data
*Tuition rates are for in-state and per year. Program specific rates may apply.
**NA – data not available
Most Affordable Online Biology Graduate Degree
Selection of Biology program has a significant impact on the student’s future. There are approximately 95,805 general biology degrees in the United States that were granted to the students. The ranking for affordable or cheap online biology graduation is based on the data provided by the U.S. Department of education and the analysis of academic, admissions, financial, and other factors. This analysis also depends on the reviews of the students and alumni of that particular college/university.
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| College Name & Address | Tuition | Graduation Rate |
|---|---|---|
| #1 University of Nebraska, Kearney 2504 9th Avenue, Kearney, Nebraska 68849 | $6,048 | 56% |
| #2 West Liberty University 208 University Drive, West Liberty, West Virginia 26074 | $6,300 | 45% |
| #3 Emporia State University 1 Kellogg Circle, Emporia, Kansas 66801 | $6,394 | 50% |
| #4 Texas A&M University, College Station JKW Administration Building, Suite 200, College Station, Texas 77843 | $6,677 | 82% |
| #5 University Of West Alabama Station One, Livingston, Alabama 35470 | $6,678 | 35% |
| #6 Indiana State University 210 N 7th St, Terre Haute, Indiana 47809 | $7,542 | 41% |
| #7 Stevenson University 1525 Greenspring Valley Rd, Stevenson, Maryland 21153 | $8,040 | 60% |
| #8 University of Maryland Global Campus 3501 University Blvd East, Adelphi, Maryland 20783 | $8,640 | 15% |
| #9 Mississippi State University Lee Boulevard, Mississippi State, Mississippi 39762 | $8,800 | 61% |
| #10 University of Missouri 105 Jesse Hall, Columbia, Missouri 65211-1050 | $9,264 | 71% |
| #11 Colorado State University 102 Administration Building, Fort Collins, Colorado 80523 | $10,520 | 83% |
| #12 Clemson University 201 Sikes Hall, Clemson, South Carolina 29634 | $10,600 | 84% |
| #13 Texas A&M University, Commerce 2200 Campbell St, Commerce, TX 75428 | $11,913 | 43% |
| #14 Washington State University French Administration Building, Pullman, Washington 99164 | $11,493 | 60% |
| #15 Western Kentucky University 1906 College Heights Blvd, Bowling Green, Kentucky 42101 | $12,140 | 48% |
| #16 University Of Maryland, College Park College Park, Maryland 20742 | $13,158 | 87% |
| #17 University of Saint Joseph 1678 Asylum Avenue, West Hartford, Connecticut 06117 | $14,202 | 55% |
| #18 Lehigh University 27 Memorial Drive West, Bethlehem, Pennsylvania 18015 | $27,000 | 90% |
| #19 Worcester Polytechnic Institute 100 Institute Road, Worcester, Massachusetts 01609 | $28,188 | 89% |
Source – Integrated Post Secondary Education Data System & University Data
*Tuition rates are for in-state and per year. Program specific rates may apply.
**NA – data not available
Understanding an Online Master’s in Biology Program
While considering enrolling for the Biology Master’s program, a student would like to read and understand what the program caters to and other factors that make it the best choice. Here’s a brief analysis for the learners: every university defines a structure for its programs with the flexibility to fit the career goals and students’ schedules. These programs encompass a wide variety of subjects like medicine, ecology, evolutionary biology, and more. The online programs are customized as per the students’ requirements.
Specializations for an Online Master’s in Biology Programs
Individuals interested in studying and applying scientific knowledge of microscopic organisms take up a master’s degree online. During their study in the program, they are taught about the classification of micro-organisms, identification of their molecular structures, and determine their characteristics if they are helpful or harmful. Microbiology is a vast subject with specializations in an array of topics. Here is a brief on some of the specialties of Microbiology.
| Area of Focus | Description |
|---|---|
| Masters in Medical Microbiology | This specialization is best suited for students or professionals interested in the study of micro-organisms and would like to know their characteristics better in per se to the medical world. That is, if the learner is inclined toward understanding the reason behind a disease, the micro-organisms that caused it, prevent it from doing any further damage, and finally prescribe a treatment – then Medical Microbiology consists of all these steps. This specialization is also known as ‘clinical microbiology.’ Masters in Medical Microbiology help the students to build a career in varied positions from teaching, biomedical scientist, science writer, and more. |
| Masters in Industrial Microbiology | Branch for applied microbiology is called ‘Industrial microbiology.’ This specialization offers knowledge on how micro-organisms can be used to create a new product (these products usually are high-value products)—using microbes in the production of a new product. |
| Masters in Human Biology | Human biology is a common and known specialization, which includes a wide range of subjects like genetics, evolution, physiology, ecology, anatomy, epidemiology, and more. |
| Masters in Oral Biology | Oral biology specialization fosters the knowledge about oral tissues, their structural, functional, and developmental connections with other organ systems. |
| Masters in Cancer Biology | Masters in Cancer biology help the students to get complete knowledge about the molecular, cell, and cancer biology. They will also be taught about the advanced techniques used in cancer biology research. |
| Masters in Conservation Biology | Students who are interested in the study of ecology and conservation of wildlife will find this master interested. At the end of the program, the students will be able to study, understand, and discuss various methods to conserve the environment. |
Skills Gained in an Online Master’s in Biology Program
As a major in Biology, the students will gain extensive understanding and appreciation for the varied life on the earth. Along with this, the students will know the flow of energy and matter in the biological systems. They will be able to observe the process of evolution and their outcomes, the interdependence of living things, strategies behind sustainable living, genetic mechanisms, inheritance, and many findings on the different micro-organisms. They will also be able to communicate the biological findings in the form of scientific writing and many more. The cluster of biology is not constrained to one. The learner can go for further specializations to explore and study varied areas falling under Biology.
Accreditation for Online Master’s in Biology Degrees
Most of the online programs that offer Masters or Graduate degrees get the relevant accreditation from the respective body as it is a key indicator of trustworthiness for the students and the parents as well. Read about accreditation here. And here is the institution that provides accreditation to Biology majors:
- American Society for Biochemistry and Molecular Biology (ASBMB): ASBMB is an accrediting body for the field of Biology. It is one of the world’s largest molecular life sciences society.
Online Master’s in Biology Admission Requirements
Master’s in Biology has a huge demand as it gives the learner a broad base of knowledge in the life sciences. This degree encompasses many specializations that have a great impact on one’s career growth. However, if an individual is looking forward to enrolling for a Master’s program from an accredited institute, then there are few mandatory requisites, one needs to fill in before starting the academics. Here is the list of requirements:
- Application form
- Official transcripts of all graduate and undergraduate courses
- GRE score
- Letters of recommendation or referral letters
- Statement of Purpose
Online Master’s in Biology No GRE Programs
Master’s in Biology is designed and curated for everyone who is looking for a career, increase credentials, or gain knowledge in this field. Many universities are offering this program encouraging individuals to reach there, and for the same, they are catering to students a no GRE program. It means that students can enroll in the master’s program without GRE scores.
Colorado State University (CSU) is a public university out of Fort Collins, Colorado. CSU is one of the largest universities with thousands of students and dozens of on-campus and online programs. CSU offers many online masters programs that are 100% online and very affordable. CSU offers an online master’s in fish, wildlife, and conservation biology that does not need a GRE. Students applying should have a bachelor’s that is closely related to biology, a minimum of 2-years of professional experience, and a 3.0 GPA in bachelors.
| Grad rate | Tuition fees |
|---|---|
| 83% | $10,520 |
One Year Biology Master’s Programs
The graduate schools that offer Biology programs have structured the programs and the duration as per the students’ requirements. If an individual is looking to complete the master’s program in a year, then some universities offer this kind of program.
Careers and Salary Outlook for Online Master’s in Biology Graduates
While pursuing a career in biology, the first question that rises in is, “Is Master’s in Biology worth it?”. Will the graduation cater to enough career choices? With a broad spectrum of specializations and with a high demand for biologists, the career path opportunities for Biology graduates see steady growth. The variants of jobs the biologists can take up and the potential at which they can grow is self-explanatory in the table provided below. Health occupations, environmental science, agriculture, are some of the jobs a graduate can pursue. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics and PayScale, the average median salary of a Biologist is $76,690. Here are more details that explain the different jobs a biologist can take up and their salary ranges:
| Job Title | Median Salary | Job Growth (2018-2028) | Description |
|---|---|---|---|
| Microbiologist | $69,960 | 8.2% | Researching micro-organisms Analyzing how micro-organisms grow, life, and prosper Laboratory research and physical experiments on micro-organisms |
| Conservation Scientists/Foresters | $60,970 | 6.3% | Promote the protection of land Monitor the upkeep of forests, parks, and rangelands Ensure habitat protection |
| Biological Technicians | $43,800 | 10.1% | Assists biological and medical researchers and scientists Conduct experiments and analyzes the results Assists zoologists in sample collection |
Source: Bureau of Labor and Statistics
How to Pay for Online Master’s in Biology
Getting an online master’s in biology also involves planning for paying the tuition fee. Many organizations offer various kinds of financial aid, scholarships, and assistance for online master’s students that are taking up biology as a major. See the Best Financial Aid Guide to find out more about financial aid and paying for online master’s programs in biology using FAFSA and other sources.
Scholarships for Online Master’s in Biology
Several institutions offer scholarships, financial aid, and other forms of assistance to online biology master’s students. Here are some of those organizations:
- RTK Scholarship Program: RTK Environmental Group is committed to supporting and furthering student’s education and careers in the field of science. With this goal, RTK administers a scholarship award for students that are studying environmental science, biology, engineering, or related fields. Eligibility requirements include, students must be enrolled in an accredited institution and maintain a GPA of 3.0.
- Award amount: $1,500
- Deadline: May 31
- Pennsylvania Space Grant Consortium (PSGC): PSGC awards a fellowship for students that are pursuing a master’s or doctoral degrees in the fields of science, technology, engineering, and mathematics. The goal of PSGC is to attract students into scientific study and careers. Eligibility requirements include, students must be enrolled in an accredited institution and maintain a GPA of 3.0.
- Award amount: $5,000
- Deadline: Mar 1
- Theodore Gordon Flyfishers Founders Fund Scholarship: Theodore Gordon Flyfishers administers a Founders Fund scholarship to exceptional students that are pursuing an environmental program of cold-water fisheries, environmental law, fishery conservation, aquatic biology, natural resource management, and other science-related programs. Eligibility requirements include, students must be enrolled in the first or second year of graduate school at an accredited institution and maintain a GPA of 3.0.
- Award amount: $3,500
- Deadline: Apr 8
- Gloria Barron Wilderness Society Scholarship: Gloria Barron Wilderness Society administers a scholarship for graduate students that are pursuing a degree in the conservation of wildlife. The scholarship amounts vary from year to year. Eligibility requirements include: students should be enrolled in an accredited graduate institution in North America, have academic or career goals that are focused on making a significant positive difference in the protection of wilderness in the U.S.
- Award amount: $10,000
- Deadline: Apr 24
Certifications and Licensing for Biology Graduates
Any professional occupation requires certification or licensing to pursue their careers. Licensing is given by a state regulatory board, whereas any private organization can provide certification. Here is a list of certifications and licenses granted by some of the organizations:
- Wildlife Society – The USDA Wildlife Services supports wildlife professional through their career growth through certification programs like:
- Associate Wildlife Biologist®: A steady and ethical practitioner is given the Associate Wildlife Biologist certification for ten years. An AWB® can upgrade oneself to Certified Wildlife Biologist® during the span of ten-years. It can happen if the person has acquired the required experience.
- Certified Wildlife Biologist®: A person with an art and science background and expertise in the application of ecology principles to the conservation and management of wildlife and its habitats is given a Certified Wildlife Biologist®.
- American Society for Biochemistry and Molecular Biology (ASBMB) – There is a certification provided for both graduates and undergraduates by ASBMB. This certification exam has to be attempted only once, either in the junior year or senior year.
FAQs about Biology Major
Frequently Asked Questions
How to get a master’s in biology?
A master’s degree in biology is typically a 30-hour program that consists of both thesis and non-thesis options. A master’s program that would take about two years can be completed in thirty hours, which has the same full-time study and consists of the same curriculum.
Is a master’s degree in biology worth it?
What masters can I get with a bachelor’s in biology?
What can I do with a master’s in microbiology?
Additional Resources for Biology Professionals
Across the globe, some multiple organizations and associations support and encourage the varied concepts of biology and its various specializations. These associations are not constrained to General biology only. These institutes or organizations support individuals who are pursuing biology for credentials or knowledge, students who are interested in pursuing their academics in the subject, and everyone who wants to take up Biology and its specializations as part of their career growth or studies. Here are some of the resources for these associations.
- American Academy of Microbiology (ASM): Promotes and advances the Microbial Sciences
- American Institute of Biological Sciences (AIBS): Scientific association dedicated to advancing the biological sciences to promote an increased understanding of all life.
- American Society for Biochemistry and Molecular Biology (ASBMB): excel at all stages of one’s scientific career through networking, professional development, meetings, journals, and leadership opportunities.
- American Society for Cell Biology (ASCB): Inclusive, international community of biologists studying the cell, the fundamental unit of life.
- Association of Applied Biologists (AAB): Leading organization for promoting applied research in Agricultural and Food Sciences.
- Genetics Society of America: An International Community of Biologists advancing the field of Genetics.
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