Online Masters in Life
Sciences
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Life science is the study of life in all its forms, past and present. This would include plants, animals, viruses and bacteria, single-celled organisms, and even cells. Life sciences study how these organisms live, which is why one may hear this group of specialties referred to as biology. There are more than thirty different branches of life sciences, but we will review some of the major branches here. Also, the life sciences industry comprises companies operating in the research, development, and manufacturing of pharmaceuticals, biotechnology-based food and medicines, medical devices, biomedical technologies, nutraceuticals, cosmeceuticals, food processing, and other products that improve the lives of organisms. Hence, an online master’s in life sciences would be the perfect start to a career in life science. This article will discuss all the essential facets required to pursue an online life sciences master’s.
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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 Masters in Life Sciences
A few of the biggest dilemmas when deciding to enroll in a master’s program are which program to pursue, which school to pick, and which university to enroll in. And then, there are other considerations such as cost, placements, starting salary, employment rates, acceptance rates, etc. We at OMC went through all these matrices and created a list of the best online life sciences masters. There are no absolutes such as the best life sciences programs or the greatest; it all depends on the criteria a student decides to value most and pick up a program accordingly. See the rankings below:
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| College Name & Address | Tuition | Graduation Rate |
|---|---|---|
| #1 University of Illinois, Urbana-Champaign 601 E John Street, Champaign, Illinois 61820 | $14,635 | 86% |
| #2 Clemson University 201 Sikes Hall, Clemson, South Carolina 29634 | $10,600 | 85% |
| #3 Worcester Polytechnic Institute 100 Institute Road, Worcester, Massachusetts 01609 | $28,980 | 89% |
| #4 Johns Hopkins University 3400 N Charles St, Baltimore, Maryland 21218 | $58,720 | 94% |
| #5 Columbia University in the City of New York West 116 St and Broadway, New York, New York 10027 | $50,496 | 96% |
| #6 Lehigh University 27 Memorial Drive West, Bethlehem, Pennsylvania 18015 | $27,000 | 88% |
| #7 New York University 70 Washington Sq South, New York, New York 10012 | $35,982 | 88% |
| #8 George Washington University 1918 F Street, NW, Washington, District of Columbia 20052 | $32,850 | 85% |
| #9 University of Florida, Gainesville 341 Tigert Hall 300 SW 13th St, Gainesville, Florida 32611 | NA | 75% |
| #10 University of Nebraska, Kearney 2504 9th Avenue, Kearney, Nebraska 68849 | $6,216 | 59% |
| #11 University of Maine 168 College Avenue, Orono, Maine 04469 | $9,738 | 56% |
| #12 Washington State University French Administration Building, Pullman, Washington 99164 | $12,076 | 59% |
| #13 Western Kentucky University 1906 College Heights Blvd, Bowling Green, Kentucky 42101 | $12,140 | 52% |
| #14 Emporia State University 1 Kellogg Circle, Emporia, Kansas 66801 | $6,547 | 46% |
| #15 Texas A & M University, Commerce 2200 Campbell Stree, Commerce, Texas 75429 | $3,630 | 43% |
| #16 Indiana State University 210 N 7th St, Terre Haute, Indiana 47809 | $7,776 | 41% |
| #17 University of Maryland Global Campus 3501 University Blvd East, Adelphi, Maryland 20783 | $9,072 | 18% |
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 Masters in Life Sciences
A life sciences master’s would typically concern the study of living organisms, and specialization or concentrations would include biology, botany, zoology, microbiology, physiology, biochemistry, and related subjects. Also, a master’s in life sciences is a highly varied and versatile degree. The degree has a very diverse stance, and the coursework can be tailored to topics of students’ interests. The course duration would typically vary from 12 months to 36 to 60 months, depending on the mode of education a student enrolls in. Past paced masters would run for 12 months, while regular courses would take around 24 months and 36 credits to complete. Part-time programs could take anywhere from 36 to 60 months to complete. The life science field of study can also prepare students for other allied branches of study. The master’s in biotechnology also serves as a foundation for medical school or advanced studies in the life sciences or public health. Generally, students taking up a master’s in life science would come from the vocation of life sciences, typically with a bachelor’s degree.
Masters in Life Sciences Degree Types
There would typically be a few variants of a master’s in life sciences, with subjects changing according to the specialization of the degree. Also, the minor subjects may remain the same or vary depending on the specialization, but the major or elective subjects change depending on the specialization and degree type pursued. The credits required would typically be around 36, and the time taken to complete the course would be about 24 months.
There are three-degree types that can be pursued depending on the field of study. They are discussed below:
Master of Arts in Life Sciences
An example of a typical Master of Arts program would be a Master of Arts in Biology that emphasizes contemporary coursework for students to gain advanced understanding within the field of modern biology. Students are prepared for professional schools or careers in areas related to the biological sciences. Compared to the MS program for the same subject, the Biology MA program focuses primarily on coursework and independent research. It helps students form expertise in one or more areas of biology, such as molecular biology and genetics, among others. All Biology MA students produce a written, non researched literature thesis in the final year of the master’s program.
Master of Science (MS) in Life Sciences
A master’s in science program in life science would typically be like an MS in Computational Biology and Quantitative Genetics. This master’s program would prepare students for a career as a bioinformatics analyst or an engineer in universities & hospitals, research organizations, and the pharmaceutical & biotechnology industries. The program is intended as a terminal professional degree that will enable students to launch their careers in bioinformatics. In fact, it also provides the foundation for further doctoral studies in biostatistics, epidemiology, computational biology, and other related fields.
MBA in Life Sciences
Generally, some top universities run MBA programs in life sciences branches like the MBA in Biotechnology. The 21st Century will transform discoveries in the life sciences domain. To bring these discoveries to patients, the world needs business leaders working at the intersection of science and society, with a deep understanding of biotechnology, life sciences, and management. To meet this need is the MBA in Biotechnology. Generally, MBA in life sciences curriculum emphasizes developing effective business models in the life sciences, leading life sciences companies, understanding the ethical implications of new therapeutics, and the importance of equitable access to these discoveries.
All three-degree types are generally two-year programs and would require students to take up at least 36 credit points.
Specializations in Masters in Life Sciences Programs
A branch of study has a lot of aspects and fields that one can study and pursue. These special fields of study are categorized as a specialization of study. A specialization would typically be a deep dive into the chosen subject of study – this subject is termed the major. To support the specialization, supporting or minor subjects must be selected as well to complement the major of study. Below are a few specializations in the field of life science and the career they would propel the students into.
| Area of Focus | Description | Careers this Concentration Prepares for |
|---|---|---|
| MA in Biological Sciences | This MA program provides advanced graduate training in biology for students whose principal interests lie outside the typical laboratory-focused graduate program in biology. The MA program is aimed at students interested in a variety of professional fields, including healthcare, law, business, education, and governmental and non-governmental policy. | 1. Biotechnology 2. Medical Lab Technician 3. Pharmacist 4. Microbiologist 5. Nursing 6. Bioscience 7. Medical Coding Executive 8. Biomedical |
| MS in Biotechnology | Biotechnology is about making discoveries that make the world a better place and bringing those concepts to life and the market. Spanning industries, including pharmaceuticals, agriculture, healthcare, environment, energy, and national security, biotechnology covers roles from the R&D lab, product development, and manufacturing to sales, marketing, finance, and law. | This rigorous, practical advanced degree prepares students for biotechnology-related roles in a range of industries and environments including: 1. Biotechnologist/Technician 2. Biochemist/Chemical Technician 3. Food Scientist/Technician 4. Forensic Scientist 5. Medical Scientist 6. Epidemiologist 7. Quality Assurance Professionals |
| Master of Science in Computational Biology and Quantitative Genetics | The Master of Science in Computational Biology and Quantitative Genetics (CBQG) provides students with the rigorous quantitative training and essential skills needed to successfully meet the challenges of large-scale public health data in biomedical research. | The MS in CBQG is intended as a terminal professional degree that will enable students to launch their careers in bioinformatics. It can also serve as a springboard for PhD study in subjects such as biostatistics, epidemiology, computational biology, and other relevant fields. |
| MBA Biotechnology | MBA in Biotechnology builds upon students’ existing biotech and life sciences knowledge and equips them with the latest business and scientific insights. This equips them to run transformational companies that will accelerate the development of novel drugs and therapies. | Healthcare is the major area of employment post this degree. But students can be employed in any data analysis and research field. The curriculum highlights the necessity of building effective business models in the life sciences, directing life sciences enterprises, recognizing the ethical implications of new treatments, and equal access to these discoveries. |
| Master of Science in Food Safety and Quality | Food safety and quality affect everyone. The master’s in food safety and quality provides students with in-depth training in food safety assurance. By understanding the microbiology of food, students can help implement practices and standards to prevent sickness and outbreaks in communities and organizations. | Earning a master’s degree in food safety and quality prepares students to pursue careers in food quality assurance or other food safety positions. They can become a food scientist, a food inspector, a food safety specialist, and more. |
Curriculum and Skills Gained in Online Masters in Life Sciences Programs
The subjects and curriculum would vary according to the specialization chosen and the specific life science branch of study. Below are a few subjects learned in a master’s in life science online program and the skills attained.
| Curriculum | Skills Gained |
|---|---|
| BioScience | This track provides a concentration of science courses, many of which have laboratory components, and is designed for students who wish to pursue higher degrees such as MD, DDS, Ph.D., or a career in academic and industrial research, as well as health-related fields. This track also facilitates entry into the biotechnology industry laboratory management, product development, manufacturing, and quality control. |
| Drug Design and Discovery | Students will gain an in-depth understanding of the procedures involved in using technology and bioinformatics to design medications through this route. This track’s science courses concentrate on underlying illness mechanisms and medication discovery targeting bio-pharmaceutical targets. |
| Industrial Sciences | This track focuses on science courses, many of which have laboratory components, and is intended for students interested in pursuing advanced degrees such as MD, DDS, or Ph.D., as well as careers in academic and industry research and health-related professions. This track also facilitates entry into the biotechnology industry laboratory management, product development, manufacturing, and quality control. |
| Cell & Gene Therapies Track | The Cell & Gene Therapies Track (details coming soon) is designed for individuals who will benefit from developing a foundational knowledge of cell and gene therapy concepts. Students will receive cutting-edge training in this field and will be exposed to the many instruments needed to carry out cell and gene therapy development programs. |
| Core Concepts of Biochemistry | This is a survey course in biochemistry, molecular and cell biology, and biotechnology applications, with an emphasis on biotechnology applications. |
| Current Good Laboratory and Manufacturing Practices (cGLMP) | Current Good Manufacturing Practices (cGMP), Current Good Laboratory Practices (cGLP), and the laws that govern the manufacture of FDA-approved biopharmaceutical and biotechnology products are covered in this course. |
| Research Ethics & Integrity | This course will cover scientific integrity and ethics, plagiarism, how to submit documents to SafeAssign, and other program-specific ethical issues. |
| Drug Development to Post Approval | This course is about assignments and research from a rich public domain. Instructors will guide students in research and provide relevant articles, cases, and personal experiences. |
| FDA Case Studies | Working in the pharmaceutical industry necessitates knowledge of the federal regulations that govern the industry. Using real-life examples from the pharmaceutical sector, final drug product laws, also known as current Good Manufacturing Practices and other requirements, will be discussed. There will be a focus on current hot topics and FDA areas of concern. |
| Molecular Medicine | This course provides students with an overview of the entire drug development process, from the inception of discovery to the final marketed product, and a review of the principles underlying development of innovative medicinal medications and methods throughout the preclinical and clinical stages. Presentations will detail and assess specific cases, with discussions covering regulatory, financial, and ethical issues that pertain to drug development. |
| Medical Toxicology | This course aims to introduce students to the concepts of toxicology and pharmacology. The topics covered will include the different classifications of drugs and toxicants, their relationship to different organs, and their potential to cause disease. In addition, the course will discuss the various types of toxic chemicals that can be found in various industrial and food products. |
| Drug Target & Design | This course is designed to introduce students to the history of the field of medicine and the various aspects of drug design and development. It will also provide them with a comprehensive understanding of the molecular biology and basic chemistry of drugs. |
| Biotechnology-Based Human Diagnostics | Biotechnology is also widely used in the development of medical tests. This course will introduce students to the various aspects of this field. Some of these include the detection of genetic diseases and cancer, as well as the use of in-situ hybridization and immunochemistry. |
| Government Science & Technology Management | The federal government plays a crucial regulatory role in ensuring the profitability of biotechnology enterprises, as well as how taxpayer monies are handled so that humanity benefits directly from scientific research. This topic delves into it in depth. |
Accreditation for Online Masters in Life Sciences Programs
Accreditation is a screening procedure in which an institution is assessed by an impartial accrediting authority and determined to meet educational requirements of the highest standards. Thus, accreditation, in essence, is the enforcement of quality. Read more about Accreditation.
To ensure that the industry and fraternity recognize the degrees they are getting into. More crucially, to be eligible for federal student aid in the United States, one must ensure that the institution they attend is accredited by one of the officially recognized accreditation agencies.
The Higher Learning Commission (HLC) is one such independent corporation founded in 1895 as one of six regional institutional accreditors in the United States. The Higher Learning Commission (HLC) accredits post-secondary educational institutions in the United States that issue degrees. Hence, before enrolling in an online life sciences master’s program, students must understand and do their research on accreditation. Here is the link to our online Accreditation Guide. Also, below we list a few more accreditation agencies for further reading and research:
- New England Association of Schools and Colleges (NEASC)
- Middle States Commission on Higher Education (MSCHE)
- Higher Learning Commission (HLC)
- Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC)
- Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities (NWCCU)
- Western Association of Schools and Colleges (WASC) Senior College and University Commission (WSCUC)
Timeline for graduation from Online Masters in Life Sciences Programs
Generally, online life sciences master’s programs typically take around 24 months to complete. But there are expectations for this. Accelerated master’s programs are for high-achieving students who thrive in fast-paced rigorous programs. Also, there are part-time online master’s programs that full-time working students can pursue at their own pace. When talking about part-time online courses, they can be categorized as Synchronous vs. Asynchronous Learning. Depending on the student’s availability of time and how regular they can be with their assignments and study, they could choose one of the two study methods. Typically, asynchronous learning offers lots of flexibility. Although there is usually a deadline in sight, asynchronous learners can progress at their own pace and access their course anytime they choose and from any place. It is a cost-effective way to train learners based in varying locations. In synchronous learning, students progress according to a fixed schedule, along with the whole class. Students might choose any of the above methods to pursue a master’s program. They would typically take around 36 credit courses to complete the course.
Online Masters in Life Sciences Program Admission Requirements
Even though every life sciences master’s requirements would vary per the chosen field of specialization, generally speaking, a master’s in life sciences online would require a bachelor’s degree majoring in a life science discipline, a GPA of around 3 and some universities would require qualifying GRE and GMAT scores as well. Some universities may even require work experience and recommendations from previous employers. These are the typical master’s in life sciences prerequisites. OMC has dedicated resources for GRE and GMAT for students looking to research further.
Online Masters in Life Sciences No GRE Programs
The GRE general test and the GRE subject tests are taken by individuals applying to graduate programs, including business and law. For more than 60 years, GRE scores have been used by admissions and fellowship panels at thousands of graduate programs across the world to supplement an applicant’s undergraduate grades and other qualifications for graduate study.
Most graduate programs would have a prerequisite GRE score to get into the masters in life sciences. But a few universities skip GRE scores for admission to their graduate programs. The reason given for that varies, but most attribute this to the fact that since a significant chunk of graduate students are working professionals and work full-time and do not have the time to prepare for the GRE, the combination of work experience and undergraduate GPA covers for grading them for graduate admission. Also, since both asynchronous and synchronous online courses do not have a cap on the intake of students, universities have become far more open to students interested in pursuing higher studies.
Below are a few masters of life sciences program examples of such programs:
- Master of Public Health (MPH) – Harvard University
- Masters in health care management (MHCM) – Harvard University
- Master of Science in Biotechnology – Georgetown University
Accelerated Online Masters in Life Sciences Programs
Some experienced hands in the life sciences domain would benefit from a fast-track master’s in life sciences online program. But these programs are very rigorous and fast-paced and hence not for someone unfamiliar with the discipline. These accelerated programs are like the 1-year MBA degrees, discussed more in detail here.
An accelerated master’s program lets high-achieving students earn graduate credits while still pursuing an undergraduate course. This enables them to complete their master’s program at a fast pace. But this is not for everyone and comes with its rigors. The advantages of such courses are manifold and listed below:
- Earning your master’s degree online and in half the time.
- Reducing costs in schooling and tuition.
- Simplifying the graduate school research process.
But one would suggest that students should clearly understand what they are getting into before applying to accelerated programs.
Free Life Sciences Courses Online
Education is indeed expensive, but there are platforms of education that are proliferating education for free. Though free, these courses are from the best faculties of the best universities. We look at a few of such courses:
Massachusetts Institute of Technology
- Introduction to Biology – The Secret of Life: Learn the fundamentals of biochemistry, genetics, molecular biology, recombinant DNA, genomics, and rational medicine to unlock the secrets of life.
- Molecular Biology – Part 1: DNA Replication and Repair: A deep dive into DNA replication and repair to help you improve your scientific reasoning and experimental design skills.
- Molecular Biology – Part 2: Transcription and Transposition: Strengthen one’s scientific thinking and experimental design skills in this adventure through transcription and transposition.
- Molecular Biology – Part 3: RNA Processing and Translation: An in-depth look at the processing and translation of RNA. Improve your scientific reasoning and biological experiment design abilities.
Harvard University
- Quantitative Methods for Biology: Learn the fundamentals of MATLAB programming and data analysis, with applications in biology and medicine.
- Cell Biology: Mitochondria: A human-centered approach to cell biology fundamentals with a focus on the cell’s power plants, mitochondria.
- Malaria: Defeating Malaria from the Genes to the Globe: How can we eradicate malaria? Investigate cutting-edge research and technology, as well as the policies that will be required to control and eradicate malaria.
How to Pay for Online Masters in Life Sciences Programs
According to the latest figures from the Federal Reserve, the average college debt among student loan borrowers is around $32,731, wherein most borrowers have debt between $25,000 and $50,000 outstanding loan. Looking at the data from 2015-16, that is an increase of about 20 percentage points. Hence, keeping in mind the amount of student debt, the cost of education these days, and the amount of debt that each student carries, it is of prime importance how you choose to fund your life sciences course fees. The smartest way to fund education is a scholarship. For further reference, students can refer to this link here for scholarships.
It might happen that someone does not qualify for a scholarship; for such candidates, if they are working professionals, they can check with their employers to reimburse the tuition fee. Another way of funding an online life sciences master’s is to apply for a student loan. Students can also check if they are eligible for federal student aid. Here is a link to the FAFSA Application.
Scholarships for Online Masters in Life Sciences Programs
A scholarship is a form of financial assistance given to a student based on academic accomplishment or other factors, such as the financial necessity for schooling. The two most common types of scholarships are merit-based and need-based scholarships. The donor or department funding the scholarship determines the criteria for recipient selection, and the grantor decides how the funds will be used. The funds are used to defray the costs of tuition, books, and other expenses directly tied to a student’s educational cost through the university.
Academic achievement, departmental and community involvement, work experience, areas of study, and financial need are all factors taken into account when scholarships are awarded
Below are a few listed scholarships in the field of life sciences:
Bart and Gesina Longnecker Endowed Scholarship in Biomedical Sciences
The Bart and Gesina Longenecker Endowed Scholarship in Biomedical Sciences was established in July 2017 to provide a tuition scholarship to a full-time undergraduate student majoring in Biomedical Sciences at the College of Allied Health. Applicants must have a 3.0 or higher GPA.
Dr. Julio and Barbara Torrens Scholarship
Dr. Julio and Barbara Torrens Scholarship was established in April 2015 by Dr. Julio and Barbara Torrens. This scholarship aims to provide financial assistance to students majoring in Biomedical Sciences. Applicants should have a minimum 3.0 GPA and enroll in 300/400 level courses.
Patsy Capps-Covey Biomedical Sciences Scholarship in Allied Health
This scholarship was established to provide financial assistance to a junior or senior majoring in Biomedical Sciences with a minimum 3.0 GPA, who has demonstrated need, academic competence, and has participated in BMD extracurricular activities and/or service.
Celia A. Wallace Endowed Scholarship in Allied Health
The purpose of this scholarship, established in 2008 by Mrs. Celia A. Wallace, aims to provide financial assistance to a full-time student enrolled in one of the professional undergraduate or graduate programs in Allied Health. It will be used to recruit academically and/or gifted clinical students based on their pre-professional records.
Dr. Richard E. Talbott Dean’s Endowed Scholarship
The Dr. Richard E. Talbott Dean’s Endowed Scholarship was established in November 2010 by Dr. and Mrs. Richard E. Talbott. This scholarship provides financial assistance to a full-time graduate student majoring in the College of Allied Health Professions. Applicants must have a minimum 3.5 GPA and a minimum 1000 GRE score.
FAQs about Life Sciences Programs
Frequently Asked Questions
What does life sciences focus on?
Life Sciences or biological sciences comprise the branches of science that involve the scientific study of life and organisms such as microorganisms, fungi, plants, animals, and human beings.
What are the two major areas of life sciences?
Is life sciences a good course?
What is the difference between life sciences and healthcare?
Is life sciences part of healthcare?
What is the difference between life sciences and pharma?
Is Life Science a challenging course?
Careers and Salary Outlook for Masters in Life Sciences Graduates
Post a master’s in life sciences, one can delve into many roles in the life sciences field. This could vary from a lab technician’s position at the entry level to the CEO of a pharmaceutical company at the top of the hierarchy. Careers in life sciences are diverse and can apply to many industries. For example, life sciences scientists may work in agriculture and food science, conservation and environmental advocacy, or medicine and bioengineering. Since it is such a diverse field, those looking to start a career in life science have many options, including opportunities for remote or work-from-home jobs.
| Occupation | Median Annual Salary (US $) | Job Growth (2019-2029) | Job Description |
|---|---|---|---|
| Clinical Laboratory Technologists and Technicians | 57,800 | 11% | Clinical laboratory technologists and clinical laboratory technicians gather samples and perform tests to examine body fluids, tissue, and other substances. |
| Biological Technicians | 48,140 | 7% | Biological technicians, sometimes called laboratory assistants, are typically responsible for doing scientific tests, experiments, and analyses under the supervision of biologists (such as microbiologists) or medical scientists who direct and evaluate their work. Experiments are carried out by biological technicians using classic laboratory instruments, modern robotics, and automated equipment. They collect, analyze, and simulate experimental data using specialist computer software. |
| Zoologists and Wildlife Biologists | 64,650 | 5% | Species biologists and zoologists research animals and other wildlife, as well as their interactions with their surroundings. Animal physical characteristics, animal behavior, and human impacts on animals and natural habitats are all studied by them. |
| Hydrologists | 84,030 | 6% | Hydrologists are scientists who research how water moves across and through the Earth’s crust. They investigate how precipitation such as rain, snow, and other types of precipitation affect river flows and groundwater levels, as well as how surface and groundwater drain back into the atmosphere or finally reach the oceans. Hydrologists study how water interacts with the environment and how changes in the environment affect water quality and quantity. |
| Postsecondary Teachers | 79,640 | 12% | Postsecondary teachers often referred to as professors or faculty, instruct students in a variety of academic subjects beyond the high school level. They might also conduct research and write academic papers and books. |
| Microbiologists | 79,260 | 5% | Microbiologists study microorganisms such as bacteria, viruses, algae, fungi, and some types of parasites. They try to understand how these organisms live, grow, and interact with their environments. Many microbiologists work in research and development, conducting basic research or applied research. |
| Biochemists and Biophysicists | 102,270 | 5% | Biochemists and biophysicists study the chemical and physical principles of living things and biological processes, such as cell development, growth, heredity, and disease. Biochemists and biophysicists work in basic and applied research. Basic research’s goal is to improve human understanding and has no practical use. The purpose of applied research is to find a solution to a particular problem. |
| Agricultural and Food Scientists | 74,160 | 9% | Agricultural and food scientists research methods to improve the efficiency and safety of agricultural companies and products. Agricultural and food scientists play an important role in maintaining and expanding the nation’s food supply. They work in basic or applied research and development. |
| Natural Sciences Managers | 137,900 | 6% | Natural sciences administrators supervise scientists such as chemists, physicists, and biologists. They direct research and development efforts as well as organize responsibilities such as testing, quality control, and production. |
| Medical Scientists | 95,310 | 17% | Medical researchers do research to improve human health in general. They often use clinical trials and other investigative methods to reach their findings. Many medical researchers labor on their own to come up with new concepts and experiments. |
Certifications and Licensing for Life Sciences Graduate
Generally, to work in the core sciences domain, it is imperative to have a formal college education. But it is always a good practice to pursue membership and certification courses from a professional organization in the student’s field of study. Also, to practice the vocation of life sciences, there are no mandated federal or state licensing requirements.
Below is a list of a few certificate courses that students may pursue post their online life sciences masters:
- Employment Acquisition Skills Boot Camp for Scientists: To help scientists identify and successfully transition into the careers they desire, the American Institute of Biological Sciences (AIBS) developed a program to help scientists hone and practice the skills needed to secure employment. AIBS’s Employment Acquisition Skills Boot Camp for Scientists is an intensive multi-day program that blends asynchronous modules, live lectures, and hands-on exercises.
- Professional Certificate Program in Biotechnology & Life Sciences: This certificate program intends to give biotechnology and pharmaceutical industry professionals the tools they need to take a more holistic approach to new and existing technologies in their firms.
- Professional Certificate in Data Analysis for Life Sciences: Students would learn Basic statistical concepts and R programming skills for analyzing data in the life sciences. The underlying math of linear models is helpful for data analysis in the life sciences. The techniques used to perform statistical inference on high-throughput and high-dimensional data. Several methods are widely used in the study of high-dimensional data.
- Certified Medical Device Compliance Professional: The Certified Medical Device Compliance Professional (CMDCP) program gives industry personnel the robust compliance training needed to advance their careers and satisfy regulatory training requirements. This medical device compliance programs cover topics from quality and manufacturing concerns to product design, clinical trials, validation, and regulatory filings.
Additional Resources for Life Sciences Professionals
Post an online life sciences master, life sciences professionals can further their careers and keep being relevant in this fast-paced industry by becoming members and accrediting themselves with a professional organization in the field of practice.
Professional life sciences associations, apart from being a body that assists in developing and distributing knowledge, aid with keeping their members informed about the newest developments and innovations. Accreditation is another vital function of associations, helping professionals enhance and prove their capabilities.
Life sciences professional organizations and associations also host their meetings and conferences, discussing and brainstorming critical areas of the study and deliberating on new methodologies disrupting the sector. They offer an opportunity to network, share research, and discover the latest methods and applications at national or global conferences. We look at a few of such organizations below:
- American Society for Cell Biology In 1961, the American Society for Cell Biology (ASCB) was created to bring together all aspects of cell biology. Now representing more than 11,000 members, the Society’s objective is to provide for the exchange of scientific knowledge in cell biology.
- American Institute of Biological Sciences (AIBS) AIBS a non-profit public charity organization that advances the biological sciences to benefit all science and society. It works with like-minded organizations, funding agencies, and political entities to promote the use of science to inform decision-making.
- Botanical Society of America (BSA) The Botanical Society of America (BSA) aims to “advance botany, the branch of basic science concerned with the study and research into the form, function, development, diversity, reproduction, evolution, and applications of plants and their interactions within the biosphere.”
- American Fern Society The American Fern Society was established in 1893 to foster interest in ferns and lycophytes or pteridophytes. The American Fern Society is one of the world’s largest international fern clubs, with over 500 members worldwide.
- American Society of Parasitologists The American Society of Parasitologists, founded in 1924, is a varied association of roughly 700 experts from academia, industry, and government interested in studying and teaching parasitology. Members of the Society contribute to the advancement of parasitology as a discipline, as well as primary research in behavior, biochemistry, ecology, immunology, medicine, molecular biology, physiology, systematics, and other related topics.
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