Biology MS

What is the Biology MS?

Saint Joseph’s University’s MS in biology program focuses on increasing your factual understanding of a wide range of life science topics while it develops and refines your skills as an experimental scientist. This biology master’s program exposes you to all levels of biological organization, from the sub-cellular to the broad ecosystem.

MS vs. MA in Biology: What’s the Difference?

The cornerstone of the graduate biology program at Saint Joseph’s University is scientific research. The program offers a small, hands-on learning environment leading to either a Master of Science or a Master of Arts in biology. However, the Biology MS is a full-time program designed to be completed in two years. It requires the development and presentation of a thesis, based on original research you conduct with a member of the faculty in Saint Joseph’s biology department. Meanwhile, M.A. students — both full-time and part-time — have the opportunity to conduct research for credits without needing to complete a research thesis.

Flexible Courses in Biology

This program is designed to be taken on a full-time basis. If you are interested in completing a part-time master’s in bio, the Department of Biology recommends that you consider the Biology M.A. program. Your courses are offered primarily on campus, with some online and independent study. Biology labs and practicums are only available on our campus located in Philadelphia.

The Department of Biology features a wide range of graduate biology courses, including:

• Advanced cell biology
• Immunology
• Biochemistry
• Bacterial pathogenesis
• Microbiology
• Neurobiology
• Physiology
• Histopathology
• Comparative anatomy
• Animal behavior
• Bioinformatics

Work in our State-of-the-Art Biology Laboratory

Conduct research in Saint Joseph’s state-of-the-art labs alongside expert faculty members, either as part of their own lab or your own biology master’s thesis research. The Department of Biology is housed in the Science Center, which is well-equipped for research and includes major equipment such as transmission, scanning and confocal microscopes, tissue culture facilities, an extensive vivarium and sophisticated plant growth chambers, as well as a rooftop greenhouse and experimental green roof.

Combined 4+1 Bachelor's/Master's in Biology

Undergraduate students enrolled at Saint Joseph’s University with majors in biology or environmental science may be able to complete a combined five-year B.S./M.A. or B.S./M.S. degree. If you are interested in the 4+1 degree program, contact your advisor early in your undergraduate academic career.

How Will Saint Joseph's University Enhance Your Career in Biology?

Saint Joseph’s Master of Science in biology is a great program for students looking to dive into their interests across the discipline of biology by engaging in their own, original research for their thesis project with the guidance of Saint Joseph’s expert faculty. Throughout your master’s program in biology, you will have the opportunity to develop mentor relationships with faculty and participate in the design and execution of faculty members’ research experiments. You will be encouraged to bridge scientific interests with social justice, in alignment with the mission of Saint Joseph’s University.

At-a-Glance