
Edwin Li, Ph.D.
Associate Professor, Director of the Biology Graduate Program
The Master of Science in biology at Saint Joseph’s University is designed for students looking to complete their master’s degree in biology by enrolling in a full-time program that is focused on factual knowledge and professional growth as a skilled scientist.
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.
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.
Saint Joseph's biology grads were about twice as likely to be employed in STEM jobs compared to national averages*
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:
As a master’s student in biology, you will have the opportunity to conduct biological research in preparation for careers in the following fields:
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.
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.
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.
Associate Professor, Director of the Biology Graduate Program
Length | 24 months |
Start Terms |
Fall and spring |
Format | On campus |
Credits and Fields of Study |
Biology M.S.: 30 credits (including 6-credit thesis) Fields of study: Molecular Biology, Microbiology, Environmental Biology, Anatomy, Animal Behavior, Plant Biology, Physiology, Developmental Biology, Computer Modeling, Mycology |
Full-time |
9 credits per semester. |
Tuition for 2023-2024 |
$900 per credit; $250 lab fee (per course) |
Average Class Size | 10 students in each course. |
Admissions Requirements and Work Experience |
GRE test scores and work experience are not required for admission into the Biology M.S. program. Graduate Admission can provide more information about the admission process and required materials. |
Graduate Biology Department Features |
Learn more about the biology department’s graduate program, student testimonials and fields of study. |
Potential Career Paths |
A Master of Science in biology prepares graduates for science-related careers such as:
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Graduate assistantships |
Biology graduate assistantships are offered on a limited basis. Full-time M.S. program students are eligible for graduate teaching assistantships that provide a stipend and a scholarship for tuition. Qualified students may find employment as assistants in introductory undergraduate laboratories. Please contact the program director for availability. |
International Students |
This program accepts candidates from across the globe and qualifies international students for Optional Practical Training (OPT). |
Discount Eligibility |
Note - discounts cannot be combined. |
Veterans |
Saint Joseph's is a yellow ribbon school that accepts GI education benefits. Our Office of Veterans Services can help you access and understand your benefits. |
Saint Joseph’s University’s Biology MA program exposes you to all levels of biological organization, from the sub-cellular to the broad ecosystem. With the ability to complete a master’s degree full-time or part-time, the program is ideal for students looking to pursue admission to a professional school program, or for those looking to earn a promotion within the secondary education system or a corporate setting.