BGSU master’s in biology offers research and professional tracks to master the science of biology.

Master of Science (M.S.)

Biological Sciences | Master's

The BGSU master’s in biology degree prepares you for professional careers in both applied and fundamental areas of biology.  

BGSU and the Department of Biology are proud of their nationally recognized faculty who conduct biological research of international significance. The faculty also strive to provide professional leadership to national and international scientific communities. For example, some of our faculty have joined a global scientific committee on harmful algal blooms, based on research conducted at nearby Lake Erie. 

BGSU biology faculty and students have a strong track record of public outreach, education and applied research, embracing our mission as a public university for the public good.

Satisfy your curiosity about the natural world

The Department of Biological Sciences conducts state-of-the-art scientific research, which is the foundation for our graduate training. Significant areas of research concentration include molecular biology, microbiology, cell biology, development, genetics, physiology, neurobiology, behavior, ecology, conservation biology and evolution.  

With close supervision from an advising faculty member, you will choose the theme of your studies. In addition to the master’s in biology degree, the BGSU Department of Biology also offers a Ph.D. in Biological Science.

An individualized curriculum tailored to your research interests and career goals.

Career - what can you do with a biological sciences master's degree?

A master's in biology from BGSU provides you with many opportunities for a challenging, fulfilling and well-compensated career. Past alumni have made a significant impact in their fields of conservation biology, microbial research, wildlife biology, ecological research, science outreach, education and business.  

With well-connected faculty and strong industrial and academic ties, graduates of the BGSU master’s in biology program have been successful at finding excellent professional opportunities.

Career paths

  • Behavioral, Neuroscience and Medical Research
  • Biotechnology
  • Costal Management and Conservation
  • Ecological Research
  • Epidemiology
  • Marine Fisheries
  • Medical Technology
  • Natural Resources Management
  • Wildlife Ecology

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BGSU has an active program of biological science public lectures and student organizations.

Curriculum

You will work closely with BGSU faculty who share your interests and will work with you to optimize your learning and research experience. Faculty interests cover a broad range of topics including neuroscience and behavior, microbiology, molecular biology, ecology and conservation biology.

To complete your degree, you may select one of two paths: a thesis-based program or a course-oriented program.

The program serves 30 to 40 masters in biology students in individualized thesis-based programs (MS-I). This two-year, 30-credit hour program culminates with the defense of an original, research-based thesis. The majority of these students are supported in this program as research or teaching assistants, which includes a stipend and tuition assistance.

Some students opt for an individulaized course-oriented degree (MS-II). These students complete a two-year, 34-credit program and a literature-review based research project that culminates with a defense examination. In general, students in this track do not receive stipends but are eligible to receive tuition scholarships.

Required courses

pre health biology

Sample courses

  • Microbiology
  • Molecular Genetics
  • Ecology and Conservation
  • Neurobiology
  • Scanning Electron Microscopy
  • Marine and Aquatic Biology

Updated: 10/04/2024 10:29AM