Master of Science in Biological Sciences

Develop broad or specialized knowledge in biology to further your path in research or education.

Our M.S. in biological sciences allows you to gain advanced knowledge in biological systems, including ecology, genetics, microbiology and plant sciences or pursue secondary educator licensure in biology. You can choose the thesis or non-thesis option. We also offer a specialization in human anatomical sciences.

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At a Glance

30 credit hours

In person

Full or part time

Start in the fall semester (spring admission by exception)

Career Outlook for M.S. in Biological Sciences Graduates

Average mid-career salary for alumni:

Top job titles for alumni:

Top employers for alumni:

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Through research, I have been able to network with and learn from esteemed researchers. This has enhanced my knowledge in my field of interest. I have also had meaningful interactions with peers in my field and other science fields. This has contributed to my all-around growth as a Huskie.

Pheobean Odongo, biological sciences graduate student from Kisumu, Kenya

How to Apply

You can apply if you have:

Bachelor’s degree in biology (related programs may be considered)
2.75/4.00 minimum overall GPA
3.20/4.00 minimum GPA in biology content courses

You’ll apply through the Graduate School. We encourage you to connect with potential faculty advisors before applying. Students typically begin the program in the fall, though spring admission may be possible.

Application deadlines:

Fall: January 1
Spring: October 1

Application Materials

Your application materials will include:

Three letters of recommendation from individuals who have a professional or academic relationship with you and can speak to your ability to succeed in a graduate-level program
Personal statement (1-2 pages) that describes your preparation for graduate study, your scientific/career goals and why you believe our program can best help you meet them, as well as which faculty you’ve communicated with and/or are interested in working with during your program
Resume/CV that outlines your experience and qualifications and includes information on your education, work experience, skills and/or volunteer experience

Costs and Funding

Our competitive tuition and fees helps ensure an excellent return on the investment of your time and resources. The department also offers scholarships and awards to biology students. Learn about additional funding opportunities for graduate students.

Assistantships

Many NIU graduate students have an assistantship, which provides financial support (typically a tuition waiver and stipend), as well as career preparation.

Curriculum and Requirements

You’ll choose one of the following options:

Thesis: for those who wish to focus on a specific area and/or plan to pursue further graduate study
Non-thesis: for those who wish to study several areas to prepare for careers such as secondary education

You can also choose to pursue the specialization in human anatomical sciences.

Specialization in Human Anatomical Sciences

This specialization also has thesis and non-thesis options. It requires coursework related to human anatomy and physiology plus completion of a special studies project involving some aspect of the anatomical sciences. This project comprises the development of a teaching tool such as a specialized dissection or model, a collection of videos, or a teaching text such as a laboratory manual.

Prior to completion of the degree, you'll take a final examination conducted by the members of your committee. During the examination, the committee examines your general and detailed knowledge of human anatomy and physiology.

Upon completion of this degree, you will be qualified to teach human anatomy and/or physiology in a community college setting. In addition, you will also be qualified to perform human cadaver dissection and teach a dissection-oriented human anatomy course.

View Degree Requirements

Faculty

Our faculty bring diverse experiences and scholarship across the biological sciences, including anatomy, biomedical science, biology education, ecology, conservation, microbiology and plant science. They’re committed to providing learning experiences that prepare students for career success.

More About Our Faculty