Biological Sciences (M.A.)

Currently, this program is not accepting applications.

Graduate students in the Biological Sciences Master of Arts degree will gain in-depth knowledge and skills toward your chosen discipline while being introduced to a breadth of topics at the cutting edge of biology. You will have access to flexible coursework that can be completed fully online with options for in-person coursework as well.

This program prepares students for career placement and/or advancement in teaching, academic research, industry, medical professions, natural resource management, and more. 

Program Requirements Biological Sciences Graduate Assistantships

Program Highlights

• Work with a graduate faculty advisor to develop a coursework plan that meets your career goals. Faculty have specializations in a breadth of biological areas such as biomedical, ecology, evolution, cellular, and molecular biology.
• Flexible coursework options to complete your degree wholly online, in a hybrid model, or on campus. Ideal for professionals looking to further their education (e.g., educators) and those looking to take advanced coursework needed for specific professions.
• Graduate teaching assistantships are available that can waive tuition and cover living expenses. 
• Participate in student research projects that involve investigation into a variety of topics funded from a diverse set of internal and external sources with the guidance of a faculty advisor.

Program Distinctions

• Biology programs are supported by internationally-recognized faculty working on research projects funded by federal, state, local, non-profit and for-profit organizations. 
• The Integrated Science and Engineering Laboratory Facility (ISELF) includes a suite of laboratories with state-of-the-art equipment that supports student research and public outreach and education. 
• Biology research results in publications in peer-reviewed scientific journals and presentations at local, regional and international scientific meetings. 
• A herbarium with a vascular plant collection especially strong in Central Minnesota counties' materials dating to the 1800s.
• National Science Foundation, National Institutes of Health, Minnesota Department of Natural Resources and other state and federally-funded research projects.