Drexel University's Master of Science (MS) in Biological Sciences begins with a flexible core curriculum to provide a strong foundation in the fields of biochemistry, cell biology, genetics and molecular biology. In the second year, students can choose from a range of advanced and specialized elective courses.

Concentrations

Program Format

• Full or part time, 45 credit program.
• Drexel Co-op available for full-time, on-campus students
• Thesis or non-thesis degree options available.

Program Deadlines

The deadlines below are the dates by which applications must be submitted and all application requirements received.

• Fall (Domestic) - August 1
• Fall (Internationa) - May 1
• No Spring or Summer Intake.

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Program Overview

The Master of Science in Biological Sciences requires 45 credits. This degree can be pursued either full-time or part-time. Soon after matriculation, the student completes a plan of study with the graduate adviser to outline his or her specific program. Both thesis and non-thesis options are available as well as Drexel Graduate Co-op for full-time, on-campus students.

Non-Thesis Option

The Master of Science in Biological Sciences non-thesis option is a coursework-based degree for those looking to advance in their field, but not desiring direct research experience.

Curriculum

This degree requires 45 credits beyond the bachelor's degree. A maximum of four credits for independent research (either library or laboratory work, under the direction of a faculty member from the department) may be counted toward the degree. Students will devise a plan of study suited to their individual needs in consultation with the graduate adviser. This is then submitted to the Graduate Program Committee. All courses must be approved by the biology graduate adviser. Annual meetings with the biology graduate adviser are required.

Thesis Option

The Master’s in Biological Sciences with thesis option is for students interested in advanced graduate coursework and experience in completing an original research project. Students should choose a research adviser during their first quarter. During the first year, students will begin their original research project. The findings of this work should be publishable in a peer-reviewed scientific journal. Progress towards these degree requirements is overseen and guided by the selected thesis adviser, the Thesis Research Committee, and the Graduate Program Committee.

Curriculum

This degree requires 45 credits beyond the bachelor's degree. A maximum of twelve credits for research and the thesis may be counted as part of the total. Students must devise a plan of study with their graduate adviser by the end of their first term. The plan of study is submitted to the Thesis Committee for final approval.

PhD Transfer Program

Any student passing the master's thesis defense may apply to transfer to the department's PhD program through Drexel University's Office of Graduate Studies. The application will be forwarded to the Biology Department Graduate Committee for their recommendation to the Biology department head.

Learn more about the PhD in Biological Science

Research Areas

Our Biology Department faculty researchers are passionately involved in teaching and conducting research in cellular and molecular biology, ecology and environmental science, organismal physiology and development, and microbial pathogenesis and immunology. Faculty and student driven research within the Department of Biology falls under the following general areas: genes and proteins; cells; organisms; and ecology and ecosystems.

Research Areas

Recent Faculty Publications

Drexel Co-op for Graduate Students

Drexel’s strengths as a leader in experiential education are now enhancing graduate student training with the MS in Chemistry graduate co-op option. The graduate co-op program offers full time, in-person MS in Biology students a unique opportunity to earn valuable professional experience at top-rated companies that counts toward their master’s plan of study. The extensive networks developed by the Steinbright Career Development Center, Drexel's Department of Biology, and area companies provide a wealth of opportunities for co-op employment both near and far.

Eligibility Requirements

Participation in the graduate co-op program is optional and open to all full time MS in Biology students who meet the eligibility requirements. Graduate co-op is managed by Drexel University’s Steinbright Career Development Center in partnership with the Graduate College. Please note that the University does not guarantee co-op placement.

Learn more about graduate co-op

Biology Graduate Student Association

The Biology Graduate Student Association (BGSA) provides an engaged and exciting forum for information exchange between graduate students, faculty and the administration. As one of the most active graduate student associations on campus, the BGSA’s mission is to elevate the academic experience of biology graduate students by maintaining an active social environment among existing, new and prospective graduate students.

Learn about biology student organizations

The Master of Science in Biological Sciences Thesis

Students in the MS in Biological Sciences degree program begin their thesis journey by developing ideas and examining the existing research literature. Each student’s mentor works with them to offer guidance in all areas of thesis development: formulating a question, collecting and analyzing data, and writing the final thesis document. More details regarding the thesis submission and binding process can be found on the Drexel Library website. We proudly invite prospective students to review recent theses authored by our Master of Science in Biological Sciences degree recipients.

Recent Theses

Drexel Library: Theses, Dissertations and Projects