The Department of Biological Sciences at Marshall University is diverse and offers biology students opportunities openings to do coursework, research and discussion in a range of related areas: neuroscience and endocrinology, physiology, microbiology, cell and molecular biology, ecology and conservation biology, genetics and systematics, plant biology, paleontology and evolution.
The focus of the Master of Science (M.S.) is a research project, culminating in a written thesis, that you will perform with a Biological Sciences faculty advisor. The Department includes faculty with diverse research interests, from molecular mechanisms to paleobiology to ecology, and students are strongly encouraged to contact any or all whose research seems of interest, to ensure that a suitable position will be available. Brief descriptions of faculty research interests and contact information can be found by following the link to the right. A MS degree opens more doors to direct employment, and is the best stepping-stone to a Ph.D. program.
The focus of the Master of Arts (M.A.) degree is advanced coursework, although it may include a smaller research project. There is no written thesis; however, the ultimate requirement is a passing grade on a comprehensive oral exam. MA degrees provide additional training and education that may help with admission to professional schools. These degrees can also help undecided students focus their career or educational goals. If an MA student becomes interested in a specific research area, and is accepted into a faculty member’s lab, the MA track can be converted to an MS track.
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The master’s in Biological Sciences program at Marshall provides personalized mentorship to ensure that students achieve their personal goals. This graduate degree in Biological Sciences is not a one-size-fits-all program with limited direct faculty mentorship. Biology students are able to work directly with a faculty mentor in the Department of Biological Scienceswho can provide the intellectual and career advice that’s pertinent to a student’s future education and career plans.
Faculty in biology master’s degree programs at Marshall encourage MA students to engage in original research with faculty mentors. The Biological Sciences MA program offers several paths that are more flexible than the full-time Master of Science (MS) track so students can enter labs and gain technical and intellectual experience. Research experience is one of the strongest aspects of a CV or resume when applying for professional schools and many jobs.
All graduate faculty in the Department of Biological Sciences hold PhDs in their areas of expertise, and are passionate about their research and about training the next generation of scientists, educators and professionals. The biology department has a strong track record of helping students successfully enter the work force and professional programs.
Marshall University offers an accelerated path for students to obtain a bachelor’s and master’s degree on an accelerated path. It is offered as an accelerated bachelor’s plus master’s degree with:
Undergraduates accepted to an Accelerated Master’s Degree (AMD) program can begin taking graduate coursework while still in the B.S. program. These graduate credits can be taken in their senior year up to a maximum of 12 hours in place of electives. AMD will facilitate an easy and fast transition into the graduates program.
Undergraduates accepted to an Accelerated Master’s Degree program can begin taking master’s level classes while still in the undergraduate program. Up to 12 graduate credits can be used to fulfill requirements for both the undergraduate and the master’s degrees, effectively reducing the cost of, and time to, degree. Graduates of this program will be prepared for direct entry into the job market or continuation of graduate study towards an M.D. or Ph.D or other professional program.
A student can complete the bachelor’s degree in Biological Sciences by substituting twelve 500- and 600-level graduate credits (that will apply towards the master’s degree) for 12 hours of 400-level credits that were required at the undergraduate level. All BSC 400-level courses are co-listed as 500-level courses. In each area of emphasis, students may select 500-level electives in lieu of 400-level courses to satisfy the master’s degree. Alternately, a student who chooses not to pursue an area of emphasis may chose 500- or 600-level courses to satisfy credits that will apply to the master’s degree.
Eligibility Requirements for the Accelerated Master’s Degree Program
- completed at least 90 hours toward the bachelor’s degree;
- at least a 3.30 overall undergraduate GPA;
- at least a 3.30 GPA in the major;
- minimum composite verbal and quantitative GRE test scores of 300;
- three strong letters of recommendation.
The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) projects steady growth across various biological science occupations from 2023 to 2033. This growth is driven by advancements in biotechnology, increased demand for medical research, and a heightened focus on environmental conservation. Graduates with advanced degrees in biological sciences are well-positioned to enter diverse and expanding fields.
- Median Salary: Approximately $103,810 per year
- Job Growth: Projected to grow 7% from 2023 to 2033, faster than average
- Overview: Biological scientists in biotech and pharmaceutical industries conduct research to develop new products and technologies. They work in laboratories, designing experiments, analyzing data, and collaborating with cross-functional teams to bring innovations to market.
- Median Salary: Approximately $76,530 per year
- Job Growth: Projected to grow 5% from 2023 to 2033
- Overview: Professionals in this field study ecosystems, assess environmental impacts, and develop conservation strategies. They may work for government agencies, non-profits, or private firms, focusing on sustainability and natural resource management.
- Median Salary: Approximately $57,800 per year
- Job Growth: Projected to grow 11% from 2023 to 2033, much faster than average
- Overview: Biological sciences graduates in clinical settings perform diagnostic tests, analyze biological samples, and support disease detection and treatment. They ensure quality control and compliance with healthcare regulations.
- Median Salary: Approximately $79,640 per year
- Job Growth: Projected to grow 9% from 2023 to 2033
- Overview: With a master’s degree, graduates can teach at secondary or postsecondary institutions, develop curricula, and engage in academic research. They contribute to educating future scientists and advancing scholarly knowledge.
- Median Salary: Approximately $74,160 per year
- Job Growth: Projected to grow 8% from 2023 to 2033
- Overview: Professionals in this area improve food quality, safety, and production methods. They conduct research on crop yields, pest control, and sustainable farming practices, often working for government agencies or agribusinesses.