Program Overview

Master of Science in Biology

The Master of Science in Biology program at UAlbany offers a comprehensive education in the field of biology, with a focus on molecular, cellular, developmental, and neural biology. The program is designed to provide students with a deep understanding of the principles of biology and to prepare them for careers in research, healthcare, conservation, law, and other fields.

Program of Study

The Master of Science in Biology program has a Molecular, Cellular, Developmental, and Neural Biology (MCDN) concentration. The MCDN concentration focuses on concepts such as neural development, molecular virology, mutation, and gene flow, and cell biology.

MCDN Core Biology Courses

• Cell Biology I and II
• Biochemistry and Biomolecular Structure
• Advanced Molecular Biology

Additional Coursework

• Responsible Conduct and Skills in Research
• Responsible Conduct and Skills in Scientific Communication
• At least 3 additional credits at the 500 level or above (not including Master’s Research)

Master’s Research Thesis

Supporting Courses

• Anthropology
• Mathematics
• Chemistry
• Physics
• Psychology

Satisfactory completion of core and final examinations in biology

Research

Students in the Master of Science in Biology program will perform hands-on research and deliver presentations about their findings in the field of their choice. The research may involve concepts such as new approaches to cancer drug discovery, viral pathogenesis, host-parasite interactions, animal ecology and behavior, cell signaling, and RNA folding.

UAlbany’s collaborative relationship with nearby facilities like the Wadsworth Center from the New York State Department of Health, Albany Medical Center (AMC), Neural Stem Cell Institute (NSCI), and Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute (RPI) will give students the unique opportunity to pursue their research in a professional context. These facilities may also lead to internships, participation in field studies, and ultimately job opportunities.

Career Outcomes

With a Master of Science in Biology degree, students will have the training and skills to excel in a wide range of biology-related careers. Some potential career paths include:

• Lab Technician and Manager
• Research Scientist
• Bioanalytical Scientist
• Science Writer/Journalist
• Conservation Scientist
• Environmental Consultant

Graduates may also use their biology training to go on to professional schools, including business, law, medicine, dentistry, pharmacy, and veterinary schools.

International Students

This degree is designated as a STEM program. International students maintaining F-1 status are allowed to apply for up to 12 months of post-completion Optional Practical Training (OPT) following completion/graduation from their degree program. Currently, this degree program is also designated by the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) as an eligible degree for the F-1 STEM OPT work authorization extension; students who secure qualifying employment may be eligible to apply for the STEM OPT extension for a cumulative total of up to 36 months of F-1 OPT work authorization.

Accelerated Undergraduate/Graduate Option

If you’re a current UAlbany undergraduate student with at least a 3.0 GPA, you may be eligible to begin your graduate degree coursework as early as your junior year. Save time and money by applying up to 12 academic credits, billed at the undergraduate rate, towards both degrees. By doing so, you may be able to complete your combined program in only 5 years and spend less than you would if you completed each program separately.

Admissions Requirements

Deadlines

• Fall: Rolling
• Spring: Rolling
• Summer: Not Available

Required Application Materials

• Transcripts from all schools attended
• Three letters of recommendation
• Statement of goals

The statement is generally one to two pages discussing what you have to offer the program and what you wish to get out of the program. It should include a brief description of the applicant's field of interest, related background, desired area of study and research emphasis or career goals.

Student Learning Objectives

• Obtain general knowledge of representative fields in biology such as molecular biology, cell biology, developmental biology, and neurobiology, with a detailed knowledge of one or more areas of interest.
• Read and understand the primary scientific literature, to keep abreast of major developments, and to synthesize and integrate the literature in their chosen area of expertise.
• Demonstrate the ability to integrate factual knowledge to identify biological problems that need addressing.
• Recognize and define a scientific problem.
• Demonstrate the ability to clearly communicate ideas, results, and conclusions regarding biological data using graphical and oral communication methods.
• Demonstrate written communication skills in the field of biology.
• Understand scientific ethics as practiced in Western societies, including the topics of human subjects, animal use in research, and plagiarism.