Master's Degree in Biology

The University of North Dakota offers a Master of Science (M.S.) in Biology, combining biological sciences with a focus on conservation biology, wildlife biology, molecular biology, and developmental biology. This program prepares students for a dynamic career in academics, government, industry, and beyond.

Program Details

• Program type: Master's Degree
• Format: On Campus
• Estimated time to complete: 2-3 years
• Credit hours: 30

Why Earn a Master's Degree in Biology?

A master's degree in Biology provides solid expertise in the science of living things, preparing students to tackle pressing global challenges in a changing world. With this degree, students will have the experience to set them apart as scholars, researchers, and leaders.

Biology Master's Programs Research

The Department of Biology offers graduate work in the following areas:

• Botany
• Cell Biology
• Conservation Biology
• Developmental Biology
• Ecology
• Entomology
• Fisheries Biology and Management
• Forensic Biology
• Genetics and Genomics
• Grassland Ecology
• Molecular Biology
• Neurobiology
• Parasitology
• Physiology
• Systematics
• Systems Biology
• Wildlife Biology and Management

UND's Master's Degree in Biology

The program features:

• State-of-the-art facilities and research areas, including greenhouses, vertebrate and invertebrate museums, tissue culture facilities, and molecular biology labs.
• Individualized mentoring from faculty engaged in both research and teaching.
• Access to four field stations with wetlands, prairies, riparian woodlands, streams, and agricultural areas.
• A collaborative environment with integrative approaches to biology, using tools ranging from computational to molecular to GIS.
• Opportunities to join organizations such as the Wildlife Society and Biology Graduate Student Association.
• Immersive internships with Accelerate to Industry (A2i) partners.

Career Opportunities

A Biology master's degree prepares students for a wide range of rewarding careers, including:

• Academic teaching and research
• Government research
• Research and developmental opportunities in industry
• Professional biology
• Private foundations and non-government organizations

Master's Degree in Biology Courses

Some of the courses offered include:

• Scientific Writing (BIOL 509): Develops scientific writing skills through readings, discussion, and critique of writing projects.
• Advanced Evolutionary Analysis (BIOL 512): Focuses on methods that reconstruct evolutionary histories and discusses the evolution of specialized traits.
• Grassland Ecology (BIOL 533): Covers phytogeography, environmental influences, and community dynamics of grassland ecosystems.
• Research Design and Statistical Analysis (BIOL 571): Topics in scientific inference, research design, and statistical analysis of data in biology.
• Advanced Topics in Genetics (BIOL 594): Advanced topics in genetics, such as biochemical genetics, cytogenetics, and human medical and population genetics.
• Advanced Topics in Fisheries, Wildlife, and Conservation (BIOL 595): Advanced topics in fisheries, wildlife, or conservation biology.

Best Biology Master's Programs

The University of North Dakota's master's in biology is recognized as a top biological sciences program in the nation, consistently ranking among the best for educational quality, affordability, and career outcomes.

University of North Dakota: A Summary

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Overview:

The University of North Dakota (UND) is the state's oldest and largest university, offering over 225 accredited on-campus and online degrees. It is known for its commitment to student leadership and fostering a welcoming and inclusive campus environment.

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Services Offered:

UND provides a range of support services for students, including:

Diversity and Inclusion:

UND values diverse perspectives and actively promotes a sense of belonging for all students.

TRIO Programs:

Support for first-generation and Pell-eligible students to help them succeed at UND.

Pride Center:

Resources and support for the LGBTQ+ community on campus.

Disability Resources:

Equal opportunities for qualified students with disabilities to participate in all UND activities.

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Student Life and Campus Experience:

UND emphasizes student leadership and provides opportunities for students to make a positive impact. The campus offers a vibrant community with various student organizations and activities.

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Key Reasons to Study There:

Academic Excellence:

UND offers a wide range of highly accredited programs, including specialized fields like Unmanned Aircraft Systems Operations, Data Science, and Forensic Science.

Affordability:

UND consistently ranks among the best for educational quality and affordability.

Career Outcomes:

UND prepares students for successful careers with strong emphasis on practical skills and real-world experience.

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Academic Programs:

UND offers a diverse range of academic programs, with notable strengths in:

Unmanned Aircraft Systems Operations:

A cutting-edge program in a rapidly growing industry.

Data Science:

A high-demand field with strong career prospects.

Economics:

A solid foundation for careers in law, business, and other fields.

Forensic Science:

Immersive program with hands-on experience in forensic labs.