Biology - General Graduate Programs

Biology Graduate Programs and Curriculum

Often, students seeking a graduate degree in biology, either a master’s or Ph.D., are asked to choose an area of concentration. Typical areas of concentration include:

• Ecology
• Botany
• Cell and molecular biology
• Microbiology
• Zoology, marine biology is sometimes also offered as an area of concentration
• Biotechnology

Besides a strong background in the sciences, graduate students in biology should be:

• Effective communicators
• Team players
• Patient
• Methodical, meticulous, and conscientious
• Self motivated
• Analytical
• Curious

The exact coursework depends upon specific program requirements as well as area of concentration, but typically a grad program in biology will focus its coursework in any of the following areas:

• Ecology
• Genetics
• Cell and molecular biology
• Conservation biology
• Biotechnology
• Evolution
• Wildlife and fish conservation
• Plant physiology
• Environment, Wildlife, and Conservation Policy
• Developmental Biology
• Mammalogy
• Ornithology
• Freshwater biology and limnology
• Immunology
• Virology
• Parasitology
• Cancer biology
• Statistics
• Plant anatomy
• Topics in microbiology
• Research methods

Most programs culminate in the completion of a thesis, and include intensive lab work and research projects to compliment coursework. Some programs also include written exams.

Graduate programs in biology generally require that applicants have completed an undergraduate degree in biology, environmental science, conservation or a related degree, or have extensive prerequisite coursework in the sciences including biology, chemistry, and physics as well as higher-level mathematics. Experience in the field is also beneficial. Students pursuing a master’s in biology may have to write a thesis while Ph.D. biology students typically have to create and defend a thesis.

Biology Career Paths

Biologists can find work with federal, state, and local government agencies, in research and testing labs, in pharmaceutical testing and development, and in educational institutions. Within these industries, biologists can work in a number of capacities, including:

• Field and laboratory research
• Product development
• Medical research
• Secondary and post-secondary teaching
• Conservation and policy

In addition, some graduates go on to pursue health profession programs such as medical, dental or veterinary school.

Data according to

The Bureau of Labor Statistics, Occupational Outlook Handbook, 2010-11 Ed.

Biology Future Job Outlook

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), employment for biologists is anticipated to grow by 21 percent by 2018 with job growth driven by advancements in the field of biotechnology and the growing need for environmental protection, conservation, and policy. Competition for field positions and research grants can be highly competitive.

Data according to

The Bureau of Labor Statistics, Occupational Outlook Handbook, 2010-11 Ed.