The most exciting time to be a biologist is now.

Biological sciences have been practiced for millennia, but now is perhaps the most exciting time to be a biologist. Every day brings new findings, from the microscopic to those that cover whole ecosystems. A Master of Science in Biology from the University of Missouri–St. Louis allows you to play a significant part in these exciting times and to share this knowledge through teaching, public service or by working in business and industry. Even more, many of our graduates enjoy better than average job stability. In fact, the US Bureau of Labor Statistics expects biologyrelated jobs to grow 5% by 2029.

Master of Science in Biology

The Master of Science in Biology program at UMSL provides the research-oriented training
and education necessary for candidates to succeed in a number of areas. These include being
professional biologists qualified for technical positions in business and industry, entering doctoral
programs in biology and becoming effective secondary school and junior college biology teachers.

UMSL’s Department of Biology offers three ways to earn the MS in Biology.

  • A 30-credit hour, non-thesis option suitable for those who already have extensive research experience, educators who seek to upgrade their academic skills but do not require research experience, or those who need to broaden their biological background.
  • A 32-credit-hour Emphasis in Professional Science option that includes a strong business component for those interested in learning more about the business of biology.
  • A 30-credit-hour traditional apprenticeship in research leading to a written thesis. Both thesis and non-thesis options may be developed into a final degree program in either Cell and Molecular Biology or Ecology, Evolution and Systematics

 

Program type:

Graduate, MS

Format:

On-Campus

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Why earn a masters in Biology at UMSL?

The Biology Department ranks in the top 20 percent of the nation’s research institutions, based on scholarly productivity and federal research grant funding. Biology students have the opportunity to engage in hands-on research projects under the guidance of faculty, and also benefit from the Science Learning Building, a $32 million addition to the UMSL science complex that provides state-of-the-art, dedicated teaching lab spaces for students.

Our biology programs foster creative and critical thinking skills in students, teaching them to analyze complex evidence and patterns of biological systems. Through our programs, students gain skill sets to prepare for a changing biological workplace that values flexible, dynamic, and well-educated employees who can adapt to new advancements and research in the field.

Outcomes and Career Outlook

Many students engage in individual research projects in the labs of biology faculty members, and many graduates are employed in industry or academic laboratories. Those with advanced biology degrees can pursue a variety of careers based on their interests and area of specialization. Graduates with a focus on research can explore opportunities in academic institutions, government agencies, or private industry. The biotechnology industry also offers potential roles in research and development, quality control, and regulatory affairs. Environmental science is a potential career path that includes work in conservation, sustainability, and pollution control. Graduates interested in teaching may also find opportunities in K-12 or postsecondary education. 

Employment in biotechnology is projected to grow up to 5% to 2032, with a median annual salary of $99,550, according to wage and employment data from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics.



$99,550

Median annual salary

5%

Employment growth by 2032

Career Opportunities


  • Agricultural and Food Scientist
  • Biochemist
  • Biologist
  • Biophysicist
  • Conservation Biologist
  • Environmental Educator
  • Environmental Scientist
  • Epidemiologist
  • Forensic Scientist
  • Genetic Counselor
  • Health Sciences Professional
  • Laboratory or Field Research
  • Medical and Technical Sales
  • Microbiologist
  • Pharmacologist

Plan of study

Review Full Degree Requirements Download Program Requirements

Non-Missouri Residents: Prospective students are responsible for reviewing the UMSL state authorizations page to see if this program is offered in their state throughout their program and to review the licensure or certification requirements for the state in which they reside.

Student Organizations - Make new friends and learn new skills by joining one of our Recognized Student Organizations

Career Services – Students have access to professional career counselors who can assist in everything from resume development and interview preparation to lining up an internship or connecting you with your next fulltime career. UMSL alumni also enjoy high quality, lifelong career management programming, services, events and resources to assist in all phases of career development.

Networking – with the largest alumni network in the region, UMSL graduate students have access to leading professionals engaged in business, research, entrepreneurship, non-profit, government, community organizations. Our academic units engage this network in curriculum development to ensure our graduate students gain the skills needed to advance along their choose career path.

Research – There are many opportunities for graduate students to showcase their research including our annual Graduate Research Fair, which is open to students from all graduate programs. Doctoral and thesis master’s students can also compete in the Three Minute Thesis challenge to be evaluated by a panel of judges for a chance to win cash prizes. 

College of Arts and Sciences

UMSL Arts and Sciences transforms lives.

Why choose UMSL Arts and Sciences?

The College of Arts and Sciences offers exciting degree programs that cover the academic spectrum from fine arts, humanities and the social sciences, to the natural and applied sciences.

An undergraduate degree from the College of Arts and Sciences provides the intellectual base for a host of career paths, advanced study and research in many academic disciplines. Our graduates are known for their professionalism on the job and their strong sense of civic responsibility.

College of Arts and Sciences

Active researchers, scholars and practitioners

Our accomplished faculty provide students with a well-rounded, hands-on and practical education to best prepare them for success in the modern workforce.

Our faculty are actively engaged in research and scholarship that advances knowledge, theory and applied methods in their fields and provides an unparalleled academic experience. Truly inspired by students’ resilience, creativity, passion for learning and desire to make a difference in their communities, our faculty are driven to educate, prepare and cultivate the innovative spirit UMSL students are so well known for.

UMSL Faculty

An inspired and accomplished Triton network

The College of Arts and Sciences has prepared tens of thousands of graduates to become influential leaders and find career success in the region, nationally and internationally.

The collective expertise of our alumni encompasses an impressive and comprehensive list of disciplines. They are notable journalists, writers, public relations professionals and leaders in private and public sectors. They are scientists, musicians, entrepreneurs, CEOs and much more. Committed to their organizations and communities, our graduates share a constant motivation to inspire others, build inclusive excellence, drive positive change and transform the lives of others through their everyday work.

College of Arts and Science Alumni

Find your passion, chart your path

Our wide range of academic programs are structured to provide you with the knowledge and skills you need to set yourself apart and be career ready on day one.

The College of Arts and Sciences offers 31 baccalaureate, 16 master and seven doctoral degrees as well as dozens of minor and certificate programs designed to get you where you want to go. With dedicated academic advisors ready to create a personalized plan to help you succeed in your academic journey, you'll have a clear path from start to finish. Find the program that’s right for you and apply today.

College of Arts and Sciences at UMSL

MORE Flexibility. MORE Possibilities.

When it comes to your education, we know one size doesn’t fit all. Offering exceptional academics at the undergraduate, graduate, and doctoral levels, our degree programs are built to fit any schedule. Whether you want to earn your degree on campus, fully online, during the evening or weekends with our 4-, 8-, 12- and 16-week course offerings – UMSL will meet you when and where you want.

UMSL Rankings

#1

in Missouri for affordability
(Business Insider)

#1

Online College in Missouri
(Forbes 2024)

60+

non-degree certificate programs

#1

transfer destination in St.Louis

#5

nationally for adult education
(Great Value Colleges)

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Start your journey at UMSL. Join our diverse student body and have access to world-class researchers and scholars, top-ranked degree programs and sought-after internship opportunities.