Fairleigh Dickinson University

What you'll study

The programme combines core graduate-level coursework with laboratory experience and a choice of research (thesis) or project/practicum (non-thesis) options. Core topics typically include advanced molecular and cellular biology, genetics, biochemistry, and quantitative methods used in biological research. Elective and specialised modules may cover areas such as molecular genetics, microbial physiology, ecology and conservation biology, biotechnology techniques, bioinformatics, and immunology.

• Core coursework: advanced cell and molecular biology, experimental design and statistics, biochemical methods.
• Laboratory training: hands-on courses in microscopy, molecular cloning, PCR, protein analysis and sequencing techniques, with emphasis on contemporary instrumentation and laboratory best practice.
• Research/project component: independent research under faculty supervision leading to a thesis or capstone project; non-thesis students often complete an extended laboratory practicum or applied project with an external partner.
• Electives and interdisciplinary options: courses in bioinformatics, environmental biology, virology, developmental biology, and courses that bridge biology with public health or biomedical ethics.
• Professional development: seminars on scientific communication, grant writing, and career skills; opportunities for internships in academic, industry or government laboratories.

Entry requirements

Applicants should hold a recognised bachelor’s degree in biology or a closely related discipline. Admissions typically consider the undergraduate transcript, letters of recommendation, and a statement of purpose outlining research interests and career objectives. Candidates whose undergraduate preparation lacks specific coursework may be asked to complete prerequisite undergraduate courses before or during the early stages of the programme.

• Academic preparation: foundational coursework in biology, chemistry, and mathematics/statistics is expected.
• Supporting materials: academic transcripts, at least two academic or professional references, and a personal statement describing research interests and goals.
• International applicants: required to demonstrate English proficiency by an approved test or other university-defined criteria; international transcripts must be evaluated as part of the application.
• Additional considerations: relevant laboratory experience, research involvement, or professional work in biological sciences strengthens an application.

Career prospects

Graduates of the MS in Biology enter a range of careers across academia, industry and the public sector. The degree prepares students to work as laboratory researchers or technicians in academic and commercial labs, research associates in biotechnology and pharmaceutical companies, and environmental scientists in consulting or regulatory agencies. It is also suitable for those aiming to pursue doctoral study or professional programmes in medicine, dentistry or allied health.

• Research scientist or research associate in academia or industry
• Biotechnology and pharmaceutical laboratory roles (e.g. assay development, quality control)
• Environmental consultant or conservation biologist
• Regulatory affairs and laboratory management positions
• Further study: PhD programmes or professional health-related degrees
• Science education and communication roles, including secondary teaching (with appropriate certification)

Why study at Fairleigh Dickinson University

Fairleigh Dickinson offers a focused, student-centred graduate experience with small class sizes and close faculty mentorship, enabling tailored research projects and hands-on laboratory training. The university maintains modern laboratory facilities and encourages interdisciplinary learning, allowing students to combine traditional biology with bioinformatics, public health or biotechnology applications. Proximity to a dense network of research institutions and industry partners in the broader metropolitan area provides internship and collaboration opportunities, while career services and alumni networks support professional development and job placement.

The programme’s flexibility—offering thesis and non-thesis tracks—permits students to customise their studies toward academic research or directly applied professional roles. Faculty are engaged in active research and mentoring, giving students access to supervised projects, conference presentation experience and guidance for continuing to doctoral or professional pathways.