University of Northern Colorado

What you'll study

The Master of Science in Biology is structured to provide both broad and specialised training in contemporary biological science. Students typically follow either a thesis (research) route or a coursework route with a capstone project, allowing a balance between independent research and advanced coursework.

• Core and advanced topics: molecular and cellular biology, organismal physiology, ecology and evolution, population biology, conservation biology, and contemporary topics in genetics and genomics.
• Quantitative and technical skills: experimental design, biostatistics and data analysis, bioinformatics basics, microscopy and molecular laboratory techniques, and field methods for ecological and environmental study.
• Research and capstone: thesis students undertake original research under faculty supervision, while non-thesis students complete a substantial project or practicum that applies advanced biological concepts to real-world problems.
• Seminars and professional development: participation in departmental seminars, journal clubs and opportunities to present research at conferences; training in scientific communication and grant writing.

Entry requirements

Applicants should hold an accredited bachelor’s degree in biology or a closely related discipline with coursework in foundational subjects such as general biology, genetics, ecology, chemistry and mathematics. The department looks for evidence of academic preparation, research potential and professional motivation.

• Academic transcripts: official undergraduate transcripts showing relevant coursework and strong academic performance.
• Supporting documents: a statement of purpose outlining research interests and career goals, a curriculum vitae or résumé, and two to three letters of recommendation from academic or professional referees familiar with the applicant’s potential for graduate study.
• Research experience: previous laboratory or field research is strongly recommended and can strengthen an application.
• English language proficiency: international applicants must demonstrate proficiency in English through recognised tests, unless exempted by institutional policy.
• Additional notes: GRE scores are not typically required by every programme—applicants should consult the department for current testing policies. Admission can be competitive and selection considers fit with faculty expertise and available supervisory capacity.

Career prospects

Graduates from the Master’s in Biology go on to a wide range of careers in academia, industry, government and the non‑profit sector. The programme prepares students for roles that require advanced scientific training and practical research experience.

• Research and academia: PhD study, research assistant or laboratory technician positions in university or research institutes.
• Industry and biotechnology: roles in biotechnology and pharmaceutical companies, quality control, laboratory management and applied research.
• Environmental and conservation careers: ecological consultant, wildlife biologist, conservation scientist or positions with environmental NGOs and government natural resource agencies.
• Education and outreach: secondary and post‑secondary teaching (with appropriate certification where required), museum or nature centre education, and science communication.

Why study at University of Northern Colorado

The University of Northern Colorado offers a supportive graduate environment with strong faculty mentorship and opportunities for hands‑on laboratory and field research. The programme benefits from access to a diversity of Colorado ecosystems for ecological and environmental work, and from faculty whose research spans molecular to ecosystem scales.

• Faculty supervision: small cohort sizes promote close interaction with supervisors and collaborative research within active research groups.
• Research facilities: departmental laboratories and shared instrumentation provide training in contemporary experimental and analytical techniques.
• Professional development: emphasis on presenting research, publishing, and gaining teaching or assistantship experience to prepare graduates for varied career paths.
• Location advantages: proximity to diverse field sites and regional conservation resources supports applied ecological and environmental projects.