MSc in Biology: Top Universities, Syllabus and Jobs
An MSc in Biology is a graduate program open to those with an undergraduate degree in biology or a related field. This advanced degree provides specialised knowledge, leading to better job opportunities and higher salaries. Students can choose between a Master of Arts or a Master of Science in Biology, each with distinct requirements and career paths.
In this blog we are going to discuss top universities, syllabus and career options after pursuing Master’s in Biology.
Why Pursue Master’s in Biology?
Here are various reasons as to why you should pursue MSc in Biology:
- International Collaboration: Many international biology programs foster collaborations between researchers from different countries, allowing you to contribute to global scientific endeavors.
- Diverse Research Environments: Studying abroad can expose you to a wide range of research environments, from tropical rainforests to arctic tundras, providing unique opportunities for fieldwork and data collection.
- Access to Specialized Equipment: Foreign universities often have access to state-of-the-art equipment and facilities that may not be available domestically, such as advanced microscopes, DNA sequencers, or ecological monitoring stations.
- Interdisciplinary Approaches: Many biology programs abroad incorporate multidisciplinary approaches, combining biological knowledge with other fields such as chemistry, physics, or environmental science to address complex research questions.
- Qualify for Teaching Positions: A master’s degree can open doors to academic roles, enabling you to share your knowledge with future generations.
- Tap into Industry Demand: Many sectors, such as biotechnology and pharmaceuticals, seek professionals with advanced biological qualifications.
Top Universities For Studying Master’s in Biology
There are many universities which offers MSc in Biology programmes but the best universities for Master’s in Biology are listed below:
| University | Course | Duration | Tuition Fees (annual) |
|---|---|---|---|
| University of Manchester | MSc Biological Sciences | 12 months | £34,500 |
| New York University | Master of Biology | 24 months | $53,832 |
| University of Oxford | MSc by Research in Molecular and Cellular Medicine | 3 years | £31,480 |
| UCL | MSc in Biomedical Sciences | 1 year | £37,500 |
| Imperial College London | MRes Bioinformatics and Theoritical Systems | 1 year | £37,100 |
| Yale University | MS in Computational Biology & Biomedical Informatics | 2 year | $49,500 |
Course Structure for MSc Biology
Unlike undergraduate degrees, which include a range of general subjects, an MSc in Biology primarily focuses on advanced scientific study. Students typically complete between 30 and 60 credits of specialised biology courses, with a significant portion dedicated to their chosen area of expertise.
MSc Biology syllabus include:
- Cell biology
- Microbiology
- Systems biology
- Metabolic disorders
- Human genetics
- Genomics
- Toxicology
- Evolutionary genetics
- Population genetics
- Biological physics
- Cancer biology
- Stem cell biology
- Neurobiology
Specialisations for MSc. Biology:
- Bioinformatics
- Biotechnology
- Conservation Biology
- Environmental Biology
- Marine Biology
- Neuroscience
- Plant Biology
- Zoology
Career Opportunities After MSc Biology
Many students pursue an MSc in Biology to pursue a PhD or to advance their careers in teaching, research, or public health. The specific job opportunities available will depend on the chosen specialisation within the biology degree. Check out these job posts along with their salaries which you can target after pursuing a Master’s in Biology:
| Job Posts | Salary (annual) |
|---|---|
| Research Scientist | $85,000-$100,000 (INR 71-83 Lakhs) |
| Biotechnologist | $71,000-$100,000 (INR 59-83 Lakhs) |
| Food Scientist | $59,000-$100,000 (INR 49-83 Lakhs) |
| Biomedical Engineer | $61,000-$100,000 (INR 51-83 Lakhs) |
| Public Health Specialist | $53,000-$96,000 (INR 44-80 Lakhs) |
| Environmental Consultant | $44,000-$76,000 (INR 36-63 Lakhs) |
| Clinical Research Associate | $60,000-$100,000 (INR 50-83 Lakhs) |
| Lecturer | $59,000-$100,000 (INR 49-83 Lakhs) |
MA vs MS in Biology
Not all universities offer both MA and MS degrees in biology.
MA (Master of Arts):
- Emphasises theoretical and conceptual aspects of biology
- Often includes coursework in history of biology, philosophy of science, and social implications of biological research
- May include research components but primarily focused on coursework and critical thinking
MSc (Master of Science):
- Research-oriented and requires a significant research project or thesis
- Provides advanced knowledge and skills in a specific area of biology
- May include coursework but primarily focused on research and practical experience
Admission Requirements for Master’s In Biology Programs
Most universities require applicants to hold a bachelor’s degree and achieve a minimum Grade Point Average (GPA) of 3.0/4 (89%+) to be considered for a Master’s in Biology program.
There are two primary admission categories:
- Unconditional Admission: This is offered to applicants possessing a bachelor’s degree in biology and a substantial foundation in scientific subjects.
- Provisional Admission: This is for applicants who do not fully meet the unconditional admission criteria. These individuals may be required to complete specific science courses and maintain a GPA of at least 2.7 to progress in the program.
- Conditional Admission: Students may get a conditional letter in several situations: If they have not graduated from their bachelor’s yet / if their English score was low. / if they had any backlogs / if they did not submit an English score / if they had a low GPA at the time of applying.
In addition to academic qualifications, applicants typically need to submit
- Completed application form
- Personal statement outlining their academic and career goals
- Curriculum vitae (CV) or resume
- 2-3 Letters of recommendation
- Graduate Record Examination (GRE) scores, although these are not always mandatory. It is essential to check the specific requirements of desired programs.
Conclusion
A Master’s in Biology provides a solid foundation for those aspiring to advance their career in the biological sciences. Through specialised coursework and research opportunities, graduates develop the expertise necessary to excel in various fields, from academics and research to industry and healthcare.
FAQs
What are the career prospects after a Master's in Biology?
A Master’s in Biology opens up a wide range of career opportunities. Graduates can pursue research in academia or industry, and work in healthcare, environmental science, or biotechnology.
What are the admission requirements for a Master's in Biology?
Most universities require a bachelor’s degree and a minimum GPA of 2.7 (80%) for admission to a Master’s in Biology program. Additional requirements may include GRE scores, letters of recommendation, a personal statement, and a CV. Specific requirements vary between institutions.
Is a thesis required for a Master's in Biology?
The requirement for a thesis depends on the specific program and degree type. While some programs may require a thesis, others emphasise coursework and a research project. It’s essential to check the program details to determine if a thesis is mandatory.
What is the difference between an MA and an MSc in Biology?
While both degrees offer advanced study in biology, the MA typically focuses on theoretical aspects and often involves a thesis, whereas the MS emphasises practical applications and research, often ending in a research project.
How long does it take to complete a Master's in Biology?
The duration of a Master’s in Biology program varies but is typically two years but it can vary depending on the countries from 1-3 years. Factors such as coursework load, research requirements, and part-time or full-time study can influence the overall completion time.
If you are an aspirant looking to study at your dream university, book an appointment with AdmitX today and start your applications early to avail yourself of all the benefits.
