Overview

The Biology programme at Commonwealth University of Pennsylvania provides students with a comprehensive platform for advanced scientific enquiry and professional development. This Master of Science degree is designed to accommodate both full-time students and working professionals seeking to deepen their expertise in the biological sciences. Through a blend of theoretical coursework and practical research, the curriculum prepares graduates for the evolving demands of the global scientific landscape.

Why Biology at Commonwealth University of Pennsylvania?

The university offers a distinctive learning environment across its Bloomsburg, Lock Haven, and Mansfield campuses, including unique coastal research opportunities at Wallops Island. The department is home to a nationally recognised chapter of the National Biological Honor Society, reflecting a commitment to academic excellence. Students work closely with faculty mentors on independent scholarly projects, gaining access to specialised laboratories and external research sites that enhance their technical proficiency.

Tuition Fee Breakdown

International fee: USD 801 per credit
National fee: USD 801 per credit
Local fee: USD 534 per credit

Visit the Fees and Funding section for a breakdown in your local currency.

Syllabus

The curriculum requires the completion of 30 credit hours, with options for a research-heavy thesis or a coursework-focused non-thesis track. Modules may include:

Genetics
Ecology
Molecular Biology
Research Methods
Quantitative Data Analysis
Qualitative Data Analysis
Directed Study
Thesis Research

Careers with Biology

Graduates are highly sought after in sectors such as biotechnology, environmental conservation, and healthcare. The M.S. is increasingly viewed as the essential professional working degree for biological and allied sciences. Former students have secured roles as aquatic invasive species specialists, research technicians, and environmental monitors at prestigious organisations like Geisinger Medical Center and the Pennsylvania Fish and Boat Commission. Additionally, the programme serves as a proven pipeline to doctoral and medical degrees at institutions such as Rutgers University and the University of Rochester.

Programme Structure

Courses include:

Radiation Biology

Environmental Microbiology

Entomology

Animal Cell Physiology

Vertebrate Systems Physiology

Plant Physiology

Microbial Physiology

Integrated Physiology Laboratory

Evolution

Developmental Biology

Microbial and Molecular Genetics

Key information

Duration

Full-time
- 12 months

Start dates & application deadlines

Starting 2026-08-25 00:00:00

Apply anytime.
Starting 2027-01-26 00:00:00

Apply anytime.
Starting 2027-05-27 00:00:00

Apply anytime.

Language

English

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OTE

111

IELTS

5.5

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Credits

30 SCH

Delivered

On Campus

Campus Location

Bloomsburg, United States
Lock Haven, United States
Mansfield, United States

Disciplines

Biology View 848 other Masters in Biology in United States

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Academic requirements

GPA

English requirements

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111

IELTS

5.5

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Other requirements

General requirements

Bachelor of Science or Bachelor of Arts in biology or its equivalent.
Two letters of recommendation from previous science faculty.
At least one letter should be from a faculty member who instructed the applicant in an upper-level biology course.
Applicants with research experience should submit at least one letter from a research adviser.
Others may submit a letter from any professor with the ability to evaluate the applicant's laboratory research potential.
Undergraduate deficiencies must be addressed prior to admission to the program or during the first semester in consultation with the program coordinator.
A minimum of two weeks is required for review of a completed application by the department's graduate committee.

Tuition Fees

Tuition fees are shown in and the most likely applicable fee is shown based on your nationality.

International Applies to you

Applies to you

Non-residents

24030 USD / year

≈ 24030 USD / year
Out-of-State

24030 USD / year

≈ 24030 USD / year
Domestic

Applies to you

In-State

16020 USD / year

≈ 16020 USD / year

Living costs

Bloomsburg

United States

1000 - 1500 USD / month

The living costs include the total expenses per month, covering accommodation, public transportation, utilities (electricity, internet), books and groceries.

Funding

Win a €10000 Scholarship! Deadline: 30 June 2020

Embark on your journey with the Studyportals Scholarship! We're giving away a total of 20,000 euros to help you achieve your dream of studying abroad.

Win a €10000 Scholarship! Deadline: 30 June 2020

Embark on your journey with the Studyportals Scholarship! We're giving away a total of 20,000 euros to help you achieve your dream of studying abroad.

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Scholarships Information

Below you will find Master's scholarship opportunities for Biology.

Available Scholarships

You are eligible to apply for these scholarships but a selection process will still be applied by the provider.

On this page

About

Overview

Programme Structure

Key information

Duration

Start dates & application deadlines

Language

Prepare for Your English Test

Credits

Delivered

Campus Location

Disciplines

What students do after studying

Academic requirements

English requirements

Prepare for Your English Test

Other requirements

General requirements

Tuition Fees

International Applies to you

Domestic

Living costs

Bloomsburg

Funding

Need help with your student visa?

Scholarships Information

Available Scholarships

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