M.S. in Biology
Overview
The Master of Science in Biology degree program at Tarleton offers a customized set of courses and experiences – unique to each student. This degree will enhance your biological knowledge and skill set, preparing you for leadership roles in a wide variety of careers. The Department of Biological Sciences offers the Master of Science in Biology degree with three concentrations:
- Thesis
- Non-thesis
- Non-thesis Life Science Education
Designed with You in Mind
Students pursuing an M.S. in Biology, especially those with the thesis option, work directly with a faculty mentor to design and complete a research project that fits their academic and personal needs.
Degree plans for both thesis and non-thesis students are flexible and can be tailored to meet specific student interests.
- Learn more about our biology faculty mentors
- View our course offerings
The non-thesis Life Science Education option is designed for students who want to teach Life Science at the secondary level. In partnership with the College of Education, students participate in the Tarleton Model for Accelerated/Alternative Education (TMATE) program. The result is a dual-credit certified teacher!
Why pursue a master’s degree in Biology?
Biology is a dynamic, ever-changing discipline, with discoveries being made every day. A master’s degree in Biology places you right where the action is, enabling you to learn about and understand new discoveries and even participate in making them. This degree is a portal to advanced career options such as:
- Environmental Scientist
- Field Biologist
- Biotechnologist
- Laboratory Supervisor
- Secondary or Post-secondary Educator
- Medical Professional
A master’s degree also prepares you for a Ph.D. in Biology or a related discipline.
Accreditations
Related Programs
Not what you were looking for? Tarleton State University offers over 100 different degrees and certifications that may be of interest to you, including:

Estimated Completion
32-36 credit hours (18+ months)
Application Process
- Admission to Tarleton State University – Graduate Studies
- Undergraduate major in Biology (Those lacking the desired background will be require to complete appropriate leveling work.)
- Additional Program Entrance Requirements
Cost
Locations of Course Delivery
Department
College
Plan Your Future
Request more information about this program in:
Program Objectives
- Provide small class sizes that will give students the benefit of individual attention from their professors.
- Provide students with hands-on experience in biological techniques and instrumentation that is used by biologists throughout the world.
- Students will actively engage in the research of scientific areas including Ecology, Evolutionary Biology, Genetics, Microbiology, Physiology, and Virology.
Coursework Highlights
Class | Number | Class Name |
---|---|---|
BIOL | 5086 | Biological Problems |
BIOL | 5302 | Ecological Plant Physiology |
BIOL | 5309 | Cellular Biology |
BIOL | 5320 | Environmental and Restoration Biology |
BIOL | 5361 | Evolutionary Biology |
BIOL | 5398 | Research, Design, and Analysis |
For more information on courses, please refer to the university catalog.