Biology, Bachelor of Arts/Master of Science

The Biology B.A./M.S. at Johns Hopkins University gives students the chance to take their learning beyond the classroom and become involved in real biological research. Students can work alongside faculty in research laboratories, build practical laboratory and analytical skills, and gradually take on more independent scientific work. With 27 research laboratories in the Biology Department and research opportunities across several Johns Hopkins schools and medical institutions, students have access to a broad and active research environment.

Students can gain practical experience through:

• Independent Research in Biology: Students can work with Johns Hopkins faculty on research projects and earn academic credit while gaining hands-on experience in laboratory research. Research can continue across multiple semesters, allowing students to take on greater responsibility over time.

• Original research projects: The program's strong research focus allows students to apply classroom knowledge to real biological questions, strengthening their laboratory, analytical, and critical-thinking skills.

• Faculty-supervised laboratory work: Students can explore research areas that match their interests and work with faculty in laboratories across Biology, Biophysics, Chemistry, Engineering, and the Johns Hopkins Medical Institutions.

• Laboratory-based coursework: Students gain practical experience through courses such as General Biology Lab I & II, Introductory Chemistry Lab I & II, Introductory Organic Chemistry Lab, Cell Biology Lab, Biochemistry Project Lab, and Developmental Genetics Lab.

• Advanced master's research: During the M.S. stage, students complete mentored research and develop a substantial research project, gaining experience in planning experiments, conducting investigations, analyzing results, and communicating scientific findings.

• Research writing and communication: Students involved in independent research prepare written summaries of their work, helping them develop the ability to communicate scientific findings clearly and effectively.

• JHU BioREU: Eligible undergraduate students can apply for the 10-week JHU BioREU summer research program, where they work in research laboratories under faculty and graduate or postdoctoral mentorship and present their research through talks and posters.

• Faculty mentoring: Biology and Molecular and Cellular Biology students have access to faculty mentors who can provide guidance on course planning, research opportunities, and academic and career decisions.

• Canvas resources: The Biology Department uses Canvas to provide students with information about the major, mentoring activities, and undergraduate academic resources.

• Research laboratories: The Biology Department's 27 research laboratories provide opportunities to explore biological research across areas such as molecular biology, cell biology, genetics, developmental biology, microbiology, neuroscience, and related fields.

The Biology B.A./M.S. at Johns Hopkins University gives students the opportunity to build advanced knowledge in biological sciences while gaining substantial research and teaching experience. This combination can prepare graduates for careers in scientific research, healthcare, biotechnology, and other biology-related fields, while also providing a strong foundation for further study.

Typical career roles include: Biological Research Scientist, Biomedical Researcher, Molecular Biology Researcher, Laboratory Scientist

Students can strengthen their career prospects through:

• Faculty mentoring: Students receive guidance from faculty members who can support their academic development, research choices, and career planning.

• Advanced research experience: The M.S. stage includes mentored research in which students work on an original research project, develop a written thesis, and present their findings. This gives students valuable experience in conducting and communicating scientific research.

• Teaching experience: Students gain teaching experience by working as teaching assistants for Biology courses or laboratories. This helps develop communication, leadership, and presentation skills alongside their scientific expertise.

• Research opportunities: Students can explore research across a wide range of areas, including molecular biology, cell biology, genetics, developmental biology, microbiology, neuroscience, and related disciplines.

• Career preparation: Faculty mentors can help students make informed decisions about their next academic or professional step, while their research and teaching experience can strengthen applications for employment and further study.

• Employment and salary: Johns Hopkins does not publish a specific employment rate or average salary for graduates of the Biology B.A./M.S. program, so no program-specific figures can be stated reliably.

• University–industry connections: The university's biology education prepares students for opportunities in science, medicine, and industry. However, the official program information does not identify a specific industry partnership or guaranteed employer placement for this degree.

• Long-term value: Although the program does not list a separate professional accreditation, the combination of advanced coursework, original research, thesis preparation, scientific presentation, and teaching experience can provide lasting value for students pursuing research and professional careers.

• Graduation outcomes: Graduates can move into scientific and biomedical careers, professional schools, research positions, industry roles, or additional graduate-level study, depending on their career goals.

Further Academic Progression: After completing the Biology B.A./M.S., students can continue their education through Ph.D. programs and other advanced graduate or professional programs in areas such as molecular and cellular biology, biological sciences, biophysics, genetics, neuroscience, microbiology, biomedical sciences, medicine, dentistry, veterinary medicine, and related fields. The research-intensive nature of the program, together with thesis and presentation experience, can provide a strong foundation for students aiming for doctoral or professional education.