MS in Biology

The MS in Biology offers several ways to apply biological knowledge through supervised research, independent projects and advanced coursework. Students can select a pathway suited to their professional goals, ranging from original laboratory or field research to a focused capstone or applied project.

• Faculty-Mentored Research: Thesis students work closely with an ASU faculty advisor to develop an individual research plan, investigate a significant biological question and complete an original research project.

• Applied Project: Students following the applied project pathway complete BIO 593 – Applied Project under the mentorship of a School of Life Sciences faculty member. Projects may include an extended literature review or analysis of a dataset, with a final written report or presentation.

• Capstone Project: The BIO 597 – Capstone option allows students to explore a specialised biological topic through a focused written project, such as a literature review or research proposal.

• Research Seminars: BIO 541 – SOLS Seminar Series and BIO 542 – SOLS Current Topics in the Life Sciences expose students to current research developments and scientific discussions.

• Scientific Research Ethics: Complete BIO 610 or BIO 611 to understand responsible conduct in life-science research and apply ethical principles to research design, analysis and communication.

​Research Environment and Facilities: ASU's School of Life Sciences provides access to faculty laboratories, interdisciplinary research centres and institutes. Depending on the chosen research area and faculty mentor, students may explore opportunities connected with:

• Center for Evolution and Medicine: Research connecting evolutionary principles with human health and disease.

• Center for Fundamental and Applied Microbiomics: Research involving microbial communities and their applications.

• Biodiversity Knowledge Integration Center: Research and knowledge integration related to biodiversity.

• Global Drylands Center: Research on dryland ecosystems and environmental change.

• Swette Center for Environmental Biotechnology: Research applying biological systems to environmental challenges.

• ASU-Banner Neurodegenerative Disease Research Center: Research focused on neurodegenerative diseases.

The MS in Biology prepares graduates for careers across educational, medical, industrial and government organisations. Its flexible pathways allow students to develop either research-intensive expertise or broader biological knowledge, supporting opportunities in scientific research, biotechnology, healthcare, environmental organisations and science communication.

Potential Career Opportunities:

• Biological Research Scientist: Conduct research in academic, private-sector or industrial laboratories.

• Food and Agriculture Scientist: Investigate biological processes relevant to food production, agricultural systems and health.

• Biotechnician: Apply biological and laboratory techniques to support scientific investigations and technical operations.

• Government Research Technician: Assist with scientific studies and research programmes in government laboratories.

• Nonprofit Research Associate: Support research and conservation projects conducted by nonprofit organisations.

• Wildlife Scientist: Study wildlife populations, animal behaviour and environmental interactions.

• Conservation Scientist: Contribute to biodiversity protection, habitat management and conservation research.

• Community College Instructor: Teach biological science subjects, subject to institutional qualification requirements.

• Science Teacher: Apply advanced biological knowledge in school-level science education, subject to relevant teaching qualifications.

• Science Writer: Communicate biological discoveries and scientific developments to general or specialist audiences.

Research Career Pathways: The thesis pathway is particularly suited to graduates seeking research-intensive positions in academic or business settings. Students can develop expertise through independent research, scientific literature evaluation and the preparation of a thesis, while the applied project and capstone options provide experience in applying biological knowledge to professional or discipline-specific problems.

Industry and Employment Sectors: Graduates may pursue opportunities in academic institutions, biotechnology and life-science companies, healthcare and medical research organisations, agricultural and food industries, government laboratories, nonprofit organisations, environmental agencies and science communication.

Professional Flexibility: The coursework-based pathway is also suitable for science communicators, journalists, educators and professionals working in government or biology-related industries who want to strengthen their biological knowledge and analytical skills.

STEM-OPT Opportunity: The programme is designated STEM-OPT eligible. Qualifying F-1 international students completing the in-person degree may be eligible to apply for a 24-month STEM OPT extension after standard post-completion OPT; students completing the online degree are not eligible for this extension through the programme.

Career Support and Research Networks: Students can connect with faculty mentors and explore research opportunities through ASU's School of Life Sciences. The school also provides access to interdisciplinary centres and institutes, supporting engagement with research communities across biology and related disciplines.

Employment Statistics and Salaries: ASU does not publish programme-specific graduate placement rates, employment percentages or salary figures for the MS in Biology.

Further Academic Progression: Graduates may pursue a PhD in Biology or related fields such as Ecology, Evolutionary Biology, Genetics, Microbiology, Molecular Biology, Conservation Biology or Neuroscience. Arizona State University offers a PhD in Biology, allowing students to develop an individual research focus and undertake advanced scientific investigation. The thesis pathway is particularly relevant for students planning to pursue doctoral research, while the coursework and capstone pathways can support professional development or preparation for further study.