Biology (MS)

Program Summary

100% Online

Credits: 30 total

Degree: MS

College/School: College of Science

Start Date: 8/24/2026

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Program Description

This online master’s Biology program delivers rigorous, hands‑on training for college graduates and professionals preparing for careers in biomedical research, biotechnology, neuroscience, biodefense, evolutionary biology, animal biology, and biology education.

Students can specialize in high‑demand fields such as Microbiology and Infectious Diseases, Molecular Biology, Neuroscience, Nutrigenomics and Nutrigenetics, Evolutionary Biology, or Translational and Clinical Research.

For those seeking maximum flexibility, the General Biological Sciences option allows students to design a personalized course of study aligned with specific research interests or career goals. The program culminates in a thesis or project track, preparing graduates for doctoral study, industry roles, government laboratories, or education.

Career Opportunities

Laboratory scientist, laboratory test specialist, field researcher, and medical writer, to name a few.

Graduates are prepared for careers across research, industry, healthcare, education, and government, including:

Biomedical & Biological Research (academic, clinical, and lab‑based roles)
Biotechnology & Pharmaceutical Industry positions
Neuroscience, Microbiology & Infectious Disease Research
Clinical & Translational Research Coordination
Government, Public Health & Biodefense Laboratories
Science Education, Communication & Outreach
Preparation for PhD, professional schools, or advanced graduate study

Courses

Program requirements are subject to change; please refer to the George Mason Course Catalog for the most up-to-date requirements.

New to online learning? Visit our Online Learning Tips and Strategies page to learn more about what to expect and how to succeed in an online course at George Mason.

Details

Who should apply?

Students who are interested in a career in modern biology and biotechnology, clinical research, human genetics and molecular evolution (Thesis track), or future applicants to medical and dental schools (Project track).

Why choose George Mason?

Mason’s School of Systems Biology is a home for state-of-the art clinical and basic research laboratories working in interdisciplinary fields encompassing both wet-lab biology and bioinformatics. Online students will be introduced to opportunities of doing their Project/Thesis work remotely.