Program structure

The Master of Science in Biological Sciences at TMU is a two-year program designed to provide a robust education in biological sciences through a combination of coursework, research, and practical training. Below is an outline of the program structure:

1. Program Duration

• Standard Completion Time: 2 Years (Full-Time)

2. Curriculum Overview

1. Core Courses:

   • Molecular Biology and Genetics
   • Cellular Biology and Biochemistry
   • Ecology and Evolutionary Biology
   • Systems Biology

2. Elective Courses:

   • Neurobiology and Developmental Biology
   • Environmental Biology and Conservation Science
   • Bioinformatics and Computational Biology
   • Advanced Techniques in Biological Research

3. Seminars:

   • Participation in departmental seminars to discuss recent research developments.
   • Opportunities to present personal research and receive feedback from peers and faculty.

3. Research Training

1. Laboratory Research:

   • Students are assigned to a research laboratory under the guidance of a faculty advisor.
   • Engage in cutting-edge research aligned with faculty expertise, such as molecular mechanisms, biodiversity, or neuroscience.

2. Thesis Project:

   • Completion of an original research project, culminating in a master’s thesis.
   • Students present and defend their findings in a formal setting.

4. Practical Training and Skills Development

• Hands-on experience with advanced research tools and techniques.
• Field studies and collaborations with industry or government organizations when applicable.

5. International Opportunities

• Exchange programs with international universities and collaborative research projects.
• Classes offered in English for global engagement.

6. Evaluation and Assessment

• Coursework grades based on written exams, assignments, and presentations.
• Thesis evaluation through a defense conducted by a panel of faculty members.

Key Focus Areas:

• Integration of foundational knowledge with cutting-edge research.
• Development of independent research skills and critical thinking.
• Preparation for careers in academia, industry, and research-intensive roles.

For more details, visit the Department of Biological Sciences' Program Page.

Fees and Funding

The Master of Science in Biological Sciences at TMU offers a comprehensive education with a focus on research and interdisciplinary studies. Below is an overview of the associated fees and available funding opportunities for prospective students.

Tuition and Fees

1. Application Fee:

   • ¥17,000 (approximately $115)

2. Admission Fee:

   • ¥282,000 (approximately $1,900)

3. Annual Tuition:

   • ¥520,800 (approximately $3,500)

Note: These fees are based on the 2025 academic year and are subject to change.

Funding Opportunities

TMU provides various scholarships and financial support options to assist students with their educational expenses:

1. Tokyo Global Partner Scholarship:

   • Eligibility: High-achieving international students pursuing graduate education.
   • Benefits:
     • Full coverage of admission and tuition fees.
     • Monthly stipend of ¥150,000 (approximately $1,050).
     • International airfare.
   • Application Periods:
     • Fall Admissions: Opens in February.
     • Spring Admissions: Opens in September.
   • Details: This scholarship aims to attract outstanding international students to TMU, promoting global collaboration and innovation.

2. Japanese Government (MEXT) Scholarship:

   • Eligibility: International students with excellent academic records.
   • Benefits:
     • Full tuition coverage.
     • Monthly stipend (amount varies by program).
     • Travel expenses.
   • Application Process: Applications can be submitted through Japanese embassies or consulates in the applicant's home country, or via university recommendation.

3. Tuition Reduction and Exemption:

   • Eligibility: Privately financed students demonstrating financial need or exceptional academic performance.
   • Benefits: Partial or full tuition fee waivers.
   • Application Process: Applications are submitted through the Student Affairs Section after enrollment.

Note: Scholarship availability and eligibility criteria are subject to change. It is advisable to consult the official TMU International Center website for the most current information.

For detailed information on scholarships and financial aid, please visit the TMU International Center's Scholarship Page.

Scholarship Guidance

Tokyo Metropolitan University (TMU) offers a variety of scholarships and financial aid opportunities for international and domestic students pursuing the Master’s Degree in Biological Sciences. These scholarships aim to support academic excellence and reduce financial barriers.

1. Tokyo Metropolitan University Scholarship for Privately Financed International Students

• Eligibility:
  • Academically outstanding international students enrolled in TMU graduate programs, including the MSc in Biological Sciences.
• Benefits:
  • Monthly stipend of ¥150,000 (~$1,050).
  • Total annual funding: ¥1,800,000 (~$12,600).
• Application Period:
  • Typically opens in October.
• Details:
  • Selection is based on academic performance, financial need, and a review of the application materials.

2. Tokyo Global Partner Scholarship

• Eligibility:
  • High-achieving international students pursuing graduate education at TMU.
• Benefits:
  • Full coverage of admission and tuition fees.
  • Monthly stipend of ¥150,000 (~$1,050).
  • International airfare for travel to Japan.
• Application Period:
  • Fall Enrollment: Applications open in February.
  • Spring Enrollment: Applications open in September.
• Details:
  • Requires academic excellence and a demonstrated commitment to global collaboration in biological sciences.

3. Japanese Government (MEXT) Scholarship

• Eligibility:
  • International students with excellent academic records and strong research potential.
• Benefits:
  • Full tuition waiver.
  • Monthly stipend of ¥147,000 (~$1,029) for master’s students (amount may vary).
  • Travel expenses.
• Application Process:
  • Through embassy recommendation or university nomination.
• Details:
  • Applicants must submit a detailed research proposal along with their application.

4. Tuition Reduction and Exemption

• Eligibility:
  • Privately financed students who demonstrate financial need or exceptional academic performance.
• Benefits:
  • Full or partial tuition fee waivers.
• Application Process:
  • Submit an application through the Student Affairs Section after enrollment.

Additional Resources

• Scholarship Booklet: TMU publishes an annual booklet detailing available scholarships, eligibility criteria, and application procedures.
• Contact Information:
  • Email: ryuga-support@tmu.ac.jp
  • Phone: +81-42-677-2030

For more details and up-to-date information, visit the TMU Scholarships Page.

Admission Requirements

The Master of Science (MSc) in Biological Sciences at Tokyo Metropolitan University (TMU) is designed for students with a strong foundation in biological sciences or related fields. Below are the general admission requirements for prospective applicants:

Admission Requirements

1. Academic Qualifications:

   • Bachelor’s Degree: Applicants must hold a bachelor's degree or its equivalent from an accredited institution, preferably in biological sciences or a closely related discipline.

2. Language Proficiency:

   • English Proficiency: Since the program offers courses in English, non-native English speakers are typically required to demonstrate proficiency through standardized tests such as TOEFL or IELTS.
   • Japanese Proficiency: While not mandatory, knowledge of Japanese may be beneficial for daily life and interactions within the university.

3. Entrance Examination:

   • Written Examination: Applicants may be required to take a written test assessing their knowledge in biological sciences.
   • Interview: An interview may be conducted to evaluate the applicant's research interests, motivation, and suitability for the program.

4. Application Materials:

   • Completed Application Form: Available during the application period.
   • Academic Transcripts: Official records from all post-secondary institutions attended.
   • Letters of Recommendation: Typically from professors or professionals familiar with the applicant's academic or research background.
   • Statement of Purpose: A written essay outlining the applicant's research interests, career goals, and reasons for choosing TMU.
   • Curriculum Vitae (CV): Detailing academic achievements, research experience, publications, and relevant work experience.

5. Research Proposal:

   • Applicants may be asked to submit a brief proposal outlining their intended research topic, demonstrating their ability to conduct independent research.

6. Application Deadlines:

   • Specific deadlines vary annually. Applicants should refer to the official TMU admissions page or contact the admissions office for the most current information.

Note: Admission requirements and procedures are subject to change. It is advisable to consult the official TMU admissions page or contact the admissions office directly for the most current information.

For more details, visit the Department of Biological Sciences' Admission Page.

Application Procedure

The application process for the Master’s Degree in Biological Sciences at TMU is structured to assess applicants' academic qualifications, research potential, and motivation for pursuing advanced studies in biological sciences.

1. Pre-Application Consultation

• Prospective students must consult with a potential faculty advisor in their area of interest before applying.
• This ensures alignment of research interests and academic goals.

2. Eligibility

• Academic Background: A bachelor’s degree or equivalent in biological sciences or a closely related discipline.
• Language Proficiency: Proficiency in English, demonstrated by TOEFL, IELTS, or equivalent standardized tests.

3. Application Steps

1. Submit Required Documents:

   • Completed application form (available on the TMU website during the application period).
   • Academic transcripts from all post-secondary institutions attended.
   • English language proficiency test scores (TOEFL, IELTS, etc.).
   • Statement of purpose outlining research interests and career goals.
   • Research proposal for intended thesis work.
   • Curriculum Vitae (CV) highlighting academic achievements, research experience, and professional activities.
   • Letters of recommendation (typically two) from academic or professional referees.

2. Pay the Application Fee:

   • ¥17,000 (~$115).

3. Entrance Examination:

   • A written test covering key areas of biological sciences.
   • An interview to assess research interests, motivation, and alignment with the program.

4. Application Submission:

   • Submit all documents and payment receipt via the designated online portal or by post to the TMU Admissions Office.
   • Ensure submission is completed within the specified application period.

4. Application Timeline

• Summer Examination:
  • Application Period: Late June – Early July.
  • Examination Dates: Late July.
  • Results Announcement: Late August.
• Winter Examination:
  • Application Period: Early January.
  • Examination Date: Mid-February.
  • Results Announcement: Late February.

5. Notification of Results

• Applicants will receive results via email or through the TMU admissions portal.

6. Enrollment

• Successful candidates must complete the enrollment process by submitting additional documents and paying the admission fee of ¥282,000 (~$1,974).

Contact Information

• Graduate School of Science, Department of Biological Sciences, TMU
  • Email: biology@tmu.ac.jp
  • Phone: +81-42-677-1111

For detailed guidelines, visit the Department of Biological Sciences' Admission Page.