Program Overview
The Master of Science in Biology at Loyola University Chicago is a rigorous postgraduate programme delivered on-campus at Loyola University Chicago. Designed for graduates and professionals seeking advanced expertise in natural sciences, the programme develops both theoretical foundations and applied skills essential for today's competitive environment.
Spanning 24 months, students engage with cutting-edge research, industry-relevant case studies, and practical projects. Instruction is delivered in English by research-active faculty with professional expertise.
The programme culminates in a dissertation or capstone project. Graduates are well-prepared for leadership roles, research careers, and doctoral study in natural sciences.
Key Program Features
- Immersive On-Campus Experience: In-person seminars, laboratory sessions, and professional networking at Loyola University Chicago.
- Expert Faculty: Taught by research-active academics and practitioners with deep expertise in Natural Sciences.
- Diverse International Cohort: Study alongside students from around the world, broadening your global professional network.
- Research-Informed Curriculum: Content grounded in the latest academic research and real-world industry practice.
- Dissertation / Capstone Project: Culminating independent project applying your expertise to an original research question or industry challenge.
- Dedicated Career Support: Access to career coaching, employer networking events, and job placement assistance.
- 24 months Duration: Part-time and accelerated options may be available — enquire with the admissions office.
Career Opportunities
MS in Biology: Career Connections
As a graduate of the MS in Biology program, you'll be prepared for roles in any number of professional settings, including government agencies like the Environmental Protection Agency, U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, and Army Corps of Engineers; as well as private industry and teaching at the high school, community college, and college level. Many program graduates also move on to pursue a doctorate. You will benefit from faculty and alumni connections at prestigious institutions such as the Chicago Field Museum, Morton Arboretum, Lincoln Park Zoo, and Chicago Botanic Garden.
Specific job options include:
- Biochemist
- Cell and molecular biologist
- Microbiologist
- Environmental scientist
- Evolutionary biologist
- Developmental biologist
- Research scientist
- Forensic scientist
- Aquatic biologist
- Geneticist
- Neuroscientist
Because Loyola is a member of the Jesuit network of 27 colleges and universities nationwide, our graduates can access career advising services, resume and interviewing assistance, career fairs and events, and employment listings in our Career Services center , as well as at career centers at other U.S. Jesuit colleges and universities.
Job Outlook
The Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) Occupational Outlook Handbook is a good place to start exploring the job outlook and pay potential for specific careers and fields that interest you.
Program Curriculum
Program Structure
The MS in Biology is a full-time program. Classes are held at the Lake Shore Campus, located on Chicago's North Side, right along Lake Michigan, in a diverse and dynamic residential area. The MS in Biology is a 30-credit-hour program that includes required core courses, electives, teaching practica, and research activities. If you are interested in this program, please contact individual faculty members to discuss research opportunities in their areas of interest and gain the necessary thesis direction for entry.
Admission Requirements
Application Requirements
Application requirements for the Biology MS include:
- Official transcripts from all institutions attended
- 3 Letters of Recommendation
- Approval from a Faculty Research Advisor
- Statement of Purpose
- Approval from a Faculty Research Advisor
Prerequisite Course Requirements
Admission to the Biology MS program requires successful completion of one year of general chemistry and one year of organic chemistry.
Statement of Purpose Details
Please write a brief statement describing your academic and research interests as well as your professional goals.
Tuition & Financial Information
Tuition Fee
USD 1,033/year (international)
Accelerated Master's Pathway Cost Benefit
This program has an Accelerated Master's Pathway (AMP) for current Loyola undergraduates . Through the AMP, you can lower the cost of a master's degree by earning graduate credits at undergraduate tuition rates (before your undergraduate degree is conferred). Once you graduate with your bachelor’s degree, you will also be eligible for the Returning Rambler Scholarship , offering 25% off graduate tuition.
Tuition and Costs
Program Credit Hours Cost Per Credit Hour Estimated Tuition and Fees Biology MS 30 $1,270.00 $ 38100 .00
For more detailed information about tuition and fees, and a breakdown of how these costs are calculated on a yearly basis, please visit Tuition and Fees from the Office of the Bursar.
The Graduate School Funding Opportunities
Information about funding opportunities within The Graduate School can be found on The Graduate School website .
Biology MS Assistantships
The Biology Department offers a limited number of research assistantships on a competitive basis that include stipend, tuition scholarships, and health insurance.
Financial Aid & Scholarships
The Graduate School Funding Opportunities
Information about funding opportunities within The Graduate School can be found on The Graduate School website .
Biology MS Assistantships
The Biology Department offers a limited number of research assistantships on a competitive basis that include stipend, tuition scholarships, and health insurance.
About Loyola University Chicago
Loyola University Chicago
Chicago, United States
Loyola University Chicago is a distinguished institution of higher education committed to academic excellence, innovative research, and preparing students for leadership in their chosen fields....
University Profile- Application Deadline 2018-06-01
- Start Date 2018-08-28
- Language English
- Duration 24 months
- Credits 120 ECTS / 360 credits (2-year programme)