The Master of Science (M.S.) degree in Biological Sciences within the School of Life Sciences (SoLS) consists of four sectional research concentrations that reflect the scope of modern biology: Ecology and Evolutionary Biology (EEB), Integrative Physiology (IP), Cell and Molecular Biology (CMB), and Microbiology (MB). The degree is research centered and requires the defense of a thesis that describes a novel research project that can serve as the basis for the publication of at least one paper in a peer-reviewed journal. The M.S. degree in Biological Sciences prepares students for careers in education, government, and industry as well as preparing them for more advanced degrees in the life sciences. Students must complete a minimum of 30 credit hours from a list of core and approved courses within their section.
Available Options
Cellular and Molecular Biology Track
Ecology and Evolutionary Biology Track
Integrative Physiology Track
Microbiology Track
Quantitative Biology and Bioinformatics Track
Learning Outcomes
All students graduating with a Masters of Science in Biological Sciences should be able to:
Master a critical set of key concepts specific for each sectional concentration.
Become familiar with key methodologies specific for each sectional concentration.
Comprehend and critically evaluate the current published scientific literature.
Engage in scientific research in which the individual can formulate hypotheses, generate high quality data, and evaluate that data for reasonable scientific conclusions.
Communicate scientific results effectively in oral presentations to general and specialized audiences.
Communicate scientific results effectively in written reports suitable for publication.
Instruct and engage students and members of the community at all levels to appreciate the importance of biology in their lives.
September 2025
College of Sciences
4505 S. Maryland Pkwy.,
LAS VEGAS,
Nevada,
89154, United States
Admission is based on a combination of criteria that may differ from one year to another, however, most successful applicants have a minimum of a 3.0 undergraduate grade point average (last two years of undergraduate work).
English Proficiency:
Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL): (Paper-based) Minimum score - 74; (Computer-based) Minimum score - 213; (Internet-based) Minimum score - 80
International English Language Testing System (IELTS): Minimum score: 6.5
Duolingo English Test (DET): Minimum score: 105
Michigan Test of English Language Placement (MTELP): Minimum score: 85
Pearson Test of English (PTE): Minimum score: 65
*There may be different IELTS requirements depending on your chosen course.