MA/MS in Biology, General

Students at Dayton can pursue the Master of Science in Biology by following either a research-centered thesis route or a coursework route that ends with a capstone project. Both are shaped through conversations with faculty mentors so that the plan fits each person's interests and intended career. The coursework route is built around a single year of advanced study and suits people taking a gap year before a health professions program, current Dayton undergraduates entering the Bachelor's Plus Master's pathway, and professionals holding a related undergraduate degree. It closes with an oral examination on the capstone paper. The thesis route runs about two years, follows a more structured plan, and prepares graduates for research roles in government, industry or academia, or for continued doctoral work. The degree requires a minimum of 30 credits. Study takes place within a Catholic, Marianist tradition that values service and the common good. Prospective students can request information, begin an application online and consult the university catalog for requirements and course descriptions.