Skip to main content
Eberly College of Arts & Sciences Department of Biology
Visit WVU Request Info Apply Now

M.S. in Biology

The central mission of our graduate program is to train the next generation of biologists for careers in field, laboratory and professional settings that rely on deep expertise in the biological sciences.
M.S. Plan of Study

Jump to Section

Program Overview

Program Delivery: On-campus

Students from the M.S. in Biology program consistently become leaders in their field with new discoveries and innovations. In many professions, the master's degree is now the minimum requirement for employment or advancement. Many students have used our M.S. in biology to launch to careers in research and the health professions.

Female with long dark hair sits in front of a computer screen displaying video of a fly walking on a ball

Admissions Requirements

What are the requirements to apply for Biology at WVU?

University Requirements

To be eligible for admission into a graduate program at WVU an applicant must submit official, bachelors degree transcripts from a regionally accredited institution and hold a GPA of at least 2.75.

WVU operates decentralized admissions. Decentralized admissions allows each graduate program to set its own application requirements in addition to the University requirements.

Program Requirements

To be eligible for admission into the Biology graduate program an applicant must submit the following documentation:

  • Letters of Recommendation - Three
  • Statement of Purpose
  • GRE
  • Résumé /CV

Additional considerations for applicants:

  • The GRE is optional.

  • A bachelor’s degree, and an adequate background in science and mathematics.

  • Statement of Purpose/Personal Statement should be a thoughtful essay (no more than two pages) that: demonstrates a strong interest in scientific research; describes what the applicant hopes to gain from the Biology program; explains why WVU offers the best opportunity for achieving the applicant’s future professional goals; and addresses the match between the stated research interests and those of specific faculty in our department who may serve as their academic mentors.

  • CV/Resume (no more than two pages) that lists work experience, research experience, volunteer activities, internships, academic degrees and honors, and other accomplishments you feel the admissions committee should take into account in reviewing your application.

  • Application materials submitted after the deadlines may be considered on a space-available basis and may also be considered for financial support in the form of a graduate teaching assistantship (GTA).

Certain application requirements may be waived based on a preliminary review of an application by program.

International applicants must also submit required materials for international applicants.

Additional details and requirements are outlined in the Academic Catalog

Application Deadlines

  • Fall: January 1
  • Spring: October 1
  • Summer: January 1

Program Contact

Edward Brzostek

Associate Chair of Graduate of Studies

Phone: 3042935203