Tufts University - Graduate School of Arts and Sciences

EARN YOUR MASTER OF SCIENCE IN BIOLOGY

Customize your degree to focus on molecular biology, genetics, ecology, or bioinformatics. Prepare for a career in biotech, biomedicine, or academia with a master’s degree from Tufts.   

ENTRY TERMS:
Fall
Spring (part-time only)

APPLICATION DEADLINES:
April 15 for full-time fall 
October 15 for full-time spring 
December 15 for part-time spring

No GRE required


READY FOR THE NEXT STEP?

For more information about the MS in Biology program, including application requirements, please complete the form below.

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ENTRY TERMS:
Fall
Spring (part-time only)

APPLICATION DEADLINES:
April 15 for full-time fall 
October 15 for full-time spring 
December 15 for part-time spring

No GRE required


9:1

Average student-to-teacher ratio at Tufts

125,000+

Join a network with 125,000+ Tufts University alumni

132

Graduate and professional clubs and organizations to participate in

2

Convenient schedules for full-time or part-time study

Jump-start your career in biotech, health care, academia, and more 

Where will you take your biological sciences career? Are you ready to advance in the biomedical field as a research associate, research technician, or associate scientist? Do you see yourself in the medical or veterinary health care fields? Perhaps you plan to earn your Ph.D. to become a senior scientist or chief science officer in industry, or you intend to pursue teaching at the secondary or college level.   

Reach your goals with Tufts University’s Master of Science in Biology program, designed with the flexibility to fit your schedule and career interests. Earn your master’s part-time or full-time and focus your studies on your area of interest with a fully customized curriculum. If you’re a biotech professional working in the Boston area, upgrade your credentials with courses in genetics, bioinformatics, and more. Plus, with evening courses available, you can balance your studies with your professional life.

Location, Location, Location

The Department of Biology takes full advantage of its proximity to Boston and Cambridge, the epicenters of the biotech and pharmaceutical fields. Tufts’ strong ties to these industries are reflected in our faculty, research labs, and career opportunities.

Tier-One Research University

When you earn your degree at a top-ranked research institution, you’ll unlock future career opportunities in research, clinical and scientific operations, program management, and more. You'll learn from leading researchers and teachers in their fields and dig deep into your areas of interest.  

Professional Development and Career Resources

Our low student-to-faculty ratio provides opportunities to develop professionally. You will work closely with professors in small classes, in the lab, and one-on-one with a faculty advisor. Our faculty are all experts in their fields, actively researching in areas ranging from macromolecules to gene expression. You will find support for your career development, including advice on applying to internships and job opportunities. Mentorship, the Tufts alumni network, and professional development workshops will help you land that dream job.

Why Earn Your Master’s at Tufts?

A personalized, open-choice curriculum lets you define your own course of study so you can broaden your knowledge of biology. Our extensive course catalog gives you the chance to explore both broadly and deeply as you find your path in biology and adjacent areas of study. Our MS in Biology program is highly regarded for its excellent academics across ecology, genetics, development, physiology, bioinformatics, and more. You'll graduate with the insights and knowledge to achieve your career aspirations.

Generous Scholarships are Available

Tufts University offers merit and need-based tuition scholarships for graduate programs, as well as fellowships and other special funding opportunities. Be sure to indicate your interest within the Financial Aid section of your application.

MS in Biology with a Bioinformatics Specialization

With studies at the intersection of biology and data, our bioinformatics track exposes students to skills and insights needed to adapt to a rapidly evolving field. Blending strong biological foundations with computational thinking, this option prepares students to interpret complex data sets in biopharma, health care, ecology, and more. You will get exposure to analyzing DNA, RNA, protein, and multi-omics data sets. You will also gain skills in R, Jupyter, GitHub, and Linux, plus core programming and High-Performance Computing fundamentals. Through coursework and mentored research, learn to solve a real-world bioinformatics problem, going from raw data to biological interpretation and communication of the results and impact.

Graduates might pursue:

  • Research associate and data analyst positions in hospital and academic labs
  • Ph.D. programs in genetics, molecular biology, or related areas
  • Entry-level research scientist positions in industry

For International Applicants

  • TOEFL, IELTS, or Duolingo scores are required, if applicable.
  • If admitted, confirm enrollment by April 15 for fall admission.
  • The Tufts International Center issues visa document forms and offers support.

GRE General Test scores not required for applicants who will have received a degree from a U.S. or Canadian institution by time of enrollment. GRE scores required for all other applicants.

The Scientific Community at Tufts

Across scientific disciplines, Tufts students are part of a close-knit community engaged in research and inquiry.

You’ll find personal attention with the resources of a major research university, study in a region distinguished by innovation and discovery, and become part of a global network of accomplished alumni.

Chart Your Course

Whether you are looking to launch or advance your career in the biological sciences, you can forge your own academic path at Tufts. Earn your MS in Biology on your schedule and customize your degree to your interests and career goals with Tufts’ flexible program options.   

Gain the credentials. Develop professionally. Learn and connect with experts in your field. Pursue your passion at Tufts and position yourself for career success.