Master of Science in Biology
Admission Requirements

1. Possession of a baccalaureate degree in biology or a related field from an accredited college or university. At a minimum, students should have successfully completed the following:
   • 1 year introductory biology (with lab)
   • 1 year introductory chemistry (with lab)
   • 1 semester organic chemistry with lab (2 semesters preferred)
   • 1 course in statistics
   • 1 additional college-level mathematics course
   • 3–4 upper level courses in biology, biochemistry, or psychobiology.
2. Overall undergraduate grade point average (GPA) of 3.0 or above on a 4.0 scale. (Probationary admission may be granted for applicants with a GPA of less than a 3.0 who show extreme promise through their other achievements.)
3. Completed application for admission, including:
   • Official transcripts from all colleges and universities attended.
   • Completed and signed application form.
   • Resume and/or additional supporting information on professional or volunteer activities.
   • Payment of a non-refundable application fee.
   • Two letters of recommendation (three if GPA is < 3.0). At least one recommendation must be from an academic source, preferably from a math or science professor.
   • Essay on career plans and reasons for pursuing a master’s degree in biology
   • Prospective students are welcome to fax an unofficial copy of their transcript to the program director for evaluation of prerequisites in advance of applying. (FAX: 412-365-1505, attention: Dr. Joe MacNeil, MS Biology Program).