M.A. in Biological Sciences

Entry Requirements for Postgraduate Programs

Academic Requirements:

1. Undergraduate Degree: To be eligible for postgraduate (master's) programs at SIUE, international students should have completed an undergraduate degree or its equivalent from a recognized institution. This degree should be in a relevant field related to the chosen postgraduate program.

2. Academic Performance: Prospective postgraduate students should have a minimum academic score of 60% or its equivalent in their undergraduate studies. SIUE considers this as a baseline for eligibility.

English Language Proficiency:

1. IELTS: An overall score of 6.5 or higher is required, with no individual band score less than 6.0. 

2. TOEFL iBT (Test of English as a Foreign Language - Internet-Based Test): A minimum overall score of 79 is usually required. 

3. DET (Duolingo English Test): A score of 120 or higher on the DET is often accepted as proof of English language proficiency.

4. PTE (Pearson Test of English): Some programs may accept a minimum PTE score of 53 or higher.

Scholarships for International Students at Southern Illinois University Edwardsville (SIUE):

1. Merit-Based Scholarships: SIUE offers a range of merit-based scholarships for international students, including undergraduate and graduate programs. These scholarships are awarded based on academic achievements, standardized test scores, and other criteria. Some of these scholarships may cover a significant portion of tuition costs.

2. Global Ambassador Scholarship: SIUE's Center for International Programs awards the Global Ambassador Scholarship to a select number of undergraduate international students who have demonstrated leadership skills and a commitment to promoting cultural exchange on campus.

3. Graduate Assistantships: Graduate students at SIUE have the opportunity to apply for graduate assistantships, which provide a stipend and tuition waivers. These assistantships may involve research, teaching, or administrative duties and are available in various academic departments.

4. External Scholarships: International students can explore external scholarship opportunities offered by organizations, foundations, and government agencies. The university's International Student and Scholar Services (ISSS) office may provide guidance on finding and applying for such scholarships.

5. International Tuition Waivers: SIUE offers tuition waivers to international students who meet certain criteria. These waivers can significantly reduce the cost of tuition for eligible students.

6. Graduate School Scholarships: Graduate students can inquire about scholarships and funding opportunities specific to their academic departments or programs. Many departments offer financial support to exceptional graduate students.

7. Research and Teaching Assistantships: Graduate students pursuing research-based or teaching-focused programs may have the opportunity to work as research or teaching assistants. These positions often come with a stipend and tuition remission.

8. Fulbright Program: SIUE participates in the Fulbright Program, which offers scholarships for international students, scholars, and professionals to study, teach, or conduct research in the United States. Students from eligible countries can apply for Fulbright scholarships.

9. Cultural Exchange Programs: SIUE may collaborate with cultural exchange programs that provide scholarships for international students. These programs aim to foster international understanding and cultural exchange.

10. Private Scholarships: International students can explore private scholarships offered by foundations, corporations, and nonprofit organizations. These scholarships may have specific eligibility criteria and application deadlines.

The Master of Arts (M.A.) in Biological Sciences program at Southern Illinois University Edwardsville (SIUE) is a rigorous and specialized graduate program that equips students with advanced knowledge and skills in the field of biological sciences. Graduates of this program are well-positioned to pursue a wide array of rewarding career opportunities within academia, research institutions, government agencies, healthcare, and the private sector.

1. Research Scientist or Laboratory Technician: Graduates can work as research scientists or laboratory technicians in various research institutions, pharmaceutical companies, biotechnology firms, or government agencies. They conduct experiments, analyze data, and contribute to advancements in the field of biological sciences.

2. Environmental Consultant: Professionals in this role work on projects related to environmental impact assessments, conservation, natural resource management, and sustainability. They provide expertise on environmental policies and regulations, ensuring compliance and sustainable practices.

3. Biomedical Scientist: Graduates can work in healthcare and biomedical research settings, contributing to advancements in understanding diseases, drug development, and medical technologies. They may work in hospitals, research labs, or pharmaceutical companies.

4. Bioinformatics Specialist: With the rise of big data in biological research, bioinformatics specialists are in high demand. They analyze complex biological data using computational tools to derive insights and support research in genetics, genomics, proteomics, and more.

5. Pharmaceutical Sales and Marketing: Graduates can pursue careers in pharmaceutical sales and marketing, where they use their knowledge of biological sciences to promote and sell pharmaceutical products, ensuring they reach the appropriate target audience.

6. Higher Education and Academia: Some graduates choose to enter academia, becoming professors, lecturers, or researchers at universities and colleges. They may teach, conduct research, and mentor the next generation of biologists.

7. Government and Regulatory Affairs: Working with government agencies or non-profit organizations, graduates can contribute to policy development, regulation compliance, and public health initiatives. They may be involved in assessing the safety and efficacy of products or conducting inspections.

8. Pharmaceutical Research and Development: Graduates can work in research and development roles in pharmaceutical companies, focusing on developing new drugs, vaccines, or therapies. They may be involved in preclinical and clinical trials.

9. Agricultural or Food Scientist: Professionals in this domain work to improve agricultural processes, develop new food products, enhance food safety, and ensure the sustainability of agricultural practices.

10. Medical Writing and Communication: Graduates can pursue careers in medical writing, where they create scientific documents, publications, and educational materials for academic, healthcare, or pharmaceutical audiences.