M.A. in English
The Master of Arts (M.A.) in English at UNCW is a flexible and student-centered program...
M.S. in Biology
Wilmington, North Carolina
INTAKE: Jan & Aug
Program Overview
The M.S. in Biology at UNCW is designed to provide advanced knowledge in both plant and animal biology, as well as microbiology. It offers flexibility with both a thesis and a non-thesis track. The thesis track, requiring 30 credits (15 formal coursework, 15 research/thesis), is ideal for students whose career goals necessitate formal research training and who may pursue a Ph.D. The non-thesis track also requires 30 credits but focuses more on coursework with a capstone experience, suited for those seeking graduate education without a research-intensive focus, such as community college teaching. The program is highly selective, attracting a large number of applications annually.
STEM Designated: The M.S. in Biology at UNCW is a STEM-designated program. This is a significant advantage, particularly for international students on an F-1 visa, as it allows them to be eligible for a 24-month STEM Optional Practical Training (OPT) extension after their initial 12 months of post-completion OPT. This means eligible international graduates can obtain up to 36 months of work experience in the U.S. after graduation, enhancing their career opportunities.
Curriculum: The curriculum provides broad training while allowing for specialization. Students entering the M.S. program are not required to take specific courses initially; instead, course selection is made in consultation with the Graduate Program Director or thesis advisor based on the student's interests and background. Generally, thesis students take 15 hours of formal courses and 15 hours of research and thesis, including 6 hours of BIO 699 (Thesis). Non-thesis students typically select 27 credits of electives from graduate-level biology courses and 3 credit hours of BIO 698 (Non-thesis) for their capstone. The curriculum ensures a deep dive into biological concepts and methodologies relevant to modern biological research.
Research Focus: As an R2 institution, UNCW places a strong emphasis on research. The Department of Biology and Marine Biology has a vibrant and productive faculty, all engaged in active research programs with substantial publication and grant support records. Research opportunities are abundant, spanning diverse fields such as coastal and wetlands studies, marine biomedical and environmental physiology, marine biotechnology and aquaculture, and oceanography. Facilities include state-of-the-art laboratories for molecular and cellular biology, light and electron microscopy (Dillaman Bioimaging Facility), and field studies. Students are encouraged to develop a research plan, conduct independent research under faculty guidance, and prepare a manuscript for publication, developing skills necessary for professional scientific careers.
Industry Engagement: The M.S. in Biology program at UNCW prepares graduates for careers in various sectors, including industry. While direct "industry engagement" through formal partnerships for the Biology M.S. might be less explicit than, for example, a Clinical Research program, the strong emphasis on practical lab skills, research methodology, and data analysis makes graduates highly valuable to industry. Alumni work in microbiology, conservation, resource management, and healthcare, often in lab settings where their research and analytical skills are directly applicable. The program's comprehensive training in scientific inquiry and communication prepares students for roles in biotechnology, pharmaceutical research, and environmental consulting firms.
Global Perspective: The Department of Biology and Marine Biology at UNCW has a strong connection to coastal and marine environments, often involving studies of global ecological issues. Faculty research sometimes encompasses broad geographic areas or addresses questions with global implications, such as environmental changes, species distribution, or microbial diversity. The university's overall commitment to diversity and globalization implicitly encourages a global perspective in its scientific inquiry. The international nature of scientific collaboration and the global challenges addressed by biological research also contribute to a worldview that extends beyond regional boundaries, preparing graduates to engage with scientific issues on an international scale.
Location
Wilmington, North Carolina
Score
IELTS 6.5
Tuition Fee
USD 24198
Postgraduate Entry Requirements
Academic Qualifications: Applicants for postgraduate programs typically require a minimum academic achievement of 70% or above in their bachelor's degree.
English Language Proficiency:
- IELTS: Overall band score of 6.5 or 7.0 with a minimum of 6.0 in each component.
- TOEFL: Overall score of 79 or higher.
- DET (Duolingo English Test): Minimum score of 110.
The University of North Carolina Wilmington (UNCW) offers a variety of scholarship opportunities designed to support and attract talented international students. These scholarships aim to make education more affordable while recognizing academic excellence, leadership, and community involvement.
Merit-Based Scholarships: UNCW provides merit scholarships for international students based on academic achievements, standardized test scores, and other criteria. These awards can significantly reduce tuition costs and are often renewable for multiple years based on maintaining good academic standing.
International Student Scholarships: Specific scholarships are available exclusively for international students, such as the International Student Scholarship which rewards outstanding academic performance and leadership qualities. Eligibility and award amounts vary each year, encouraging prospective students to apply early.
Departmental Scholarships: Many academic departments at UNCW offer scholarships targeted to students within their programs, including international students. These scholarships recognize excellence in fields such as business, marine science, and the arts, and often require separate applications or nominations.
External Scholarships and Financial Aid: UNCW encourages international students to explore additional funding options through external organizations, governments, and private foundations. The university’s financial aid office provides guidance on locating and applying for these scholarships.
A Master of Science (M.S.) in Biology from the University of North Carolina Wilmington (UNCW) provides graduates with advanced scientific knowledge, rigorous research skills, and critical thinking abilities, opening doors to a wide array of career opportunities. This STEM-designated program, with its strong emphasis on research and a flexible curriculum, prepares individuals for diverse roles in academia, industry, government, and non-profit sectors, or as a stepping stone to further doctoral studies.
Research Scientist (Industry/Government/Non-profit): Graduates can work in laboratories for biotechnology firms, pharmaceutical companies, environmental agencies (e.g., EPA, NOAA), or non-profit research institutions. They design and conduct experiments, analyze data, and contribute to new discoveries in areas like molecular biology, microbiology, genetics, or ecology.
Biologist/Ecologist (Government Agencies/Consulting Firms): Roles involve studying living organisms and their interactions with the environment. This can include fieldwork, data collection, and analysis for federal, state, or local government agencies (e.g., Fish and Wildlife Service, Department of Natural Resources) or environmental consulting firms focused on conservation, resource management, or environmental impact assessments.
Microbiologist: Specialists in the study of microscopic organisms like bacteria, viruses, and fungi. They work in clinical labs (hospitals), public health agencies, food safety, or biotechnology companies, conducting tests, researching infectious diseases, or developing new products.
Biotechnologist: These professionals apply biological principles to develop and improve products, processes, and technologies. They work in industries like healthcare, agriculture, and environmental science, often involved in genetic engineering, drug development, or industrial applications of biological systems.
Laboratory Manager/Supervisor: With advanced lab experience and research skills, graduates can manage laboratory operations, oversee technicians, ensure quality control, and maintain equipment in academic, industrial, or clinical settings.
Science Educator (Community College/High School): The M.S. degree qualifies graduates to teach biology or related sciences at community colleges or high schools, sharing their expertise and fostering scientific literacy in the next generation. For university-level teaching, a Ph.D. is often required.
Environmental Scientist/Consultant: Focused on protecting the environment and human health, these professionals assess environmental impact, manage pollution, and develop sustainable solutions for government bodies, non-profits, or private environmental consulting firms.
Conservation Biologist/Wildlife Manager: Working for parks, wildlife agencies, or conservation organizations, these biologists focus on preserving biodiversity, managing wildlife populations, restoring habitats, and developing conservation strategies.
Quality Control/Assurance Specialist: In pharmaceutical, food, or other regulated industries, M.S. in Biology graduates ensure that products meet quality standards and comply with regulations through testing, analysis, and process improvement.
Scientific Writer/Editor: With strong communication skills developed through thesis writing and presentations, graduates can work as science writers for journals, academic institutions, or science communication firms, translating complex scientific information for various audiences. They may also work as editors for scientific publications.
