M.A. in Secondary Education
The Master of Arts (M.A.) in Secondary Education at Roosevelt University is an intensiv...
M.S. in Biology
Chicago - Illinois, Schaumburg - Illinois
INTAKE: Jan & Aug
Program Overview
The M.S. in Biology at Roosevelt University is a two-year, 36-credit-hour program that emphasizes hands-on experience and a deep understanding of biological principles. Classes are primarily delivered in-person on the Chicago or Schaumburg campuses. The program offers three distinct concentrations, allowing students to tailor their studies to their specific interests and career aspirations: Cellular & Molecular Biology, Physiology & Developmental Biology, and Ecology, Evolution & Conservation Biology. Admissions are open for both fall and spring start dates, with full-time course delivery structured to meet F1 visa requirements for international students.
STEM-Designated: Yes, the M.S. in Biology program at Roosevelt University is STEM-designated. This is a significant benefit for international students, as it makes them eligible for an Optional Practical Training (OPT) extension after graduation. This extension allows for a longer period of post-graduation work experience in the U.S., enhancing their career opportunities and potential for long-term employment.
Curriculum: The curriculum is rigorous and requires a strong undergraduate background in science, including prerequisite courses in mathematics (calculus or statistics), chemistry (general and organic), physics, and biology (evolutionary biology & genetics, ecology, cellular & molecular biology, physiology, and biochemistry). Students must complete a minimum of 36 credit hours, with at least 9 research-related credits. Sample courses include "Developmental Biology," "Genome Analysis," "Immunology," "Cell Biology," "Quantitative Ecology and Conservation," and "Biostatistics." The program is largely course-based but integrates a required one-semester research experience. Students have the option to pursue additional experiential learning through independent study or a master's thesis under the guidance of a faculty sponsor.
Research Focus: The M.S. in Biology at Roosevelt University features a strong research focus, designed to prepare students for careers in research or for further Ph.D. programs. All students are required to complete a minimum of 9 credit hours of research training, including a "Research Methods" course and "Research in Biology" rotations. This hands-on approach allows students to put theory into practice, gaining direct experience with laboratory and field techniques. Students have the opportunity to conduct a master's thesis under the sponsorship of a department faculty member, delving into specific areas of interest within their chosen concentration. This emphasis on independent research ensures graduates are equipped with critical thinking, experimental design, and data analysis skills.
Industry Engagement: Roosevelt University fosters industry engagement within its M.S. in Biology program by preparing graduates for direct entry into the scientific workforce. The curriculum includes practical, hands-on experience through research, internships, and service-learning opportunities. Alumni of the program have successfully secured positions at prominent organizations such as Abbott Laboratories, Argonne National Laboratory, Northwestern Medicine, NOW Foods, and Bristol Myers Squibb. This indicates strong connections to key employers in various sectors, including healthcare, pharmaceuticals, biotechnology, and environmental science, demonstrating the program's relevance and success in preparing students for industry demands.
Global Perspective: Roosevelt University cultivates a global perspective within its M.S. in Biology program through its diverse student body and a curriculum that acknowledges global ecological and biological issues. Opportunities like studying ecology in Tanzania, as mentioned on their website, provide unique international field experiences that broaden students' understanding of biological diversity and conservation challenges worldwide. The universal nature of scientific inquiry and the program's commitment to preparing students for a wide array of career paths in a globalized scientific community contribute to a comprehensive global outlook. The university's support for international students further enhances this multicultural learning environment.
Location
Chicago - Illinois, Schaumburg - Illinois
Score
IELTS 6.5
Tuition Fee
USD 20260
Postgraduate Entry Requirements
Application Fee: $42
Academic Qualifications: Applicants for postgraduate programs typically require a minimum academic achievement of 65% 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 80 or higher.
- PTE: Overall score of 55 or higher.
- DET (Duolingo English Test): Minimum score of 110.
Roosevelt University in the United States offers a variety of scholarship opportunities specifically designed for international students to support their academic journey and make higher education more affordable. These scholarships recognize academic excellence, leadership potential, and contributions to campus diversity.
Merit-Based Scholarships: International students applying to Roosevelt University are eligible for merit-based scholarships awarded based on academic achievements, standardized test scores, and overall potential. These scholarships can significantly reduce tuition costs and are automatically considered during the admissions process.
International Student Scholarship Program: Roosevelt University provides special scholarships targeted at international students, aiming to encourage a diverse and global student body. These awards vary in amount and criteria but typically recognize outstanding academic performance and community involvement.
Departmental Scholarships: Certain colleges and departments within Roosevelt University, such as the Chicago College of Performing Arts and the Walter E. Heller College of Business, offer additional scholarships for international students enrolled in specific programs. These awards may be based on talent, portfolio, or academic excellence in the field of study.
An M.S. in Biology from Roosevelt University equips graduates with advanced scientific knowledge, hands-on research experience, and critical analytical skills, preparing them for a diverse range of opportunities in the life sciences. With concentrations spanning Cellular & Molecular Biology, Physiology & Developmental Biology, and Ecology, Evolution & Conservation Biology, the program fosters specialists ready for research, healthcare, environmental, and academic roles.
Research Scientist (Laboratory/Field): Graduates can work in academic institutions, pharmaceutical companies, biotechnology firms, government agencies (like NIH, USDA), or private research labs, designing and conducting experiments, analyzing data, and contributing to scientific discoveries.
Biotechnologist: This role involves applying biological principles to develop new products and technologies in areas such as medicine (e.g., drug discovery, gene therapy), agriculture (e.g., crop improvement), and environmental science (e.g., bioremediation).
Clinical Research Coordinator/Associate: In the healthcare sector, these professionals manage clinical trials, ensuring adherence to protocols, collecting and organizing patient data, and overseeing the logistical aspects of research studies for new drugs or treatments.
Environmental Scientist/Conservation Biologist: With the Ecology, Evolution & Conservation Biology concentration, graduates can work for environmental consulting firms, government agencies (e.g., EPA, state DNRs), or non-profit conservation organizations, conducting ecological assessments, managing natural resources, or developing conservation strategies.
Biostatistician/Data Analyst (Life Sciences): Leveraging their strong quantitative skills, graduates can analyze complex biological and health-related data, supporting research in clinical trials, public health, genetics, and epidemiology.
Medical Laboratory Scientist/Technologist: In hospitals or diagnostic labs, these professionals perform complex medical tests on patient samples (blood, tissue, fluids) to assist in disease diagnosis, treatment monitoring, and prevention.
Pharmaceutical Sales Representative/Medical Science Liaison: While not purely scientific, a biology master's provides the deep scientific understanding needed to effectively communicate the benefits and mechanisms of pharmaceutical products to healthcare professionals.
Higher Education Instructor (Community College/Adjunct Faculty): Graduates are qualified to teach introductory biology courses at community colleges or as adjunct faculty at four-year universities, sharing their knowledge and passion for biology with undergraduate students.
Science Writer/Editor: With strong research and communication skills, graduates can work for scientific journals, publishing houses, educational content providers, or pharmaceutical companies, translating complex scientific information into accessible content for various audiences.
Bioinformatics Programmer/Analyst: For those interested in the computational side of biology, this role involves developing and using software tools to analyze large biological datasets, such as genomic sequences or protein structures, to understand biological systems.
