Master of Science - Biology

Pursue a Master's in Biology at Sonoma State University. Engage in research, gain hands-on experience, and prepare for a rewarding career. Apply now!

Program Description The Department of Biology has 11 permanent faculty who are actively involved in a wide range of disciplines, including ecology and evolutionary biology, molecular and cell biology, physiology, functional morphology, and organismal biology. Three additional faculty from other departments on campus have expertise in biology and are adjunct members of the graduate program. The Master of Science degree in the Department of Biology is a thesis research program. Students complete course work that allows them to master the concepts and techniques of their chosen discipline. They also conduct original research under the direction of a member of the faculty, and write up their findings as a Master's Thesis. Typically, students take two to three years to complete their graduate degree requirements. Graduates of this program find themselves with an enhanced understanding of biology and first-hand experience in the practice of science. Many of our students go on to doctoral programs, others use their degree to pursue careers in teaching, research, environmental consulting, resource management, industry, and various health professions.