Master of Science in Biology

The Department of Biology offers two Master's Degree Programs. Plan A (thesis option) is a program culminating in a research thesis for students interested in pursuing further advanced degrees or employment in biological research. Plan B (non-thesis option) is a program leading to a non-thesis Master's Degree and is intended as the terminal degree for students seeking careers with government agencies, or in industry, education, or other areas. Students in the Plan B program may select from one of the following three areas from which to concentrate their study: (1) Cell and Molecular Biology, (2) Ecology, Evolution, and Conservation Biology, or (3) General Biology.

Admission to study

Prospective students must apply to both the University of Nevada, Reno Graduate School and the Department of Biology. Admission to the Graduate School follows the procedures outlined in the University General Catalog. Since these steps are similar to procedures within the Department of Biology, the student is advised to consult the UNR catalog, as well as the following information.

To be considered for admission to graduate study in the Department of Biology (Graduate Standing) a student must submit all necessary materials for admission prior to February 1 for the following Fall semester, or prior to 1 November for the following Spring semester. Note that some of the required materials are to be sent to both the Graduate School and to the Department of Biology.

Application deadlines:

  • February 1 for the following Fall semester
  • November 1 for the following Spring semester