The curriculum for the Master of Science program is developed around one's interests such as: botany, ecology, immunology, infectious diseases, marine biology, microbiology, physiology, reproductive biology, systematic biology, and zoology. In addition, there are two specially designed concentration areas in “Medical Microbiology & Immunology” and “One Health”.
Program Highlights
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We have the Kaplan Orchid Conservatory and excellent opportunities for research and instruction off-campus at field research sites including: Blackwater Ecological Preserve, Virginia Coast Reserve-Long Term Ecological Research Site Virginia Institute of Marine Sciences Eastern Shore Marine Laboratory DNA sequencing capabilities Confocal Microscopy Other regional agencies and facilities
Careers
Check out these ideas from ODU's Center for Career & Leadership Development and the Occupational Information Network (O*NET). A median salary is a midpoint of what people typically earn—half of those surveyed earned above the median salary, and half earned below.
Biologists
Research or study basic principles of plant and animal life, such as origin, relationship, development, anatomy, and functions.
Medical Scientists, Except Epidemiologists
Conduct research dealing with the understanding of human diseases and the improvement of human health. Engage in clinical investigation, research and development, or other related activities. Includes physicians, dentists, public health specialists, pharmacologists, and medical pathologists who primarily conduct research.
Biological Scientists, All Other
All biological scientists not listed separately.
Biological Science Teachers, Postsecondary
Teach courses in biological sciences. Includes both teachers primarily engaged in teaching and those who do a combination of teaching and research.
Requirements
Students must first declare the biology teacher preparation track as their major with the appropriate advisor. All students must apply for and be admitted into the approved biology teacher preparation program. Students must meet the required criteria for admission by passing the Virginia Board of Education prescribed assessments and earn the minimum required grade point averages (GPA).
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A bachelor's degree in biology or a related field from an accredited college or university
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Transcripts for all college-level courses
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Two letters of recommendation; letters should be on official letterhead and must be signed. References e-mail should be a professional e-mail address.
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An essay describing the area of biology of interest for graduate study, professional goals and motivation for graduate study in biology.
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Written acknowledgment from a Department of Biological Sciences faculty member agreeing to serve as the student's major advisor, if the student is accepted. The applicant does not submit anything to ODU Admissions Office about the advisor---the Faculty member will notify the Graduate Program Director of their willingness to be your advisor
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Application form and application fee. Submission of application materials Submit all materials to the Office of Admissions (applicants from USA schools) or the Office of International Admissions
For Admission to the Biology Program
A grade point average of at least 3.00 on a 4.00 scale.
Cost of Attendance
We believe in providing students with transparent and accessible information about the cost of attendance.
Review the estimated tuition rates for the 2024-25 academic year (subject to change). Non-resident rates are charged for anyone who is not a current Virginia resident, including international students.
Ways to Fund Your Degree
There are a few ways for you to save on the cost of attending Old Dominion University, including scholarships, assistantships, and student loans. For more details about financial aid at Old Dominion, visit the Financial Aid Office page.
Graduate Teaching Assistantships
Graduate Teaching Assistantships are awarded on an annual basis and includes a stipend; and when possible, tuition may be part of the award.
Graduate Research Assistantships
Graduate Research Assistantships may be provided by individual faculty from their grants and contracts.
Scholarships
The Virginia S. Bagley Endowed Scholarship is made possible by Mrs. Bagley's estate and is awarded to a graduate student in the Department of Biological Sciences. The Harold G. Marshall and Vivian J. Marshall Scholarship in Biology is awarded to a full-time graduate student who demonstrates scholarship and/or service in the area of Biological Science with a specific concentration in ecological areas.
Tuition Support
Tuition Support is awarded each semester and in the summer session with deadlines announced in advance. Awards are made based on student performance and need and may cover only a portion or all tuition costs.
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