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Biology Master’s Degree Program

  • Earn Your Way In

    Excel in 3 Degree Courses to Qualify for Admission

  • Format

    Online and On Campus

  • Average Course Tuition

    $3,100

  • Total Number of Courses

    12

science student looking into microscope

Learn how to apply critical thinking to real-world scenarios in the life sciences while exploring cutting-edge research and theory.

You’ll gain deeper insight into a range of biological fields, such as molecular biology, genetics, genomics, cell biology, neurobiology and behavior, and ecology.

What You'll Learn

Through the master’s degree in the field of biology you:

  • Enhance your understanding of the biological sciences, including molecular biology, genetics, genomics, cell biology, physiology, neurobiology and behavior, evolution, and ecology.
  • Build a foundation in scientific practice, including experimental or case study design and implementation, scientific data collection and analysis, and ethical practices.
  • Develop advanced professional communication skills, with an emphasis on sharing scientific results in written, oral, and graphical forms.

Your Harvard Degree
Master of Liberal Arts (ALM) in Extension Studies, field: Biology.

Getting Started: Admissions and Degree Requirements

At Harvard Extension School, your admission is based largely on your performance in three specific Harvard Extension courses that you complete before submitting an application.

To get started, we invite you to explore the degree requirements, confirm your initial eligibility, and learn more about our unique “earn your way in” admissions process.

Our Community at a Glance

Biology alumni have gone on to doctoral programs in a variety of fields, including bioethics, biomedical sciences, biomedical forensic sciences, chronic disease epidemiology, education, medical/veterinary sciences, neuroscience, oncology, and pubic health at top research universities.

  • 32

    Average Age

  • 1

    Average Courses Taken Each Semester

  • 67%

    Work Full Time

  • 97%

    Would Recommend the Program

  • 87%

    Professional Experience in the Field

  • Most

    Pursued for Career Advancement

Cost and Financial Aid

Affordability is core to our mission. When compared to our continuing education peers, it’s a fraction of the cost.

Our Tuition (2022–23 rate) $3,100 per 4-credit course  ($775 per credit)
Average Tuition of Peer Institutions $5,476 per course
Average Total Cost $37,200

After admission, you may qualify for financial aid. Typically, eligible students receive grant funds to cover a portion of tuition costs each term, in addition to federal financial aid options.

Learning & Connection

Deep learning springs from human connection. That’s why we work so hard to bring people together — whether in a live virtual classroom or an in-person seminar on campus.

Our approach to online learning fosters interaction without sacrificing flexibility. Each week, you’ll engage with your instructor, participate in peer discussions, and receive one-on-one support from teaching staff—all from your home or office.

Online Learning at Harvard Extension School
Student at computer