Program Overview
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.
Program Benefits
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A faculty of life science instructors from Harvard University
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Personalized academic and career advising
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In-depth thesis experience with faculty advisor
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Entrepreneurial opportunities through the Harvard Innovation Labs
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Paid research options supporting faculty
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Harvard Alumni Association membership upon graduation
Customizable Course Curriculum
Our curriculum is flexible in pace and customizable by design. You’ll experience the convenience of online learning and the immersive benefits of learning in person. You can study part time, choosing courses that fit your schedule and align with your professional goals.
11 Online Courses
Courses are primarily synchronous, with fall, spring, January, and summer options.
Sample Courses:
- Cell Biology
- Evolution
- Genetics
- Neurobiology
- Stem Cell and Regenerative Biology
On-Campus Experience
Join faculty and peers in person for one biology elective course, at an accelerated or standard pace:
- An online course with an intensive weekend on campus in fall or spring
- A 3-week summer session
Thesis
You’ll complete a 9-month independent research project on a topic in biology in consultation with a thesis director.
Admissions
The path to your degree begins before you apply to the program.
First, you’ll register for and complete 3 required courses, earning at least a B in each. These foundational courses are investments in your studies and count toward your degree, helping ensure success in the program.
Next Start Term: Spring 2024
Enroll for your first admission course this spring. Course registration is open through January 23, 2025.
To get started, explore degree requirements, confirm your initial eligibility, and learn more about our unique “earn your way in” admissions process.
Earning a Stackable Certificate
After admission to the biology graduate program, as you work toward your master’s degree, you can take courses that also count — or “stack” — toward a Topics in Biomedical Science Graduate Certificate. It’s a cost-effective, time-saving opportunity to build specialized skills and earn a second professional credential.
Featured Faculty
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Frederick R. Bieber
Associate Professor of Pathology, Harvard Medical School
Teaches Principles of Genetics
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Laura Magnotti
Lecturer on Neuroscience, Harvard University
Teaches Neurobiology, Brain Invaders: Pathogens of the Central Nervous System
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Jared Johnson
Instructor in Cell Biology, Harvard Medical School
Teaches Cell Biology
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Amy Tsurumi
Assistant Professor of Surgery, Massachusetts General Hospital and Harvard Medical School
Teaches Epigenetics, Epitranscriptomics, and Gene Regulation, Fundamentals of Biostatistics
Our Community at a Glance
Students in the biology degree program are accomplished professionals who are pursuing the degree to continue their career advancement or prepare for further advanced study in biology. They work in a variety of fields, including education, research, and healthcare.
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32
Average Age
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1-2
Courses Taken Each Semester
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89%
Work Full Time
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97%
Would Recommend the Program
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83%
Professional Experience in the Field
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Most
Pursued for Career Advancement
Careers & Alumni Outcomes
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.
Roles held by recent graduates include:
- Physician
- Senior Research Technician
- Clinical Research Coordinator
- Medical Student
Alumni work at a variety of organizations, including:
- Boston Children’s Hospital
- Harvard University
- MERCK
- Pfizer
Career Advising and Mentorship
Whatever your career goals, we’re here to support you. Harvard’s Mignone Center for Career Success offers career advising, employment opportunities, Harvard alumni mentor connections, and career fairs like the annual Harvard Biotech, Pharma, & Healthcare Expo on campus at Harvard.
Your Harvard University Degree
Upon successful completion of the required curriculum, you will receive your Harvard University degree — a Master of Liberal Arts (ALM) in Extension Studies, Field: Biology.
Expand Your Connections: the Harvard Alumni Network
As a graduate, you’ll become a member of the worldwide Harvard Alumni Association (400,000+ members) and Harvard Extension Alumni Association (29,000+ members).
Tuition & Financial Aid
Affordability is core to our mission. When compared to our continuing education peers, it’s a fraction of the cost.
| Our Tuition (2024–25 rate) | $3,340 per course |
|---|---|
| Average Tuition of Peer Institutions | $4,330 per course |
| Average Total Cost | $40,080 |
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.
Learn more about the cost of attendance.
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.
