Wondering whether a master’s degree in biological sciences might be right for you? Contact our office to ask questions or set up a conversation with one of our faculty.
Phone: 530-898-5812
Email: ctivey@csuchico.edu
Our MS degree program offers a comprehensive background in the biological sciences, equipping you with a deep understanding of how life works—from microscopic cells to vast ecosystems. Feed your curiosity by conducting supervised research with our expert faculty and develop a deeper understanding of everything from ecology to microbiology and cellular and molecular biology to plant science.
This is the ideal preparation for entry into PhD programs, careers as a biochemist, forensic scientist, or wildlife biologist, and teaching at the high school and community college levels. You will have an enriching academic experience with hands-on lab and field opportunities to fuel your quest for how the natural world works.
Application Deadlines
- Fall: March 1
- Spring: October 1
Requirements
Two letters of recommendation, curriculum vitae, and statement of purpose. Contact and identify a faculty mentor.
Program Coordinator
Christopher Ivey
Courses
View Curriculum
A Rigorous Science Curriculum
Our curriculum covers the core biological courses within the discipline—including biology, physiology, and microbiology—followed by courses you select based on your interests and career goals. You will also complete a research-based thesis.
Choose Your Path
General
Dive deeper into your area of interest. Pursue research in general ecology, evolutionary biology, microbial ecology, molecular genetics, conservation biology, restoration ecology, cell biology, or plant pathology.
Botany
From enhancing crop yields and creating life-changing medicines to developing sustainable energy sources, botanists are at the forefront of innovation. With this pathway, you can explore the relationships between plants and their surroundings and be a part of the next generation of scientific breakthroughs.
Strong Career Prospects
Biologists are essential to advancing our knowledge of the world. An MS degree opens a wealth of opportunities to pursue careers in research, education, private industry, and more. Our alumni have gone on to become:
- Agricultural researchers
- Cell and molecular biologists
- Community college instructors
- Environmental consultants
- PhD candidates and medical school students
- Research associates
Pay and Job Outlook
Data from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, shows the following outlook for Microbiologists:
Median Pay
$79,260 per year / $38.11 per hour
Job Outlook
9% (Faster than average)
Work Environment
Microbiologists work in laboratories and offices, where they conduct scientific experiments and analyze the results. Most microbiologists work full time and keep regular hours.
Accessible Faculty Committed to Your Success
Pursue the research you are passionate about with guidance from our expert faculty and access to state-of-the-art facilities. You can explore innovative sustainable farming practices, the detection of COVID-19 in wastewater, or the predation rates of native and non-native predator species in rivers.
Beyond the Classroom
You will have access to the Ahart Herbarium, the most complete repository of plant specimens from northeastern California; our Entomology Collection with over 25,000 specimens; our 6,000-square-foot Greenhouse with over 1,500 plant species; along with the Vertebrate Museum, the Gateway Science Museum, and state-of-the-art instrumentation.
Explore Research Opportunities Here
From research opportunities in the field to a supportive community in the lab, our dedicated faculty and staff are invested in your success.
Student Research Symposium
Improve your communication and presentation skills by showcasing your research. Each spring, students can enter their research at the annual symposium, which promotes and recognizes academic excellence.
Gorman Lab
Biological sciences professor Kristen Gorman’s lab is known by students as a place for learning and growing. Students recently delved into the intricate world of Medaka fish, seeking to unravel the mysteries of idiopathic scoliosis.
Graduate Equity Fellowship Program
Under faculty mentorship, you can develop research skills, complete projects for presentation or publication, and either assist in existing research or design your own project.
Find Your Community
Whether you’re interested in dentistry, entomology, or cellular and molecular biology, you will find a club to match your interests. Join a student organization like the Biology Honor Society or American Society for Microbiology to build connections with classmates, professors, and professionals in the field.
Discover Stories and More
Chico State TodayApplication Information
The information below will provide you with essential answers about financial aid, deadlines, and more to help you take the next step in your academic journey.
All prospective students must first apply for graduate admissions through Cal State Apply. Supplementary materials will either be collected electronically via Cal State Apply or sent directly to the program department.
Application Deadlines
- Fall: March 1
- Spring: October 1
Supplemental Materials
- Two letters of recommendation
- Statement of purpose
- Curriculum vitae
- Contact and identify a faculty mentor
How to Apply
We're here to help! Reach out to graduate program coordinator Christopher Ivey at ctivey@csuchico.edu with any questions.
The Department of Biological Sciences administers several awards. Students must apply for these scholarships separately, usually in the spring semester.
Graduate students can qualify for traditional financial aid by filling out the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) or California Dream Act Application (CADAA).
Scholarship Opportunities
California State University, Chico, provides merit and scholarship awards to deserving students for graduate studies, and many go unfilled. Scholarships are provided based on a variety of criteria, including academic merit, financial need, participation in clubs and activities, volunteer and community involvement, major and career goals, etc.
Our typical applicant has completed a bachelor's degree in biological sciences. You could pursue this degree if your undergraduate degree was in a different field, but you would be required to take additional prerequisites to bring you up to speed. See an advisor for details.
Related Programs
Biological Sciences Department
Wondering whether a master’s degree in biological sciences might be right for you? Contact our office to ask questions or set up a conversation with one of our faculty.
Phone: 530-898-5812
Email: ctivey@csuchico.edu