SFSU student working a lab classroom

Biology: Concentration in Cell and Molecular Biology, M.S.

Master of Science

About this program

The Master of Science in Biology: Concentration in Cell and Molecular Biology guides you into advanced study of genes, cells and biomolecules. You take core research and seminar courses, customize electives with your advisor and choose between a research project or thesis with oral defense. You gain lab skills, methods knowledge, and scientific writing. This program prepares you for research careers or doctoral study.

Program Curriculum and Requirements

Master's

What you can do

Employment Opportunities

A Master of Science in Biology: Concentration in Cell and Molecular Biology degree prepares you for careers such as Biochemists and Biophysicists, Biological Technicians, Clinical Laboratory Technologists and Technicians, Conservation Scientists and Foresters, Dentists, Epidemiologists, High School Teachers, Medical Scientists, Microbiologist, Natural Sciences Managers, Physician Assistants, Physicians and Surgeons, Postsecondary Teachers, Technical Writers, Veterinarians, Zoologists and Wildlife Biologists.

Program Scope

This program is designed for students preparing for further graduate work as well as those wishing to increase their competency in the fields of cell and molecular biology. It emphasizes the study of cells, cell organelles, macromolecules and the regulation of their production and interaction. As such, it represents an expanding frontier of research that integrates biochemistry, biophysics, genetics, developmental biology and cell ultrastructure.

The specific course requirements are determined by the student's committee and are based on considerations such as goals, interests and undergraduate preparation. A strong background in chemistry is highly recommended.

Program Learning Outcomes

1. Critically read and evaluate the significance and validity of peer‐reviewed publications to develop a comprehensive knowledge of research in their field of expertise and to be able to clearly articulate such knowledge.

2. Conduct original research in a biological sub‐discipline, including the design of experiments, development and testing of hypotheses, and application of quantitative analyses to visualize and interpret data and derive conclusions.

3. Develop effective writing skills for both informal and formal professional communications that include a written thesis, scientific proposal, or scientific manuscript.

4. Develop skills to orally present scientific material to a broad range of audiences, including in courses and an oral thesis defense.

5. Practice the responsible and ethical conduct of research and professional integrity in carrying out scientific investigations.

Admissions Information

In addition to the general requirements for admission, applicants must submit:

Mentors
To identify potential SFSU faculty mentors, browse the Biology faculty profiles to see what research interests you. Email faculty members whose research fits with your interests and arrange an individual appointment to discuss opportunities in their laboratories. We encourage you to be proactive. You will need to list the names of the faculty member on your application. 

Please note that we only admit applicants who have been invited to join the lab of a graduate faculty member.

Find faculty: 

Personal statement:
Prepare a two-page statement of purpose that discusses your interests and goals relating to you pursuing an M.S. in Biology. The essay should be double spaced and 12-point font. You can upload this file as a .doc, .docx, .pdf or .rtf format.

In this essay, please address the following:

  1. Let us know a little about who you are. This can include where you are from, your upbringing, your educational experiences or relevant stories that help us get to know you.  
  2. Tell us about how your motivation to pursue graduate studies in Biology developed.  
  3. Describe previous research or laboratory experience.  
  4. Describe how participation in our program will benefit your educational or career goals.  
  5. Identify which faculty members whose research matches your interests.

All-science transcripts 
You will need to list of all the science courses you have taken on our All-Science Transcript Form. 

Letters of recommendation 
You need a minimum of two letters of recommendation. Letters can be submitted through the evaluation tab in your application. Alternatively, they may be emailed to biograd@sfsu.edu. Subject line should be “Letter of Recommendation for applicant [Your Name].” 

English language requirements
The Department of Biology does not require the GRE General or Subject Test. If you would like to submit your scores, you may do so; however, GRE scores are not used as criteria for admission. 

International students should review international graduate student applicant guidelines.

The Division of Graduate Studies minimum TOEFL, IELTS and PTE Academic scores are:

  • TOEFL
    550 Total score on the paper-based test
    80 Overall score on the internet-based test (iBT TOEFL)
  • IELTS
    Overall band score of 7.0
  • PTE Academic
    Pearson Test of English (PTE) Academic overall score of 65

For applicants who do not hold an undergraduate science degree:

There aren’t an established set of prerequisite courses students must have to apply to our M.A. program. However, we recommend students take the following courses: introduction to biology, inorganic and organic chemistry, cell biology, genetics and either calculus or statistics. It's more important that students have a solid foundation in those subjects.

Fall: February 1
No spring Admissions 

Ready to apply? Visit the Graduate Students page to get started.

We’re Here to Help

Questions about the program or how to apply? Don’t hesitate to reach out.

Admissions and Aid

Ready to take the next step? SFSU makes it simple to apply and get the support you need.

Keep Exploring SFSU

Costs & Aid

Apply