Molecular & Microbiology - George Mason University

An applicant for the M.S. program with a Biological Science concentration is expected to have a bachelor’s degree in biology or its equivalent, with a GPA of 3.0 or better in biology courses. The applicant must submit three letters of recommendation and scores on the Graduate Record General and Subject (Biology or Biochemistry) Examinations.

Successful applicants usually have scores on the verbal and quantitative general GRE that total at least 1100. A substantial statement of interest in the program and an explanation of career goals must be submitted with the standard application. Prospective students are encouraged to contact potential advisors. Information concerning faculty interests can be obtained from the departmental office or web page. Admission is contingent upon acceptance by a faculty research advisor. Further information is available on our page of Frequently Asked Questions.

Deadlines for admission are March 15 for fall semester and October 1 for spring semester. Please note these deadlines are for completed applications. Decision notification will be made by May 1 for fall admission and December 1 for spring. Further information is available on our page of Frequently Asked Questions.

A student must complete at least 30 semester hours, including at least three hours of seminar. During their first semester, new students should register for Introduction to Graduate Studies in Biology (BIOL 690). Students are required to form a supervising committee and submit a program of study to the program coordinator for approval within the first 12 credits of course work. Course requirements may be fulfilled by completing courses from a variety of departments and institutes on campus.

Students have the option to conduct either a formal thesis (for which a minimum of three credits and a maximum of six credits of BIOL 799 could be earned.) or a project (for which a minimum of one credit and a maximum of three credits of BIOL 798 could be earned).

At the conclusion of the program, students pursuing the master’s project option must successfully complete a comprehensive written and oral examination. Students pursuing the master’s thesis option must defend their thesis and present their results in a public seminar.

Lack of enrollment for two consecutive semesters will result in inactive status. Reactivation of program enrollment is by application to the M.S. coordinator and is contingent on availability of program resources. Further information is available on our pages of Frequently Asked Questions and MS Program Forms.