Graduate Biological Sciences Programs

Our graduate programs in biological sciences (MS, PhD), biological sciences accelerated master's, and biochemistry and molecular biology (PhD) along with our labs and facilities provide for exciting academic and research experiences. Studies are interdisciplinary in nature and practice and are lead by our diverse faculty members.

Our research collaborations encompass cutting-edge topics including: aquatic biology and ecology, biotechnology, human infectious diseases, pathology, environmental remediation and restoration, microbiology, plant molecular biology and biochemistry, genetics and physiology, developmental biology, effects of emission-control devices, and the use of alternative fuels. Explore our programs to learn more about what the Department of Biological Sciences at Michigan Tech can offer you.

Degree Programs

Researcher working with chemicals under a ventaled table

Biological Sciences—MS,PhD

There has never been a more exciting time for you to become a biologist! As our knowledge advances, graduate-level education has become even more necessary for pursuing a career in the biological sciences in areas such as industry, government, and academia. We offer two graduate degrees in biological sciences: the MS and the PhD. Our programs provide a stimulating, interdisciplinary, and intellectual atmosphere for career development.

Learn More About the MS and PhD in Biological Sciences

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MS Focus in Medical Laboratory Management

Students may elect to focus their MS studies in medical laboratory management (MLM). The focus option consists of approximately one-half science courses and one-half business courses—integrating both theoretical and practical aspects of laboratory sciences with management theory. The program is flexible and suitable for both the experienced medical laboratory scientist and the recent graduate. It not only provides knowledge and expertise in MLM, but also challenges the student to learn more about rapid developments in immunology, microbiology, and biochemistry. This non-thesis option within the MS degree allows for completion of the Biological Sciences MS degree within a relatively short period of time. Past candidate projects have included studies using computer analysis of cost accounting to study MLM, computer models for productivity analysis, and writing and assembling laboratory manuals. Applicants must have MLS(ASCP) certification.

Learn More About the MS in Biological Sciences

Interdisciplinary Opportunities

Our department is associated with some diverse interdisciplinary degree programs and departments on campus, giving our students interesting and unique opportunities for graduate study:

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Biochemistry and Molecular Biology—PhD

The Biochemistry and Molecular Biology (BMB) PhD program at Michigan Tech allows students and faculty to come together and seek answers to some of the world's most pressing problems. Built on the strength of pre-existing graduate programs in biological sciences, chemistry, and the School of Forest Resources and Environmental Science, the interdisciplinary BMB program provides students with the opportunity to focus on the study of biochemistry and molecular biology through the lens of a wide variety of subject areas.

Learn More About the PhD in Biochemistry and Molecular Biology

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Kinesiology and Integrative Physiology

The Department of Kinesiology and Integrative Physiology at Michigan Technological University is one of the fastest growing on Michigan Tech's campus. The Biological Sciences Department has partnered with them to offer a number of graduate topics related to biological sciences.

Learn More About Kinesiology and Integrative Physiology

Additional Requirements

Graduate Committee

Your graduate committee must have at a minimum:

For PhD students: your advisor plus at least one faculty from the department and two external members (outside the department) Total number: 4.
For MS students: your advisor plus 2 faculty from within the department.

Select committee in consultation with your advisor and meet by the second semester (forms M2, D4A). Meet with potential committee members to get a feel for your potential working relationship, committee advises on coursework, future career direction/tools, etc. Visit the degree requirements on the Graduate School website for additional information about requirements.

Department Requirements

Annual CV updates required to track performance and improve our program, used to determine GTA allocations include: Professional Preparation, Awards, Publications, Teaching Experience, Funding History, Presentations and Professional Meetings Attended, and Service.
Be an active member of the scholarly community (e.g., attend seminars, be productive member of academic community)
Participate in our peer-mentoring program
Be responsible to staying on top of the required forms for your degree as found at Graduate School website.

College of Sciences and Arts

The College of Sciences and Arts is a community of faculty, staff, and students committed to excellence and driven by our passion for education, outreach, research, and creativity across the social and natural sciences, humanities, and the arts. Uniquely situated in the heart of Michigan's R1 flagship technological university, we specialize in human-centered potential and discovery-based learning designed to meet the challenges of today and tomorrow. Knowing that every student at Michigan Tech will pass through our doors, our college strives to be at the forefront of interdisciplinary collaborations that lead to breakthrough solutions.

Our students gain a profound understanding of social and cultural contexts through experiential learning and innovative research. We welcome you to be part of our caring, expansive college community, with 32 undergraduate and 24 graduate degrees to choose from.

The opportunities in Michigan Tech's College of Sciences and Arts are limitless. Transform into a civic leader ready to contribute to a sustainable future. Lead and participate in action-based experiences that are critical to the start of a fulfilling career. Job-shadow at a local hospital or veterinary clinic while preparing for a career in health. Design sound and lighting for a regional production. Conduct community forums on the implications of artificial intelligence. Work to purify vaccines. Study the impact of social media on society. Research the mysteries of space and galaxies beyond our universe. Explore transforming abandoned iron and copper mines into giant batteries. Understand freshwater ecosystem health. Document the nature of changes in cognitive function and motor behavior in aging and dementia.

At Michigan Tech, your academic growth is supported by a variety of learning centers, along with our Humanities Digital Media Zone and Writing Center. Model climate in the only cloud chamber of its kind. Take part in interdisciplinary health research in our state-of-the-art H-STEM Complex. Create amazing sights and sounds in our visual art, sound, and theatre performance spaces.

Tomorrow Needs You

Combine your creativity and curiosity to meet pressing societal challenges with innovative solutions. Graduate with the technical skills, critical thinking and tenacity to inspire, design and implement a sustainable future across social and natural sciences, humanities, and arts.

Biological Sciences—MS, PhD
Biochemistry and Molecular Biology—PhD