Overview

The Biology programme at Villanova University offers a comprehensive postgraduate curriculum designed to deepen scientific understanding across a diverse range of biological disciplines. Students benefit from a flexible academic structure that balances broad theoretical knowledge with the opportunity for specialised research and study.

Why Biology at Villanova University?

This institution is renowned for its commitment to the teacher-scholar model, ensuring that students receive direct mentorship from faculty engaged in active research. The Department of Biology provides a vibrant academic community supported by weekly departmental seminars that reflect the latest advancements in the field.

Facilities such as Mendel Hall offer dedicated spaces for graduate study and laboratory work. Students have the unique opportunity to engage in research across all areas of biology, gaining practical experience even within a non-thesis degree framework. The programme is designed to accommodate both full-time students and working professionals.

Tuition Fee Breakdown

International fee: USD 955 per credit
National fee: USD 955 per credit
Local fee: USD 955 per credit

Visit the Fees and Funding section for a breakdown in your local currency.

Syllabus

The curriculum requires the completion of 33 credits and includes a mandatory Research Prospectus course. Students must also attend weekly departmental seminars and complete at least four graduate courses with a laboratory component. Modules may include:

Research Prospectus
Cell, Molecular and Developmental Biology
Ecology, Evolution and Organismal Biology
Directed Research
Biology Graduate Seminar
Special Topics
Advanced Topics

Students may choose to focus their studies through specific academic concentrations. These pathways allow for a minimum of 24 credits to be dedicated to a particular area of interest, which is then recognised on the final transcript. Available concentrations include:

Cell, Molecular and Developmental Biology
Ecology, Evolution and Organismal Biology

The degree culminates in a Comprehensive Examination, which serves as a capstone experience. This assessment includes both written and oral components, requiring students to demonstrate critical thinking, effective communication, and a deep understanding of the scientific method and primary literature.

Careers with Biology

Graduates of this programme are well-prepared for a variety of professional paths in the sciences and beyond. The rigorous training in research methodology and scientific communication provides a strong foundation for those seeking to enter doctoral programmes or pursue advanced roles in industry.

Alumni have successfully transitioned into competitive PhD programmes at prestigious institutions. The skills gained during the course are highly applicable to roles in environmental protection, biotechnology, and academic research. The department maintains a strong network of mentors to assist students in achieving their career goals.

Programme Structure

Courses include:

Research Prospectus
Cell Signaling
Ornithology

Key information

Duration

Full-time
- 12 months

Start dates & application deadlines

Starting 2026-08-26 00:00:00
- Apply before 2026-08-01 00:00:00
Starting 2027-01-13 00:00:00
- Apply before 2026-12-01 00:00:00

Language

English

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Credits

33 SCH

Delivered

On Campus

Campus Location

Philadelphia, United States

Disciplines

Biology View 859 other Masters in Biology in United States

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Academic requirements

We are not aware of any specific GRE, GMAT or GPA grading score requirements for this programme.

English requirements

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Other requirements

General requirements

Online application form
Transcripts
Personal Statement (300 words)
Statement of Purpose (300 words)
3 recommendation letters
$50 non-refundable application fee
NOTE: The admissions committee in the Department of Biology will evaluate applicants holistically by considering GPA, recommendation letters, and personal statements for admission as well as potential departmental funding.

Tuition Fees

Tuition fees are shown in and the most likely applicable fee is shown based on your nationality.

International Applies to you

Applies to you

Non-residents

31515 USD / year

≈ 31515 USD / year
Out-of-State

31515 USD / year

≈ 31515 USD / year
Domestic

Applies to you

In-State

31515 USD / year

≈ 31515 USD / year

Living costs

Philadelphia

United States

800 - 1300 USD / month

The living costs include the total expenses per month, covering accommodation, public transportation, utilities (electricity, internet), books and groceries.

Financing

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Funding

Win a €10000 Scholarship! Deadline: 30 June 2020

Embark on your journey with the Studyportals Scholarship! We're giving away a total of 20,000 euros to help you achieve your dream of studying abroad.

Win a €10000 Scholarship! Deadline: 30 June 2020

Embark on your journey with the Studyportals Scholarship! We're giving away a total of 20,000 euros to help you achieve your dream of studying abroad.

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Scholarships Information

Below you will find Master's scholarship opportunities for Biology.

Available Scholarships

You are eligible to apply for these scholarships but a selection process will still be applied by the provider.

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