Advanced degrees in cell biology are fairly common as on-campus programs, but are more difficult to find in a fully online format. Students willing to expand their focus to include other areas of biology, however, can find programs that offer advanced study in the area of cell biology as well.
Different Types of Master's Degree in Cell Biology that Are Available Online
Online master's programs that have a strong cell biology component typically include other bioscience topics. For example, students might work toward a Master of Biology, which is broad-based, but specialize in the area of cell biology. Molecular biology is also frequently paired with cell biology. The following master's programs should be of interest to students seeking online cell biology programs.
Master of Science Degree in Microbiology & Cell Science
The microbiology and cell science master's is a specialized degree that offers a concentration in medical microbiology and biochemistry. It is a 30-credit degree that can be completed online in two years. Containing a mixture of one-credit and three-credit courses, the program covers such topics as molecular biology, genetics, bioinformatics and virology. The program is designed for working professionals.
Master's in Molecular Biology Degree
Half the core curriculum courses in this online program are in cell biology, while the remaining coursework focuses on biochemistry, genetics and research. Electives include such subjects as cells and human disease, RNA structure, eukaryotic organisms, cell signal transduction and developmental biology. This master's is a 30-credit, part-time program designed for students seeking careers in biotechnology.
Master of Biology
Students in this biology program may select a specialization in cell and molecular biology. Twelve credits are required within the specialization, with classes in biochemistry and development biology among the 12. Additionally, students take nine to 10 credits of required courses, including such topics as chemometrics, communication, leadership and biology, and eight to nine credits of electives. Electives include advanced cellular biology, genomics, cancer biology and more. A comprehensive written examination is required to graduate. In addition to being fully online, this program is also televised in Chicago.
Professional Science Master's in Molecular Biosciences Degree
Combining advanced scientific training in the field of molecular bioscience with that in business, the Professional Science Master's requires 12 credits of science coursework as well as one class in each of the following professional areas: ethics, communications, business, management and a skills seminar. Additionally, students must participate in an internship to gain real-world business skills. Some of the science topics covered in this program include cell biology, advanced molecular biology and bioinformatics. This program is appropriate for recent graduates with bachelor's degrees as well as mid-career professionals and science teachers looking to expand their knowledge base.
Program Admission Requirements
To gain admission to a master's program in biology, students must have a bachelor's degree from an accredited school; students with a degree in the sciences have the best chance of being accepted. A GPA of 3.0 or similar is common requirement, as well as undergraduate coursework in subjects such as organic chemistry, biology and physics. Some universities require students to complete the GRE exam and some programs require a letter of recommendation.
In conclusion, several types of online master's degrees cover cell biology. As the degrees vary in the additional topics covered, students should do their research before committing to a program.
