Degree Overview & Mission
Our microbiology MS degree is designed to provide students with opportunities to acquire the knowledge and skills needed to embark on careers as independent microbiologists. The degree typically takes two years to complete.
Admission Requirements
The general requirements for our microbiology MS degree are those of the Graduate School:
- Bachelor’s degree
A minimum of a bachelor's degree from an accredited four year college or university is required for consideration into graduate programs at UMass Amherst.
- English Proficiency
Applicants whose native language is not English must demonstrate English proficiency. For more details consult the International Applicants page for more information.
- GREs: Not Required
- Other Requirements
- Online application
- Personal Statement
- Graduate Admissions Short Essay
- Resume
- 2 Letters of Recommendation
- Transcripts
See if you're eligible to qualify for a Graduate School application fee waiver.
Program Requirements
Credit Requirement: 30 credits
A minimum of 30 graduate credits and completion of a graduate research project are required for a master’s degree. Twenty-one credits must be in the student’s major field and a minimum of one-half of the total required credits must be on a letter-graded basis.
By the end of the first semester, if not before, the student should select a research area. Applicants are strongly encouraged to identify a faculty member in our microbiology graduate program, who is willing to serve as your research mentor. For more details, consult the Application FAQs and the Graduate Student Handbook.
Additional Resources
For more information about our microbiology MS program, please contact Graduate Program Director Dr. Yasu Morita.