Program Details
Credit Hours: 30
Course Length: 16 weeks
Estimated Program Length: 24 months
Next Application Deadline: See Application Deadlines quicklink
Program duration may depend on course load and availability. Consult with your advisor.
This is an exciting time to be a biologist. Every day, new research findings reshape our understanding of the world. Pursuing a master’s degree in biology from UWF allows you to contribute to groundbreaking research, share your knowledge through teaching, or apply it in public service and private industry.
Why Study Biology at UWF?
Our biology master’s program provides advanced training, preparing you for doctoral programs or careers in government agencies, educational institutions, and private industry.
Research Opportunities in Marine Biology and Ecology: Located along the Florida Panhandle, UWF offers marine and ecology graduate students the chance to undertake unique research projects. Our Pensacola campus encompasses 300 acres of estuarine marshes and wetlands, with an additional 150 acres on Santa Rosa Island featuring beach dunes, salt marshes, tidal flats, and sea grass ecosystems.
Research Opportunities in Biomedical Research: Our program is home to a distinguished group of biomedical research faculty engaged in pioneering studies. Students have the opportunity to work on cutting-edge projects in areas such as cancer biology, infectious diseases, neurobiology, and regenerative medicine. Imagine being part of a team that develops new therapeutic strategies or discovers novel biological mechanisms that could revolutionize healthcare. The collaborative environment at UWF ensures that you will receive mentorship from experts who are making significant contributions to biomedical science.
Collaborative Research Environment: For those interested in biotechnology, industry, or professional schools, you'll have the opportunity to work alongside our faculty on novel research projects, equipping you with the skills and knowledge for your future career.
What You Will Learn
Our areas of expertise include botany, genetics, marine biology, microbiology, molecular and cell biology, and wetlands/coastal ecology. You can choose from two tracks: thesis or non-thesis.
Thesis Program: Designed for students seeking advanced studies in modern biology and biotechnology, you'll train in aquaculture, biochemistry, ecology, environmental studies, fisheries biology, genetics, immunology, marine biology, microbiology, molecular biology, plant science, and physiology.
Non-Thesis Program: This track allows you to tailor coursework to your specific interests. Core courses provide a foundation in experimental design, lab techniques, and graduate-level knowledge, while numerous electives enable you to shape the degree to support your career goals. For example, those interested in medical fields can select electives in microbiology and immunology, while those focused on environmental work can choose ecology and environmental studies.
Flexible Learning Options: UWF programs offered at the Pensacola campus or UWF Emerald Coast may include online courses. Discuss program requirements and planning with your academic advisor to ensure a path that fits your needs.
Join us at UWF and take the next step in your journey to becoming a leading biologist.
UWF offers classes through various delivery methods, including face-to-face, hybrid, and online. Though UWF makes every effort to provide on-campus classes in face-to-face programs, there is a possibility that some classes will have limited availability and may be offered online only. For more information, please review the modes of delivery and instructional methods.