In addition to the general University requirements for admission to graduate studies, the Department of Biological Sciences requires a Bachelor of Science in a biological science or a related science with a GPA of at least 3.0. A minimum of 24 credits in biology including general biology, cell biology and molecular genetics; 16 credits in general chemistry and organic chemistry with adequate laboratory time; 8 credits of physics with laboratory; and 8 credits in mathematics beyond precalculus, are required.

Any academic deficiencies must be satisfied during the first year of graduate study, and prior to taking graduate courses for which the deficiency areas are prerequisites.  

Applicants are required to submit a personal statement describing their scientific background, including: 1) previous laboratory training from coursework and/or work experience and 2) career goals. Three letters of recommendation are also required. 

Foreign students must provide proper immigration documents and have a minimum TOEFL score of 550. Official transcripts must be evaluated by World Education Services for all foreign institutions.

Financial Aid Options  
Teaching and research assistantships, including both tuition benefits and a stipend, are available on a competitive basis. To obtain an application form, call (973) 761-9044 or e-mail cookanje@shu.edu. Additional financial aid options include loans, payment plans, campus employment opportunities, and graduate assistantships.