Accelerated Biology 4+1 Degree Program
Fast-track your path to a career in biology—and save a year of tuition—by earning both a bachelor’s and master’s degree in biology in just five years.
Why Earn Your Combined BA/BS and MS Degrees in Biology?
A combined bachelor’s and master’s degree in Biology is your launch pad for a rewarding scientific career. Whether you’re interested in further graduate study (such as medical, veterinary or dental school or a research doctorate) or a job in fast-growing fields like biotechnology, public health, pharmaceuticals, business or biomedical research, this accelerated masters degree provides the hands-on experience and in-demand skill set you need to succeed.
Why Earn a Combined BA/BS and MS in Biology at Adelphi in New York on Long Island?
- Benefit from individualized personal attention from our world-class faculty, including a faculty mentor who will supervise you as you perform cutting-edge research in the lab, field or in silico, or an in-depth exploration of the current literature in your subfield of interest.
- Tailor your degree to your unique interests and career goals with our optional concentrations in molecular biology, physiology or ecology, evolution and conservation biology. You’ll also have the opportunity to take courses in other Adelphi departments to broaden your capabilities.
- Take advantage of our flexible, convenient course schedule—featuring evening and online options—to balance your studies with work or credit-bearing research projects.
Program Info
Exceptional Hands-On Learning
At Adelphi University in New York on Long Island, we believe in learning by doing. Our 4+1 accelerated biology program offers plenty of opportunities to roll up your sleeves, from digging for dinosaur bones at a quarry in Wyoming to helping manage museum collections and collecting specimens at field sites around the world. You’ll also be able to conduct important research alongside faculty in Adelphi’s on-campus laboratories, which contain state-of-the-art equipment for microscopy, physiology, molecular biology and cell culture.
In addition, students working or volunteering for a health or research organization regularly earn credit for their work. Adelphi’s location in the New York metropolitan area offers the option to find opportunities at such renowned institutions as:
The MS in Biology has been the stepping stone for many students toward their careers in the health professions, research (both in academia and industry), biotechnology and other scientific professions. The experience and knowledge that are gained, along with the additional degree, can make you stand out as an applicant for jobs and graduate schools. Our small, close-knit program provides an excellent environment for both academic and personal growth.
Alan Schoenfeld, PhD
Professor of Biology
An Adelphi student who earned his dual bachelor’s/master’s degree at Adelphi working in the lab.
Application Requirements
Students can apply to the 4+1 accelerated biology pathway program at any point during their junior year, including the summer leading up to their senior year, if they meet the following requirements:
- A 3.0 GPA in the biology major, which must be maintained until matriculation into the graduate program
- Completion of BIO 222 (Genetics) and BIO 224 (Research Project Lab)
Up to 12 credits of biology courses at the 500 or 600 level taken as an undergraduate can count toward the MS biology degree. Because of the degree’s condensed time frame, 4+1 students can only enter the thesis research track (MS in Biology: Research Thesis Option) if they have completed BIO 498 and BIO 499.
Speak to your adviser or the MS degree in Biology graduate director to learn more.
Transformative Educational Opportunities
All undergraduate students have the opportunity to apply for the following programs to expand their educational landscape:
- The Honors College – fostering intellectual perspectives and critical skills
- Levermore Global Scholars – preparing students to become global thinkers and leaders
- Study Abroad – providing opportunities to experience another culture and see the world from a new perspective
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