2025 Most Affordable Online Master's Degrees in Biology
An affordable online master’s in biology offers the flexibility to deepen your scientific expertise while managing work and life responsibilities. These programs cover advanced topics like molecular biology, genetics, and ecology, blending research-driven coursework with hands-on applications. With virtual labs and collaborative projects, students are prepared for careers in education, research, or biotech.
Key Takeaways:
- Best for Affordability: Indiana State University offers the most affordable tuition at $6,410 per year for its online master's in biology.
- Best for Earnings: The George Washington University graduates earn a median salary of $95,734, placing the school in the top 16% for alumni earnings.
- Best for Graduation Rate: Lehigh University boasts a 91% graduation rate, placing it in the top 2% nationwide.
Best for Retention: The University of Florida ranks in the top 3% for student retention, with a 97% rate.
All tuition rates are manually verified for accuracy. For full details, see our methodology.
2025 Most Affordable Online Master's Degrees in Biology
Key Insights From the Most Affordable Online Biology Master’s Degrees
Choosing the right online master’s in biology program means balancing what matters most: cost, career payoff, academic quality, and flexibility. The schools on our list all rank high for affordability, but their differences — in outcomes, specialization, and student experience — make each one uniquely suited for different kinds of learners.
Let’s break it down.
Affordability First: Where Your Tuition Dollars Go the Furthest
Indiana State University (ISU) leads the pack with a tuition of just $6,410, offering a customizable, non-thesis master’s that includes unique faculty research collaborations and centers like the Genomic Advocacy Center. Its low cost, 91% recommendation rate, and 97% student financial aid coverage make it a strong choice for budget-conscious learners who want academic mentorship without the price tag.
Alcorn State University (ASU) isn’t far behind at $6,682, and it offers impressive support: 100% of its students receive financial aid, and its retention rate is a solid 81%. ASU also stands out for its well-rounded curriculum, including electives like pharmacology and immunology that allow for broader scientific exploration.
If you’re open to interdisciplinary studies, Troy University’s $7,125 program in environmental and biological sciences blends biology with public health and environmental ethics. It’s highly accessible and particularly military-friendly, with strong online infrastructure and the ability to tailor your focus toward either policy or research. (A master's in environmental science is a similar degree that will produce related career opportunities because it also integrates elements of biology.)
What About Earnings for Biology Graduates?
Not every school on this list reported earnings data, but among those that did, a few stood out.
George Washington University’s Clinical Microbiology program reported median earnings of $95,734 with salary outcome in the 84th percentile nationwide — a clear return on investment, albeit with a higher tuition of $19,098.
In contrast, the University of Florida (UF) offers a well-rounded microbiology and cell science degree at $8,025. It doesn’t post the highest earnings (about $47K, 19th percentile), but it’s one of the most reputable public research institutions on the list, with a 97% retention rate and massive online enrollment. This suggests strong student satisfaction and infrastructure — even if post-grad salary isn’t its strongest suit.
Thoughtful Design Behind Online Biology Master’s Programs
One of the most notable patterns across these programs is the widespread availability of non-thesis options, a huge advantage for working professionals who want to earn their degree without committing to an intensive research project.
Schools like Indiana State University, Western Kentucky University, and Bemidji State University offer alternatives such as capstone projects or applied research coursework that maintain academic rigor without the demands of a traditional thesis.
Then there are programs that take an entirely different approach. Miami University’s Global Field Program, for instance, combines online instruction with international fieldwork, offering students the chance to study biodiversity and conservation up close in ecological hotspots around the world. It’s a rare hybrid model that’s especially valuable for educators and environmental professionals.
Other schools like Arizona State University, Colorado State, and George Washington University round out the field with targeted concentrations in areas like Microbiology, Conservation Biology, and Clinical Lab Science, showing that online biology programs can be both flexible and highly specialized.
Looking for more degree options? Visit our list of the Best Online Master's Degrees in Biology.
From Biology Grad Student to Museum Curator: Advice from a Paleobiology Expert
Curator of Paleobiology
What made you choose a master’s program in biology (or a related field)?
My interests were always strongest in science and math, and this eventually led me to pursuing a biology degree as an undergraduate. During this time, I found myself most drawn to courses involving field work, laboratory components and undergraduate research experiences.
Wanting to continue the research path in the biological sciences, I decided to apply to graduate school and a master’s in biology.
How important was the cost of tuition in your decision? What other cost-related factors should students consider?
I initially focused on reaching out to potential advisors whose research and labs I was most interested in because of the research they had done or were currently doing. There was always a portion of the discussion that included funding/support opportunities throughout the length of the program.
In some cases, the professors and department did not have any funding available. Some professors had funding through research grants to support their graduate students, or their biology department could provide tuition and support via teaching assistantships, or some support could be found via university fellowships.
I was lucky [to be in a] program with the advisor I was most interested in working with and who was also willing to advise me. I was able [to] use fellowships, teaching, and research grant support to cover my tuition and general living costs throughout my master’s degree.
However, the amount and availability of these opportunities can vary widely, as can the cost of living depending on where the university is located. Students need to factor in not just tuition and general costs of living but should keep in mind that as a graduate student you might also be applying for funding (sometimes with varying success) or covering costs for an array of activities.
In my experience, costs could come from field work, lab work, scientific society memberships, conferences (travel, lodging, food, printing of materials), and publishing, some of which were costs I had to take on personally.
Were there any specific courses, projects, or concentrations in your program that directly influenced your career or research interests?
My advisor’s willingness for me to explore a wide range of interests, even if they did not align completely with her own research was incredibly important to me, as was the support of my lab and friends in the biology department, perhaps more than any specific course or concentration.
We worked together to help each other with our field work, analyses, and presentations, so we were constantly learning about different fields and research in biology.
Our institution had a great natural history museum with classes that involved students in helping to build their collections. In working with my advisor to build my own projects, she introduced me to a more museum and fossil collections-based form of research, which led me to my interest in paleontology.
What strategies helped you succeed in this field in particular?
I have always enjoyed learning. I think continuing to foster your curiosity is important. It is easy to get hyper focused on your project during a master’s.
I suggest looking for opportunities to continue to explore more widely and remember that you are surrounded by people who are constantly curious and learning as well, so feel free to ask questions. Reach out to people about their work if you are interested, independent of where they are in their career. There is a chance they may not have time in the moment, but I have found most biologists are open to at least chatting about their work and experiences.
Time management and work/life balance were also important for me to be able to pursue other interests while I was working on my degree.
Any advice for future biology graduate students?
There are so many subjects and concentration to follow in biology, and so many ways to make a career in the field, you will find an area you enjoy, and perhaps just as important, is finding the people and places you enjoy interacting with for your work.
Final Thoughts
Choosing the right online biology program isn’t just about finding the cheapest tuition or chasing the highest post-grad salary. The most valuable programs are those that align with your personal goals, professional ambitions, and financial situation.
For future dual-credit educators, schools like IUPUI and WKU offer tailored coursework to help you qualify. If you’re passionate about conservation or field-based science, Miami University and Colorado State University provide fieldwork-heavy curricula that can take your learning outside the classroom. For students focused on return on investment, George Washington University, Lehigh, and George Mason University lead in graduate earnings, though they come with higher price tags.
No matter your path, the right online biology master’s program is out there — and with thoughtful comparison, you can find one that delivers academically, financially, and professionally.
Want more information on the field of biology? Learn more about biology bachelor's degrees to start with.
FAQs About Affordable Online Master's Degrees in Biology
What is an Online Biology Master's Program All About?
An online master's in biology allows students to study a variety of subjects related to the functions of living organisms and the natural sciences — such as anatomy, evolution, and ecology — as well as engage in the research methods and laboratory skills needed to start a fulfilling career. Given that biology is a broad subject, most programs include concentrations to narrow the scope of study. These options may include molecular biology, zoology, or environmental biology. Coursework covers cell and tissue culture, genome science, biotechnology, and biostatistics, among other subjects. Though we provide a list of exclusively online degrees, some programs may require in-person field work as part of their curriculum.
The content of online biology master's degree programs varies widely, and the focus of each program is often reflected in the degree's title. You'll find many programs that concentrate on laboratory research in scientific disciplines such as molecular biology, physiology, environmental science, and wildlife studies. Other programs emphasize the use of technology and data in biological science.
Regardless of the type of biology master's program you choose, you can expect to gain advanced knowledge and technical abilities. Coursework is designed to allow you to master laboratory techniques, genetic analysis, data modeling, and computational biology. Among the soft skills you're likely to acquire are problem-solving, communication, and critical thinking.
Throughout the program, you'll be assigned an array of projects that simulate real-world biological research and investigation. These include hands-on laboratory work, field studies, research papers, and collaborative assignments.
Most computer science master's programs require the completion of 30-36 credit hours. Full-time students may be able to finish in one to two years, but part-time learners may need two to three years. Most programs culminate in some type of assignment that allows you to synthesize all that you've learned. It may be a written thesis, capstone project, or comprehensive exam.
What Are Some Common Courses in a Biology Master's Degree?
Given the diversity in master's programs in biology, there is also a great deal of variation in the courses included in each program. However, some of the core courses you're likely to find are:
- Genetics and Genomics: In this course, students learn about the structure, function, and evolution of genes and genomes. They will also explore how genetics plays a role in health, disease, and development.
- Cellular and Molecular Biology: This course focuses on the structure and function of cells. Students will learn about cellular processes such as signaling, metabolism, and gene expression.
- Ecology and Evolution: Students learn the principles of ecology and evolution, studying how organisms interact with each other and their environment. They will also explore evolutionary processes and patterns.
- Bioinformatics and Computational Biology: This course teaches the use of computer science in the analysis of biological data. Students will learn how to use tools and algorithms to interpret genomic and proteomic data.
- Biotechnology: Students will explore the application of biological systems in technology, learning how to utilize genetic engineering and molecular biology in industry and medicine.
- Immunology: This course explains the immune system and how it functions. Students will study the molecular and cellular mechanisms of the immune response.
How Do You Fund an Online Biology Master's Degree?
Before you enroll in an online master's in biology degree program, you'll want to consider how you're going to pay for it. You have a number of funding sources available to you, including savings, income, gifts, and financial aid.
One way you can save money on your degree is to opt for an online program like one of the most affordable master's in biology degrees listed above. Distance education may allow you to reduce your tuition costs by thousands as many schools feature lower tuition rates for online learners than for on-campus students.
Other money-saving measures include earning extra income from a full-time or part-time job and moving to a more affordable city or state.
Of course, one of the most common ways to fund a college degree is through financial aid. To apply, just fill out and submit the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). After your request has been reviewed, you'll be notified if you qualify for aid with a Student Aid Report (SAR). If so, you'll then receive a financial aid letter from your school.
Your financial aid package may contain different types of funding from the federal and state government and from your school. Depending on your financial need, you may be offered grants, fellowships, and scholarships, which generally don't have to be repaid. Your aid package may also contain a federal student loan or private student loan, which will have to be repaid with interest.
If you're willing to do some research, you may also find scholarships, grants, and fellowships funded by private organizations. These scholarships may be awarded based on any number of factors, such as your academic record, community involvement, or family heritage. For example, some funding is available to support students in STEM fields. These opportunities are not covered under the FAFSA, so you'll need to submit separate applications to be considered.
What Can You Do With an Online Biology Master's Degree?
With an online master's degree in biology, you can pursue various career opportunities in fields like research, education, healthcare, and environmental management. While some occupations don't necessarily require a master's degree, the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) notes that an advanced degree may be needed for higher-level positions in your field.
One possibility is to become a clinical laboratory technologist or technician. These medical professionals spend most of their time conducting tests for the diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of disease. The median annual salary for this occupation is , and demand is expected to grow by 5% through 2033.
Other career options focus on studying living organisms in their environment. Environmental scientists, for example, study the Earth's systems to help protect both people and the planet. These scientists earn a median salary of , and the BLS projects 7% growth over the next decade. Wildlife biologists typically study animal populations, while zoologists often study one particular species. The median annual wage for these researchers is .
Some occupations, especially in the healthcare field, may require you to obtain a state-issued license for you to practice. Qualifying for licensure usually requires passing a comprehensive exam related to your occupation.
Continuing your education by pursuing a doctorate in biology can offer even more specialized knowledge and research opportunities. Earning a terminal degree may lead to higher-paying positions and leadership roles.
For example, with a doctorate, you can become a biochemist or biophysicist, scientists who study the chemical and physical principles of living organisms. According to the BLS, these science professionals earn a median annual income of , and demand is expected to increase by 9% through 2033.
A PhD in biology is also required to go into academia, where you'll conduct original research and teach future generations of science students. Per the BLS, biological science teachers earn a median annual wage of . Demand for college professors is expected to grow by 8% over the next decade.
How Do I Choose a Master's in Biology?
When you're choosing an online master's in biology program, you'll want to consider several factors. For instance, you should carefully evaluate the program's curriculum to make sure it will help you meet your career goals. You'll also want to look at each school's tuition rates, student services, faculty, and availability of financial aid.
Another criterion you need to take into consideration is institutional accreditation. Enrollment in an accredited program ensures you're receiving a high-quality education that meets professional standards.
What Are the Admission Requirements for Biology Master's Degrees?
The admission requirements for a biology master's program vary somewhat, but most graduate schools require you to have a bachelor's degree in biology or a closely related subject, such as a natural science. You may be accepted at some schools if your bachelor's degree is in another subject, but you'll probably need to take quite a few prerequisite courses, which you'll need to include in your budget.
To apply, you'll need to submit your undergraduate transcripts, which should show that you maintained a GPA of at least 3.0. Other common application requirements include a statement of purpose, letters of recommendation, a resume, and possibly GRE scores.
Student Reviews of Online Biology Programs
The Master in Science program for biology students needs some serious work for their online pedagogy. For a school that offers so many online options, they need to either eliminate some professors from the pool of online teachers or give them lessons in how to run an online class. The professors are condescending and do not know how to use the online platform. They do not scaffold or structure their lectures and assessments in a way that is useful and helpful to the student. I also feel the level... Read More
Review Date: 9/14/2019
Would Recommend: No
Helpful for Career: No
University of Nebraska, Kearney offers a rigorous scholastic schedule for its students. Entering as an online graduate student, I have been amazed with the support system. The admissions process is easy and the graduate office is helpful and will go out of their way to find the answer to any issue. Communication between the faculty and students is encouraged.
Review Date: 12/11/2016
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: No
(Disclaimer: my classes have been online and I can't speak to student diversity on campus or campus safety, but I couldn't move on in the survey unless I made a selection). I'm currently enrolled in an online master's program at University of Nebraska Kearney. It has been a great experience for me and has allowed me to further my education at a pace I can manage. The online biology program at UNK really works for me because I am able to take classes while still working. I was worried if online classes... Read More
Review Date: 9/12/2016
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: No
As an online degree program, the Project Dragonfly is designed to work with a full-time life and jobs and family. The faculty work very hard to accommodate the needs of their students and work to ensure the students' needs are met. The staff is readily available to answer any questions and help with any issues. I had financial difficulty my first year, resulting in being barred from some online courses, and they worked to keep me informed and incorporated with the rest of the class while those issues... Read More
Review Date: 3/30/2016
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: No
The Project Dragonfly program at Miami University is an excellent program for anyone looking to get their master's. It's an online program that allows me to work a full-time job while earning a master's degree in biology. I have made great connections with people all over the world and even get the opportunity to study abroad in the summer for 9 days! Although the program is all online, your professors are extremely personable and are always happy to facetime/skype with you to answer any questions... Read More
Review Date: 2/9/2017
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: Yes
A quality education, even online and it's exciting to see that the school is not gouging their students like other popular online institutions. I am proud to be a part of ASU's graduating class in 2018 and look forward to an intense Doctoral program. Great opportunities and great connections made. Highly recommend.
Review Date: 8/3/2016
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: No
Difficult coursework with good guidance and instruction from the faculty advisors if you seek it out. There is also a diverse student body and different activities to get plugged into the NJMS community. One has direct access to the admissions board for medical or dental schools, so there is a great benefit for being involved in this program as well.
Review Date: 3/22/2017
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: Yes
I have been very pleased with the online graduate courses offered at Texas A&M - Commerce. The professors have used a variety of methods to have the greatest amount of impact with regards to their content. In some of my courses, professors have asked us to write short summaries for chapters in the text with quizzes to follow. In others, I have had watched online presentations and then completed short case studies. Some professors have run their course through readings and discussion boards while... Read More
Review Date: 3/15/2017
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: Yes
I am a student at Ohio University Online. I am pursuing a degree in Biology/Psychology While I have found. I have found most of the classes to be highly educational, and the professors helpful. I do find the price tag a bit steep and somewhat confusing (each campus has varied pricing, and the online classes a based at several different locations). I also find the support somewhat lacking, as it is often difficult to reach my advisor.
Review Date: 5/5/2015
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: No
The best part of this graduate program is the ability to complete this program from the comfort of your own home and being able to continue to work full time. The only con that I really have with this program is the requirement to travel to the university in order to complete the comprhensive final exam.
Review Date: 6/27/2014
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: No
Since I teach high school, I needed to find an online graduate program that was flexible. The online Biology, MS program at USJ is wonderful. My professors thus far have been very knowledgeable and helpful; they are very quick to get back with me if I have questions about something. I feel as if I'm getting the best education possible. I just hate that they don't take Visa credit cards.
Review Date: 4/4/2013
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: No
The class sizes are small and all students are personally guided by professors. There are several interesting class choices in the Biology program, and I love that it is one of the few Biology graduate programs that is available entirely online. Obviously for my ratings any campus categories don't apply to me, but I have heard good things about their campus. Being in Nebraska, it is centralized more on agricultural and wildlife biology, so for my direction in forensics it has limited class choices,... Read More
Review Date: 9/26/2013
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: No
Western Kentucky University has a very convenient online MS program in Biology. I only ran into one problem. One of their online courses (required) istaught by the most unorganized professors that I have ever been in a class with. I dropped the class twice before finally completing. If Cell Biology isn't your thing, look elsewhere.
Review Date: 3/31/2017
Would Recommend: No
Helpful for Career: No
Unfortunately, my experience at GWU has been awful. The cost of tuition is absurd. The professors actually don’t care about their students. The networking and career advice and help is lacking. And the social evens and engagement are lacking as well. For the ranking of the school and cost of living in DC or surrounding areas I would absolutely not suggest this university and wish I could change my decision to attend.
Review Date: 3/15/2022
Would Recommend: No
Helpful for Career: No
I am currently in the Master's of Biological Sciences program through the College of Continuing Education. I love the flexibility that this program has afforded me and that I have been able to tailor my course work to suit my future career goals. It is somewhat expensive living and working in the Twin Cities, but I think that the quality education I have received is worth every penny!
Review Date: 12/29/2015
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: No
Canisius College's blended Master's program offers the best of both worlds for a fairly new and challenging degree in Anthrpology/zoology. You get both the convenience of online courses with the personalized attention of an in-class course. By traveling to campus prior to each semester you get to know your classmates and professors fairly well before returning home and completing the online portion of the courses.
Review Date: 3/13/2017
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: No
The University of Minnesota - Twin Cities is a large institution with multiple different, smaller colleges that made it difficult for me to feel like I really fit in. As a graduate from the College of Biological Sciences, I personally had a good experience with the school. The counselors who guided me through my degree progress were helpful. Most of the professors were approachable and genuinely wanted students to understand and succeed. The student help services were always friendly and knowledgeable... Read More
Review Date: 6/29/2019
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: No
Overall, FAU has a great graduate program. Faculty are accessible and willing to provide support. Students have a lot of support regarding their future careers if they seek help. The only downfall to FAU is the area it is located. The campuses are in highly urban areas, and traffic can be horrendous. However, the campus can be a safe haven.
Review Date: 2/25/2015
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: No
SEMO combines the affordability of a state institution with the close-knit community of a smaller institution. One of the pros is that the graduate Biology dept. is small with a small number of students, allowing you to work closely with your peers and begin to develop professional relationships. However, the smaller department can also be limiting as well. Overall, I would recommend the Biology program at Southeast Missouri State for anyone looking to pursue their Masters in Biology.
Review Date: 6/22/2015
Would Recommend: No
Helpful for Career: No
The graduate program at my university is excellent and well renowned. I feel that students can build far beyond their undergraduate education because they have access to great professors, new technology, and competitive peers. However, the cost of living in Florida on top of the financial burden of loans can make it difficult to concentrate on studying. Since there are many students needing financial relief and not enough opportunities for tuition waiving jobs or research assistant positions (which... Read More
Review Date: 12/8/2015
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: No