UNIVERSITY OF MASSACHUSETTS AMHERST · UNITED STATES
Graduate Programs in Microbiology
Master's · Taught in en
At a glance
24 mo
Duration
6.5
IELTS
—
Tuition / yr
en
Language
Master's
Level
- 35-40Typical graduate student enrollment
- 90%Placement rate for MS and AMB graduates
- VariousSpecializations including physiology, genetics, immunology, ecology, and AMB
- December 1PhD application deadline
- October 1MS application deadline (Spring admission)
- May 1MS application deadline (Fall admission)
The University of Massachusetts Amherst offers comprehensive graduate programs in Microbiology, providing broad training for research careers in academia, industry, and government. Specializations include microbial physiology, genetics, immunology, parasitology, pathogenic bacteriology, molecular biology, microbial ecology, and environmental microbiology. The department also offers an MS in Applied Molecular Biotechnology (AMB), a professional degree program, and a Fifth-Year Master's Program for academically strong undergraduates. Students benefit from research opportunities with faculty whose work spans diverse areas of microbiology. The program emphasizes developing strong scientific knowledge, laboratory skills, critical thinking, and communication abilities. Graduates are well-prepared for postdoctoral fellowships, faculty positions, or senior research roles in various scientific sectors.
Careers
Graduates of the UMass Amherst Microbiology programs are highly successful in securing research positions. PhD graduates often pursue postdoctoral fellowships at leading academic institutions or become faculty members. Graduates from the MS and AMB programs typically find employment within 90% of graduation, with many joining biotech companies or research institutions, particularly in the Boston area.
- University Faculty
- Senior Researcher (Industry)
- Postdoctoral Fellow
- Biotech Professionals
- Research Institution Scientist
Frequently asked questions
- What are the application deadlines for the Graduate Programs in Microbiology?
- The application deadline for MS Fall admission is May 1, and for MS Spring admission, it is October 1. The application deadline for PhD and MS Applied Molecular Biotechnology (AMB) programs is December 1, though AMB applications may be reviewed on a rolling basis.
- What are the English language proficiency requirements for international applicants?
- You must achieve a minimum TOEFL iBT score of 80 overall (with no sub-score below 20), an IELTS score of 6.5 overall (with no sub-score below 6.0), or a Duolingo English Test score of 115. Certain exemptions based on prior education or coursework in English are also available.
- Are GRE scores required for admission?
- No, GRE scores are not considered for admission to the Graduate Programs in Microbiology at the University of Massachusetts Amherst.
- What are the career prospects for graduates of this program?
- Graduates are well-prepared for postdoctoral fellowships, faculty positions, or senior research roles in academia and industry. MS and AMB graduates typically find employment, with many joining biotech companies or research institutions, particularly in the Boston area.
- What are the tuition and fees for this program?
- Information on tuition and fees can be found via the 'Tuition and Fees' link under University+ Session Resources. Specific costs for international students are not detailed on the program pages.
- What specializations are offered within the Microbiology graduate programs?
- Specializations include microbial physiology, genetics, immunology, parasitology, pathogenic bacteriology, molecular biology, microbial ecology, and environmental microbiology. An MS in Applied Molecular Biotechnology (AMB) is also offered.
Entry requirements
Undergraduate EducationA solid undergraduate education in relevant scientific fields is expected. For the AMB program, an Organic Chemistry course is required, and an Introduction to Biochemistry course is recommended. Laboratory experience is favored for AMB applicants.
Holistic EvaluationApplications are evaluated holistically, considering scientific knowledge, laboratory/analytical skills, communication, collaboration, critical thinking, passion for research, and motivation. An undergraduate major in microbiology is not mandatory.
TOEFL (iBT)Minimum 80 overall, with no sub-score lower than 20. TOEFL MyBest Scores are not accepted.
IELTSMinimum 6.5 overall, with no sub-score lower than 6.0. Paper IELTS test report forms are not accepted.
Duolingo English Test (DET)Minimum 115
English Education ExemptionCompletion of four years of secondary education where English is the primary language of instruction and a British or American curriculum is followed.
US College Coursework ExemptionCompletion of two non-ESL English composition courses AND several humanities/social science courses with grades of B or better at a U.S. college or university. Exemption is not automatic and requires a complete review.
GRE scores are not considered for admission. Official transcripts are not required during the application process (refer to Graduate School's 'submit official transcript' section). Applicants must apply online via the UMass Graduate School application portal. The department code for sending test scores is 3917.
Fees
Tuition (international)Not specified
Tuition (home)Not specified
LivingNot specified
Information on tuition and fees can be found via the 'Tuition and Fees' link under University+ Session Resources. Specific costs for international students are not detailed on the program pages.
How to apply
1. Prepare Application MaterialsGather required documents, including transcripts, GRE scores (optional/not considered), personal statement, and letters of recommendation. Ensure your personal statement is approximately 1000 words but can range from 600-1500 words.
2. Submit Online ApplicationComplete and submit the application form through the UMass Amherst Graduate School online portal. Use institution code 3917 for sending test scores if applicable.
3. Arrange for Test ScoresOfficial score reports for English proficiency tests (TOEFL, IELTS, Duolingo) must be sent directly from the testing agency. UMass Amherst does not accept TOEFL MyBest Scores or paper IELTS reports.
4. Await Admission DecisionThe department reviews applications holistically. Decisions are typically communicated after the application deadline.
Scholarships
Elizabeth Stuart Fund for Graduate EducationWaiver available
Accreditation
Not specified
Frequently asked questions
What are the application deadlines for the Graduate Programs in Microbiology?
+
The application deadline for MS Fall admission is May 1, and for MS Spring admission, it is October 1. The application deadline for PhD and MS Applied Molecular Biotechnology (AMB) programs is December 1, though AMB applications may be reviewed on a rolling basis.
What are the English language proficiency requirements for international applicants?
+
You must achieve a minimum TOEFL iBT score of 80 overall (with no sub-score below 20), an IELTS score of 6.5 overall (with no sub-score below 6.0), or a Duolingo English Test score of 115. Certain exemptions based on prior education or coursework in English are also available.
Are GRE scores required for admission?
+
No, GRE scores are not considered for admission to the Graduate Programs in Microbiology at the University of Massachusetts Amherst.
What are the career prospects for graduates of this program?
+
Graduates are well-prepared for postdoctoral fellowships, faculty positions, or senior research roles in academia and industry. MS and AMB graduates typically find employment, with many joining biotech companies or research institutions, particularly in the Boston area.
What are the tuition and fees for this program?
+
Information on tuition and fees can be found via the 'Tuition and Fees' link under University+ Session Resources. Specific costs for international students are not detailed on the program pages.
What specializations are offered within the Microbiology graduate programs?
+
Specializations include microbial physiology, genetics, immunology, parasitology, pathogenic bacteriology, molecular biology, microbial ecology, and environmental microbiology. An MS in Applied Molecular Biotechnology (AMB) is also offered.