Biological Sciences (BS to MS)
Accelerated
Streamline your path to achieving your master’s degree in less time than pursuing a bachelor’s and master’s separately.
- Offered Face-to-Face in Commerce.
- 5 years
- 153 credit hours
- Thesis and Non-Thesis Options
Unlock the secrets of life
Join a team of innovative biologists, leaders and dedicated professors at East Texas A&M University, all committed to making a global impact. Our program offers an opportunity to begin advanced biology coursework during your senior year. As an undergraduate, you can start graduate-level classes and fast-track your path to earning both a Bachelor of Science and a Master of Science in Biology in as little as five years.
Learn more about how the accelerated program can help you advance your education and career in the field of biology.
Spring 2026 Graduate Flex Term.
What Are My Job Opportunities?
As a graduate of at East Texas A&M University, you’ll be well-prepared for careers in research, biotechnology, healthcare, environmental science and academia.
Careers and Salaries
Current Median Salaries from US DOL Bureau of Labor Statistics, Occupational Outlook Handbook, 2023
Program Details
Our biological sciences accelerated program enables you to complete both a bachelor's and master's degree in biology in as little as five years, with a focus on advanced coursework and hands-on research experience.
What Will I Learn?
You will have the opportunity to gain experience in a number of key areas.
Comprehensive Biological Knowledge
Build a strong foundation in molecular biology, genetics, ecology and other key areas of biology.
Research Experience
Gain hands-on experience through laboratory and field research, working on real-world scientific projects.
Professional Preparation
Equip yourself for advanced careers in academia, biotechnology, healthcare and environmental science.
Advanced Technical Skills
Master cutting-edge laboratory techniques and technologies essential for modern biological research.
Taking Classes
Our programs are designed to offer flexibility, catering to working professionals seeking the convenience of a fully online degree, full-time students who prefer in-person classes and those who require a blended option to balance both. We offer a graduate-level degree in biology, available online, to accommodate your lifestyle and career goals.
Please refer to the class schedule for details on locations and times, as they may be subject to change.
Curriculum
Our accelerated program curriculum integrates foundational biology courses, advanced graduate coursework, hands-on research experience and a capstone project to assist you in research, industry and academia careers.
Foundational Biology Courses
Core courses in genetics, cellular biology, and ecology provides a solid understanding of biological principles.
Advanced Graduate Coursework
Specialized courses in areas such as bioinformatics, molecular biology and environmental science to deepen your expertise.
Research Experience
Opportunities for hands-on research allow you to apply theoretical knowledge in laboratory and field settings.
Capstone Project or Thesis
A final research project or thesis that enables you to conduct original research and contribute to the advancement of biological sciences.
Finding My Community
We believe that education thrives in an environment where collaboration, support, and mutual respect flourish. Our community of students and professors embodies these values, creating an enriching and dynamic atmosphere for learning and growth. Our students come from a variety of backgrounds and bring a wide range of experiences and perspectives to the table. Our professors are not only experts in their respective fields but also dedicated mentors who are committed to guiding and nurturing the next generation of scholars.
Venugopalan Cheriyath, Ph.D.
Faculty
Kelly Reyna, Ph.D.
Faculty
Bjorn Schmidt, Ph.D.
Faculty
DongWon Choi, Ph.D.
Faculty
Student Organizations
You can join various student organizations, including the Biology Club, Pre-Health Professions Club, Alpha Epsilon Delta (AED) honor society, and the Ecology and Conservation Club. These groups offer networking, leadership and hands-on experiences that enhance academic and career development.
I’m Looking For Something Different
Is this program close, but still not right for you? Check out our related degrees!
Financing My Future
Financial Aid
Financial aid includes a variety of programs, like scholarships, federal and state grants, and federal and state work-study programs. Find out how you may be eligible for scholarships, grants, loans and/or a graduate assistantship. Financial Aid and Scholarships
Back to menuOn-Campus Employment Opportunities
Enhance your expertise through on-campus employment opportunities.
Graduate Assistant/Research/Teaching
Graduate assistant teaching (GAT), graduate assistant research (GAR), and graduate assistant non-teaching (GANT) assistantships at East Texas A&M offer financial support and professional development for graduate students. Assistantships are available in academic and non-academic departments.
Back to menuCost Before Financial Aid
East Texas A&M is one of the most affordable colleges around the Dallas-Fort Worth Metroplex. Our tuition rates are some of the most competitive in Texas.
$3,669
for Texas residents
/
$7,341
For non-residents
Tuition and fees for graduate students taking nine credit hours are $3,669 for Texas residents and $7,341 for non-residents. But don’t worry: there are
Back to menuAdditional Fees May Apply
- Online Courses ($50 per hour)
- Remote Locations ($20 per hour)
- Lab Fees ($5 – $30 per course)
How Do I Get Started?
If you have not already done so, complete the Request Information form. You will be connected with your enrollment specialist, who can answer your questions. When you’re ready, go ahead and follow the steps below to apply.
Admissions Requirements
To be considered for admission, you must first meet the following criteria.
- GPA minimum 2.5
- Bachelor's degree from an accredited institution
Admission Process
Apply to East Texas A&M and enroll in one of the approved undergraduate programs.
Already enrolled? Skip to step 2!
At the completion of your junior year (90 credit hours), contact your undergraduate advisor for approval to enter the accelerated undergraduate program. Your advisor will submit a form that will be routed to the graduate coordinator for approval.
Once approved, your current undergraduate degree plan will be updated to include graduate coursework that will count toward both your bachelor’s and master’s degrees.
In the final semester of your senior year, submit an online application through Apply Texas to the Master’s Accelerated program.
- You must meet undergraduate GPA requirements at the time of graduate school admission.
Begin taking classes toward your master’s degree.
Approved graduate hours taken as a senior will automatically be applied toward your master’s program.
During your final semester of graduate coursework, apply for graduation for both your bachelor’s and master’s degrees. Your bachelor’s and master’s degrees will be awarded in the same semester in two ceremonies once you have completed all requirements for both degrees.
I Still Have Questions
We are here to help! Send us an email. We can answer your questions and assist you in the application process.
Contact the Department
- Department of Biological and Environmental Sciences
- 903.886.5378
- P.O. Box 3011
- Commerce, TX 75429-3011