Molecular Biology (MS) – STEM Designated Degree Program
The Molecular Biology curriculum encompasses the study of biology on a molecular level including the structure, function and makeup of biologically important molecules such as DNA, RNA and proteins. Research, writing and hands-on experiences in the classroom and laboratory provide the means for students of the biological sciences to develop the practical and intellectual skills required to succeed as productive members of society in imperative and rewarding careers. Our programs are designed and implemented to promote educational equity and academic excellence through close interactions between faculty and students in the classroom, in the research laboratory and in the field.
Along with the Molecular Biology (MS) degree, the biology department also offers the following options for graduate study: Biology, Biology (Combined BS/MAT), Biology with a concentration in Ecology and Evolution, Biology with a concentration in Physiology, Biology with a concentration in Pedagogy and a certificate in Molecular Biology.
Please refer to our programs of study page for a comprehensive list of all of the graduate programs offered within the university.
The Office of Graduate Admissions requires the equivalent of a U.S. bachelor’s degree in order to be eligible to apply for a graduate program. Applicants with non-U.S. degrees, please visit the International Applicants page to review the U.S. degree equivalency information.
In order to make applying for graduate school as seamless as possible for you, we have
created an application checklist. This checklist can be a reference point for you during the
application process to ensure that you have a comprehensive understanding of the steps
needed to apply, as well as all corresponding supplemental materials for your specific
program of interest.
- Application Deadline: Rolling admission. *Please note, the Spring 2025 application for the MS and certificate programs in Molecular Biology has reached capacity. We are accepting applications for Fall 2025.
- Submit Online Application: Please create your online account and submit your application by following the general application instructions and pay (or waive) the non-refundable $60 application fee. Once this step has been completed, the online portal will allow you to upload your supplemental materials.
The following is a list of the supplemental materials that will accompany your application for the Molecular Biology (MS) program:
- Transcript: One from each college attended.
- Essays/Personal Statement – Please write an integrated essay providing a response to each of the following questions:
- What are your goals for graduate study and your future career?
- In what ways do your academic background and your professional experiences provide evidence of your potential for success in the program you selected and in your eventual career?
- Please give specific examples of relevant coursework and/or experience.
- Is there any further information we should consider in assessing your candidacy?
- Letters of Recommendation: Two.
- Standardized Test Scores: GRE is optional.
- Applicants with non-U.S. degrees, please visit the International Applicants page to review the US degree equivalency information.
This program is 32 semester hours. For more information, please visit the Molecular Biology (MS) program listing in the University Catalog.
If you have any general questions regarding the application process and requirements, please email or call us:
Office of Graduate Admissions
Email: graduate@montclair.edu
Telephone: 973-655-5147
Fax: 973-655-7869
If you have specific inquiries regarding your program of interest, please contact the Molecular Biology (MS) Program Coordinator:
*During the summer months, there will be a rotating department chair available to answer your inquiry. Find the updated summer chair for this program.*
Program Coordinator: Dr. Kirsten Monsen
Office: Science Hall
Email: monsenk@montclair.edu
Telephone: 973‑655‑7788