Graduate Studies in Biology - M.S. or M.A.

Science education is in the midst of transition, and demand is great for highly qualified teachers who understand how to create classroom opportunities for students to learn scientific concepts in a meaningful way.

Point Loma Nazarene University’s graduate program in general biology presents a unique opportunity for working teachers in San Diego and Southern California to develop academic and pedagogical content knowledge in biology.

This page will guide you through the application checklist. Please be sure to mail all fees and application materials (including Biology program-specific materials) to the address provided on the Application Process page.

For specific information about the general biology graduate programs, please visit the Department of Biology Web site or request information about the program.

Admissions Requirements for Graduate Biology Program:

Step 1:

Please complete and submit all general graduate application materials. These materials can be found on the Application Process page, where you will also find the address to which you should send these materials.

Step 2:

Application Checklist and Program Eligibility:

1. Please request 2 confidential letters of recommendation. Please provide your references with the Graduate Biology Letter of Recommendation Form and have them send the completed recommendation directly to address found on the Application Process page.


• One letter should be from your current principal, assistant principal, or department head


• One letter should be from a former college/university professor


2. Please complete essays (200-300 words each) on the following topics and send directly to the address found on the Application Process page.


• Describe your reason(s) for enrolling in the graduate program in general biology and indicate your personal goals for the next 5 years.


• Explain why you are interested in pursuing a graduate degree in a Christian setting and how this relates to your classroom teaching.


3. Take the Major Field Test in biology on PLNU's campus - contact the program director Dianne Anderson dianneanderson@pointloma.edu to schedule your test. The exam cost is $25.00. To view content areas on the test, go to ETS . A score on the GRE subject test in biology less than 7 years old may be substituted.


4. Provide proof of teaching credential (if you are a K-12 teacher).


5. Contact the program director Dianne Anderson dianneanderson@pointloma.edu to schedule a faculty interview after all application materials have been submitted.