The Department of Biology at Western Washington University (WWU) is now accepting applications for its highly regarded Master of Science (M.S.) program in Biology for Fall 2026. Prospective graduate students have the opportunity to secure competitive funding through Graduate Research Assistantships (RAs) and Teaching Assistantships (TAs) while participating in cutting-edge scientific research.
Based in Bellingham, Washington, WWU’s Biology program provides a supportive, collaborative environment with close faculty mentorship. With more than half of the graduate faculty actively recruiting new students, applicants can join research projects spanning diverse ecosystems, including marine habitats, rivers, lakes, forests, and advanced molecular labs.
Areas of Research Specialization
Students can customize their M.S. thesis projects around a wide range of biological sub-disciplines:
- Marine Biology: Investigate coastal and marine ecosystems, larval ecology, and marine invertebrate physiology.
- Ecology and Ecosystem Science: Conduct fieldwork in local estuaries, streams, and forests.
- Cell & Molecular Biology: Explore laboratory-based genetics, biochemistry, and microbiology.
- Evolutionary Biology & Organismal Biology: Study phenotypic plasticity, evolutionary genomics, and animal behavior.
Funding & Assistantship Benefits
WWU is committed to reducing financial barriers for graduate students. Funded assistantships (TAs and RAs) offer:
- Monthly Stipend: Salary of up to $2,008 per month.
- Tuition Waiver: Full or partial tuition waivers accompanying the teaching/research contract.
- Professional Experience: At least 20 hours per week of hands-on laboratory, field, or instructional work.
Why Study at Western Washington University?
WWU’s location in Bellingham—situated between Seattle, Washington, and Vancouver, British Columbia—makes it a premier hub for environmental and marine sciences. The university’s proximity to diverse coastal environments, local estuaries, and marine research facilities allows graduate students to conduct immersive, field-based research with immediate ecological relevance.
Key Application Details & How to Apply
- Priority Application Deadline: February 1, 2026
- Final Application Deadline: March 1, 2026
- Program Start Date: After September 15, 2026
Prospective applicants are strongly encouraged to contact potential faculty advisors before submitting their applications to discuss research openings in their labs.
For full program details and application guidelines, visit: Western Washington University Biology Graduate Program.
For direct inquiries, contact the Biology Graduate Program Director, Shawn Arellano, at biologygradprogram@wwu.edu.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. Are the assistantships fully funded?
Yes, graduate assistantships at WWU generally include a monthly stipend and a tuition waiver, covering most costs of graduate education.
2. Is prior independent research experience required for admission?
No prior experience is strictly required, although a solid background in undergraduate biology coursework and laboratory/field methods is highly beneficial.
3. Can I apply to work with multiple faculty advisors?
Yes. You can indicate interest in multiple advisors on your application. It is best to email potential advisors prior to applying to introduce yourself and your research interests.