The University of Florida is offering a fully online Master of Science in Microbiology and Cell Science through its Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences (UF/IFAS), giving students an opportunity to pursue graduate-level microbiology education without attending classes on campus.
According to the University of Florida’s current program information, the degree is delivered 100% online and asynchronously. The standard program requires 30 credit hours, while the university says students can complete the degree in as few as 12 months.
UF Online M.S. in Microbiology: Key Details
The University of Florida currently lists tuition for the program at $535 per credit hour plus fees. Based on the standard 30-credit requirement, the base tuition comes to approximately $16,050, before applicable fees. UF also states that the online M.S. uses the same tuition rate regardless of Florida residency.
The program does not require the GRE, and the university currently lists no application fee for the M.S. program.
Program at a Glance
- University: University of Florida
- Department: Microbiology and Cell Science
- School: UF Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences
- Format: 100% online, asynchronous
- Standard credits: 30
- Tuition: $535 per credit hour + fees
- Estimated base tuition: $16,050 for 30 credits
- GRE: Not required
- Application fee: None
- Completion: As few as 12 months
- Degree: Master of Science in Microbiology and Cell Science
Admission Requirements
Applicants must have a bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution and a minimum 3.0 overall GPA and 3.0 upper-division GPA.
UF also lists specific undergraduate preparation for applicants. Required coursework includes two semesters of general biology, two semesters of general chemistry and one semester of organic chemistry. Microbiology and biochemistry are recommended.
Students without sufficient microbiology or biochemistry preparation may have another pathway. UF states that an Introductory Track adds two courses and brings the total program requirement to 37 credits.
Application Deadlines for 2027
The University of Florida’s current program page lists the following upcoming deadlines:
- Spring 2027: November 15
- Summer 2027: April 1
Students should check the official UF program page before applying because application dates and program requirements can change.
What Students Can Study
The program covers areas of microbiology, molecular biology and cell science. UF’s program information highlights training connected to microbiology, molecular biology, environmental science and data-driven research.
Coursework available through the department includes subjects such as bacterial physiology, advanced bacteriology, infectious diseases, molecular virology, human pathogens, antimicrobial resistance, virology, bioinformatics and molecular biology.
The department also offers graduate certificate options in areas including Medical Microbiology, Microbiome in Health and Disease, Clinical Laboratory Microbiologist and Environmental Microbiology.
Career Areas Highlighted by UF
The University of Florida describes microbiology as a field connected to several professional areas, including biotechnology, healthcare, environmental science, public health, research and pharmaceutical-related work.
The department’s career information also lists potential roles such as research scientist, bioinformatics analyst, biotechnology specialist, public health microbiologist, environmental microbiologist and regulatory affairs specialist. These are career areas identified by UF rather than guaranteed employment outcomes for graduates.
Request Information Before Applying
Prospective students can use the University’s Request for Information (RFI) form to submit their contact information and request additional details about the online M.S. program.
The RFI form is an information-request option and is not the same as submitting an admission application. Students who are ready to apply can instead use UF’s official application process.
Bottom Line
The University of Florida’s online M.S. in Microbiology and Cell Science offers a 100% online format, no GRE requirement, no application fee and a standard 30-credit pathway at $535 per credit hour plus fees. UF currently lists completion in as few as 12 months, with November 15 for Spring 2027 and April 1 for Summer 2027 as upcoming application deadlines.
Students considering the program should review the latest official UF requirements before applying, particularly if they need the introductory 37-credit pathway or have questions about prerequisite coursework.
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