The Alcorn State University Department of Biological Sciences has been recognized by OnlineU as one of the nation’s top online master’s in biology programs, a distinction based on the university’s high graduate success rates and strong enrollment numbers.
The ranking, coming in at number 13 on the list, highlights the program’s unique ability to combine educational and scientific rigor with a flexible format designed to meet the needs of working adults.
“We attribute this consistent success to our refusal to compromise on academic standards while ensuring our delivery remains accessible,” said Dr. Marta Piva, interim chairperson and professor of biology. “Our curriculum is designed to provide the same level of scientific rigor found in our on-campus classrooms, but with the convenience that allows working professionals to advance their careers without pausing their lives.”
OnlineU noted that Alcorn State’s program offers a “résumé-ready experience,” distinguishing itself from other online offerings through its faculty-guided capstone course. The curriculum is designed to prepare students for leadership and research roles across a wide variety of fields, ranging from molecular to organismal and environmental biology.
“This ranking significantly increases our visibility by showcasing the program’s quality on both national and international levels,” said Piva. “It affirms that Alcorn is a leader in STEM education, capable of producing graduates who are competitive in the global scientific community. Our degree program accommodates students with a wide variety of interests and is taught by expert faculty members dedicated to student success.”
First offered in 2014, the program has since grown into a leader in distance education among Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs). It offers advanced coursework in specialized areas, including pharmacology, toxicology, immunology, environmental biology, invertebrate zoology, and histology. Beyond content knowledge, students are rigorously trained in the field’s practical skills, including crafting and presenting professional research proposals.
