Online Master’s of Laboratory Animal Science
Master of Laboratory Animal Science (MLAS)
The online Master of Laboratory Animal Science graduate program is designed for those currently working within the field of laboratory animal science who want to take their career to the next level. Combining effective training in basic animal science and an extensive laboratory animal science curriculum, this program builds a solid foundation in all aspects of laboratory animal science and animal facility management.
Graduates of the program have careers in the laboratory animal facilities of universities, biotechnology companies, government agencies, and pharmaceutical companies, where they serve as veterinarians, supervisors, managers, IACUC administrators, trainers, educators, and consultants, and are able to help animals in a variety of crucial ways.
During the program, we ask that you have a consulting mentor (lab animal veterinarian or authorized representative) at your current workplace that is available to help you should you need it throughout the curriculum.
Masters in Laboratory Animal Science Online Program Features
- Drexel is one of the only universities offering a Master of Laboratory Animal Science online
- Part-time, three-year program, allowing flexibility for busy professionals
- No on-campus requirements
What is a Master’s in Laboratory Animal Science?
A master’s degree in laboratory animal science prepares you to work with animals in biomedical research. This degree can help you advance in your current role within the field, or help enhance your application for future veterinary training.
Drexel University’s laboratory animal science degree is the oldest and most well-known program of its kind in the United States and has graduated hundreds of students. Courses in this program cover topics like regulations, animal models, diseases, husbandry methods, procedures, facilities, and equipment. The curriculum is designed to provide you with the highly specific and relevant skillset you need to succeed in the field.
What Jobs Can You Get with an Animal Science Degree?
Many students who enter Drexel’s online master’s degree in laboratory animal science are already working in the field and use this degree to advance their career. Some common job titles that Drexel students have held include:
- Animal Health Technologist
- Associate Supervisor of Surgery
- Husbandry and Operations Trainer
- Laboratory Animal Technician
- Manager, Veterinary/Animal Care
- Research Compliance Specialist
- Research Specialist
- Veterinary Scientist
How Can I Help Animals with a Career in Lab Animal Science?
Working in the lab animal science field allows you to participate in the care and safety of animals used in research and education. This means that you are responsible for ensuring that these animals have the proper food, water, and living conditions they need, as well as observing their general health and working with veterinarians to make sure the animals are being provided with the care they require. You will also help ensure that conditions are in accordance with the Animal Welfare Act and U.S. Public Health Service Policy on Humane Care and Use of Laboratory Animals, if relevant.
What are the Salary Expectations for a Master’s in Lab Animal Science Graduate?
Salaries for graduates will vary based on location, title, and your level of experience. However, some average salaries within the field are:
Job Title
Average Salary
Director
$200,030
Assistant/Associate Director
$141,779
Manager
$83,266
Supervisor
$56,251
Facility Compliance Manager
$82,294
IACUC Coordinator
$68,552
Training Coordinator
$63,951
Research Technician
$46,023
Animal Health Care Technician
$45,127
Senior-Level Laboratory Animal Technician
$43,839
Mid-Level Laboratory Animal Technician
$37,466
Entry-Level Laboratory Animal Technician
$31,710
Source: AALAS 2017 Laboratory Animal Facility Compensation Survey
Archived Webinars
- Bringing the Magic Through Podcasting: A Behind the Scenes Look into the Lab Rat Chat Podcast
- Compassion Fatigue: You are Not Alone
- Environmental Enrichment for Laboratory Research Animals
- Master of Laboratory Animal Science Online Open House
- Why Does It Hurt? Understanding Pain and the Technician's Role in Pain Management
For questions, contact:
Erin Vogelsong
Program Director, Master of Laboratory Animal Science (MLAS)
215.762.7968
eev25@drexel.edu
Drexel University offers a variety of Graduate Minors that can be added to any master's degree program.
State restrictions may apply to some programs.
Curriculum
Required Courses | ||
MLAS 501S | Laboratory Animal Seminar | 2.0 |
MLAS 503S | The Institutional Animal Care and Use Committee’s (IACUC) Role in Animal Research | 3.0 |
MLAS 504S | Public Outreach for Animal Research | 3.0 |
MLAS 510S | Clinical Orientation In Laboratory Animal Facilities | 1.0 |
MLAS 520S | Financial Management In Laboratory Animal Science | 3.0 |
MLAS 521S | Arch Eng & Plan For Anim Fac | 4.0 |
MLAS 523S | Organizational Management | 3.0 |
MLAS 525S | Animal Anatomy | 2.0 |
MLAS 535S | Biology & Care Of Lab Animals | 4.0 |
MLAS 536S | Animal Models for Biomedical Research | 1.0 |
MLAS 606S | Clinical Laboratory Techniques and Concepts | 1.0 |
MLAS 610S | Diseases of Laboratory Animals | 3.0 |
MLAS 801S | Laboratory Animal Practicum* | 12.0 |
Electives | ||
Select a minimum of 6.0 credits from the following: | 6.0 | |
IHS 514S
|
Molecular Biology & Biochemistry of the Cell | |
MLAS 500S
|
Animal Nutrition | |
MLAS 502S
|
Occupational Safety and Health in Laboratory Animal Care and Use Programs | |
MLAS 529S
|
Molecular Genetics | |
MLAS 530S
|
Biostats In Vet Science | |
MLAS 531S
|
Embryology | |
MLAS 545S
|
Fundamentals of Histology | |
MSPA 520S
|
Medical Terminology | |
MSPA 580S
|
Medical Microbiology I | |
MSPP 511S
|
Concepts in Biochemistry and Cell Biology | |
PHGY 503S
|
Graduate Physiology | |
PHRM 512S
|
Graduate Pharmacology | |
Total Credits | 48.0 |
*Students currently working in a laboratory animal facility with a minimum of 2 years of experience are exempt from The MLAS Practicum (MLAS 801S).
Admissions Criteria
- Bachelor's degree from a regionally accredited institution
- Cumulative GPA of 3.0 or higher is preferred
- Those with a lower GPA are encouraged to apply, but should ensure that relevant professional experience is included on their resume for evaluation
- Current employment in a laboratory animal facility, with a minimum of two years hands-on experience
Required Documents
With multiple ways to submit documents, Drexel makes it easy to complete your application. Learn more by visiting our Completing Your Application Guide.
- A completed application
- Official transcripts from all universities or colleges and other post-secondary educational institutions (including trade schools) attended
- Three professional letters of recommendation. Examples of eligible recommenders include:
- Current or previous workplace supervisor
- Previous science professors
- Veterinarian
- Personal statement describing your academic and professional laboratory animal science goals
- Resume
- Additional requirements for International Students
Suggested Documents
- General GRE scores, at or above the 50th percentile in all areas, obtained within the last 5 years
- Those without GRE scores are encouraged to apply, but should ensure that relevant professional/ academic experience is included for evaluation
Tuition
The tuition rate for the academic year 2024-2025 is $1651 per credit.
For the academic year 2024-2025, students enrolled in an online graduate academic program will be charged a graduate online program fee of $125 per year.
- This program is eligible for Financial Aid.
- Special tuition rates available for Drexel University Alumni, Military members, and members of our Partner Organizations
- These rates apply only to new online students and students being readmitted.
- Tuition rates are subject to increase with the start of each academic year in the fall term.
- All students must contact applyDUonline@drexel.edu within the first two weeks of the term to request tuition savings for which they qualify.
- Special rates cannot be combined. If you qualify for more than one special rate, you'll be given the one with the largest savings.
- When receiving special tuition plans with Drexel University Online, you may not combine them with other tuition benefits that may be available from Drexel University.
Academic Calendar
2024-2025 Academic Year
Term
Classes Begin
Classes End
Fall 2024
August 19, 2024
December 13, 2024
Spring 2025
January 6, 2025
May 2, 2025
Summer 2025
May 12, 2025
August 1, 2025
Apply for admission to Drexel University
Use the Apply Now form to get started.
Previously enrolled at Drexel? Learn more about readmission.
Any problems? Find help or contact us.