The Master of Science in Aging Biology at USC prepares the next generation of scientists to advance research in the cellular, molecular, and genetic mechanisms of aging, while also applying big data analytics to develop better treatments and prevention strategies for age-related diseases. With guidance from world-renowned faculty, you’ll build the knowledge, lab skills, and research experience needed to drive discoveries that extend healthspan and improve lives.
Program Information
Is the Master of Science in Aging Biology Right for Me?
The Master of Science in Aging Biology is designed for those who want to work at the forefront of geroscience, longevity, gerotherapeutics, and healthspan interventions. This program pairs students with expert mentors to build core research skills across biology, genomics, translational and clinical sciences, demography, social science, epidemiology, psychology, and other interdisciplinary fields advanced by the school.
This program may be a strong fit if you:
- Hold a background in biology, neuroscience, molecular or cellular sciences, biochemistry, or related fields
- Seek advanced training before pursuing a PhD, MD, or other doctoral program in biomedical or health sciences, or;
- Aspire to contribute to biotechnology, pharmaceutical, or healthcare industries focused on aging, longevity, or age-related disease
- Want hands-on experience in cutting-edge laboratories, working alongside leading scientists in geroscience
- Are motivated to connect molecular discoveries to real-world impact on healthspan and quality of life
This program attracts curious, driven, and research-oriented students who want to push the boundaries of what’s possible in human aging and health.
Why Study at USC Leonard Davis?
Grounded in Biology, Focused on Aging
Our curriculum is designed for students who want to understand the fundamental science of aging, from mitochondrial signaling and molecular pathways to neurobiology and age-related disease.
Hands-On Laboratory Experience
Through mentored research that will culminate in a published master’s thesis, you’ll gain practical skills and the opportunity to align with leading USC investigators in the field of geroscience.
Learn from Global Leaders
The USC Leonard Davis School is home to internationally recognized faculty pioneering breakthroughs in genetics, nutrition, neuroscience, and cellular aging.
Our research and development teams investigate areas such as:
- Alzheimer’s disease, dementia, and other memory issues
- Bioinformatics, biology, genomics, and the genetics of aging
- Demography and sociology of aging, social determinants of health, differences in health outcomes between groups
- Drug discovery and development
- Healthy aging, personalized nutrition and nutrigenomics, disease prevention, stress adaptation, and resistance
- Longevity and mechanisms in aging
- Neuroscience, cognition, and brain aging
- Biological hallmarks of aging
Launch Your Career in Science and Health
Graduates are prepared to pursue doctoral study or careers in biotechnology, pharmaceuticals, academic research, and healthcare innovation; fields shaping the future of aging and longevity.
A Legacy of Innovation
As the world’s first school of gerontology, USC has been at the forefront of aging research and education for over 45 years. Join a growing community in Los Angeles, a global hub for biotechnology and healthcare innovation, leading the way in understanding and redefining the human lifespan.
How Do I Earn My MSAB at USC Leonard Davis?
The MSAB degree is a 32-36-unit, research-intensive program. Students will participate in directed research in laboratories to complete a master’s thesis. Students typically complete the degree in two years of full-time study and is a fully residential program.
Admission Requirements
- Minimum 3.0 GPA
- Complete supplemental application included as part of university application
- In your university application, you must upload your resume and statement of interest
- 2 letters of recommendation, either uploaded in your university application or mailed separately by your recommenders
- Official transcripts should be mailed directly to our office, or submitted electronically. Students must declare all schools on the application and submit transcripts from all institutions attended (even if it was for just one semester) after high school:
USC Leonard Davis School of Gerontology
Office of Admission and Student Services
3715 McClintock Avenue
Los Angeles, CA 90089-0191
On your university application, include your scholarship application—merit-based scholarships are available to qualified applicants. The GRE may be waived by having strong academics. If the GRE is required, you will be notified during the review process.
STATEMENT OF INTEREST
Your statement of interest plays an important role in helping our faculty consider your application for graduate study. The following prompt is designed to help you but is not an exhaustive list of information you should include in your statement. We recommend that your statement is within three to five double-spaced pages. The statement should be uploaded as part of the university application.
- Tell us why you chose to apply to the USC Leonard Davis School of Gerontology
- Tell us about your experiences in gerontology
- Describe your educational and career goals
- Please describe your strengths and weaknesses
Request Information Interested in learning more about a program? Contact an advisor using this form below.
Learn more and apply
Our community of ambitious students, eminent faculty and renowned alumni is waiting for you to join us. Our advisory team is ready to answer all your questions. Let’s continue the conversation.
