How to Get a Master's Degree in Biotechnology

Biotechnology researchers are behind some of today's most exciting and influential scientific discoveries. Applied research combining biology, chemistry, and engineering is yielding high-impact solutions in medicine and pharmaceutical development, agriculture, and environmental science. Examples include human gene therapy, high-yield crops, pollution control technologies, and new vaccines.

A master's degree in biotechnology sets you up for a leading role in scientific research and development or a related field such as education, entrepreneurship, biotech policy administration, or patent law. Graduate biotechnology programs take a year or two to complete and are available in digital format for working professionals who choose to earn a master's degree online.

Planning and clear objectives are the key to success in a graduate biotechnology program. WorldWideLearn.com features resources to help you focus your professional objectives, find the right program, and prepare for the next chapter in your science career.

Guide to Master's Degrees in Biotechnology

Biotechnology is an applied science dedicated to developing beneficial applications for biological and chemical phenomena. The discipline arose in the late-twentieth century in response to advances in molecular cell biology such as recombinant DNA research and cell fusion. These techniques have since yielded dramatic innovation in medical diagnostic testing, pharmaceutical research, and more. Meanwhile, the manipulation of microorganisms has shown applications in fighting pollution and developing alternative energy sources.

Professional and Academic Master's Degrees

Biotechnology master's degrees come in two varieties: the Master of Science and the professional master's degree in biotechnology.

The Master of Science (MS) is modeled on academic science graduate degrees, with an emphasis on independent research and a broad interdisciplinary science curriculum. The degree is designed as a springboard into industry or into a science PhD program.

The Master of Biotechnology is a professional master's degree created to meet the needs of practicing research scientists. The program is course-driven, and allows the student to tailor the curriculum to specific professional needs. Programs often reach outside the domain of science to fields related to the commercialization of biotech discoveries: business, patent law, and public administration.

Joint degrees such as the MBA/Master of Biotechnology take this applied interdisciplinary reach a step further. The dual Master of Business Administration-Master of Science degree, for example, prepares graduates to lead biotech companies, establish scientific startups, or manage a commercial R&D lab.

Learn more about your master's degree options at WorldWideLearn.com's The Master's Degree Explained.

Biotechnology Specializations

Graduate programs typically encourage students to develop their own specialization within standard subfields. Depending on your master's degree program, you may specialize by taking advanced elective courses, completing a research project, or pursuing an internship focusing on a specific biotechnology application.

Standard areas of specialization focus on a particular biotechnology research method, scientific phenomenon, or application.

Specialized research technologies include:

• Recombinant DNA technology
• Protein Isolation and Characterization
• Nanotechnology
• Bioinformatics
• Animal and Microbial Cell Cultures

Biotechnology research applications:

• Agriculture
• Manufacturing
• Environmental Science
• Pharmaceutical Development
• Gene-Based Therapies and Diagnostic Testing

Interdisciplinary biotechnology specializations:

• Biotechnology licensing and patents
• Biotechnology ethics and public policy
• Entrepreneurship and biotechnology business management

The landscape of specialization options changes dramatically from school to school, depending on the availability of resources such as resident faculty experts, local industry, research labs and equipment, etc. Focusing your interests now will ensure that your program aligns with your professional goals.

Career Tracks in Biotechnology

A master's degree in biotechnology qualifies you for an advanced career in professional research and development. Master of Science graduates also have the option to continue on to the PhD in biotechnology or a related field, where they can work toward a career in academic teaching and scholarship.

The commercial biotechnology sector features career tracks in scientific research, product development, sales, business management, and patent law. Job titles include:

• R&D scientist
• Product manager
• Director of Manufacturing
• R&D manager
• Director of licensing
• Quality assurance manager
• Biotechnology entrepreneur
• Business development manager

Alternative career paths may lead to a career in the public sector, communications, law, or venture capital. A biotechnology master's degree qualifies you for a public administration career setting scientific research policy, managing public research funding, or processing biotechnology patents. Or forge an independent path as a science writer or journalist. Or evaluate new biotechnology startups as an expert analyst for a venture capital firm. The innovative energy and investment in this field makes the master's degree in biotechnology a versatile career credential.

Resource

Given the breadth of career paths in biotechnology, a sense of focus is helpful. Use WorldWideLearn.com's Career Pathways to determine which career direction suits you best.

Plan for a Master's Degree in Biotechnology

A graduate biotechnology program is designed to promote your career development through access to expert mentorship and advanced training. It's up to you to identify the resources you need and make the best professional use of them. The following steps help you build a strong foundation for your academic journey.

Step One: Find the Right Graduate Biotechnology Program

With so much variation among biotechnology master's degrees, it's important to research your options and identify the programs that best fit your needs. Take into account the following four factors in assessing graduate programs:

1. Accreditation

Accreditation is a baseline measure of educational quality; this stamp of approval indicates that the program meets standards set by a U.S. Department of Education-approved agency. It impacts the value of your degree in the eyes of employers as well as your eligibility for financial aid. See the Department of Education's searchable database of approved accreditation agencies.

Resources

WorldWideLearn.com partners with educational institutions that meet certain quality criteria, including accreditation. You can search Degrees by Subject for online master's degrees in biotechnology and be sure that each program on the site meets this basic benchmark of quality.

2. Program Format: Campus or Online Master's Degree

Advances in multimedia technology have made it possible for biotechnology students to earn a master's degree online as well as on campus. Decide which program format suits you best by taking into account your:

• Career goals. Online degrees are well suited to mid-career professionals, offering customizable curricula and the opportunity to network with established industry peers. But entry-level and academia-bound scientists may derive more value from a campus program, which provides opportunities to collaborate with professors and leading biotechnology researchers.
• Access to research facilities. Many online programs are designed for students who already have access to research lab equipment through an employer. If you are new to the field, you may require access to campus facilities through a full-time or part-time campus residency program.
• Lifestyle. Returning students typically thrive in a virtual learning environment, which offers flexibility and a self-paced curriculum. Campus residency is more structured, but offers a collegial and supportive student learning environment.
• Learning style. Online learning is asynchronous, encouraging reflection and independent study. Hands-on and face-to-face learners may prefer a campus format.

Both program formats feature advantages and disadvantages. For the best of both worlds, consider a hybrid program that combines online coursework with temporary campus residencies.

Resources

WorldWideLearn.com represents both program formats with information and links to online degree programs and campus education. Search Degrees by Location for campus graduate programs in your area.

3. Academic Programs

The critical phase of your program research requires you to compare the academic resources available at different biotechnology master's degree programs. Factors to take into account include:

• Curriculum and Specializations
• Degree Format and Requirements
• Faculty Interests and Expertise
• Research Equipment and Lab Facilities
• Industry Relationships
• Career Support Services
• Student Environment

Your professional goals will determine how you prioritize these factors. Research scientists depend on a strong relationship with an expert faculty mentor as well as access to appropriate lab facilities. Professionals with specific commercial R&D goals may seek a school with established connections to local industries (agriculture, energy, etc.) and specific employers.

Resources

WorldWideLearn.com features an interactive tool that puts you in contact with schools that fit your academic program criteria. Fill out a form indicating your preferences, and a school representative will contact you to answer your questions about the program. The system saves you time, allowing you to research more schools.

School Web sites publish most of the information listed above, including degree requirements, course descriptions, etc. Look for links to biotechnology research labs, faculty CVs and publications, and industry partnerships.

Informational interviews with faculty, alumni, and current graduate students give you insight into the academic experience, research opportunities, and the practical utility of the degree in industry R&D. If possible, combine these interviews with a campus visit and tour of lab facilities.

4. Program Quality

Finally, narrow your list to five or six top schools that meet your quality standards without exceeding your reach as a program candidate. Evaluate these quality factors:

• Reputation. Check out rankings such as U.S. News & World Report's, Biological Science Graduate Schools.
• Selectivity. Ask an admissions counselor for average admitted students' GPA and test scores to determine whether you match the admissions profile.
• Placement. Admissions departments also track placement data, including placement rate, employers, job titles, and even, in some cases, starting salaries.
• Student demographics. How many years of industry experience does the average student bring to the program? What is the proportion of international students? A diversity of experiences and perspectives can enrich your educational experience.

Once you've taken all of these features into account, you should have a sense of which schools best suit your personal profile and career goals.

Step Two: Apply to Graduate Biotechnology Programs

The next step is to convince the admissions committees of your top schools that you are the right candidate for the next entering class. Admissions requirements vary from school to school, but in most cases you'll encounter these application steps:

1. Complete Prerequisites

First, satisfy any prerequisites to ensure your eligibility for the master's degree program in biotechnology. Standard requirements include:

• A bachelor's degree in biotechnology or a related field such as biology, chemistry, or engineering. Many schools require a minimum undergraduate GPA.
• Basic prerequisite courses, if your degree is in an unrelated field.
• Standardized tests such as the GRE and (for international students) the TOEFL.
• Work experience (required by some professional master's programs)

2. Prepare Application Materials

Most graduate applications begin with an online form, which collects basic information about you and a statement of research interests. In addition, plan to submit these documents to support your application:

• Academic transcripts
• Letters of recommendation (two or three)
• Test scores
• Resume
• Any research publications

Start collecting these materials well in advance of the deadline to ensure ample time for letters and reports to arrive.

3. Finance Your Master's Degree in Biotechnology

Financial aid is a standard feature of the graduate biotechnology application. Sources include the university, public agencies such as the NSF, the Department of Education, corporate sponsors, and private donors. Take these steps to secure biotech funding.

• Meet with financial aid advisors at your top schools.
• Fill out a Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). This comprehensive application covers all federal financial aid programs, from Pell Grants to Stafford Loans.
• Ask your employer about continuing education incentives such as tuition.
• Apply for an NSF research grant.
• Apply for private scholarships through civic organizations, nonprofits, etc.
• Apply for a bank loan, if necessary.
• You can reduce the financial burden of graduate school by choosing to earn a master's degree online while you work.

For more information, visit the WorldWideLearn.com resource page on graduate education funding.

Step Three: Building an Academic Network

Finally, start building relationships with peers and potential mentors. These networking efforts will pay off by providing a solid support network for your studies. In addition, you'll build an insider's perspective on the trends animating research in your biotechnology specialization. Take these steps to establish yourself as an academic scholar:

• Join Professional Associations. The Biotechnology Industry Association is just one of many scientific associations bringing researchers together.
• Read Journals. Major journals include Trends in Biotechnology, Biotechnology, Journal of Biomedicine and Biotechnology, Nature Biotechnology, International Journal of Biotechnology & Biochemistry, and the Journal of Biotechnology
• Attend Networking Events and Conferences. Universities, biotechnology companies, and professional associations sponsor events to support interaction and intellectual exchange among biotechnology researchers. Use these events to build camaraderie and insight into research trends.

The contacts you make as a graduate student will serve you well throughout the biotechnology master's degree program, and well into your scientific career.

Conclusion

Biotechnology is driving revolutionary discoveries in fields as diverse as agriculture, renewable energy, and genetic therapy. Establish yourself in this exciting area of scientific research with an advanced degree. Whether you earn a master's degree online or on campus, you could have the opportunity to work with leading innovators in your field. Plan your academic journey today, and prepare to lead the next generation of innovation in biotechnology R&D.

Sources

• American Institute of Biological Sciences
• Best Science Schools, U.S. News & World Report
• "Biological Scientists," Occupational Outlook Handbook, 2010-2011 Edition. Bureau of Labor Statistics
• Biotechnology Industry Association
• Database of Accredited Postsecondary Institutions and Programs, U.S. Department of Education
• Master of Biotechnology Program, Penn State University
• Master of Science Degree in Biotechnology, UC Irvine Department of Molecular Biology and Biochemistry
• Master of Science in Biotechnology, University of Wisconsin, Madison
• Programs in Environment-Related Fields, The Sloan Consortium
• Professional Masters in Biotechnology, University of Pennsylvania
• Trends in Biotechnology