Master of Science in Applied Biotechnology

Blaze a trail in the advancing field of biotechnology.

Every day, biotechnology is working to solve some of the world’s most pressing problems and moving forward with revolutionary solutions. Whether your experience is based in healthcare, agriculture, or industry—the online Master of Science in Applied Biotechnology is an ideal choice for busy adults who are seeking advanced education and need the flexibility an online program offers.

You’ll graduate from the program with an understanding of the principles and techniques of biotechnology, including ethical, safety, and privacy concerns; funding; intellectual property and patents; professional and technical communication; experimental design and analysis; and organizational leadership—all within the scope of the global biotechnology industry.

To complete the degree, you will choose one or more specialization tracks:

• Quality Assurance and Compliance
• Business Management
• Research and Development

Universities of Wisconsin partners in Applied Biotechnology include: UW-Green Bay, UW-Oshkosh, UW-Parkside, UW-Platteville, UW-Stevens Point, and UW-Whitewater.

Coursework in the Master of Science in Applied Biotechnology focuses on developing a foundation in biotechnology principles and techniques through the core curriculum, then, you will choose one or more specialization tracks. There are no electives.

Students are required to complete, at minimum, eleven courses (31 credits) to earn their degree.

• 6 required core courses (3 credits each)
• Specialization track consisting of three courses (3 credits each)
• Capstone prep (1 credit)
• Capstone project course (3 credits)

The capstone project course is an opportunity to gain valuable, practical knowledge through a project-based experience. Students may be able to complete the project at their current place of employment, or another professional organization. You’ll design your project to align with your interests and career goals.

Biotechnology is a dynamic field offering a broad range of careers. Because biotechnology is a diverse field spanning a variety of workplace scenarios, salaries will vary by job, location, company size, and required education.

Entry-level positions typically require a bachelor’s degree in biological or chemical science, microbiology, biomedical engineering, or similar. Career advancement may require additional education, such as a master’s degree or PhD, plus professional experience. Employers will be interested in hiring employees with the knowledge and experience to successfully execute job responsibilities and navigate the often complex regulations in biotechnology.

Positions can be found at established or startup companies, medical laboratories, or at research facilities within a university, government, or healthcare system.

• Research scientist
• Bioinformatics scientists and technicians
• Regulatory affairs manager
• Quality assurance manager
• Research and development manager
• Marketing or business development manager

To be eligible for the Master of Science in Applied Biotechnology, students must meet the following requirements:

• Bachelor’s degree, in any discipline, from an accredited university (min. 3.0 GPA)
• Prerequisite coursework: two semesters of college-level laboratory courses in biology and/or chemistry. All courses must include a laboratory component. This requirement can be met in one of the following ways:
  • two semesters of biology with lab,
  • two semesters of chemistry with lab, or
  • one semester of biology with lab and one semester of chemistry with lab.

Students with a GPA below 3.0 may be considered for provisional admission. If this applies to you, we encourage you to contact an enrollment advisor for more information. Program academic directors may waive one or more of the above prerequisites based on relevant work experience.

Exams, such as the GMAT or GRE, are not required for admission.

You will also need to submit the following application materials:

• Official college transcripts,
• Your resume,
• A personal statement of up to 1,000 words describing the reasons behind your decision to pursue this degree.

If you do not meet the minimum admission requirements—such as having a GPA below 3.0 or missing prerequisite coursework—you will need to submit two letters of recommendation. These can be:

• Professional (a workplace colleague or supervisor)
• Academic (former professor or academic advisor)

Your recommenders should explain why they believe you will succeed in the program, especially highlighting your work experience or academic strengths that may not be reflected in your GPA or coursework.