Master of Biotechnology
Program Details

Program Costs

Complete the Master of Biotechnology in five semesters, thanks to guaranteed class availability that ensures no delays in your educational journey. The program consists of 40 units, priced at $900 per unit, with tuition discounts available for active-duty military personnel.

Invest In Your Future: A Breakdown of Your Educational Journey's Cost

Semester	Units	Subtotal*
Fall Semester 1	9	$8,100
Spring Semester 1	11	$9,900
Summer Semester	6	$5,400
Fall Semester 2	8	$7,200
Spring Semester 2	6	$5,400
Total	40	$36,000

*Not all university semester fees are included in this table—see the comprehensive breakdown of Extended Learning fees. Semester tuition subtotals are based on a sample program sequence. All quoted tuition rates are based on previous academic years and are subject to change without notice.

Year One

Fall Semester 1

• CHEM 440/L - Protein Structure and Function for the Life Sciences OR BIOT 610-1/L - Current Trends and Emerging Technologies (4)

  CHEM 440: Introduces the fundamentals of protein structure, protein folding, methods of protein expression and purification, methods of protein structure determination, protein bioinformatics, protein-ligand interactions, and protein function. Prerequisite(s): CHEM 341 or CHEM 351. Units: 3.

  CHEM 440L: Provides hands-on experience with methods in molecular biology, protein expression and purification, and protein function. Prerequisite(s): CHEM 341 or CHEM 351. Corequisite(s): CHEM 440. Units: 1.

  OR*

  BIOT 610-1/L: Explores the current and potential future impacts of Artificial Intelligence on organizations and operations in the life science industry. Emphasizes current trends in addition to tools and best practices, challenges, and opportunities in designing projects that implement Artificial Intelligence. Also considers managing change in organizations as a result of disruption, the benefits and challenges of adapting Artificial Intelligence, and legal and privacy issues. Laboratory Exercises will reflect how AI and Big Data is being used in the life science industry. Exercises will provide hands-on experience with cutting edge Artificial Intelligence tools and methodologies used in the life science industry. Units: 4.

  *BIOT 610-1/L offered based upon availability. Schedule subject to change.

• BIOT 660 - Scientific Communication in Technology Industry (2)

  Provides insight and practice in the forms of scientific communication including scientific papers, technical reports, presentations, proposals, organizational reporting/reports, and other communication demands found in industry. Students will differentiate between objectives of the various communication purposes and understand key steps and ingredients for effective communication. Emphasizes basic skills for both written and oral communication and provides practice of these principles.

  Units: 2

• BA 504 - Accounting for Managers (3)

  Introduces basic accounting concepts, vocabulary, and structure. Focuses on financial accounting, which seeks to communicate the financial condition and results of operations to external users, primarily through the financial statements contained in the annual report. Focuses on a user perspective and will also focus on the accounting choices available to companies and the impact of these choices on financial statements.

  Units: 3

Spring Semester 1

• BIOT 600/L - Genomics and DNA/RNA Technologies OR BIOT 610-3/L - Instrumentation, Tool & Technologies (5)

  BIOT 600/L: Provides a foundation in basic principles of genomics and relevant current research in recombinant DNA technology. Includes the relationship between structure, function, and content of genes and genomes, the use of bioinformatics and tools used to discover and identify sequence elements. Appreciation for the role of genomics and DNA/RNA technology in modern society will be obtained by dissecting seminal papers. Laboratory reinforces key concepts and introduces fundamental techniques and technologies being applied today. Units: 5.

  OR*

  BIOT 610-3/L: Explores key instruments, tools, and technologies essential to the life sciences, with applications in research, diagnostics, manufacturing, and clinical settings. Provides theoretical insights and practical skills while learning best practices and overcoming challenges in designing and implementing projects. Emphasizes the impact of these technologies on operational efficiency and innovation within the life science industry. Units: 5.

  *BIOT 610-3/L offered based upon availability. Schedule subject to change.

• BA 506 - Managing Complex Organizations (2)

  The study of individual and group behavior in organizational settings. All organizations must function within the context of their internal and external environments. Managing organizational behavior in this context challenges individuals to understand and embrace workforce diversity, elements of change, effective communication and performance systems. Concepts include motivation, communication, group dynamics, power, conflict, decision making and leadership. 

  Units: 2

• BIOT 650 - Regulatory Affairs and Quality Management in Life Sciences (3)

  Units: 3 
  Overview of the laws and regulations enforced by the Food and Drug Administration and other regulatory agencies related to the biotechnology, pharmaceutical, and medical device industries. Included is the U.S. legal regulatory system, Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act and related laws, Freedom of Information Act, regulation affecting foods, drugs, biologics, veterinary products, diagnostics, and devices, FDA enforcement, product liability, and import/export requirements. Reviews the impact of quality systems and the functions, roles, and responsibilities on Quality Assurance and Quality Control. 
  
  

  Units: 3

   

• BIOT 500 - Preparation for PSM and Bioscience Industry Engagement (1)

  Preparation for PSM Program and Bioscience Industry Engagement. Career preparation for successful entry and development in biotechnology. Community and interactive discussion topics including the business of science, career opportunities, industry and workforce trends, and overview of the biotechnology industry. Intended to help students identify career values and goals and get them on track for being successful in finding a meaningful project for their capstone experience. Students will research potential semester-in-residence sites and develop a plan for securing a project. In addition to writing a resume and cover letter, students will develop interviewing and networking skills, set goals and learning objectives, and learn skills that will ensure their success in their semester-in-residence experience and beyond. 
  

  Units: 1

 

Summer Semester

• BIOT 620 - Bioengineering and Bioprocessing (3)

  Introduction to the theory and application of biotechnology processes for the development of biopharmaceutical and bio-based products. Covers the spectrum of bioprocess engineering, starting from genetic concepts for producing pharmaceutical and other products. The organisms considered range from simple bacteria to highly specialized animal cell cultures. A basic understanding of fundamental bioprocess concepts such as fluid mechanics, mass transfer, unit operations, biochemical reaction kinetics, cell growth and metabolism, heterogeneous reactions, and bioreactor analysis and design. 
  

  Units: 3

• BIOT 655 - Business Law & Intellectual Property in High Technology Enterprises (2)

  Understanding individual and organizational responsibility in commercial biotechnology and the role of intellectual property in a high-technology industry. Business in a legal, social, political, and regulated environment will be explored. Topics include legal principles, contract law, and intellectual property and its protection.

  Units: 2

• BIOT 680A or B - Semester in Residence Project Writing Workshop (1-2)

  Provides the student with tools and a focused pathway to develop and complete their Semester in Residence Project proposal. This process is imperative to the student’s ability to produce a comprehensive final project, defense, and future industry presentations. Units vary according to depth of content and instructional needs. 

  Units: 2

  Prerequisite(s): BIOT 680A. 

Year Two

Fall Semester 2

• BIOT 630 - Experimental Design and Statistical Analysis in Biotechnology (3)

  Introduces advanced statistical concepts and analytical methods for the experimental needs and data encountered in biotechnology and biomedical sciences. Experimental design/conduct, quantitative analysis of data, and statistical inferences and interpretations are studied for scientific hypothesis testing, as well as clinical trials. Explores methodological approaches to bioassay development/testing and provides a foundation for critically evaluating information to support research findings, product claims, and technology opportunities. 
  

  Units: 3

• BA 670 - The Bioentrepreneuer: Science to Market (2)

  Students will learn from successful bioentrepreneurs the unique aspects of starting, nurturing, growing, and sustaining or exiting a biotech enterprise. Subjects will include how to assess a technology product idea, license and protect IP, secure capital, navigate product approval and reimbursement strategies, create biotechnology partnerships, institute biomanufacturing, while maintaining high ethical standards. 
  

  Units: 2

• BA 627 - Business Analytics and Project Management (3)

  Introduces a variety of business analytics tools and methods to solve complex managerial situations. Fosters skills to work successfully in a project environment and accomplish project objectives.

  Units: 3

Spring Semester 2

• BIOT 681A or B - Internship/Semester in Residence/Project (4-5)

  Provides industry experience in commercial Research and Development under the guidance of faculty and direct supervision by a company manager. The student will establish/accomplish goals, communicate work/project progress, acquire broad organization insight, and demonstrate core competencies required for the degree. The experience will culminate in a written project document and an oral presentation to fellow students, faculty, and company representatives on assigned work and project.

  Units: 4-5

• BIOT 675 - BioScience Beyond the Border (2)

  Exposes students to the needs of participating in today’s global life science enterprise, including the interconnection between local and global processes. Addresses the need for understanding cultures and practices of other countries that impact essential relations, behavior, strategies, values, and attitudes to negotiate and conduct international relations.

  Units: (2)