myCSUSM
Prepare for a dynamic career at the intersection of science, technology and business.
Equip yourself with the skills and qualifications for leadership and growth in the rapidly expanding field of biotechnology, with CSUSM’s innovative Master of Biotechnology degree.
You’ll conclude this biotechnology master’s degree by collaborating with industry-leading organizations in the San Diego region—nicknamed Biotech Beach and recognized as one of the nation’s top hubs for biotechnology innovation.
Master both the science and business of biotech with this unique program that combines advanced science instruction with MBA-level business training. CSUSM’s Master of Biotechnology is accredited as a Professional Science Master’s degree by the NPSMA, preparing you to excel in both laboratory and management settings.
Face-to-Face, Evening Classes
Complete in 2 Years
Collaborate With Biotech Leaders
Application Deadlines
Applications to the biotechnology master’s degree program are reviewed on a rolling basis; apply at any time! However, priority is given to applications that are received by these deadlines:
- Fall 2025: Feb. 12, 2025
Quick facts
Designed for Working Professionals: The Master of Biotechnology program is designed for your busy life. Cohort-based
classes are held four evenings per week, accommodating your professional and personal
obligations.
Real-World Capstone: Instead of a thesis, complete a project-based capstone that addresses a real issue with a biotech company. Take advantage of your location in one of the nation’s fastest-growing biotech hubs to gain invaluable professional experience. View previous capstone projects.
Real-World Capstone: Instead of a thesis, complete a project-based capstone that addresses a real issue with a biotech company. Take advantage of your location in one of the nation’s fastest-growing biotech hubs to gain invaluable professional experience. View previous capstone projects.
Attend an Information Session
Join an Online Information Session
Learn more about the Master of Biotechnology program through a brief, informal webinar
and Q&A session:
Admission and Costs
Admission
Admission to the Master of Biotechnology program requires an undergraduate degree with a major in bioscience, chemistry or a related area. View all admission requirements View all admission requirements.
Costs and Financial Aid
- $875 per unit
- Discounts available for active-duty military
- Eligible for financial aid
Who Is This Biotechnology Master’s Degree For?
Does this sound like you?
- Science graduates seeking new paths in the dynamic field of biotechnology.
- Professionals aiming for career advancement by gaining specialized biotech expertise.
- Budding biotech entrepreneurs eager to innovate and start their own ventures.
- Aspiring biotech leaders striving to gain science and business skills to lead in the industry.
Curriculum Highlights
The Master of Biotechnology curriculum is designed to equip students with a comprehensive understanding of both scientific principles and business strategies in biotechnology. This program integrates advanced scientific coursework with practical business instruction to prepare graduates for leadership roles in the biotech industry.
Genomics and DNA/RNA Technologies
Explore the structure, function and manipulation of DNA and RNA. Learn advanced techniques in sequencing, data analysis and bioinformatics tools essential for modern genomic research. This course covers key topics such as genetic variation, genome assembly, annotation and comparative genomics. Gain hands-on experience with the latest technologies and methodologies used in genomic studies, preparing you to tackle complex challenges in biotechnology.
Business Law and Intellectual Property in High Technology Enterprises
Gain a thorough understanding of legal and intellectual property issues in the biotech industry. Study the fundamentals of business law, patent law and the commercialization process to navigate the complexities of high-tech enterprises effectively. This course provides a comprehensive overview of the legal landscape, including contract law, intellectual property rights and regulatory considerations, essential for managing and protecting innovations in biotechnology.
Internship/Semester-in-Residence-Project
Engage in hands-on, practical experience through internships and project-based capstone work. Collaborate with leading biotech companies to solve real-world problems, applying your knowledge in a professional setting and gaining invaluable industry insights. This immersive experience allows you to integrate academic learning with practical application, developing skills in project management, teamwork and strategic problem-solving.
Careers and Job Outlooks
Position Yourself for Professional Growth
The biotechnology sector in the U.S. is experiencing robust job and salary growth, making it an excellent field for career advancement.
Annual Industry Openings
Projected Job Growth through 2032
Median Salary for Advanced Biotechnology Roles
Potential Career Paths
The Master of Biotechnology degree offers versatility, preparing you for diverse roles in biotechnology, research and leadership across various sectors. Explore a wide array of career opportunities, including:
- Biotech Consultant
- Biotechnology Research Scientist
- Product Development Manager
- Bioprocess Engineer
- Intellectual Property Manager
- Environmental Biotechnologist
- Regulatory Affairs Manager
- Biotech Sales Representative
This degree equips you with the skills necessary to adapt and thrive in numerous professional settings within the rapidly evolving biotechnology industry.
What Do Our Graduates Have to Say?
With the tools and skills acquired through the program, especially outside of the laboratory, I understood more about the business side of the biotech industry, which separated me from other candidates.
Edwin Golez
Staff Scientist, Thermo Fisher Scientific
This program has allowed me to consider the business side of biotechnology. I always thought I would be in the lab doing research, but now I can bridge the gap between the two and perhaps be a liaison. It definitely opens up more doors.
Nathan Roscoe
Scientist, The Jansen Pharmaceutical Companies
If you want to work in industry, you need to know about accounting and you need to know about marketing and other skills. I know I have the knowledge and the skills to broaden my career. I think this will open opportunities for me in the future.
Tannaz Rafizadeh
Research Associate, BioLegend
FAQ
- What is a cohort?A cohort is a group of students who work through a curriculum together to achieve the same academic degree. Because they are accepted into the same program, take their classes together and graduate together, students in cohorts form strong bonds, creating a support system and professional network that proves beneficial during and after the program.
- What services do you offer to active military, veterans and dependents?
- Who is the program director?
Dr. Betsy Read is a founder of the Master of Biotechnology and a professor of biological sciences at CSUSM. She was honored with CSUSM’s 2020-21 Harry E. Brakebill Distinguished Professor Award, recognizing excellence in teaching, research, creative scholarship and service to the campus and community.
“Dr. Read exemplifies the true spirit of the Brakebill Award; she is an extraordinary faculty member who has made outstanding contributions to her students, to her academic discipline, and to our campus community,” said CSUSM President Ellen Neufeldt in announcing the award. Learn more here.
- What is Semester-in-Residence?The Semester-in-Residence (SIR) program is a project-based capstone that helps you put your coursework into action by working at a biotechnology or related life sciences business to address a real-world issue, project or problem. The SIR functions as a capstone experience in lieu of a master’s thesis and runs for approximately 15 weeks, requiring 300 hours of work. It is similar to a structured internship with a very specific, comprehensive schedule of deliverables that you establish in consultation with the CSUSM Biotechnology Advisory Committee and your industry partner. View previous SIR projects completed by CSUSM biotechnology students.
- How often do I need to come to campus for classes?Master of Biotech students are typically asked to come to campus four evenings per week for classes.
- What is a Professional Science Master's degree?
Professional Science Master's (PSMs) programs are designed for students seeking a graduate degree in science while developing business and workplace skills valued by top employers.
Students can be assured that this program meets and maintains the standards set by the National Professional Science Master's Association (NPSMA) to infuse highly valued business skills into a science master’s curriculum.
The blend of graduate-level, advanced science knowledge with sought-after business administration skills produces in-demand professionals ready to meet workforce needs and launch careers in science, business, government or nonprofit organizations.
- What is Credit for Prior Learning (CPL) and how can it benefit me?
Credit for Prior Learning (CPL) allows you to earn academic credits for skills and knowledge you've acquired outside of a traditional classroom. This can help reduce the number of courses needed for your degree, saving you time and money while accelerating your path to graduation.
- How do I apply for CPL?
Start by contacting your CSUSM advisor, who will guide you through the CPL process. You’ll need to provide proof of your certifications and/or provide supporting documentation demonstrating your learning, knowledge or skill acquired through experience. Once the appropriate paperwork has been received, the department faculty will assess which credits you qualify for.
- Can other forms of experience besides certifications count towards CPL?
Yes, beyond certifications, prior experience such as work or military experience may also qualify for credit. Faculty at CSUSM will review these experiences on a case-by-case basis to determine eligibility.
Transform your career with a Master’s Degree in Biotechnology.
Sources
Salary and job growth:
- https://www.bls.gov/ooh/architecture-and-engineering/biomedical-engineers.htm
- https://www.bls.gov/ooh/life-physical-and-social-science/biochemists-and-biophysicists.htm
- https://www.indeed.com/career/biotech-consultant
288 Campus Way San Marcos, CA 92078