Masters of Biotechnology, Pathway - 1 Semester

Entry requirements for Postgraduate programs

1. Academic Qualifications: Prospective postgraduate students applying to American University are expected to demonstrate strong academic qualifications in their previous studies. While specific requirements may vary depending on the program, applicants typically need to hold a bachelor's degree or its equivalent from an accredited institution. The academic qualifications requirement generally falls within the range of 83% to 86%, depending on the program and the competitiveness of the applicant pool.

2. English Language Proficiency:  

   • IELTS (International English Language Testing System): A minimum overall band score of 6.5 is required with no band less than 6.
   • TOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language): The minimum TOEFL iBT (internet-based test) score 80 with no band less than 17 is required.
   • PTE (Pearson Test of English): The minimum PTE Academic score required is 55 with no band less than 50.
   • DET (Duolingo English Test): The minimum DET score of 115 is required with no sub-score below 105.

American University (AU) in Washington D.C., USA, is committed to promoting diversity, equity, and inclusion by providing financial assistance to international students through various scholarship programs. These scholarships are designed to attract top talent from around the world and make an American University education more accessible to students from diverse backgrounds.  

Global Leader Scholarship: The Global Leader Scholarship at American University is a merit-based award offered to international students who demonstrate exceptional academic achievement, leadership potential, and a commitment to making a positive impact in their communities. This prestigious scholarship covers full tuition, room, and board for the duration of the student's undergraduate studies at AU.

International Peace Scholarship: The International Peace Scholarship is awarded to international students who have a strong academic record and a demonstrated commitment to promoting peace, justice, and social change. This scholarship provides partial tuition support to eligible students enrolled in undergraduate programs at American University.

AU Emerging Global Leader Scholarship: The AU Emerging Global Leader Scholarship is awarded to outstanding international students who have overcome significant obstacles and challenges to pursue their education and demonstrate leadership potential and a commitment to serving their communities. This scholarship covers full tuition, room, and board for the duration of the student's undergraduate studies at AU.

AU International Merit Scholarship: The AU International Merit Scholarship is awarded to international students with exceptional academic achievements and strong leadership qualities. This merit-based scholarship provides partial tuition support to eligible undergraduate students enrolled at American University.

AU Dean's Scholarship for International Students: The AU Dean's Scholarship for International Students is awarded to academically talented international students who demonstrate financial need and have a strong commitment to academic excellence. This scholarship provides partial tuition support to eligible undergraduate students at AU.

AU Transfer Merit Scholarship for International Students: The AU Transfer Merit Scholarship for International Students is awarded to outstanding transfer students from international institutions who demonstrate exceptional academic achievements and leadership potential. This merit-based scholarship provides partial tuition support to eligible undergraduate transfer students at American University.

AU Presidential Scholarship for International Students: The AU Presidential Scholarship for International Students is awarded to top-performing international students who have demonstrated outstanding academic achievements, leadership abilities, and a commitment to service. This prestigious scholarship covers full tuition for eligible undergraduate students at AU.

These scholarships for international students at American University reflect the university's commitment to academic excellence, diversity, and global engagement. By providing financial assistance and support to talented and deserving students from around the world, American University seeks to foster a diverse and inclusive campus community and prepare students to become global leaders and change-makers in their respective fields. International students interested in applying for scholarships at American University should review the eligibility criteria and application requirements on the university's official website and contact the Office of Admissions for further assistance.

Graduating from the Master of Biotechnology program at American University in Washington D.C. opens up numerous career opportunities in the burgeoning field of biotechnology. The Master of Biotechnology program at American University Washington D.C. equips graduates with the knowledge, skills, and professional network needed to succeed in diverse and rewarding careers in the biotechnology industry, research institutions, government agencies, and academia. With its interdisciplinary curriculum, hands-on experiences, industry partnerships, and STEM designation, the program prepares students for leadership roles and impactful contributions to the dynamic and rapidly evolving field of biotechnology.

1. Research Scientist: Graduates may pursue careers as research scientists in biotechnology companies, pharmaceutical firms, research institutions, or government agencies. They conduct experiments, analyze data, and contribute to the development of new drugs, vaccines, diagnostics, and therapeutics. Research scientists play a crucial role in advancing scientific knowledge, discovering breakthrough treatments, and addressing global health challenges.

2. Bioprocess Engineer: Graduates may work as bioprocess engineers, designing and optimizing manufacturing processes for biopharmaceuticals, biofuels, industrial enzymes, or agricultural products. They scale up laboratory protocols to industrial production scale, ensure product quality and safety, and troubleshoot production issues. Bioprocess engineers play a key role in maximizing efficiency, reducing costs, and ensuring regulatory compliance in biotechnology manufacturing facilities.

3. Quality Control Specialist: Graduates may specialize in quality control and assurance roles, ensuring the safety, efficacy, and consistency of biotechnology products. They develop and implement quality control protocols, conduct testing and analysis, and monitor manufacturing processes to ensure compliance with regulatory standards and industry best practices. Quality control specialists play a critical role in maintaining product quality and meeting regulatory requirements in the biotechnology industry.

4. Regulatory Affairs Specialist: Graduates may pursue careers in regulatory affairs, navigating the complex regulatory landscape governing the development, approval, and commercialization of biotechnology products. They liaise with regulatory agencies, prepare regulatory submissions, and ensure compliance with regulatory requirements and guidelines. Regulatory affairs specialists play a crucial role in securing regulatory approvals, managing regulatory risks, and facilitating market access for biotechnology products.

5. Clinical Research Coordinator: Graduates may work as clinical research coordinators, overseeing clinical trials and research studies to evaluate the safety and efficacy of new drugs, medical devices, or biotechnological interventions. They recruit study participants, coordinate study activities, collect and analyze data, and ensure compliance with study protocols and regulatory requirements. Clinical research coordinators play a vital role in advancing medical science and bringing innovative treatments to market.

6. Product Development Manager: Graduates may pursue careers as product development managers, leading multidisciplinary teams in the development and commercialization of biotechnology products. They oversee product development projects, define product specifications, coordinate cross-functional activities, and manage project timelines and budgets. Product development managers play a key role in bringing innovative biotechnology products from concept to market, meeting customer needs and driving business growth.

7. Business Development Specialist: Graduates may specialize in business development roles, identifying market opportunities, forging strategic partnerships, and expanding business opportunities for biotechnology companies. They conduct market research, evaluate market trends, and develop business strategies to drive revenue growth and market penetration. Business development specialists play a crucial role in expanding the reach and impact of biotechnology products and services in domestic and international markets.

8. Technology Transfer Officer: Graduates may work as technology transfer officers, facilitating the transfer of innovative technologies and intellectual property from research institutions to industry partners or commercialization entities. They negotiate licensing agreements, protect intellectual property rights, and support the commercialization of research innovations. Technology transfer officers bridge the gap between academia and industry, facilitating the translation of scientific discoveries into practical applications.

9. Entrepreneur/Startup Founder: Graduates with an entrepreneurial mindset may start their own biotechnology companies or ventures, leveraging their expertise and innovation to develop and commercialize new biotechnological products or services. They may identify unmet market needs, secure funding, build multidisciplinary teams, and navigate the challenges of launching and scaling a biotechnology startup. Entrepreneurs and startup founders play a pivotal role in driving innovation, creating jobs, and shaping the future of the biotechnology industry.

10. Academic/Research Faculty: Graduates may pursue academic or research positions in universities, colleges, or research institutions, teaching and conducting research in biotechnology-related disciplines. They may pursue tenure-track faculty positions, postdoctoral fellowships, or research scientist roles, contributing to the advancement of scientific knowledge and mentoring the next generation of biotechnology professionals.