Professional Science Masters in Biotechnology
The PSM in Biotechnology at Saint Mary's is a two-year, 40-credit hybrid program de...
Professional Science Masters in Biotechnology
Moraga, California
INTAKE: August
Program Overview
The PSM in Biotechnology at Saint Mary's is a two-year, 40-credit hybrid program designed for both recent graduates and working professionals. It features a flexible structure with online courses offered on weekday evenings and in-person labs and lectures held on Saturdays on the beautiful Moraga campus. The program emphasizes a small cohort model, fostering close mentorship and collaborative learning. It culminates in an MS degree, providing a blend of advanced science instruction and MBA-level business training, along with real-world internship experience.
STEM-Designated: Yes, the Professional Science Master's (PSM) in Biotechnology at Saint Mary's College of California is a STEM-designated program. This is a significant advantage, particularly for international students on F-1 visas, as it allows them to apply for a 24-month extension to their Optional Practical Training (OPT) period, resulting in up to 36 months of temporary work authorization in the U.S. post-graduation. This extended period provides valuable opportunities for professional experience in the competitive biotech industry.
Curriculum: The curriculum is conscientiously designed to provide a comprehensive understanding of both scientific principles and business strategies in biotechnology. Core scientific courses include Advanced Molecular Biology, Advanced Techniques in Biochemistry and Cell Biology (with hands-on lab experience), Bioinformatics, and Advanced Research Methods in Biotechnology. These are interwoven with business-focused courses such as Project Management, Financial and Managerial Accounting, and Organizations and Management of Life Science Companies. A unique aspect is the strong emphasis on Ethical, Legal, and Social Issues in Biotechnology, ensuring a holistic understanding of the field's broader implications. The program requires four credits of internship experience or a capstone experience, providing vital real-world application.
Research Focus: The PSM in Biotechnology at Saint Mary's College of California integrates an applied research focus throughout its curriculum. Students sharpen their science technique skills through hands-on laboratory experiences in courses like Advanced Techniques in Biochemistry and Cell Biology, gaining proficiency in biochemical techniques like protein purification and liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry. The program's design, which includes an internship or capstone experience, ensures that students apply their theoretical knowledge to real-world problems. While not solely a theoretical research program, it emphasizes critical evaluation of scientific research and effective communication of findings, preparing students for roles that require data analysis and problem-solving in the biotech industry.
Industry Engagement: Saint Mary's College strongly emphasizes industry engagement in its PSM in Biotechnology program. The curriculum is shaped by actual leaders in the industry, including an advisory board composed of distinguished Bay Area professionals from top biotech companies like Genentech. This ensures the program's relevance and prepares graduates for success in the field. The mandatory internship component provides invaluable real-world experience with Bay Area industry leaders, allowing students to apply their knowledge in a professional setting and build critical networks before graduation. This direct exposure to the industry is a cornerstone of the program's practical orientation.
Global Perspective: Saint Mary's PSM in Biotechnology program values the intellectual and cultural diversity that international students bring to the classroom, actively encouraging their application. While not explicitly detailing specific global coursework, the very nature of the biotechnology industry is inherently global, dealing with universal health challenges, international research collaborations, and global regulatory frameworks. The program's commitment to "social justice" and understanding the "human side of biotechnology" often extends to considering global health disparities and ethical considerations in a worldwide context. The STEM designation further facilitates a global perspective by allowing international graduates to gain substantial work experience in the U.S., enhancing their competitiveness in the global biotechnology market.
Location
Moraga, California
Score
IELTS 6.5
Tuition Fee
USD 24266
Postgraduate Entry Requirements
Academic Qualifications: Applicants for postgraduate programs typically require a minimum academic achievement of 70% or above in their bachelor's degree.
English Language Proficiency:
- IELTS: Overall band score of 6.5 or 7.0 with a minimum of 6.0 in each component.
- TOEFL: Overall score of 79 or higher.
- PTE: Overall score of 58 or higher.
- DET (Duolingo English Test): Minimum score of 110.
Saint Mary's College of California is dedicated to making high-quality education accessible and affordable for students from around the world. To support this commitment, the college offers a range of scholarships and financial aid opportunities specifically for international students who demonstrate academic excellence, leadership potential, and a desire to make a meaningful impact in their communities.
International Excellence Scholarship: This competitive award recognizes exceptional international students who exhibit outstanding academic performance and global leadership. Students selected for the International Excellence Scholarship may receive additional financial support beyond standard merit scholarships. Selection is based on a holistic review of the application, essays, and achievements.
Need-Based Financial Aid: While financial aid for international students is limited, some need-based assistance may be available on a case-by-case basis. Students are encouraged to communicate directly with the Office of Admissions and Financial Aid to explore all available options.
Graduate Scholarships and Assistantships: International students applying to graduate programs at Saint Mary’s such as those in business, education, and leadership may be eligible for program-specific scholarships, graduate assistantships, or departmental funding. These awards often help offset tuition costs and may include opportunities for on-campus employment or research assistant roles.
Saint Mary's College of California's Professional Science Master's (PSM) in Biotechnology is strategically designed to bridge the crucial gap between cutting-edge scientific innovation and the essential business acumen required for success in the dynamic biotechnology industry. Located in the thriving Bay Area, a global biotech hub, this STEM-designated program prepares graduates for diverse roles that demand both scientific depth and managerial expertise.
Research Associate / Associate Scientist: These roles are fundamental to biotech R&D. Graduates will apply their advanced molecular biology, biochemistry, and cell biology skills in laboratory settings to conduct experiments, collect and analyze data, and contribute to scientific discovery and product development.
Project Manager (Biotechnology/Life Sciences): Leveraging the program's strong emphasis on project management, graduates can oversee complex scientific projects from conception to completion. This involves coordinating multidisciplinary teams, managing timelines and budgets, and ensuring projects meet scientific and business objectives.
Business Development Manager (Biotech): With their dual understanding of science and business, graduates can identify new market opportunities, forge strategic partnerships, and secure funding for biotechnology companies. They are crucial in expanding a company's reach and portfolio.
Regulatory Affairs Specialist: This role is vital for ensuring that biotech products and processes comply with intricate government regulations (e.g., FDA). Graduates will prepare regulatory submissions, interpret guidelines, and facilitate the approval of new drugs, medical devices, or therapies.
Quality Assurance/Quality Control (QA/QC) Specialist: Ensuring the safety, efficacy, and quality of biotech products is paramount. Graduates will implement and monitor quality management systems, conduct audits, and ensure adherence to Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP) and other industry standards.
Clinical Research Coordinator/Associate: These professionals play a key role in managing clinical trials for new drugs or treatments. They coordinate patient recruitment, data collection, and ensure compliance with study protocols and ethical guidelines.
Bioinformatics Analyst/Scientist: With coursework in bioinformatics, graduates can analyze large biological datasets (genomic, proteomic, clinical) using computational tools. They extract meaningful insights that can drive drug discovery, personalized medicine, and biomarker identification.
Product Manager (Biotech Products): Similar to general product managers, but with a specific focus on life science products (e.g., diagnostic kits, lab reagents, therapeutic tools). They manage the product lifecycle, from market research and development to commercialization, understanding both scientific utility and market demand.
Technical Sales/Applications Scientist: These roles combine scientific expertise with commercial skills. Graduates demonstrate and explain complex biotech products or services to potential clients, provide technical support, and assist in driving sales based on a deep understanding of the scientific applications.
Science Communicator/Medical Writer: Leveraging their strong understanding of scientific concepts and the ethical considerations within biotechnology, graduates can translate complex scientific information into accessible content for diverse audiences (e.g., scientific papers, grant proposals, marketing materials, patient education).
