M.E. in Biopharmaceutical Processing

Program Overview

The M.E. in Biopharmaceutical Processing is an intensive two-year, 60-credit graduate program. It is designed for students with undergraduate degrees in biology, biochemistry, biotechnology, chemical engineering, biomedical engineering, or related fields. The curriculum provides a comprehensive understanding of bioprocess engineering, from upstream cell culture and fermentation to downstream purification and finished product formulation. A cornerstone of the program is the industry-sponsored Team Master's Project (TMP) or Team Design Project (TDP), a capstone experience where students work in interdisciplinary teams on real-world problems for biopharma/biotech companies. Students also undertake a mandatory 400-hour paid industry internship, further solidifying their practical experience and professional network.

STEM-designated: Yes, the Master of Engineering in Biopharmaceutical Processing program at Keck Graduate Institute is STEM-designated. This is a significant advantage for students, particularly international students on an F-1 visa, as it makes them eligible for a 24-month extension of their Optional Practical Training (OPT) after their initial 12-month OPT period. This allows for a total of up to three years of valuable post-graduation work experience in the U.S., greatly enhancing their career opportunities in the highly technical and in-demand biopharmaceutical sector.

Curriculum: The 60-credit curriculum is meticulously structured to cover the entire biopharmaceutical processing pipeline. Core coursework includes in-depth studies in bioprocess engineering principles, upstream processing (e.g., cell culture, bioreactor design), downstream processing (e.g., protein purification, bioseparations), quality systems and regulation for biologics (CMC, regulatory compliance), and bioprocess economics. The program integrates substantial laboratory components, including a Biopharmaceutical Processing LAB, and offers electives in areas such as data analytics, machine learning in life sciences, and advanced bioprocessing for emerging therapeutics. The capstone Team Master's Project provides a comprehensive, hands-on application of learned concepts to an industry-sponsored challenge.

Research Focus: KGI's research focus within the M.E. in Biopharmaceutical Processing program is inherently applied and industry-driven. While it's a professional master's degree, the program strongly emphasizes research and development relevant to real-world biomanufacturing challenges. The Amgen Bioprocessing Center at KGI serves as a hub for innovation, with faculty and students engaged in projects that address critical areas like process development and optimization, new technology evaluation, quality control, and scale-up for commercial production. The mandatory Team Master's Project (TMP) or Team Design Project (TDP) is a direct manifestation of this research focus, allowing students to contribute to industry-sponsored studies on topics such as cell culture, protein purification, facility design, and regulatory aspects. This applied research experience is crucial for developing problem-solving skills highly valued in the biopharma industry.

Industry Engagement: Industry engagement is a cornerstone of the M.E. in Biopharmaceutical Processing program at KGI. The institute boasts robust connections with leading biopharma and biotech companies, evident through its Industry Advisory Boards and the Amgen Bioprocessing Center Advisory Board (ABCAB). Faculty members often have extensive industry experience, bringing real-world case studies and current trends into the classroom. The program mandates a paid, 400-hour industry internship, providing invaluable hands-on experience and networking opportunities. Furthermore, the capstone Team Master's Project is consistently sponsored by major biopharma companies such as Amgen, Boehringer Ingelheim, Catalent, Gilead, Pfizer, and ThermoFisher Scientific, offering students direct exposure to industry-level problem-solving and potential employment pathways. This deep integration ensures graduates possess the practical skills and professional network vital for immediate career success.

Global Perspective: Keck Graduate Institute fosters a global perspective within its M.E. in Biopharmaceutical Processing program, recognizing the inherently international nature of the biopharmaceutical industry. The diverse student body, drawing from various international backgrounds, enriches classroom discussions and team collaborations with a broad range of viewpoints and experiences. The curriculum addresses global regulatory standards (e.g., cGMP, ICH guidelines) and quality systems that are universally applicable in biomanufacturing. KGI also has international partnerships, such as its collaboration with Biocon Academy in India, which facilitates global understanding and pathways into the bioprocessing field. This global outlook prepares graduates to work effectively in multinational corporations, contribute to international drug development initiatives, and navigate the complexities of a globally interconnected biopharma supply chain.