A Professional Degree for Biotechnology
Success in biotechnology demands cross-functional expertise and global vision. Launched in 2002 to address the needs of a growing biotechnology industry, the School of Medicine and Public Health collaborated with the region’s leading biotech companies to forge a curriculum for individuals seeking professional growth and leadership opportunities.
The result is the Master of Science in Biotechnology degree at the University of Wisconsin – Madison, a two-year interdisciplinary program with exclusive evening/weekend courses designed for working professionals.
Program Mission
“To deliver an integrated curriculum in science, business, policy and law preparing students to LEAD the development and commercialization of new and promising technologies.”
To date, nearly 500 students have graduated with this degree. While alumni hold jobs around the globe and across the country, more than half power Wisconsin’s diverse and thriving biotech sector.
Courses are conveniently sited off-campus at the University Research Park and the Promega Campus.
The Students
Applicants with work experience are preferred, but a wide variety of professionals are admitted, including scientists, clinicians, attorneys, project managers, engineers, IT professionals, and sales and business associates. The student cohort diversity parallels real-world teams encountered in the biotechnology industry.
The Faculty
Courses are team taught by a combination of university experts and private industry leaders, providing a valuable blend of theoretical and functional knowledge that students can apply immediately to their careers. Complementing the core faculty is an extensive list of world-renowned guest speakers that offer students invaluable networking opportunities.
Benefit to Employers
The program’s innovative and applied curriculum integrates topics in science, business, regulatory policy and law and prepares students to lead the development and commercialization of new biotechnology products. Project-based courses enrich the student’s learning experience and offer immediate returns to employers.
Program Overview Video
In this 25-minute recorded webinar, you'll learn about the M.S. in Biotechnology, a two-year professional degree designed specifically for people working in the biotech industry or related field. Natalie Betz, Associate Director, shares details about the curriculum, career outcomes to expect, and the application process.