Master of Science in Biotechnology - Portland

Program Overview

The Master of Science in Biotechnology is an innovative, nonthesis graduate degree program. The curriculum of this professional science master’s combines advanced interdisciplinary training in biology, chemistry, chemical engineering, and pharmaceutical sciences with the development of high-value business skills critical to success in today’s dynamic workplace. Graduates are prepared to innovate, collaborate, and lead as research, managerial, or technical professionals in a wide range of biotechnology specialties. The program is taught by respected faculty who are also senior leaders in their fields. They bring extensive experience, firsthand knowledge of industry trends, and assurance that the curriculum is rigorous, current, and relevant.

Students may elect a concentration in which core courses are combined with specialization and elective study. All concentrations feature a co-op work experience with an industry, academic, or government employer. All concentrations except the biotechnology enterprise concentration include a hands-on lab experience and opportunities to take part in independent work in research labs. The following concentrations are available: agricultural biotechnology, biodefense, molecular biotechnology, process science, manufacturing and quality operations, biopharmaceutical analytical sciences, pharmaceutical technologies, scientific information management, biotechnology regulatory science, and biotechnology enterprise. Students who do not elect a concentration will instead choose 11 credits of electives in place of concentration-specific courses.

All Roux Institute programs provide content relevant to the urgent and emerging needs of industry in Maine and the rapidly evolving regional, national, and global economy. Opportunities for experiential learning will be concentrated in Portland, the state of Maine, and the Northeast region. Students are encouraged to pursue co-ops and special virtual Experiential Network projects with the institute’s founding corporate partners, a group of leading employers in Maine.

  • Portland

    Location

  • Full-Time
    Part-Time

    Commitment

  • 2-3 years

    Duration of Program

Unique Features

  • The program content is designed to prepare students for the high-demand jobs and industry needs in Portland, the state of Maine, and the Northeast region.
  • 10 available concentrations.
  • Industry-aligned faculty.
  • Opportunities to participate in hands-on lab experience.
  • Co-ops in which students gain real-world work experience with a leading industry, academic, or government employer.
  • The program is delivered through a hybrid model of online and on-site learning.

Career Outlook

The multibillion-dollar biotechnology industry is diverse, growing, and filled with opportunity. Individuals with advanced scientific knowledge, intellectual flexibility, drive, and professional skills can pursue paths of innovation with the potential to meet critical healthcare and environmental challenges—and to change lives. The industry’s unparalleled growth is projected to continue in the coming years. The result is an ongoing expansion of career opportunities on every level and in every industry sector, from large pharmaceutical operations to entrepreneurial biotechnology startups.

Scholarships and aid

$58.8K

Tuition

Estimated Total Tuition

This is an estimate based on the tuition rates for Academic Year 2022-2023 and does not include any fees or other expenses. Some courses and labs have tuition rates that may increase or decrease total tuition. Tuition and fees are subject to revision by the president and Board of Trustees at any time. For more detailed information, please visit Student Financial Services.

Generous scholarships

The Roux Institute is currently offering generous scholarships to meet the financial needs of all students through its Alfond Scholars Initiative. Each award is determined by an individual assessment. And Northeastern alumni receive a Double Husky Scholarship —a tuition discount of 25 percent.

Learn more about the Alfond Scholars Initiative

Corporate tuition benefits

Many employers subsidize education for their employees. Speak with yours about any tuition benefits your company may offer.

Special military scholarships

For military veterans and servicemembers, a limited number of donor-funded scholarships are available even after all other aid has been awarded to help with commuting costs, childcare, and other costs of living.

Learn more about military scholarships

Federal aid

You can apply for federal aid grants and loans through the Free Application for Federal Student Aid, or FAFSA.

Learn about the FAFSA

Admission Requirements

  • Online application
  • Application fee
  • Transcripts from all institutions attended, reflecting conferral of bachelor’s degree
  • Personal statement
  • Resumé
  • Pre-requisite form indicating completion of at least one course in biochemistry, organic chemistry, and advanced biology such as molecular biology, genetics or advanced physiology
  • 2 letters of recommendation
  • English language proficiency:
    • Degree earned or in progress at a U.S. institution
    • Degree earned or in progress at an institution where English is the only medium of instruction
    • Official exam scores from either the TOEFL iBT (institution code is 3682), IELTS, PTE exam, or Duolingo English Test. Scores are valid for 2 years from the test date.

Learn more about applying to the College of Science.

Admission Dates

Learn more about applying to the College of Science and our admissions deadlines.

Program Curriculum

Please view the Course Catalog for information regarding the program curriculum.

Experiential Learning

Learning integrated with professional experience is a hallmark of Northeastern and the Roux Institute. Students gain a clear understanding of real-world industry needs in Portland, the state of Maine, and the Northeast—and valued workplace skills like communication and teamwork—through assignments at companies and nonprofit organizations. Students can complete a six-week virtual project relevant to their studies through the university’s Experiential Network (XN) of employers, or even for their own company. Or they can apply for four- and six-month, full-time co-op positions. All opportunities enable students to build their resumés, expand their professional networks, and chart a path to in-demand careers.