Master of Science in Biotechnology
Bridging Real-World Application and Scientific Discovery
Are you prepared to pioneer groundbreaking solutions in the fast-paced, cutting-edge biotechnology industry? This sector stands at the precipice of unprecedented scientific breakthroughs, from gene editing to personalized medicine, and Fordham University's M.S. in biotechnology program provides a solid foundation for a career in this innovative field.
Our innovative 30-credit program is a fusion of rigorous academic study and hands-on industry experience. It's designed to equip you with scientific knowledge, specialized technical skills, and practical expertise essential for thriving in this rapidly evolving landscape. Fordham’s transdisciplinary approach seamlessly blends foundational scientific principles with their real-world applications across the biotechnology spectrum. As a student, you'll delve into:
- Cutting-edge new product development, from concept to market
- Quality control (QC) and state-of-the-art manufacturing processes
- Data-driven business strategies and analytics
- Entrepreneurial skills for biotech start-up management
- Techniques in cell/molecular biology and biochemistry
- Complex regulatory landscapes and compliance requirements
- Intricacies of biotechnology intellectual property law
New Master's Degree to Open Doors to Biotech Industry
Why Choose Fordham's Biotech Degree?
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Students can choose from specialty tracks focused on the industry's most dynamic and high-growth sectors. A key feature of our program is interdisciplinary instruction from our esteemed faculty across various disciplines and schools, including Fordham’s Gabelli School of Business and Law School:
- Business & Law/Regulatory: Understand the legal, regulatory, and business aspects critical to the biotech industry. (available for spring 2025)
- Biochemical and Biomolecular Technologies: Develop skills in the latest techniques and innovations in biochemistry and molecular biology.
- Data Analytics/Informatics: Gain expertise in data management, coding, and bioinformatics.
- General: Select courses from the other three specializations to tailor your studies and expand your expertise in areas that align with your interests.
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Collaborate closely with industry leaders, ensuring you are job-ready from day one. Our students not only learn the latest advancements in biotechnology but also understand how to apply them in real-world settings.
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The M.S. in biotechnology is a registered STEM-designated program, which permits a 24-month extension of post-completion Optional Practical Training (OPT), for a total eligibility of up to 36 months. Please consult Fordham’s STEM Extension page for more information.
Program Highlights
- Expert-Led Learning: Benefit from guest lectures and co-teaching by industry experts, providing you with insights and knowledge directly from leaders in the field with coursework that reflects the latest industry needs and trends.
- Flexible Curriculum: Complete this 30-credit program in one year (on a full-time basis, including summer), or at your own pace over up to three years.
- Experiential Opportunities: Participate in real-world research projects, gaining invaluable experience and building your professional network through established relationships with industry partners.
- New York Advantage: Forge connections with our extensive network of biotech partners in the New York metropolitan area
Program Basics
- Five required courses and five electives.
- Flexible schedule to accommodate working professionals.
- Culminate your studies with a real-world capstone project led by industry mentors in New York City.
Career Outlook for Biotech
Join a cohort of forward-thinking scientists, innovators, entrepreneurs, and problem-solvers. Our students acquire the valuable skills and knowledge demanded by employers, including:
- Soft Skills: Collaboration, problem-solving, communication, and attention to detail.
- Product Development: Insight into the development and production processes of biotech products, ensuring efficiency, quality, and scalability.
- Data Management and Assessment: Proficiency in databases and coding, as well as analyzing complex data sets, interpreting results, and making data-driven decisions to support biotech innovation and operational strategies.
- Compliance and Regulation: Grasping the critical regulatory frameworks and compliance requirements that govern the biotechnology industry.
- Intellectual Property: Expertise in protecting and managing intellectual property, including patents and trademarks, which are crucial for securing competitive advantages and fostering innovation in biotechnology.
- Artificial Intelligence: Understanding the growing role of AI capabilities in biotech to drive innovation, improve patient outcomes, and enhance the overall efficiency of biotechnological research and applications.
- Scientific Advancement: Mastery of standard laboratory practices, cell and molecular techniques, microbial applications, and biochemical analysis.
- Experiential Application: Exposure to real-world environments, which includes in-program project work, group work, research studies, internships, and fellowships.
At Fordham, you're not just studying biotechnology—you're shaping its future. By mastering these diverse skill sets, graduates will be equipped to make significant contributions to the advancement of biotechnological innovations to excel in various roles within the following sectors:
- Finance
- Private Equity
- Investment banking
- Consulting
- Startup
- Government
- Compliance
- Biotech
- Pharma
- Biopharma