WPI's online MS degree in Biotechnology is a skills-focused, non-thesis degree program that offers a broad base in the technical knowledge and lab training needed for professional careers in the biotech industry. This blended program combines online coursework with onsite lab sessions at WPI's Worcester, MA, campus. Lab requirements vary by course and are scheduled to accommodate working professionals earning their degree part-time.
Reflection
Also available online:
Learning Outcomes
By the end of this program, students will be able to:
- Integrate broad knowledge of fundamental and applied science of molecular biology and biochemistry in their role as a professional scientist or engineer
- Demonstrate expertise in modern laboratory, bio-production techniques, and best practices applicable to the biotechnology industry
- Leverage the collaborative and interdisciplinary nature of the biotech industry
- Effectively engage in cross-functional decisions with management, development, operations, and regulatory affairs
Refer a Friend
Do you have a friend, colleague, or family member who might be interested in Worcester Polytechnic Institute’s (WPI) online graduate programs? Click below to tell them about our programs.
Info Session: MS in Biotechnology
View our on-demand webinar to be introduced to WPI's online Life Sciences graduate programs. Get an overview of program logistics, what online learning looks like, the application process, and more!
Graduate Studies Series
Learn from our enrollment team members and other guests by attending quick and convenient 30-minute webinars we designed to highlight popular topics when starting grad school. Take a deep dive into specific areas of interest such as how to funding, how to ace your application, student services, and more!
Lab Sessions likely to take place at our cutting edge facilities
Admissions Qualifications
A BS in the life sciences or an engineering field with a foundation in the life sciences, or in another field that demonstrates a knowledge of basic biochemistry principles.
A BA degree will also be considered if the applicant has the appropriate math & science coursework.
For specific application requirements, visit our admissions for online programs page.
If you do not have a bachelor's degree, please view our list of undergraduate programs.
Curriculum
Program Requirements
Students must successfully complete a minimum of 30 credit hours, of which 15 credit hours must be in Biology & Biotechnology. Additionally, the following requirements must be met:
- 9 credits in skills-based courses, chosen from an approved list
- 15 credits in Biology & Biotechnology or other approved department courses for depth
- 6 credits in elective courses, chosen from an approved list
Thesis option: Currently, WPI’s online graduate programs do not offer a thesis option, as thesis cannot be completed online. If you wish to pursue a thesis on campus, it is the student’s responsibility to find an advisor. Please note that depending on the project’s subject and timeframe, there might not be a faculty member willing or able to advise.
Course Schedule
Please note that courses with an asterisk*, have an on-campus lab requirement. Labs will be planned with the working professional in mind. View academic term start dates for online courses.
FALL TERM
- BB 570 ST. Genetic Engineering and Synthetic Biology*
- BB 570 ST. Practical Process Control
- BB 504. Molecular Biology of the Cell
EARLY SPRING TERM
- Skills-based or Science Course (see list below)
- CH 555. Drug Regulations
LATE SPRING TERM
- BB 509. Scale-Up of Bioprocessing* or
- Skills-based or Science Course (see list below)
SUMMER TERM
- MA 511. Applied Statistics for Engineers and Scientists
- Skills-based or Science Course (see list below, as needed)
ADDITIONAL SKILLS-BASED COURSES
These skills-based courses will be offered every other year (as needed):
- BB 508. Animal Cell Culture*
- BB 570 ST. Medical and Applied Immunology*
- BB 581. Bioinformatics*
- BB 570 ST. Genetic Engineering and Gene Expression*
-
BB 560 – Methods of Protein Purification and Downstream Processing*
ADDITIONAL SCIENCE COURSES
- BB 570 ST. Advanced Topics in Biotechnology
- CH 555 ST. Drug Regulations
- CH 555 ST. Drug Safety and Regulatory Affairs
- CH 555 ST. Membrane Protein-Targeted Drug Design
- CH 538. Medicinal Chemistry
ADDITIONAL ELECTIVES
Students can choose their six (6) credits of electives from any department approved by their faculty advisor.
For additional course offerings to satisfy your degree requirements, click here.
Course offerings are subject to change. If you are interested in enrolling, please contact us for the most up-to-date information.
See all the events and webinars that the Graduate Studies team are hosting and attending.
Got 7 minutes? Take this short survey and help improve the grad-school-research experience for you and your peers.
After Graduation
WPI’s versatile master’s degree program in Biology and Biotechnology will give you the rigorous knowledge, practical skills, and hands-on experience needed to launch a successful career.