Master’s in Biochemistry

Master of Science
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WPI’s coursework-based master’s in biochemistry is a part-time program designed for targeted, in-depth investigations in advanced topics in modern biochemistry. Our flexible plan of study and individualized advising helps you tailor the program to your interests and career goals.

For a more robust program with additional research opportunities, consider WPI’s PhD degree program in Biochemistry.
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Application Requirements

For the Master of Science Biochemistry, the student is required to complete a minimum of 30 graduate credit hours. Choose between a thesis option, consisting of high-level original research, or a non-thesis option with additional coursework. Hands-on research and lab work will also be an integral component of many of your courses.

In collaboration with a program advisor, you will select courses from biochemistry, chemistry, and related disciplines. Advanced topics you can explore include regulation of gene expression, membrane biophysics, and functional genomics. You can supplement your master’s in biochemistry studies with high-level undergraduate courses, as well as courses in engineering, business, mathematical sciences, and more.

 

 

Focus Areas for MS in Biochemistry

Membrane Biophysics Focus

With a membrane biophysics focus, the MS in Biochemistry degree supports interdisciplinary connections in medicine, pharmacology, and biochemical technology. These connections are critical for understand membrane mechanics, assembly, aging, as well as drug design and delivery.

Recommended coursework for this focus includes:

Item # Title Credits
CH 520 Cell Signaling 3
CH 540 Regulation of Gene Expression 3
CH 541 Membrane Biophysics 3
CH 555 AI in the Life Sciences 3
NEU 502 Neural Plasticity 3

The remainder of the credits may comprise directed research (up to 9 credits), other departmental coursework offerings, or electives in areas of engineering, science, mathematics, or business. Students may make selections in consultation with student-support managers and departmental faculty advice.

Pharmaceutical Chemistry Focus

With a pharmaceutical chemistry focus, the MS in Biochemistry degree develops fundamentals that are critical for the development, analysis, formulation, and quality control of pharmaceutical products, ensuring drugs are safe, effective, and suitable for human use.

Recommended coursework for this focus includes:

Item # Title Credits
CH 520 Cell Signaling 3
CH 540 Regulation of Gene Expression 3
CH 554 Molecular Modeling 3
CH 562 Drug Development Pathways for Therapeutics 3
CH 563 Drug Regulations and Regulatory Affairs 3

The remainder of the credits may comprise directed research (up to 9 credits), other departmental coursework offerings, or electives in areas of engineering, science, mathematics, or business. Students may make selections in consultation with student-support managers and departmental faculty advice.

Custom Focus Area

In the absence of a particular degree focus, students may tailor their MS in Biochemistry degree to fit their needs within the general degree constraints. Biochemistry students will be advised to consider biochemistry-based coursework in the department as well as electives in related areas. Such areas may include biological processes, biotechnology, biomedical engineering, bioinformatics, and modeling including artificial intelligence. 

This degree may optionally contain up to 9 credits of directed research in a biochemistry-related research group. The selection of specific courses and the overall degree trajectory will be developed by the student in consultation with student-success managers and faculty advice.

Item # Title Credits
  Biochemistry Courses and Electives  

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At WPI, students’ work makes an immediate impact on some of the world’s most pressing challenges.

Students work one-on-one with faculty members to develop a targeted curriculum—so they can combine their interests in science, engineering, and even entrepreneurship.

Whether your interests are in biotech or pharmaceutical fields, or in areas such as energy or rare resources, the opportunities at WPI prepare you for your next steps.

Research at WPI is invigorating, exciting, and innovative.

WPI’s high-tech lab bays are organized by research focus, not departments, and invite multidisciplinary collaboration.

The flexible degree program at WPI means your BCB degree offers a comprehensive plan tailored to your professional and personal goals.

Explore Our Research

As you pursue our biochemistry master’s program, you’ll have access to world-class facilities for your courses or thesis-based research, including our state-of-the art Life Sciences Center at Gateway Park, Biomanufacturing Education and Training Center, and its 3,500-square-foot vivarium.

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Explore Where a Master’s in Biochemistry Can Take You

Are you curious about things like MS biochemistry salary, jobs, and how you can push the boundaries in your career after graduation? We’ve got you covered. Explore what you can do with an MS in biochemistry, career outcomes, average salary data, and more on our career outlook page.

Study How Substances Transform with a Master’s in Chemistry

Maybe you have a passion for investigating how substances interact and change? With our master’s in chemistry, you’ll have the opportunity to study advanced topics in modern chemistry like molecular modeling, chemical spectroscopy, and more. Love being in the lab and have an interest in medicinal plant-based chemistry? Be sure to explore our in-demand master’s in medicinal plant chemistry offered online for those interested in exceling in the plant-based industry.

Ready to Pursue a PhD? Consider Our Doctorate Programs in Chemistry or Biochemistry.

Maybe you’re actively in the industry and looking to gain an edge in the evolving, fast-paced environment? Consider earning a PhD in biochemistry or chemistry, which will provide the exposure to rigorous, hands-on research needed to make immediate impact on pressing challenges. Our biochemistry PhD enables students to conduct applied research on nanotechnology, biomedical sensors, clean energy, and more. Are you more intrigued by scientific study of matter? Consider earning a PhD in chemistry which focuses on green chemistry, the environment, and medicine.

Looking for a Foundation in Biochemistry?

Are you interested in the field of biochemistry but just starting your academic career? WPI’s bachelor’s in biochemistry gives you the classroom and laboratory experience you need to gain expertise to begin your career in biochemistry. If you’ve decided to major in a different discipline but still want to explore the field of biochemistry, look into the minor in biochemistry at WPI. You’ll get a in-depth understanding of life processes and valuable laboratory skills that you can apply to your future career.

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