Master of Science in Biotechnology Management

Program Overview

The Master of Science in Biotechnology Management (MSBTM) is a joint graduate degree program that prepares students for leadership roles in the biotechnology, science, and engineering industries. The program combines coursework from the Department of Molecular Biology and Biochemistry, the Department of Biomedical Engineering, and The Paul Merage School of Business. The MSBTM curriculum integrates courses from various departments, covering areas like molecular biology, biomedical engineering, business administration, and management. The program emphasizes developing the skills necessary for success in roles such as Associate Marketing Manager and other management positions within the biotech industry.

Program Outline

Degree Overview:

The Master of Science in Biotechnology Management (MSBTM) is a joint graduate degree program designed to prepare students for leadership roles within the biotechnology, science, and engineering industries. It combines coursework from the Department of Molecular Biology and Biochemistry (MB&B) in the School of Biological Sciences, the Department of Biomedical Engineering in The Henry Samueli School of Engineering, and The Paul Merage School of Business. The program aims to provide students with a comprehensive understanding of the biotechnology industry, including its scientific, technical, and business aspects.

Key Objectives:

• Equip students with the necessary skills and knowledge to lead and manage teams in the biotech sector.
• Develop a strong foundation in both scientific and business principles relevant to the biotechnology industry.
• Provide students with practical experience through research and consulting projects.
• Foster leadership abilities and strategic thinking in a dynamic business environment.

Program Description:

• The MSBTM curriculum integrates courses from various departments, covering areas like molecular biology, biomedical engineering, business administration, and management.
• Students participate in an intensive on-campus residential program, "Responding to Dynamic Times: Thinking Strategically in Business," which focuses on developing managerial skills through case analysis, problem-solving, and presentations.
• The program offers a Merage Consulting Projects course, allowing students to work on real-world consulting projects with biotechnology or biological sciences-based companies, gaining valuable insights into industry challenges and strategic solutions.
• Students have the opportunity to learn about developing formal business plans in elective courses such as Entrepreneurship or New Venture Management.
• A capstone course provides a comprehensive overview of key management issues in the biotech industry, covering finance, product development, pharmaceuticals, project management, regulatory affairs, and ethics.
• The program includes a ProSeminar course in the first year, equipping students with information and practical skills for success in the MSBTM program and career planning.
• The program is STEM-designated and allows up to 36 months of Optional Practical Training (OPT) upon graduation, attracting companies interested in providing immigration sponsorship to international students.

Careers:

• The MSBTM program prepares students for leadership roles in a variety of biotechnology, science, and engineering-based companies.
• The program emphasizes developing the skills necessary for success in roles such as:
• Associate Marketing Manager
• Other management positions within the biotech industry

Other:

• The program has a strong focus on practical experience, including research opportunities with faculty in the School of Biological Sciences or Department of Biomedical Engineering and consulting projects with real biotechnology companies.
• The Graduate Record Examination (GRE) General Test is no longer required for admission but can be submitted if desired.
• The program offers a robust career coaching service through the Merage School Career Center, providing students with guidance and support in their job search and career development.
• Alumni of the program have found employment in companies such as Penumbra, Inc.