Biotechnology PSM | Temple University

Professional Science Master's in Biotechnology

The two-year Professional Science Master's in Biotechnology program in Temple's College of Science and Technology explores the development of new technologies based on living organisms and their products. Biotechnologists seek to understand biomolecular and cellular processes and then use that knowledge to inform the development of products and technologies that benefit the environment and human health. Breakthroughs in biotechnology have led to advances in

conserving energy,
fighting diseases,
improving manufacturing processes and
reducing famine.

From biofuels to drug discovery and emerging diseases to environmental remediation, this master’s program at Temple will prepare students to be leaders in business, policy and research. Biotechnology PSM graduates interact comfortably with researchers and clinicians as well as managers, especially in the areas of finance, law and marketing. Their familiarity with multiple aspects of the research and development process makes these students uniquely equipped to manage research breakthroughs. The PSM offers courses taught by diverse faculty across Temple University, as well as instructors from government and industry.

There is a significant experiential component of this program, through which students work directly with faculty on real-world projects and gain the skills necessary to solve emerging problems. The degree culminates with an independent research project based either at Temple or within one of the program’s government or industry partner organizations in Philadelphia.

Classes & Curriculum

The Biotechnology PSM is designed for recent graduates and professionals who have a bachelor’s degree or the equivalent in a STEM field (science, technology, engineering or math). A professional science master’s degree places a dual emphasis on science training and professional development, and the Biotechnology PSM is geared toward students interested in technical training and careers in industry. If your interests are more aligned with research or you wish to pursue future academic study, you might want to consider the Biology MS or the Biology PhD.

The PSM can be completed on either a full- or part-time basis. Students are often working professionals, so most classes are offered in the evenings or on weekends for maximum flexibility. Classes are held on Main Campus in close proximity to Temple’s various labs and research support facilities. PSM courses include current topics in analytical biotechnology, bioethics and policy, bioinformatics, environmental biotechnology and microbial biotechnology. Many courses are writing-intensive and designed to allow students to hone their oral presentation skills.

Classes you may take during your degree program include

Analytical Biochemistry,
Biotechnology Lab I,
Ethics Regulation and Policy in Biotechnology, and
Nucleic Acid Technologies.

Learn more about required courses in Biotechnology PSM.

Related Graduate Degrees

Related Graduate Certificates

Tuition & Fees

In keeping with Temple’s commitment to access and affordability, this Professional Science Masters offers a competitive level of tuition with multiple opportunities for financial support.

Tuition rates are set annually by the university and are affected by multiple factors, including program degree level (undergraduate or graduate), course load (full- or part-time), in-state or out-of-state residency, and more. These tuition costs apply to the 2022–2023 academic year.

Pennsylvania resident: $1,252.00 per credit
Out-of-state: $1,628.00 per credit

Learn more about our tuition and fees.

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Study Away

If the demands of your degree program allow it, consider spending a summer or semester overseas building international connections with researchers from other countries. Temple’s study abroad program offers College of Science and Technology students opportunities to spend a summer or semester studying in China, Germany, Italy, South Korea or Taiwan. Learn more about your study abroad options.

Student Clubs & Organizations

If you can find the time to participate while meeting the demands of your degree program, student clubs offer valuable opportunities to meet fellow graduate students, researchers and professionals from science- and technology-related industries.

Clubs and organizations for students pursuing a Biology degree include

the Alliance for Minority Participation in STEM, which works to increase opportunities for students and help them complete their undergraduate and graduate degrees in STEM.
the Biology Graduate Student Society, an organization that develops professional and leadership skills in doctoral students as well as encourages them to participate in public outreach.
Leadership, Education and Development in Science, an organization that empowers Philadelphia middle school students to form an interest in STEM through science experiments and mentors.
the Temple University Forensics Association, which helps students form an interest in forensic science through field trips and professional networking opportunities.

Explore the full list of College of Science and Technology student clubs and organizations.

Accreditation

ST-BIOT-PSM

Additional Program Information

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