Biotechnology

Our 30-credit hour program is designed to prepare you for a fulfilling career in a rapidly expanding industry, as evidenced by the success of our alumni. Graduates find themselves employed in sectors such as medical devices, diagnostics, pharmaceuticals, bio-agriculture, or continue their educational journey in professional fields (medical, dental, law) or pursue graduate studies. Our Master's in Biotechnology program equips you with the skills and knowledge to reach your bigger goals. Here's what you can expect:

Advanced Interdisciplinary Training: Dive deep into biotechnology, biology, biochemistry, and regulatory sciences, gaining a holistic understanding of this dynamic field.

Professional Development: Develop essential business and communication skills to prepare you for leadership roles in the biotech industry.

Student-Centric Research: Explore your interests through research opportunities, and enhance your experience with integrated internships and independent study coursework.

Personalized Mentorship: Receive guidance and support from nationally recognized faculty and industry experts, including corporate-level biotech executives from the thriving biotech sector.

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Program Information

The Master of Science (MS) in Biotechnology is an exceptional graduate-level program where advanced training in biotechnology, biology, biochemistry, and pharmaceutical sciences converges with high-value business acumen.

Degree

Master's

Academic Department

Biotechnology

Duration

Hybrid program: 6 credits per semester

Required Credit Hours

30 credit hour

STEMup Program Looks to Make Transformative Change

STEMup will fund the development of a STEM-focused network, supporting students from underserved communities. The initiative plans to raise awareness of STEM careers, design training curricula, and establish mentoring programs for students at all levels.

Return on Academic Investment

106.5kAverage Salary

The average annual pay for the Biotechnology jobs category in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania is $106,464.

42%GROWTH IN ECOSYSTEM VALUE

Pittsburgh is ranked among the top emerging ecosystems globally, with its advanced manufacturing/robotics, life sciences and space tech sectors recognized.

10%EMPLOYMENT INCREASE

Pittsburgh has a growing number of biotechnology companies specializing in areas such as pharmaceuticals, medical devices, diagnostics, and biomanufacturing. The industry has seen a 10% increase in employment from 2017-2021.

5,800+LIFE SCIENCES AND HEALTHCARE ESTABLISHMENTS

Pittsburgh has seen significant growth in its biotechnology sector. The city is home to a diverse range of biotech companies, research institutions, and startups.

Featured content

Duquesne's Biotech Club

Duquesne University’s Biotech Club is dedicated to fostering and assessing various facets of the rapidly expanding field of biotechnology. Serving as a bridge between academia and industry, our goal is to establish a sustainable and collaborative network comprising students, faculty, alumni, and professionals in the life sciences. We embrace individuals from diverse science backgrounds with connections to biotechnology.

Hear From A student

Sara Amini

Duquesne's commitment to academic excellence is evident through its renowned faculty members, who have been instrumental in shaping my educational path. Moreover, the university's emphasis on community and diversity has allowed me to forge meaningful connections. Beyond the classroom, the opportunities for personal and professional growth have been abundant.

Sara Amini Biotechnology Student

Faculty and Staff

Donald Very, Ph.D.

Donald Very, Ph.D.

Director, Biotechnology

Neil Campbell, D.B.A.

Neil Campbell, D.B.A.

Adjunct Instructor, Biotechnology

Frank Falcione, E.M.B.A.

Frank Falcione, E.M.B.A.

Adjunct Instructor, Biotechnology

Gary Wheaton, J.D.

Gary Wheaton, J.D.

Adjunct Instructor, Biotechnology

The Application Process

Applying to the Program

Applying to the Biotechnology Program is a straightforward process through our online portal. To be eligible for admission to the program, all prospective students should provide the following:

  1. A completed online application form.
  2. A Statement of Purpose.
  3. Official transcripts from all prior colleges and universities attended.
  4. At least two Letters of Recommendation.
  5. An official GRE score report from the Education Testing Service.
  6. For non-native English speakers, submission of official scores from TOEFL, IELTS, or DuoLingo is required.

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Financial Aid Information

  • All program entrants are automatically reviewed for financial aid opportunities; there's no need for a separate application!
  • Students maintaining a strong academic record (with a minimum GPA of 3.0) and enrolling in at least 6 credit hours per semester are eligible for a Special Financial Award, entitling them to a 25% reduction in graduate tuition.
  • Additionally, each semester offers a limited number of Graduate Assistantships that come with a stipend.
  • For outstanding achievements, the prestigious Bayer Fellowship Award is conferred annually to the program's top-performing students, comprising a scholarship and/or a stipend.

Curriculum

The M.S. degree in Biotechnology is a 30-credit hour program designed to equip the students with advanced scientific training and the essential business and leadership skills needed to succeed in the biotech industry. The program encompasses 21 credit hours of carefully curated required courses that lay a solid science and business foundation, complemented by 9 credit hours of engaging elective course work.
  • BTGY 504 Regulatory Aspects of the Development of Medical Products (3 credits) 
  • BTGY 508 Biotechnology (3 credits) 
  • BTGY 509 Biotechnology Product Development (3 credits) 
  • BTGY 510 Independent Study in Biotechnology (2 credits) 
  • BTGY 512 Bioanalytical Chemistry (3 credits) 
  • BTGY 516 Cell and Molecular Biology l (3 credits) 
  • BTGY 574 Ethics in Biotechnology (1 credit) 
  • BTGY 600 Bioinformatics in Biotechnology and Medicine (3 credits) 

Questions? Contact Us!

Donald Very, Ph.D.

Director and Teaching Assistant Professor, Biotechnology Program

don very headshot