About Master’s in Biotechnology in the USA
The United States is a major global player in the biotechnology industry. The biotechnology sector in the country is rapidly advancing. According to the research report by Precedence, the industry’s market size was estimated at $1.38 billion in 2023. Ever since then, it has continuously grown, with an expectation of hitting $1,783 billion by 2033, which is a CAGR of 12.42%. This rapid growth indicates a huge demand for biotechnology professionals in the USA.
Additionally, the USA is home to the world’s top universities, such as MIT, Harvard University, Stanford University, the University of California Berkeley, John Hopkins University, and Yale University, which offer world-class education in the Bioscience field.
The USA also houses the world’s largest biotech hub, consisting of multiple biotech companies and research institutions. It serves as a thriving ecosystem for biotech graduates to enter the industry and gain hands-on experience within a few months of graduation.
Studying in the USA means you have access to the most influential biotech industry, the best networking opportunities with industry leaders, and advanced research facilities.
This guide will walk you through the specifics, such as the prominent universities that offer the MS in Biotechnology program in the USA, their curriculum, eligibility to enroll in this program, career prospects, and the program’s scope in the USA.
Also Read: Study Abroad Guide for Indian Students 2024
Top universities in the USA for an MS in Biotechnology
The USA is home to the world’s leading universities that offer Master’s in Bioscience. These universities are ranked based on their rigorous curriculum, exceptional faculty, and innovative research facilities.
We have analyzed and listed the best universities in the USA for MS in Biotechnology, which are also ranked as the world’s top biotechnology and applied microbiology universities by the US News and World Report 2024.
| Universities | Rank (US News and World Report 2024: Biotechnology and Applied Microbiology Sciences) |
| Harvard University | 1 |
| Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) | 2 |
| Stanford University | 3 |
| Johns Hopkins University | 6 |
| University of Pennsylvania | 10 |
| University of California San Francisco | 21 |
| University of California Berkeley | 22 |
| University of Illinois, Chicago | 53 |
| Ohio State University | 57 |
| Columbia University | 67 |
Choosing the right university for your MS in Biotechnology can be overwhelming, given the plethora of options available. That’s where SelectRight comes in to simplify your decision-making process.
SelectRight uses an advanced AI-driven algorithm that analyzes over 8 million data points from 40,000 programs across 4,000 universities in the USA. It matches you with programs that offer a high return on investment, have high admission chances, and are likely to be funded easily.
Here’s how SelectRight works:
- Create a free profile on SelectRight and provide all necessary information about your academic background, test scores, and preferences.
- The algorithm processes your details and generates a shortlist of the best-suited universities and programs for you.
- Compare the shortlisted universities using advanced criteria such as alumni networks, recent placements, and faculty quality.
- Get help from an expert advisor at any stage of your application process.
- Connect with peers, alumni, and faculty from the shortlisted universities to get your questions answered and make informed decisions.
Using SelectRight, you can ensure that your university selection is data-driven and tailored to your needs. Sign up on SelectRight today and find the best university for your MS in Biotechnology.
Also Read: Best Exams to Study in USA for Indian Students 2024 (Masters & UG)
Course curriculum for the MS in Biotechnology program in the USA
When it comes to the curriculum of the Master’s in Biotechnology program, you’ll find that programs vary a lot. Each MS in Biotechnology program focuses on different aspects of the bioscience field. You can explore the core courses, specializations, and electives offered in the different Master’s in Biotechnology programs in the USA to find one that best suits you.
Here is a list of typical core courses and electives offered within the MS in Biotechnology program in the USA.
| Core Courses |
| Advanced Cell Biology |
| Molecular Genetics |
| Biochemistry and Metabolism |
| Biostatistics and Experimental Design |
| Bioinformatics and Computational Biology |
| Biotechnology Techniques and Instrumentation |
| Bioethics and Regulatory Affairs |
| Electives |
| Bioprocessing |
| Regulatory Affairs and Compliance |
| Quality Control and Assurance |
| Drug discovery and Development |
| Biotech Entrepreneurship |
| Environmental Biotechnology |
Here is a list of specializations offered within the MS in Biotechnology program.
| Specializations |
| Biomedical Engineering |
| Bioprocessing and Biomanufacturing |
| Genomics and Bioinformatics |
| Environmental Biotechnology |
| Biotechnology Management |
| Regenerative Medicine |
| Plant Biotechnology |
| Pharmaceutical Biotechnology |
| Industrial Biotechnology |
Eligibility for studying an MS in Biotechnology in the USA
Biotechnology is a STEM-designated field in the USA, which makes it a highly sought-after and in-demand graduate program among students worldwide. The program has a few prerequisites and eligibility requirements, like:
- An undergraduate or bachelor’s degree in a relevant field like Biology, Chemistry, or Biochemistry from an accredited institution.
- A minimum GPA of 3.0 on a 4.0 scale.
- Standardized tests such as GRE (requirements vary by university).
- Academic transcripts and mark sheets of all semesters of your last degree.
- Language proficiency test scores (IELTS, PTE, TOEFL).
- Statement of Purpose.
- 2-3 letters of recommendation.
- Pre-requisite work experience, project work, or any relevant internship experience documents.
- Relevant research experience (if any).
- An updated resume/CV.
GMAT/GRE requirements for studying an MS in Biotechnology in the USA
The GMAT exam is meant for graduate business programs, not the science or engineering programs. Hence, you cannot choose this exam to pursue an MS in Biotechnology in the USA. You must submit GRE scores to pursue this program, as the GRE is meant for several science and engineering programs.
However, several universities in the USA have waived the requirement for the GRE or offered test-optional policies.
For example, a few universities that don’t require the GRE for MS programs in 2024 are the California Institute of Technology, Georgetown University, University of Michigan-Ann Arbor, and the University of Southern California.
The universities that have deemed GRE scores as optional are the University of California Berkeley, Florida International University, and George Mason University.
Harvard, Stanford, and Johns Hopkins require you to submit your GRE scores. Your GRE scores are expected to be above the 60th to 70th percentile for such high-ranking universities.
Also Read: Should you take GMAT or GRE ?
Scholarships to study an MS in Biotechnology in the USA
Pursuing a Master’s in Biotechnology program in the USA can require a significant financial investment, given the program’s reputation in the country and strong job prospects. The tuition fees, living costs, and other expenses can add up quickly.
The good news is that the universities in the USA offer several scholarships to fund your MS in Biotechnology program in the USA. These scholarships can be university-specific, general-scholarships, and international scholarships.
Here’s a list of scholarships for students in the USA:
University-specific scholarships
| University | Scholarships |
| Stanford University | Stanford Reliance Dhirubhai Fellowships |
| University of Delaware | Graduate Research Fellowship |
| University of California, San Francisco | University of California merit-based scholarships |
| University of Pennsylvania | Penn’s GSE merit-based scholarships |
| Illinois Wesleyan University | Illinois Wesleyan University Scholarships |
Other scholarships
- Fulbright Foreign Student Program
- AAW International Fellowship
- National Science Foundation (NSF)
- Narotam Sekhsaria Foundation Scholarship
- AAUW International Fellowships
- Inlaks Shivdasani Foundation Scholarships
- Tata Scholarship for Cornell University
While scholarships can significantly reduce the financial burden, they often cover only a portion of the costs. Students still need to secure an education loan to cover the remaining expenses.
Secure the Best Education Loan with FundRight
Securing an education loan can be challenging, but FundRight simplifies the process. FundRight connects you with multiple lenders, allowing you to find the best education loan tailored to your needs.
What is FundRight?
FundRight is a platform where top banks and NBFCs bid on your loan requirements, offering you the most competitive rates. Here’s how FundRight works:
- Create a free profile on FundRight and provide all necessary details about your academic background and financial needs.
- Within two days, receive competitive loan offers from 15 top banks and NBFCs.
- Compare the loan offers on different criteria and seek personalized help from FundRight’s financial experts to choose the best deal.
- Securely upload all required documents through the FundRight portal.
- Get your loan approved in as little as 10 days.
With FundRight, you save time and effort while ensuring you get the best possible loan terms. If you’re preparing for the Spring ’25 semester, sign up on FundRight today and discover how much you can save on your education loan.
Also Read: 10 Best Scholarships for Master for Indian Students in 2024
Career scope after a Master’s in Biotechnology in the USA
The Biotechnology field is a rapidly growing field in the USA. The demand for skilled professionals within this industry has increased immensely.
In 2021, there were 388,982 people employed within the industry, and as of July 2024, there are 445,005 people employed in this industry; this projects a 14% increase in the employment rate within 5 years, indicating a steady upward trajectory.
The Bureau of Labor Statistics has also projected a 7% growth from 2020-2030 for the biotechnology sector in the USA. Given the leading research facilities in the USA and the presence of top companies like Gilead Sciences, Amgen, and Genentech, many students from across the world are attracted to study and work in the USA, making it a top choice for pursuing an MS in Biotechnology.
Graduates with a Master’s in Biotechnology can find jobs in pharmaceuticals and healthcare, including other industries such as food enterprises, textiles, cosmetics, and agriculture. Graduates with an MS in Biotechnology can expect a median starting salary of $72,842, according to Talent.com.
However, other sources report different figures; according to Zip Recruiter, the average salary of an entry-level employee is $80,000–$100,000 per year, while mid-level employees make salaries between $54,500–$104,000, with top earners making up to $145,000.
Top recruiters in the USA for graduates of the MS in Biotechnology program
The biotechnology job market is evergreen in the USA, with multiple industries integrating biological sciences within their fields and releasing innovative solutions. Here are some top biotechnology recruiters in the United States based within each industry.
Pharmaceutical industry
- Gilead Sciences
- Amgen
- Genentech (Roche Group)
- Biogen
- Pfizer
- Bristol Myers Squibb
- AbbVie
- Eli Lilly and Company
- Merck & Co.
- Johnson & Johnson
Agricultural Industry
- Monsanto (Bayer)
- Syngenta
- Corteva Agriscience
- BASF
- DuPont
- Cargill
- Archer Daniels Midland
- Novozymes
- Bio-Rad Laboratories
- Precision BioSciences
Environmental Industry
- Thermo Fisher Scientific
- Veolia Environment
- Waste Management, Inc.
- Clean Harbors
- Siemens AG
- Xylem Inc.
- Ecolab
- GE Water & Process Technologies
- Danaher Corporation
- Advanced Environmental Technologies, LLC
Healthcare and Diagnostics
- Illumina
- Thermo Fisher Scientific
- Quest Diagnostics
- Agilent Technologies
- Qiagen
- PerkinElmer
- Bio-Rad Laboratories
- Siemens Healthineers
- Hologic, Inc.
- Abbott Laboratories
Bioinformatics and Computational Biology
- Illumina
- Thermo Fisher Scientific
- 10x Genomics
- Regeneron Pharmaceuticals
- Sema4
- Genoox
- Seven Bridges Genomics
- SOPHiA GENETICS
- DNAnexus
- Ginkgo Bioworks
Job prospects and salaries offered after studying an MS in Biotechnology in the USA
The biotechnology industry is a major economic driver in the USA, generating approximately $183 billion in revenue in 2024. The demand for skilled professionals in the field is expected to continue to rise, and graduates can earn an average of $80,000–$100,000 annually. Specializations like AI and pharmaceuticals can push salaries to around $105,000, and experience can boost salary.
Some in-demand jobs in the biotechnology industry in 2024 include Gene Therapy Researchers, Microbiologists, CRISPR and Gene Editing Scientists, Manufacturing Associates in drug production, and Artificial Intelligence (AI) Specialists.
Here is the list of the popular job roles and their salary ranges for 2024.
| Job roles | Salary per annum |
| Gene Therapy Researcher | $113,168 |
| Biotech Consultant | $1,38,428 |
| CRISPR and Gene Editing Scientists | $124,000 |
| Biotechnology Engineer | $121,983 |
| Artificial Intelligence (AI) Specialists | $128,972 |
Many jobs within the quality assurance and compliance fields are suitable for entry-level job seekers. Let us look into the entry-level job roles and their salaries.
| Job roles | Salary per annum |
| Research Associate | $81,000 |
| Microbiologists | $87,322 |
| Biomanufacturing engineer | $91,839 |
| Biotech Sales | $65,000 |
| Associate Biotechnology Engineer | $73,000 |
FAQ’s
Yes, pursuing a Master’s in Biotechnology in the USA is worthwhile. The country is a global leader with top-ranked global universities, a strong job market, and the world’s largest biotech hubs in Boston and San Francisco, attracting students from all over the world. It also offers attractive career opportunities for students in both core and relevant fields within the bioscience industry.
Your salary after completing an MS in Biotechnology from a USA university can be between $81,000–$201,000 per year. However, the salaries vary depending on factors like your job role, work experience, university, specialization, employer, etc. However, the median wage per annum for a graduate with a Master’s in Biotechnology can vary from $37,000 to $165,000 or more, which is greater than the average of other professions in scientific fields.
To be eligible for a Master’s in Biotechnology, applicants generally need a bachelor’s degree in a relevant field, a minimum GPA (often around 3.0 on a 4.0 scale), and may need to submit GRE scores. Additionally, non-native English speakers must demonstrate proficiency through tests like TOEFL or IELTS.
Graduates can pursue various roles in pharmaceuticals, healthcare, agriculture, and environmental sectors. Common positions include research scientists, biotechnologists, and quality control analysts, with salaries varying based on the specific role and location.
