Program Quick Facts
Convenient Class Schedule
Take classes on campus in the late afternoon or evening.
Industry-Relevant Program
Get hands-on lab training and graduate in just two years.
Deepen Your Faith
Build a strong spiritual foundation through Christ-centered education.
Take Your Research Expertise to the Next Level
The Master of Science in Biotechnology is designed to prepare you for a career in an ever-evolving field. This program combines molecular biology rigor with soft skills to provide the essential background you need to effectively collaborate, communicate and lead in biotech. Take classes in both biotechnology science and bio-entrepreneurship, and learn from professor-mentors who truly know you and where you want to go beyond the classroom.
Throughout the two-year program, you will hone industry-relevant technical skills by interpreting and executing best practices, prioritizing protocols, critically reviewing scientific research and evaluating concepts from multiple disciplines. Go deeper to expand your knowledge of the industry with instructor-supervised independent research opportunities.
Career Outcomes
Our biotechnology graduate program will prepare you for a career in the growing biotech industry. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment of biological technicians is projected to grow 5 percent from 2022 to 2032.*
Biotechnology professionals often conduct experiments and analyze results in laboratories, offices or out in the field for a variety of organizations, including:
- Scientific research and development services
- Colleges, universities, and professional schools
- Federal government
- Pharmaceutical and medicine manufacturers
- Hospitals and healthcare facilities
*U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Occupational Outlook Handbook, data retrieved January 12, 2024.
The Master of Science in Biotechnology program will equip you to become a skilled researcher or laboratory manager. Learn how to critically assess biotechnology advances and applications through internship opportunities with professionals in this growing workforce. You will also gain hands-on training and conduct research in our dedicated biotechnology lab.
Designed with working professionals in mind, the biotechnology master’s program offers classes in the late afternoon and evening.
Upon completion of the M.S. in Biotechnology program, you will be prepared to:
- Demonstrate proficiency in general biology concepts and theories, as well as in self-selected biology subdisciplines in order to succeed in careers and graduate programs
- Illustrate sufficient proficiency in calculus, general chemistry, organic chemistry and physics in order to understand biological concepts involving these disciplines
- Operate basic scientific instruments necessary for biological investigations such as microscopes, centrifuges, spectrophotometers, electrophoresis equipment and pH meters, thus demonstrating competency in basic laboratory skills, cell culture and field techniques
- Design and conduct experiments — both individually and in small groups — using appropriate strategies such as collect, organize, analyze, interpret and present quantitative and qualitative data and incorporate them into the broader context of biological knowledge
- Analyze and evaluate various types of scientific information including primary research articles, mass media sources and the internet
- Disseminate and present biological data with theoretical and historical perspectives — both in oral and written formats — to a diverse audience
- Use critical and creative thinking to solve problems by compiling and analyzing scientific information from library, electronic and experimental sources.
- Effectively apply current technology and scientific methodologies for problem solving
- Articulate historical, current and theoretical issues relating to biology and society within a Christ-centered worldview that allows for evaluation of the relationship of scientific theories with ethical and religious perspectives, particularly those common to Pentecostal Christians
The Master of Science in Biotechnology program consists of 39 total units and offers a Fall term start.
| Sample Courses | Credits |
|---|---|
| BIOL 540 Techniques in Molecular Biology | 3 Credits |
| BIOT 505 Bioinformatics | 3 Credits |
| BIOT 508 Legal and Social Ethics in Science | 3 Credits |
| BIOT 511 Regulations and Quality Management | 2 Credits |
| BIOT 600 Bioinnovation / Entrepreneurship / Biotech | 2 Credits |
At Vanguard University, you will experience personalized instruction paired with a strong spiritual foundation that fosters knowledge, cultivates character and deepens faith. Our Christian professor-mentors will prepare you to make meaningful contributions in your profession and community, equipping you to lead a Spirit-empowered life of Christ-centered leadership and service.
Accreditation
