| Location | Email Address | Program Website |
|---|---|---|
| 1 University Boulevard, Markham, ON | biot-mkm@yorku.ca | yorku.ca/gradstudies/biotech-mgmt/ |
The Master’s in Biotechnology Management is a stand-alone, course-based, direct-entry 20-month professional graduate program designed for students who hold a Bachelor of Science degree in Biology, Biological Sciences, Biotechnology, Life Science, or related discipline, and have little/no work experience in Biotechnology. The degree will provide students with theoretical and practical training in Biotechnology and a graduate diploma in Management to enhance their competitiveness and employability in Biotechnology related sectors. Students would be awarded two credentials upon completion of the program requirements: A Master’s in Biotechnology Management together with a Graduate Diploma in Management.
In particular, the program will:
- Develop a solid understanding in the latest biotechnology theories, discoveries, and laboratory techniques.
- Build knowledge in pharmaceuticals, standard operating procedures, packaging and labeling, good manufacturing practices, and clinical research.
- Develop competencies in the major fields of management and how to advance organizational goals.
- Build knowledge in scientific data analysis, writing and communication and biotechnology ethical practices.
- Develop the ability to work effectively with others and to communicate scientific and management concepts to a variety of target audiences.
- Develop understanding of the evolving ethical obligations and responsibilities in running Biotechnology organizations.
- Gain practical hands-on experience in biotechnology through two industry paid internships, and an interdisciplinary capstone project.
- Prime students to start contributing and adding value to a Biotechnology organization within six months after hiring.
The Master in Biotechnology Management combines theoretical knowledge with practical application. The program is highly experiential, integrating two paid internships in Terms 3-5, and culminating with an interdisciplinary capstone experience that integrates the Biotechnology and Management components of the degree.
Admission Requirements
The minimum admission requirements are as follows:
- An undergraduate degree in any area of biology, biological science, biochemistry, chemistry, life sciences or related field from a recognized post-secondary institution with a B+ average in the last two years (or equivalent) of academic work. Undergraduate degrees must include at least one course in statistics at the second-year level or above, as well as three courses in molecular biology, cell biology, biochemistry, genetics or equivalent at the second-year level or above.
- Work experience is not required, but internships or prior work experience is encouraged.
- Alternate admission requirement: Graduates with other Science degrees or 3-year degrees may be admitted as well with at least one year of post graduation work experience in a sector relevant to the program.
- Proof of English language proficiency if prior studies were not completed in English: a minimum TOEFL score of 577 (paper-based), or 90-91 (internet-based); and a minimum IELTS score of 7 (Academic Module).
- Two letters of recommendation. Letters can be from previous professors, employers, or other persons with whom the applicant has had interactions and who can attest to their professional and/or academic qualifications. It is recommended that one of these letters should be from a professor if you graduated in the last 3 years.
- A supplementary application form with a statement of interest providing evidence of commitment to advanced work in the biotechnology sector. The statement should include a discussion of the applicant’s background, interests, skills, and career goals.
- And an up-to-date résumé or CV.
Degree Requirements
Candidates for the Master s in Biotechnology Management must successfully complete the following requirements:
- 14 required courses: 5 (3 credit) biotechnology-related courses, 8 (1.5 credit) management-related courses, and 1 (3 credit) integrative capstone course for a total of 30 credits. Students must successfully pass all courses in line with FGS degree requirements.
- Program milestones: Two paid internships that satisfy a duration determined by the employer (total of 12 months and no less than 8 months). Students must receive a grade of “pass” on each internship from their Industry Supervisor/Faculty Liaison.
Program Entry
The Master’s in Biotechnology Management can be completed on a full-time basis. Entry is fall term.
Program Length
The expected degree completion time for full- 5 terms. Students must register and pay fees for a minimum of the equivalent of 5 terms of full-time study. All requirements for a master’s degree must be fulfilled within 12 terms (4 years) of registration as a full-time in accordance with the Faculty of Graduate Studies’ registration policies.
Students are expected to remain in good academic standing as per Faculty of Graduate Studies (FGS) guidelines to remain in the program. Students must also have passed courses that precede the internships with a minimum grade of C+ before becoming eligible for their paid internship.
FGS guidelines on academic standing are available at: yorku.ca/gradstudies/students/current-students/regulations/graduate-courses-and-grading/.