MS in Biotechnology in USA is an advanced degree program that offers an in-depth understanding of biotechnology, which is a rapidly growing field that combines biology and technology to develop innovative solutions to global problems. Admission to MS in Biotechnology in USA requires a bachelor's degree in a related field such as biology, chemistry, or biochemistry with a minimum GPA of 3.0 on a 4.0 scale (83-86%).

The tuition fee in the top universities for MS in Biotechnology in USA varies depending on the university, ranging from 42,000 USD to 85,000 USD (34 lakhs-70 lakhs INR). Graduates of MS in Biotechnology in USA have a wide range of career opportunities available to them, including roles in research and development, production and manufacturing, and management. Graduates of MS in Biotechnology in USA can expect to earn salaries ranging from 60,000 USD to 120,000 USD (50 lakhs-99 lakhs INR) per year, depending on their job role and level of experience.

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MS in Biotechnology in USA: Highlights

Degree Types MS in Biotechnology | Master of Biotechnology | MA in Biotechnology
Course Duration 2 years
Program Types Part-Time, Full-Time
Intake Seasons Spring, Summer, Fall, Winter
Admission requirements Bachelor’s (hons) degree in biology or related fields from an accredited university | Overall aggregate of 83-86% | Personal Statement/Statement of Purpose (SOP) | 2-3 LORs | Updated Resume/CV | Official Transcripts
English Proficiency TOEFL: 100+ | IELTS: 7.5
Tuition Fee 42,000-85,000 USD (34 lakhs-70 lakhs INR)
Average Salary 75,000 USD (62 lakhs INR)

MS in Biotechnology in USA Top Universities

MS Biotechnology is offered by various universities across the United States. The table given below presents some of the best American colleges that offer regular master’s in biotechnology programs.

College/University Program Offered Application Deadlines Tuition Fee (USD)
Harvard University MS/MBA Biotechnology: Life Sciences January 4, 2023 (applications closed) 84,455
University of Pennsylvania Master of Biotechnology February 1, 2023 (applications closed) 82,962
Columbia University MA Biotechnology March 1, 2023 66,640
New York University MS Biotechnology February 15, 2023 63,060
Northeastern University MS Biotechnology July 1, 2023 49,334
Johns Hopkins University MS Biotechnology Rolling 50,080
Northwestern University MS Biotechnology March 1, 2023 86,495
University of Wisconsin MS Biotechnology May 1, 2023 42,000
Brown University MS Biotechnology April 17, 2023 62,680

Several other colleges in the United States offer various master’s degree programs in Biotechnology. While selecting a college to pursue MS Biotechnology in United States, students should keep in mind factors such as the demographic (proximity to research centers in the USA, university clusters, biotechnological industries etc.) of the colleges they want to apply in.

Why Study MS in Biotechnology in USA?

  • The Biotechnology industry in the US has experienced impressive growth, with an average annual increase in market size of 2.6% between 2018 and 2023, outpacing the overall economic growth rate.
  • The job outlook for Biological Technicians is bright, with employment projected to grow by 9% from 2021 to 2031, outpacing the average growth rate for all occupations. An average of 12,200 new job opportunities for Biological Technicians are expected to arise annually during this decade.
  • In 2023, the average salary for an employee in the Biotechnology industry stands at a substantial 408,000 USD (3.36 crore INR).
  • Some of the top employers of the graduates of MS in Biotechnology in USA are as follows:
    MS in Biotechnology in USA Top Employers and Salaries
  • With an average salary that ranks 8th among Healthcare and Social Assistance industries and a position as the 47th largest industry in the US, the Biotechnology industry holds a prominent place in the American economy.
  • Pursuing MS Biotechnology from USA opens up numerous possibilities for international candidates. Not only does the country provide a congenial atmosphere for learning, growth and development, colleges and universities in the United States offer the world’s best laboratories and equipment for research.
  • MS biotechnology in USA exposes international students to an environment which is rich in cultural diversity. It provides a world-class education, research facilities and presents numerous areas of employment to candidates attending the program.
  • The low unemployment rate of just 3.7% in the USA as of December 2022 presents a wealth of job opportunities for recent graduates.

MS in Biotechnology in USA: Types & Specializations

Master’s degree in Biotechnology is offered under various names in the United States. These are:

  • MS in Biotechnology/ MSc in Biotechnology: Master of Science degree in Biotechnology is the traditional master’s degree received at the end of two-years of study at most American colleges. The two-year program involves theory, laboratory/research work, and paid/unpaid internships. MS in Biotechnology prepares students for a doctorate-level education while also equipping them with the necessary skills to get jobs related to their field of specialization/study.
  • MA in Biotechnology: This program is offered at the Columbia University and familiarizes students with the modern aspects of molecular biology while emphasizing on the processes utilized in biotech and pharmaceutical industries. Candidates that do not want to spend 5-7 years of study on a PhD but want a career in Biotechnology and Pharmaceutical industries, should choose this program.

Biotechnology has distinct specializations in which candidates can pursue a master’s degree. Some of these are:

  • Food Biotechnology
  • Medical Biotechnology
  • Cellular and Molecular Biotechnology
  • Biotechnology Enterprise
  • Bioinformatics
  • Biodefense
  • Regenerative and Stem Cell Technologies
  • Regulatory Science

MS in Biotechnology in USA: Eligibility & Requirements

Eligibility and requirements for admission to MS Biotechnology slightly differ from college to college across the United States. However, the prerequisites and application requirements broadly remain the same for international students.

  • Student should possess an undergraduate degree (preferably finished in 4 years) in related fields of study from a recognized university.
  • Minimum GPA of the student must be 3.0 or above on a 4.0 scale (83-86%).
  • Language Proficiency Tests like IELTS or TOEFL is compulsory for International students with a native language other than English.
  • Student needs to undertake GRE test for admission to most science courses in the US.

MS in Biotechnology Application Requirements

Given below is a list of some basic application requirements for universities in the US needed from candidates seeking admission into the MS Biotechnology degree programs.

  • Transcript of all previous academic reports and qualifications.
  • Scanned copy of passport.
  • Statement of Purpose (SOP)/ Letter of Intent: Students need to specify what their goals and aspirations are and how the degree they wish to pursue will help them.
  • Letter of Recommendations (2-3)
  • TOEFL and IELTS scores (should not be below 100 and 7.0 respectively).
  • Submission of Application fee.
  • Proof of participation or achievements in extra-curricular activities.
  • Academic/Professional CV.
  • GRE score.

University-wise admission requirements for MS in Biotechnology in USA

Top Universities Admission Requirements
Harvard University Bachelor’s (hons) degree in life sciences or related fields | GMAT Score: 700+ | Essay | 2 LORs | Updated Resume/CV
University of Pennsylvania Bachelor’s degree from an accredited university | Personal Statement | 2 LORs | Updated Resume/CV | GRE Scores
Columbia University Bachelor’s degree in Biology or related fields | 3 LORs | SOP | 
New York University Bachelor’s (hons) degree from an accredited university | Overall aggregate of 83-86% | Personal Statement | 2 LORs | Updated Resume/CV | GRE Scores
Northeastern University Bachelor’s (hons) degree from an accredited university | Overall aggregate of 83-86% | SOP | Updated Resume/CV
Johns Hopkins University Bachelor’s (hons) degree from an accredited university | Overall aggregate of 83-86% | Personal Statement | 2 LORs | Updated Resume/CV
Northwestern University Bachelor’s degree in Biology or related fields | Overall aggregate of 90%
University of Wisconsin Bachelor’s (hons) degree from an accredited university | Overall aggregate of 83-86% | 3 LORs
Brown University Bachelor’s degree in Biology or related fields Personal Statement | 3 LORs | Updated Resume/CV

MS in Biotechnology in USA: English Proficiency Test Scores

Top Universities TOEFL IELTS
Harvard University 109 7.5
University of Pennsylvania 100 7.5
Columbia University 100 7.5
New York University 90 7.0
Northeastern University 100 7.5
Johns Hopkins University 100 7.0
Northwestern University 100 7.5
University of Wisconsin 92 7.0
Brown University 90 7.0

MS in Biotechnology in USA without GRE

The Graduate Record Examinations (GRE) is a standardized test in USA which judges the analytical, verbal and quantitative skills of students seeking admission into masters or doctoral degree programs in the United States.

While there are various universities in the US that make it mandatory for students to take the GRE and have a minimum score that confirms their eligibility into the desired course of study, it is not unusual for institutions to neglect or compromise the weightage given to GRE.

Given below is a list of some universities in the United States that do not mandate submission of GRE scores for admission into the MS Biotechnology course:

  • Northwestern University
  • Georgetown University
  • Brown University
  • The University of Illinois at Chicago (GRE not required with substantial work experience in the course-related field)

Other universities might waive-off the GRE requirements if the candidate meets one of the following criteria:

  • Student maintains an exceptional academic history.
  • Student has undertaken or participated in relevant research work.
  • Student possesses considerable work experience in industries related to their discipline.

MS in Biotechnology in USA: Costs

For an international student planning to pursue higher education in USA, being aware of the tuition fee and other expenses they will incur, is crucial information that will help plan and procure (if the need arises) the funds necessary for their sustenance, well in advance.

The tuition fee charged for MS Biotechnology at various universities across America is not the same and relies on factors such as nature of the university (private/public), location, number of credit hours/course units etc. The tuition fee in some of the top universities for MS in Biotechnology in USA is as follows:

MS in Biotechnology in USA Tuition Fee

 

Top Universities Tuition Fee (USD) Tuition Fee (INR)
Harvard University 84,455 70 lakhs
University of Pennsylvania 82,962 68 lakhs
Columbia University 66,640 55 lakhs
New York University 63,060 52 lakhs
Northeastern University 49,334 40 lakhs
Johns Hopkins University 50,080 41 lakhs
Northwestern University 86,495 71 lakhs
University of Wisconsin 42,000 35 lakhs
Brown University 62,680 52 lakhs

Cost of Living in USA

MS Biotechnology in USA costs $15,000-$30,000 per year. And that is just the tuition fee. While actually applying to colleges in the United States, there are many more expenses to cover for international students. Cost of living in USA ranges from 1,800-2,400 USD (1.48 lakhs-2 lakhs INR) per month depending on the type of accommodation students opt for. Most on-campus dormitories come with basic utilities such as electricity, water and food and are considerably cheaper than off-campus apartments which require tenants to pay separately for the utilities.

Expense Type Average Cost (USD) Cost Equivalent (INR)
Accommodation 1,538 1.25 lakhs
Utilities 180 14,683
Food 290 23,656
Transport 70 5,710
Internet 70 5,710
Miscellaneous 300 24,472

Accommodation is available in different modes across American colleges. While on-campus housing is the most favored and recommended accommodation available to international students, candidates can also choose to live in off-campus shared apartments.

Cost of Living in USA

Scholarships for MS in Biotechnology in USA

International students seeking to pursue MS in Biotechnology in USA have access to a variety of scholarships provided by both the government and prestigious universities. These scholarships, designed to help those in need of financial assistance, include the following popular scholarships for international students in USA:

Scholarships Eligibility Award Details 
Rotary International Ambassadorial Scholarships Citizen of a country with Rotary clubs | 2 years of college course work or equivalent Up to 25,000 USD
Fulbright Scholarships for Indians Indian citizen | Academic excellence | English proficiency Monthly stipend, Tuition and cost of attendance coverage
Inlaks Scholarship Indian citizen | Minimum 65-75% marks 100,000 USD
AAUW International Fellowship Non US based women pursuing master’s and doctoral programs in USA 20,000-50,000 USD
JN Tata Endowment Fund (loan) Indian citizens | Bachelor’s degree | Minimum 60% marks 1,00,000-10,00,000 INR
SelfScore International Student Scholarship Minimum GPA of 3.0 on a 4.0 scale in prior studies, must score in the top 15% in SAT/ACT 5,000 USD
Global Student Scholarship Enrolled full-time in an American university/college Submission of 3 essay questions 1,000 USD
TEC Scholarship Enrolled full-time in an American university/college Submission of essay questions 1,000 USD

MS in Biotechnology: Placements

Some of the top job titles with average salary packages after MS in Biotechnology in USA are given below:

MS in Biotechnology in USA Jobs and Salaries
Job Roles Average Annual Salary (USD) Salary Equivalent (INR)
Research Associate, Biotechnology 64,000 53 lakhs
Research Scientist 71,000 58 lakhs
Quality Assurance Manager 89,000 73 lakhs
Project Manager 95,000 78 lakhs
Laboratory Manager 74,000 61 lakhs
Bioinformatics Scientist 81,000 66 lakhs
Biological Technicians 48,140 40 lakhs
Manufacturing Supervisor 78,000 64 lakhs
Medical Technologist 64,000 53 lakhs

Explore: Post-Study Work Visa in USA

MS in Biotechnology in USA v/s MS in Biotechnology in Canada

For a study abroad aspirant, looking for a cheaper option to study biotechnology, Canada can be your study destination. The table below differentiates MS in Biotechnology in USA and Masters (MS) in biotechnology in Canada :

Parameters MS in Biotechnology in USA MS in Biotechnology in Canada
Degree Types MS in Biotechnology | Master of Biotechnology | MA in Biotechnology MS in Biotechnology | Master of Biotechnology | Graduate/Advanced Diploma in Biotechnology
Course Duration 2 years 2 years
Program Types Part-Time, Full-Time Part-Time, Full-Time
Intake Seasons Spring, Summer, Fall, Winter Summer, Fall, Winter
Admission requirements Bachelor’s (hons) degree in biology or related fields from an accredited university | Overall aggregate of 83-86% | Personal Statement | 2-3 LORs | Updated Resume/CV | Official Transcripts BSc or BSc (hons) in Biological Sciences or related fields | Minimum GPA of 3.0 on a 4.0 scale (83-86%) | 2-3 LORs | Statement of Purpose | Personal Statement | Updated Resume/CV | Official Transcripts
English Proficiency TOEFL: 100+ | IELTS: 7.5 IELTS: 6.5 | TOEFL: 93
Tuition Fee 42,000-85,000 USD (34 lakhs-70 lakhs INR) 11,389-55,976 CAD (6.88-33.86 lakhs INR)
Average Salary 75,000 USD (62 lakhs INR) 60,000 CAD (36.30 lakhs)

Pursuing MS in Biotechnology in USA is a highly desirable option for individuals interested in advancing their careers in this dynamic and rapidly growing field. The curriculum of this program provides students with a comprehensive understanding of biotechnology, encompassing subjects such as genetics, biochemistry, and molecular biology. With the increasing demand for biotechnology professionals, MS in Biotechnology in USA opens doors to numerous career opportunities and is a great investment for students interested in this field.

FAQs

Ques. Is USA good for MS in Biotechnology?

Ans. Yes, pursuing MS Biotechnology from USA opens up numerous possibilities for international candidates. Not only does the country provide a congenial atmosphere for learning, growth and development, colleges and universities in the United States offer the world’s best laboratories and equipment for research. MS biotechnology in USA exposes international students to an environment which is rich in cultural diversity. It provides a world-class education, research facilities and presents numerous areas of employment to candidates attending the program. In 2023, the average salary for an employee in the Biotechnology industry stands at a substantial 408,000 USD (3.36 crore INR).

Ques. Is GRE required for MS Biotechnology in USA?

Ans. The requirement of GRE (Graduate Record Examination) for MS in Biotechnology in USA may vary from university to university. Some universities may require the GRE as a part of their admission process while others may not. Given below is a list of some universities in the United States that do not mandate submission of GRE scores for admission into the MS Biotechnology course: Northwestern University Georgetown University Brown University The University of Illinois at Chicago (GRE not required with substantial work experience in the course-related field)

Ques. Which MS in Biotechnology course is best in USA?

Ans. The following top universities offer the best courses in MS in Biotechnology in USA:

  • Harvard University
  • University of Pennsylvania
  • Columbia University
  • New York University
  • Northeastern University
  • Johns Hopkins University
  • Northwestern University
  • University of Wisconsin
  • Brown University

Ques. What is the scope of MS in biotechnology in USA?

Ans. The scope of a MS in Biotechnology in USA is vast, providing students with the opportunity to study and explore various areas within the field. The curriculum of this program covers a range of subjects including biochemistry, genetics, molecular biology, and biopharmaceuticals, providing students with a strong foundation in the science of biotechnology. Some of the areas within biotechnology that students may choose to specialise in include:

  • Medical Biotechnology: This field focuses on the development of new medical treatments and technologies, including gene therapy and regenerative medicine.
  • Agricultural Biotechnology: This field involves the application of biotechnology to improve plant and animal production.
  • Industrial Biotechnology: This field involves the use of biotechnology to produce industrial products, such as biofuels, bioplastics, and chemicals.
  • Environmental Biotechnology: This field involves the use of biotechnology to solve environmental problems, such as bioremediation and the production of biodegradable materials.
  • Bioinformatics: This field combines computer science and biology to analyse and interpret biological data.

Graduates of MS in Biotechnology in USA are equipped with the knowledge and skills necessary to pursue a wide range of careers in the biotechnology industry, academia, and government. They may find employment as research scientists, product development specialists, quality control specialists, and more. With the continued growth and development of the biotechnology industry, the scope of a Master's degree in Biotechnology in the USA is broad and offers numerous opportunities for career advancement.

Ques. Is biotechnology a good career in USA?

Ans. The Biotechnology industry in the US has experienced impressive growth, with an average annual increase in market size of 2.6% between 2018 and 2023, outpacing the overall economic growth rate. With an average salary that ranks 8th among Healthcare and Social Assistance industries and a position as the 47th largest industry in the US, the Biotechnology industry holds a prominent place in the American economy.

Ques. What is the salary of MS biotechnology in USA?

Ans. Graduates of MS in Biotechnology in USA can expect to earn salaries ranging from 60,000 USD to 120,000 USD (50 lakhs-99 lakhs INR) per year, depending on their job role and level of experience.

Ques. What is the tuition fee for MS biotechnology in USA?

Ans. The tuition fee in the top universities for MS in Biotechnology in USA varies depending on the university, ranging from 42,000USD to 85,000 USD (34 lakhs-70 lakhs INR).