PSM-specific professional development courses include weekly lectures by leaders and alumni from companies in the biotechnology, pharmaceutical and diagnostic areas as well as from government and academic laboratories that provide our students with learning and networking opportunities. Another key aspect of the training is a three-month, full-time internship.Genetic engineering of microorganisms is finding increasing applications in areas such as remediating contaminated industrial sites and improving agricultural productivity. The Professional Master’s Degree program in Microbial Systems Analysis provides its graduates with an advanced understanding of the complex interrelationships among microorganisms in the environment, their behaviors in engineered systems and an awareness of the legal and regulatory issues involved in their applications. This program builds on existing research and training activities among microbiologists across several University Departments.It is imperative that a cohort of professionals be trained to evaluate the impacts of microorganisms that are used in environmental and industrial applications. This is especially important in situations where microorganisms are deliberately or unintentionally released into the environment. Corporations, consulting firms, regulatory agencies and judicial bodies are increasingly required to make decisions in cases where expertise in microbial biology is necessary to make sound judgments. This professional masters degree program provides students with a comprehensive training in microbiology along with coursework in regulatory and public health issues.