Courses are expected to start in September 2019 pending approval from the Higher Learning Commission, one of six regional institutional accreditors in the United States.

MADISON, Wis.—April 5, 2019—The University of Wisconsin System Board of Regents has granted its approval to offer an 11-course, 31-credit online master of science degree in the high-growth field of biotechnology. The new graduate degree is a collaborative partnership of University of Wisconsin Extended Campus and seven University of Wisconsin campuses. The new master’s degree program will fill a growing need for skilled biotechnology professionals who know the science, understand the industry and diversity of the market, and have the business acumen to help their organization achieve success.

“Biotechnology is booming,” said Aaron Brower, Executive Director of UW Extended Campus. “Wisconsin has seen its share of that growth, being the home to 75 bio-manufacturing companies and internationally recognized for its contribution to biotech research.”

Designed with input from industry leaders, and taught by expert faculty from all seven campuses, the UW Master of Science in Applied Biotechnology will offer a rigorous, multidisciplinary curriculum that prepares students for a variety of roles within diverse areas of biotechnology. Students will graduate with an understanding of the principles and techniques of biotechnology, in addition to skills in organizational leadership, ethics, intellectual property and patents, communication, product development, quality control, and regulatory and compliance practices. Students will choose one or more specialization tracks: Quality Assurance and Compliance, Business Management, or Research and Development. Admission to the program will require a bachelor’s degree. Aptitude tests such as the GMAT and GRE will not be required.

“Everything taught in the program will be relevant and useful to working students. They’ll be able to apply what they’ve learned immediately, on-the-job,” said UW System President Ray Cross. “The curriculum was designed to ensure students learn the skills necessary to succeed in the complex biotechnology field.”

The Master of Science in Applied Biotechnology program is intended for students with a bachelor’s degree in areas including (but not limited to) biological sciences, chemistry, biochemistry, molecular biology, wildlife ecology, agricultural science, biomedical engineering, environmental science, physics, or geosciences; and who have professional experience in biotechnology or related settings, but limited training in the management field.

“We’re looking for innovative, problem-solvers who are passionate and curious, and who want to help bring the great discoveries of biotechnology to the public,” said George Kroeninger, Associate Dean-Program Development and Management.