Master's in Biotechnology
The master's degree program in Biotechnology (MSBT) at ACPHS is a research-based, 36 credit hour program offered on the Albany Campus. Students typically complete the program in two years.
The curriculum includes 30 credits of advanced-level coursework and six (6) credits of thesis research, which includes the writing and defense of one's thesis.
The master’s thesis is a collaborative research effort between the student and a mentor chosen by the student. Thesis advisors and a thesis committee composed of MSBT faculty are typically chosen in the fall or early spring of the first year of full time study.
Program Overview
The mission of the MSBT program is to train scientists in the basic mechanisms of human health and disease. The program is interdisciplinary, bringing together basic, applied, and clinical faculty from a multiple departments to provide students with individualized, cutting-edge biomedical research training. Research areas encompass a broad range of disciplines including molecular genetics, cell biology, biochemistry, pathophysiology, microbiology, immunology, and infectious diseases.
The program offers courses in core subjects, laboratory research techniques, ethical conduct of science, and a graduate seminar course. Graduate level courses are taught in an interactive classroom environment, with graduate students receiving the individual attention necessary to succeed. The primary requirement for the MSBT program is the completion of original research and the publication of a thesis describing that research. The program emphasizes the importance of high quality research and is designed to assist students in fulfilling their potential as research scientists.
Career Pathways
Individuals who hold certifications through the American Society of Clinical Pathology in the disciplines of Medical Laboratory Sciences (MT or MLS), Cytotechnology (CT) or Histotechnology (HTL) or other recognized certification may choose to focus on diagnostic molecular sciences including all aspects of molecular analysis such as recombinant DNA technologies, polymerase chain reaction, hybridization techniques and quantification procedures. Upon completion of the program, they may pursue the advanced certification in molecular biology (MB ASCP) through ASCP.
The graduates from this program will find careers that involve research by government agencies, research centers, non-profit organizations, colleges and universities. The program also prepares students for careers in biomedical technology, health monitoring and diagnostics and medical device development. The MSBT will also be excellent preparation for pursuing advanced degrees in biochemistry, molecular biology, microbiology, and medicine.
Admission and Application Requirements
The MSBT program welcomes applications from academically well-prepared students who have a minimum GPA of 3.0 in a bachelor's degree in an appropriately related program such as chemistry, biology, biochemistry or laboratory sciences. Successful candidates will also have a background or demonstrated interest in working in a clinical or research setting.
Click the following link for a complete list of admission and application requirements, including the online application.
Contact
For more information about graduate education at ACPHS, please contact:
Donna Myers
Director of Pharmacy and Graduate Admissions
Albany College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences
106 New Scotland Avenue
Albany, NY 12208
(518) 694-7149 or (888) 203-8010
