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Online Biotechnology Master's Degree

Biosecurity/Biodefense

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These requirements are for students who enroll in the 2021–2022 academic year. For prior year requirements, visit our catalog archive.

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Master’s Degree Requirements

In addition to the specific course requirements outlined on each master's degree webpage, UMGC maintains certain requirements for all master’s degrees.
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Program Highlights

Develop skills and gain knowledge through coursework that draws from the expertise and experience of our respected faculty.

Develop Research
Analyze real cases of epidemics, biowarfare, and bioethical research problems.
Evaluate Processes
Communicate current trends in biodefense policies, laws, and best practices
Gain Hands-On Experience
Work on a team for a sponsoring agency or organization and tackle a real project.
Develop Leadership Skills
Develop advanced project management skills to lead teams.
Analyze Data
Perform risk assessments and potential impact analyses to handle adverse events.
Proactively Solve Problems
Participate in a simulation of a bioterrorist attack and prepare recovery plans.

Industry Snapshot

This program is designed to help you prepare for work that involves applying policy and using technology to combat biosecurity threats. Potential employers are in the government, public, and private sectors.

287K
Biotechnology Jobs
There are more than 287,000 people employed in the biotechnology industry in the United States as of 2020.
Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics | “Biotechnology in the US Employment Statistics 2005-2026" | 2020
Current Program

Special Designations

Professional Science Master’s Degree

Professional Science Master’s Degree logo

Professional Science Master’s Degree

This program has received a special designation as Professional Science Master’s Degree program through the Council of Graduate Schools.

Professional Science Master's (PSM) programs are designed for students who are seeking a graduate degree in science or mathematics and understand the need for developing workplace skills valued by top employers.

Additional Program Information

  • You must complete a molecular biology course, with a minimum grade of C for an undergraduate course or B for a graduate course, to be accepted into this program; upon submission of an official transcript, you may be accepted into the degree program without a molecular biology course, but you must take either a college-level molecular biology course or BIOT 601 before the required program core.
  • UCSP 605 is recommended to help improve writing skills.
  • 2019, Top Online Master's in Biotechnology Programs, UMGC's Master of Science in Biotechnology, OnlineMasters.com