Professional Science Masters in Biotechnology


The field of Biotechnology seeks to develop new applications and products and/or improve the quality of existing products that are of benefit to our society. The new Professional Science Masters (PSM) program in Biotechnology at the University of Northern Iowa emphasizes strengthening and enhancing molecular biology skills along with providing an understanding of the business and marketing aspects of biotechnology. The program is also focused on developing written and oral communication skills of students so that they can succeed in the various biotechnology sectors in the US and abroad.

 

Overview of program

  • 30 credit hour, 12 month intensive program (Fall, Spring, Summer)
  • Emphasizes applications of recombinant and advanced analytical techniques
  • Promotes effective report writing, team problem solving and communication skills
  • Provides training in the basics of management, finance and accounting for science professionals
  • Allows for 10-12 hours of electives to customize individual programs
  • Culminates in a 4-6 credit hour supervised internship for potential employer


Admission Requirements

Admission is restricted to students with a GPA of 3.00 or higher and a B.A. or B.S. in Biotechnology, Biology, Biochemistry or a related discipline. Students must have taken an Introductory General Biology sequence, Genetics and one or more courses in Molecular Biology or equivalents to be considered.

The following must be submitted in their entirety for full consideration for admission into the program. New applications are accepted only for Fall semester, no Spring admission. Deadline for admission is April 1.

  • Official transcripts sent directly from your current and/or all prior academic institutions that you have attended to the Office of Admissions

  • The TOEFL exam is required for international students. Minimum scores that will be accepted are 575/232/90 (paper/computer/iBT). An official report of TOEFL scores must be sent.
  • Personal Statement describing your background and why you would like to pursue a PSM degree in Biotechnology at the University of Northern Iowa
  • Department application
  • 3 evaluation letters
  • International Application for Admission (for international students only)

Forms for International Admission application, department application and evaluation forms are available from http://www.uni.edu/intladm/

All international application materials and evaluation letters for international students should be sent to the International Admissions Office, 002 Gilchrist Hall, University of Northern Iowa, Cedar Falls, IA 50614-0018.

International students should contact the International Admissions Office International.Admissions@uni.edu for additional information.


Degree Requirements

This major is available on the non-thesis option only. A minimum of 30 semester hours is required. A minimum of 18 semester hours of 200-level course work is required.

  • Required: 18-20 hours
    840:240Advanced Cellular and Molecular Biology (Spring)3 hours
    840:280Advanced Analytical Techniques (Fall)3 hours
    820:209 Business Management for Science Professionals (Spring) 3 hours
    820:215 Corporate/Industrial Problem Solving (Spring) 3 hours
    820:289 Seminar (Fall and Spring) 2 hours
    820:295Internship4-6 hours
    Electives:10-12 hours
    First Tier
    840:121 Plant Biotechnology 4 hours
    840:127 Bioinformatics Applications 3 hours
    840:129 Genomics and Proteomics 3 hours
    840:153Recombinant DNA Techniques 4 hours
    860:154 Biochemistry I 4 hours
    Second Tier*
    840:122 Plant Physiology 4 hours
    840:128 Cell Biology 4 hours
    840:146 Developmental Biology of Animals 4 hours
    840:150 Immunology 4 hours
    860:157 Biostatistics 3 hours
    860:155 Biochemistry II 2 hours
    860:156 Biochemistry Laboratory 2 hours
    Total:30 hours

    *Students having completed two courses in the First Tier or their equivalent, may select electives from the Second Tier.

    • Internships and Employment

    • Industry

    Recent placements include Pioneer Hi-Bred, Cambrex Corporation

    • Government Agencies (Federal, State, County and City)

    • Non-Profit Organizations

    For further information please contact the program coordinator:

    Dr. Kavita R. Dhanwada
    Dept. of Biology
    phone: 319-273-5976
    fax: 319-273-7125
    email: kavita.dhanwada@uni.edu