Frequently Asked Questions
What are the admissions requirements for the Master of Biotechnology (MB)?
- Completion of an undergraduate program at an accredited U.S. college or its equivalent in another country.
- Results of the Graduate Record Exam (GRE).
- Results of the TOEFL test if your native language is not English or if you did not complete a degree program in which English was the language of instruction.
- Completion of the Biotechnology application.
In addition to the above, the Master of Biotechnology program is looking for students with at least one undergraduate course in molecular biology (Penn's course Biol 221 or equivalent) and a year of college-level calculus. (Course descriptions available at http://www.upenn.edu/registrar/register/)
Admission is based on a variety of factors in your application including your personal statement, undergraduate academic profile, recommendations, prior research or work experience, etc. Therefore a degree in a specific discipline is not a requirement for admission.
Can I apply if I do not meet the requirements for the MB Program?
Depending on your qualifications, most likely the answer is "Yes". Since Penn offers Molecular Biology you may take this course prior to enrolling in graduate level Biotechnology courses. For Biotech students who do not have a deep background in biology, Penn offers a half-credit biology primer course as a supplement. Self-study is also an option. The Biotechnology Office may be able to recommend texts.
Please see the Master's Program Curriculum page on the Penn Biotechnology website for a listing of course requirements for the different tracks of study. Prospective applicants are encouraged to review the curriculum and the course descriptions (http://www.upenn.edu/registrar/register/) to gauge their readiness for the program.
How do I apply to the Master of Biotechnology Program?
Applications are accepted on-line only. To apply, go to the Admissions page on this website and click the Penn ExpressApp link.
How long does it take for the Application Review Committee to reach a decision on my application?
Once we receive your application materials, decisions are generally processed within 30-60 days. Decision notices are mailed from the Graduate Admissions Office for the School of Engineering and Applied Science (SEAS). We are unable to disclose admissions decisions by phone or email.
How long will it take me to finish the MB degree? Is there a part-time option?
Eleven credit units are required for the MB program. Generally, each individual course is counted as one credit unit, although some courses may only count for half a credit unit. Full-time students typically can complete the program in three semesters. Students may opt to study part-time; part-time students can complete the program within two to three years, depending on the student’s individual circumstances and selected concentration. Students may switch from full-time to part-time status and vice-versa as needed.
How much is the tuition for the program?
The Master of Biotechnology degree is awarded by the School of Engineering and Applied Science. Tuition rates and fees for the program are administered by the School of Engineering and are subject to change. For current tuition rates and fees please click the following link:
School of Engineering and Applied Science - Tuition Rates & Fees*
*Tuition and fees are posted as a guide and are subject to change.
Students are charged on a semester basis by the University of Pennsylvania and will be billed for each registered credit unit. See the Graduate Student Handbook for more information.
Is financial assistance available?
The Biotechnology Program is considered a "professional" degree and does not offer a PhD track; therefore the student is responsible for payment of all tuition. The School of Engineering does not offer scholarships or alternative means of tuition to students in the Biotechnology Program. For more information on Federal and commercial student loans, please visit Penn Student Financial Services. Full time employees of the University of Pennsylvania and the Hospital of the University of Pennsylvania should contact their business office for information about the Tuition Benefit Program.
What types of lab or internship opportunities are available?
Biotech students have the opportunity to conduct independent study with Penn faculty in labs on-campus. Many students pursue internship opportunities with local biotechnology companies off-campus as well. The MB program has relationships with selected local biotechnology companies to sponsor internships which provide students with employment experience in addition to lab experience.
The Philadelphia area is home to many large biotechnology and pharmaceutical firms, including GlaxoSmithKline, Johnson & Johnson/Centocor, Cephalon, Wyeth, Merck, Bristol-Myers Squibb and DuPont. Over 70 biotechnology startups exist within a 50-mile radius of Penn's campus. Location in this strong biotechnology sector offers both students and graduates many possibilities for internships and jobs where they can apply their biotechnology knowledge.
What resources are available for international students?
Please refer to Penn’s Office of International Programs. This office is dedicated to providing international students with information on immigration, housing and other pertinent issues.
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