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What is Biotechnology?

Get a Master's in Biotechnology

The Biotechnology M.S.

Build expertise to drive innovation in healthcare, sustainability, agriculture and energy.

The M.S. in biotechnology stands out for its flexibility and breadth, balancing knowledge fundamental to all areas of biotechnology with the freedom to tailor your degree to match your career aspirations, whether in academia or industry.

Research is a cornerstone of this hands-on, nonthesis program. Students have access to an array of on- and off-campus laboratory opportunities and internships, working on cutting-edge projects in molecular medicine, diagnostics, agriculture and environmental science. 

You’ll gain advanced knowledge, practical experience and essential professional skills as you prepare for a rewarding biotechnology career.

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Why Choose Florida Tech for Biotechnology?

Biotechnology demands both specialized knowledge and interdisciplinary integration, and the M.S. in biotechnology will equip you with the skills, experience and flexibility to excel in this rapidly evolving field. Whether aiming for industry leadership, innovative research roles or further academic pursuits, this program is an ideal foundation for future success.

At Florida Tech, you'll have access to advanced facilities designed to spark innovation and hands-on discovery.

The F.W. Olin Life Sciences Building and the new Gordon L. Nelson Health Sciences Building house research labs for cutting-edge work in genetic engineering and cellular and molecular biology. These labs feature instrumentation for gene sequencing, recombinant DNA technology and tissue culture, along with specialized tools like atomic force microscopy (AFM), nanoindentation and elastography.

The Center for High-Resolution Microscopy and Imaging supports detailed analysis of nearly any sample type—an essential resource for biotechnology research.

Our multidisciplinary biotechnology program prepares students for impactful careers through real-world research opportunities and direct access to the university’s premier labs and equipment.

You’ll learn from accomplished, doctoral-level professors with expertise spanning microbial genetics, bioinformatics, human disease, plant biotechnology, gene modification, sensory systems, nanotechnology and tissue engineering.

Our dedicated faculty blend teaching and research to inspire the next generation of biotechnology leaders, equipping graduates with the skills to tackle today’s most complex challenges.

Through the program’s extensive research opportunities and real-world internships, you’ll gain valuable hands-on experience that prepares you for an impactful career in this dynamic field.

As a national research university, Florida Tech equips master’s in biotechnology students with the tools and skills needed to conduct groundbreaking research.

This hands-on, research-focused approach not only prepares graduates for their future careers but also can open the door for them to have their work published in respected scientific journals.

Students build expertise across biotechnology and master communication skills—both highly valued by employers—gaining real-world experience that strengthens their resumes and career prospects.

In addition to conducting research, graduate students can join leading scientific societies in the biotechnology field. Based on their laboratory achievements, there may also be opportunities to attend scientific meetings and present their research findings, further enhancing their professional profile.

During their second year, Florida Tech’s biotechnology master’s students can pursue internships nationwide, gaining hands-on experience with cutting-edge technology in academic or industry labs.

Located in Florida’s growing biotech corridor, students have access to leading institutions like the Scripps and Max Planck Institutes and the Mayo Clinic, fostering valuable research collaborations.

In addition, students may intern in Florida Tech faculty labs or secure summer positions elsewhere, applying classroom knowledge to real-world challenges and strengthening their career readiness.

We encourage prospective students with a bachelor's degree in biology, chemistry, biochemistry or the equivalent to apply. For those who may need to strengthen their knowledge in organic chemistry, genetics, biochemistry, molecular biology or microbiology, foundational undergraduate courses may be required before starting the master’s program.

Admissions are made on a rolling basis for both the fall and spring semesters, offering flexible start dates for those ready to embark on their educational journey.

For full application information, please see our graduate admission requirements.

Careers in Biotechnology

The biotechnology M.S. opens a variety of career paths in industries like research and development, medicine, pharmaceuticals, manufacturing and environmental technology. Graduates gain strong scientific knowledge and are prepared for roles in the fast-growing field of biotech management, offering excellent opportunities for advancement.

Biotechnology careers include roles such as:

  • Agricultural food scientist
  • Animal researcher
  • Biomedical data scientist
  • Biotechnology patent analyst
  • Renewable/sustainable energy technician
  • Cell culture technician
  • Clinical research associate
  • Environmental biotechnology specialist
  • Gene editing specialist
  • Genomics technician
  • Laboratory safety officer
  • Medical and clinical laboratory scientist
  • Microbiology quality control technician
  • Molecular biology technician
  • Occupational health and safety specialist
  • Purification technician
  • Quality control inspector
  • Regulatory affairs specialist

Employers that have recruited Florida Tech graduates for biotechnology careers include:

  • Millennium Research Labs
  • Max Planck Institute
  • Biogen
  • Genetics Associates
  • Florida Biologix
  • Scripps Research
  • Moffitt Cancer Center

Florida Tech Career Services assists students, alumni and employers in their search for careers and employee candidates. We help students develop career plans and job-search skills. Explore our Career Toolbox to learn more about our services and access additional resources.

The Occupational Outlook Handbook, published by the United States Department of Labor, Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), provides job information including median annual pay, working conditions and job outlook, among other things. Check the handbook for information on the outlook for biotechnology careers.

Advanced Degree Options

Florida Tech graduates with a master's in biotechnology go on to join innovative companies worldwide, tackling complex biological challenges. Students may also pursue doctoral programs, such as the Ph.D. in biological sciences at Florida Tech. 

Biological Sciences, Ph.D.

Explore the Biotechnology, M.S., Curriculum

The Biotechnology, M.S., Curriculum

The M.S. in Biotechnology combines theory with hands-on training to prepare you for a successful career. Core courses cover essential biotechnology topics, while electives, research and internships let you customize your path.

You’ll study the molecular mechanisms behind cellular processes, with emphasis on gene expression, cell growth, replication and intercellular communication, alongside practical lab techniques used in academia and industry.

Emphasis is placed on developing strong communication skills, and engaging with primary research literature will deepen your scientific knowledge. Core studies also include protein, plant and/or microbial biotechnology.

With your advisor, you’ll select electives that align with your career goals, ensuring a well-rounded education that prepares you for roles in research, development and industry. 

Check the catalog for a description of all courses.

Download the Biotechnology, M.S., Curriculum now!

From Lab to Life: Interdisciplinary Innovation

Students reviewing the results of a brain scan study

Research at Florida Tech thrives on interdisciplinary collaboration, bringing together experts and students from various fields to tackle complex challenges in biotechnology.

This collaborative spirit is evident in areas like biomaterials and tissue engineering, where material science, biology and engineering converge to develop advanced grafts and scaffolds for medical use.

Similarly, neural engineering research combines computational techniques and experimental approaches to explore brain function and devise therapies for neurological diseases.

Biotechnology students are often drawn to research areas like cardiovascular tissue engineering, which develops functional heart tissues.

They also explore molecular studies in biomedical science, focusing on cancer treatment and regenerative medicine.

These projects, along with other innovative research in biomedical science and biomedical engineering, offer students the chance to participate in meaningful, impactful work that addresses critical health and medical challenges.

Learn more about Biotechnology at Florida Tech on the website.

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