Master of Science in Applied Biotechnology
Request Information
We’ll send you the program guide and connect you with an enrollment adviser.
Blaze a trail in the advancing field of biotechnology.
Earn your master’s degree in Applied Biotechnology or a graduate certificate in Fundamentals of Biotechnology or Leadership, Ethics, and Communication from the University of Wisconsin—100% online.
Every day, biotechnology is working to solve some of the world’s most pressing problems while moving forward with revolutionary solutions. Whether your experience is in healthcare, agriculture, or industry—in the 100% online University of Wisconsin Applied Biotechnology program you’ll learn how to bring the best of biotech innovation to market, where it can do the most good.
You have flexibility to earn a master’s degree or stackable certificates. No matter which path you choose, you can earn resume-worthy credentials as you complete certificates and specialization tracks.
To earn the Master of Science in Applied Biotechnology, you’ll choose one or more specialization tracks to focus your skills on what matters most to your career.
- Applied Bioinformatics
- Business Management
- Quality Assurance and Compliance
- Research and Development
If you’re new to biotechnology or need to boost your skills, the program offers two core stackable certificates: Fundamentals of Biotechnology and Leadership, Ethics, and Communication in Biotechnology.
Master’s degree students will complete the two core stackable certificates, plus one or more specialization tracks, and a capstone project. You can enroll in the core stackable certificates as a non-degree seeking student. Admission requirements are the same and credits transfer, making it an easy transition from a certificate to the degree should you choose to do so.
Programs focus on the principles and techniques of biotechnology; ethical, safety, and privacy concerns; funding; intellectual property and patents; professional and technical communication; experimental design and analysis; and organizational leadership—all within the scope of the global biotechnology industry.
Online learning offers working adults like you flexibility to advance your education in a way that fits your life, whether you choose to earn the master’s degree or build specific skills by earning a certificate.
Learn more about online learning with UW.
What can I do with a stackable certificate?
Stackable certificates allow you to build your skills and your career on your own schedule, over time, while earning credentials along the way. You may choose to:
- earn a certificate that develops specific skills and knowledge,
- start by earning a core stackable certificate, return later to earn the other core stackable certificate, a specialization track, and the capstone,
- earn the master’s degree by completing the entire curriculum, including two core stackable certificates, a specialization track, and the capstone.
You can start any semester and take courses and certificates in any sequence.
Be Part of the Exciting Growth in Biotechnology
According to the 2025 BIO (Biotechnology Innovation Organization) report, bioscience industry employment has grown by nearly 15 percent since 2019. Wages consistently exceed other occupations—the average US bioscience worker earned more than $132,000 per year in 2023.
While biotechnology is a relatively young industry, it consistently delivers new and necessary products in a diverse marketplace. Major product offerings range from human health, animal health, and environmental, industrial, and agricultural technologies, with nearly half of industry revenue resulting from healthcare products. Key drivers of growth include medical treatments for an aging population and Research & Development (R&D) activity generating new products and markets.
Job opportunities can be found in a variety of settings, including biopharma, biomedical engineering, molecular biology, and more.
RELATED: Biotechnology Careers and Salaries
Who Should Apply?
The Applied Biotechnology program is designed for professionals working in biotechnology and related settings who are seeking career advancement or skills development, and those with a science background seeking entry to the field.
The program offers additional opportunities for professionals in industry-agnostic roles within biotechnology (HR, legal, project management, sales, administration, etc.) or mid-career biotechnology professionals who have earned a master’s degree or PhD, who may benefit from the skills and knowledge acquired in the stackable certificates.
Students and alumni of Applied Biotechnology programs work in healthcare, biotechnology, pharma, medical technology, and other industries across the country as research scientists, informaticists, lab technologists, project managers, clinical research managers, biochemists, quality assurance managers, and more.
I work full time for a biotechnology company and this program has furthered my understanding of the many things my company does as well as what other areas of biotechnology involve. Because I’m a working adult, the online format has been crucial in maintaining a balance between work, home, and school. —Ashley, Master of Science in Applied Biotechnology student
Learn more about admission requirements and applying to the program.
Universities of Wisconsin Collaboration
The Applied Biotechnology program is a partnership of UW-Green Bay, UW-Oshkosh, UW-Parkside, UW-Platteville, UW-Stevens Point, and UW-Whitewater. Learn more about our campus partners and choosing a home campus.
UW Applied Biotechnology faculty are either faculty at one of the UW partner campuses or biotechnology industry experts serving as adjunct faculty. Specialty areas include: bioinformatics, bioorganic chemistry, biotechnology, intellectual property, international management, the microbiome, product development, professional communication, project management, quality control, regulatory affairs, regenerative medicine, and supply chain management.
Accreditation
Accreditation is your assurance that you will graduate with skills that are relevant to your field and valued by employers. The Applied Biotechnology program is approved by the University of Wisconsin Board of Regents and is fully accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.
Program Membership
The Applied Biotechnology program is a member of BioForward Wisconsin.
Admission requirements are the same for the Master of Science in Applied Biotechnology and the core stackable certificates: Fundamentals of Biotechnology and Leadership, Ethics, and Communication in Biotechnology.
To be eligible, you must meet the following requirements:
- Bachelor’s degree, in any discipline, from an accredited university (min. 3.0 GPA),
- Prerequisite coursework: two semesters of college-level laboratory courses in biology and/or chemistry. All courses must include a laboratory component. This requirement can be met in one of the following ways:
- two semesters of biology with lab,
- two semesters of chemistry with lab, or
- one semester of biology with lab and one semester of chemistry with lab.
You will also need to submit the following application materials:
- Official college transcripts,
- Your resume,
- Personal essay (up to 1,000 words) describing why you wish to pursue this degree or certificate.
What if my GPA is below 3.0 or I am missing prerequisites?
Students with a GPA below 3.0 or missing prerequisites may be considered for provisional admission. If this applies to you, we encourage you to contact an enrollment adviser for more information.
If you do not meet the minimum admission requirements—such as having a GPA below 3.0 or missing prerequisite coursework—you will need to submit two letters of recommendation. These can be:
- Professional (a workplace colleague or supervisor)
- Academic (former professor or academic adviser)
Your recommenders should explain why they believe you will succeed in the program, especially highlighting your work experience or academic strengths that may not be reflected in your GPA or coursework.
Do I need to take any exams?
No. Exams, such as the GMAT or GRE, are not required for admission.
International Guidelines
This program welcomes online students from around the world. Online students do not qualify for an F-1 Student Visa to travel to the US, but instead can participate in our online courses remotely. If your native language is not English and/or you attended school outside of the US, you will likely need to provide proof of English language proficiency and an official translation or evaluation of academic transcripts. Requirements will vary based on a student’s academic history and home campus policies. For guidance about these requirements and how they apply to your specific situation, contact your home campus admissions office.
If you would like to apply as an international student to a Universities of Wisconsin on-campus program, please refer to these resources through Go Wisconsin.
Application Deadline
Your online application and all required materials must be submitted to your preferred home campus generally 2-4 weeks prior to the date classes start (this varies by campus) to be considered for admission.
Are there specific enrollment/start times?
You may start the Master of Science in Applied Biotechnology, or any of the certificate programs, at the beginning of any semester. Fall semester begins in early September, spring semester in late January, and summer semester in early June.
How to Apply
After choosing your home campus, you’ll apply following the steps below. You may apply on your own, but many students find it helpful to speak with an enrollment adviser first.
Applying to UW-Green Bay?
Applying to UW-Oshkosh, UW-Parkside, UW-Platteville, or UW-Stevens Point?
- Use the Universities of Wisconsin Online Admission Application.
- Select your home campus.
- Select the “Applied Biotechnology-Collaborative” program on the application.
Applying to UW-Whitewater?
- Use the UW-Whitewater Graduate Admission Application.
- Select the “Applied Biotechnology (MS)(OL)” program on the application.
Is there an application fee?
- You can waive the nonrefundable $56 graduate application fee charged by most UW institutions for Fall 2026 (use code APPLY26) or Spring, Summer, or Fall 2027 (use code APPLY27).
You will also need to:
- Request official transcripts.
- Have each institution you attended send an official college transcript to your home campus admissions office. If you’re applying to a UW institution you previously attended, transcripts may not be required.
- If available, request electronic transcripts be sent directly to the admissions email at your home campus—they’re typically faster than mailed copies.
- Send supporting application materials.
- Send your resume, personal statement, and letters of recommendation (if required) to your home campus admissions office.
Flexibility to earn your degree or a certificate. 100% online.
Courses explore principles and techniques in biotechnology, experimental design and analysis, ethics, professional and technical communication, and organizational leadership through a core curriculum that is required for master’s degree students, and available as two core stackable certificates*: Fundamentals of Biotechnology and Leadership, Ethics, and Communication in Biotechnology.
Students in the Master of Science in Applied Biotechnology are required to complete, at minimum, eleven courses (31 credits) to earn their degree.
- 6 core courses (3 credits per course) in two core stackable certificates
- 3 track courses (3 credits per course) in a specialization track certificate
- Capstone prep course (1 credit)
- Capstone project course (3 credits)
Master’s degree-seeking students must complete at least one specialization track certificate. Each track has three required courses; students may complete more than one track.
- Applied Bioinformatics*
- Business Management
- Quality Assurance and Compliance
- Research and Development
You will earn credentials as you complete core stackable certificates and specialization track certificates.
To earn the master’s degree, you’ll complete a capstone project. In the capstone, you’ll apply everything you’ve learned in a hands-on, fieldwork project aligned with your interests and career goals, often leading to job opportunities and professional connections. You may be able to complete the project with your current employer, or arrange for project work with an external organization. View examples of past capstone projects.
RELATED: Faculty Shares Tips On How to Make the Most of Your Capstone Project
*You may enroll in either of the core stackable certificates or the Applied Bioinformatics Graduate Certificate as a non-degree student if you do not want or need to earn the master’s degree. The other three specialization tracks are only available to master’s degree students.
How long will it take to earn my degree or certificate?
Students in the program enroll in 1-2 courses per semester, on average. The length of time it takes to complete your degree or certificate depends on the number of courses you take during a semester and whether you attend all three semesters (fall, spring, and summer). Course availability may also vary each semester. You’ll have flexibility to complete your degree or certificate in the time frame that fits your life. Many students study part-time while maintaining their full-time job and personal activities.
That’s definitely one of the gifts of this program. It doesn’t take away from the other important aspects of your life, it only builds up on your professional and personal life. That’s something that can’t be overstated. —Jason, Master of Science in Applied Biotechnology student
Curriculum - View Printable Version
Core Courses / Core Stackable Certificates
| Course | Credits |
|---|---|
Introduction to basic principles and techniques pertaining to biotechnology and its applications to our society. Survey of classical and emerging techniques. | 3 Credits |
Ethical and safety concerns in development, production, funding, and application of biotechnology. Analysis of socioeconomic impacts. Understanding the importance of data integrity. Overview of risk assessment and management in a regulatory environment designed to ensure safety of workers, study subjects, and patients, and protect intellectual property, data, and the environment. 2020 ADEIL Distinguished Course Award | 3 Credits |
Application and analysis of professional scientific communication, both written and oral. Focuses on designing documents that convey complex, data-rich technical and scientific content to audiences with diverse information needs using a variety of professional genres, including reports, proposals, presentation, and documentation. | 3 Credits |
Application of biological and chemical methods to modern biotechnological product development. Overview of analysis techniques used to characterize products and evaluate quality and safety. Exploration of technological pipeline from conception to market, including proof-of-concept assessment, pre-clinical trials, clinical trials, and post-production testing. Prerequisites: ABT 700 It is also recommended that students either complete ABT 720 prior to enrolling in this course, or enroll in ABT 720 in the same semester as this course. | 3 Credits |
Principles of descriptive and inferential statistics with applications in biotechnology including experimental design, quantitative data analysis, and bioinformatic evaluation of complex molecular and biological data sets. | 3 Credits |
Focuses on strategies and tools that managers use to maximize employee contribution and create organizational excellence. Basic business and leadership principles. Best practices to overcome biases that inhibit organizations and teams from communicating effectively. Examples will come from diverse biotechnology fields, including pharmaceutics, agriculture, and biotechnology services. | 3 Credits |
Applied Bioinformatics Track
Learn computational bioinformatics, focusing on Python- and R-based analysis of biological data, sequence and genome analysis, phylogenetics, and structural modeling. You'll develop the ability to select, apply, and integrate existing tools and custom methods to design effective bioinformatic workflows for real research problems.
| Course | Credits |
|---|---|
Learn diverse strategies for computational analysis of macromolecular data using Python, including sequence alignment, genome annotation, data retrieval, phylogenetic analysis, and molecular evolution. Experiential learning is emphasized; confidence in practical skills is developed through persistent application of course content to projects focused on current problems in bioinformatic research. | 3 Credits |
Develop competencies that promote efficient analysis of biological data. Learn how to match a research problem with the most effective tools for its completion, balancing the use of existing software and de novo software development. Advanced aspects of Python and R, algorithmics, machine learning, simulations, and effective communication of results are emphasized. Prerequisites: ABT 720, ABT 730 | 3 Credits |
Explore and apply existing bioinformatic tools, including implementation of pre-coded solutions to data acquisition, wrangling, analysis, visualization, and structural modeling problems. Students will complete a final project that generates a multi-system workflow to solve bioinformatic problems. Prerequisites: ABT 720, ABT 730 | 3 Credits |
Business Management Track
Learn marketing and commercialization strategies, including pharmaceutical and B2B marketing, while exploring supply chain design and distribution processes specific to biotechnology, ethical and regulatory considerations, and sustainability. Gain competence in quality and project management from R&D to market.
| Course | Credits |
|---|---|
Examines marketing case studies in diverse areas of biotechnology. Addresses marketing fundamentals and strategies, communicating value proposition strategy, ethical and regulatory concerns, startup strategies, pharmaceutical marketing, b2b marketing, salesforce development, branding, and promotion. Culminates with the creation of a marketing plan/analysis. | 3 Credits |
Focuses on the strategic importance of the supply chain to overall performance relevant to a variety of business processes specific to biotechnology. Topics include life cycle analysis, corporate social responsibility, production, transportation, distribution systems, sourcing, and purchasing. | 3 Credits |
Quality and project management issues and roles during different phases from R&D to market. Introduction to installation, operations, and process qualification (IQ/OQ/PQ). Project management phases: conceptualizing, planning, executing and closing. Project schedule and time management tools and techniques. Project requirements including quality assurance. Prerequisites: ABT 720, ABT 725 | 3 Credits |
Quality Assurance and Compliance Track
Focus on quality control and validation in product design, development, automation, and manufacturing. Examine US and global regulatory agencies and practices, including FDA and ICH regulations, clinical trials, risk-based oversight, and the role of validation and stakeholders in bringing innovative biotech products safely to market.
| Course | Credits |
|---|---|
Focuses on the importance of quality control and validation in biotechnology product design, development, and manufacturing. Explores quality systems and documentation, global quality standards, and methods for assessing validation including installation, operational, and performance qualifications. Overviews bio-manufacturing processes, automation, and cGLP/cGMP practices necessary to meet quality standards. Prerequisites: ABT 700, ABT 705, ABT 710 | 3 Credits |
Identifies and examines the key regulatory agencies and practices that govern the highly regulated and diverse biotechnology industry, both domestically and internationally. Highlights current and emerging FDA and ICH regulations and guidance documents to successfully navigate meeting with agencies and to submit required documentation for successful product development. Prerequisites: ABT 700, ABT 705, ABT 710 | 3 Credits |
Examines the global regulatory environments in risk-based assessment of biotechnological developments across diverse sectors, ensuring consumer and environmental protection. Addresses how validation is essential to the incorporation of emerging technologies into viable, accessible, and successful products. Highlights the stakeholders role in regulatory oversight and policy through relevant industry case studies. Prerequisites: ABT 700, ABT 705, ABT 710 | 3 Credits |
Research and Development Track
Explore strategies in evaluating scientific discovery and implementing new products within biotechnology including market valuation, intellectual property, patents, and licensing strategy. Learn how to evaluate product feasibility and scalability by applying computational methods and data analysis to solve a problem.
| Course | Credits |
|---|---|
A survey of biotechnology assessments in areas such as regenerative medicine, agricultural biotechnology, and bioremediation. Course links disciplines with the critical evaluative role played by scientific discovery, market valuation, intellectual property, freedom-to-operate (FTO), and licensing strategy by assessing the role each played in the commercialization of a specific technology. Prerequisites: ABT 700 | 3 Credits |
Explores strategies in evaluating and implementing new technologies or products in the context of different bioindustries. Identifies considerations in product valuation, feasibility of production, scalability, and supply chain management. Models the process of business growth and innovation through integration of emerging technologies. Prerequisites: ABT 700, ABT 715 | 3 Credits |
Using a variety of existing and emerging bioinformatics tools and computational methods, emphasizes hands-on experiences analyzing and interpreting large data sets (e.g. genomic, proteomic, microbiomics, target discovery). Students will also evaluate and adapt existing computational approaches for specific use in solving a problem in biotechnology. Prerequisites: ABT 705, ABT 715 It is also recommended students complete ABT 720 prior to enrolling in this course. | 3 Credits |
Capstone Courses
A capstone project is required to earn the master's degree, and typically completed in the final semester.
| Course | Credits |
|---|---|
Prepares the student for applied self-directed capstone experience. Addressing problem identification, research, and project formulation. Culminates in an oral and written proposal with project schedule. Prerequisites: Completion of all core courses and at least one track course. The second and third track courses can be taken along with 789 if necessary. | 1 Credits |
Student will complete a project (report, business plan, program, etc) in an area of quality assurance and compliance, business and management, and/or research and development. Culminating in a substantive body of work, executive summary, and reflection. Networking and communication in a professional capacity is expected. Learn more about the capstone. View examples of past capstone projects. Prerequisites: ABT 789 | 3 Credits |
Course availability for the Applied Biotechnology program varies each semester. If you are a current student, please consult with your campus adviser prior to registration.
Core stackable certificate courses are identified in the course title, as follows:
- Fundamentals of Biotechnology (Fundamentals Certificate)
- Leadership, Ethics, and Communication (Leadership Certificate)
Specialization track certificate courses are identified in the course title, as follows:
- Applied Bioinformatics (ABI Track)
- Business Management (BM Track)
- Quality Assurance and Compliance (QA Track)
- Research and Development (R&D Track)
Ready to Register? Request a Permission Number
Summer 2026
Course Preview Week: May 19 - May 25, 2026
Semester Dates: May 26 - August 07, 2026
Summer 2026 - View Printable Version
| Course | Credits |
|---|---|
Introduction to basic principles and techniques pertaining to biotechnology and its applications to our society. Survey of classical and emerging techniques. | 3 Credits |
Ethical and safety concerns in development, production, funding, and application of biotechnology. Analysis of socioeconomic impacts. Understanding the importance of data integrity. Overview of risk assessment and management in a regulatory environment designed to ensure safety of workers, study subjects, and patients, and protect intellectual property, data, and the environment. 2020 ADEIL Distinguished Course Award | 3 Credits |
Application and analysis of professional scientific communication, both written and oral. Focuses on designing documents that convey complex, data-rich technical and scientific content to audiences with diverse information needs using a variety of professional genres, including reports, proposals, presentation, and documentation. | 3 Credits |
Principles of descriptive and inferential statistics with applications in biotechnology including experimental design, quantitative data analysis, and bioinformatic evaluation of complex molecular and biological data sets. | 3 Credits |
Focuses on strategies and tools that managers use to maximize employee contribution and create organizational excellence. Basic business and leadership principles. Best practices to overcome biases that inhibit organizations and teams from communicating effectively. Examples will come from diverse biotechnology fields, including pharmaceutics, agriculture, and biotechnology services. | 3 Credits |
Prepares the student for applied self-directed capstone experience. Addressing problem identification, research, and project formulation. Culminates in an oral and written proposal with project schedule. Prerequisites: Completion of all core courses and at least one track course. The second and third track courses can be taken along with 789 if necessary. | 1 Credits |
Student will complete a project (report, business plan, program, etc) in an area of quality assurance and compliance, business and management, and/or research and development. Culminating in a substantive body of work, executive summary, and reflection. Networking and communication in a professional capacity is expected. Learn more about the capstone. View examples of past capstone projects. Prerequisites: ABT 789 | 3 Credits |
Fall 2026
Course Preview Week: September 01 - September 07, 2026
Semester Dates: September 08 - December 18, 2026
Fall 2026 - View Printable Version
| Course | Credits |
|---|---|
Introduction to basic principles and techniques pertaining to biotechnology and its applications to our society. Survey of classical and emerging techniques. | 3 Credits |
Ethical and safety concerns in development, production, funding, and application of biotechnology. Analysis of socioeconomic impacts. Understanding the importance of data integrity. Overview of risk assessment and management in a regulatory environment designed to ensure safety of workers, study subjects, and patients, and protect intellectual property, data, and the environment. 2020 ADEIL Distinguished Course Award | 3 Credits |
Application and analysis of professional scientific communication, both written and oral. Focuses on designing documents that convey complex, data-rich technical and scientific content to audiences with diverse information needs using a variety of professional genres, including reports, proposals, presentation, and documentation. | 3 Credits |
Application of biological and chemical methods to modern biotechnological product development. Overview of analysis techniques used to characterize products and evaluate quality and safety. Exploration of technological pipeline from conception to market, including proof-of-concept assessment, pre-clinical trials, clinical trials, and post-production testing. Prerequisites: ABT 700 It is also recommended that students either complete ABT 720 prior to enrolling in this course, or enroll in ABT 720 in the same semester as this course. | 3 Credits |
Principles of descriptive and inferential statistics with applications in biotechnology including experimental design, quantitative data analysis, and bioinformatic evaluation of complex molecular and biological data sets. | 3 Credits |
Focuses on strategies and tools that managers use to maximize employee contribution and create organizational excellence. Basic business and leadership principles. Best practices to overcome biases that inhibit organizations and teams from communicating effectively. Examples will come from diverse biotechnology fields, including pharmaceutics, agriculture, and biotechnology services. | 3 Credits |
Learn diverse strategies for computational analysis of macromolecular data using Python, including sequence alignment, genome annotation, data retrieval, phylogenetic analysis, and molecular evolution. Experiential learning is emphasized; confidence in practical skills is developed through persistent application of course content to projects focused on current problems in bioinformatic research. | 3 Credits |
Focuses on the importance of quality control and validation in biotechnology product design, development, and manufacturing. Explores quality systems and documentation, global quality standards, and methods for assessing validation including installation, operational, and performance qualifications. Overviews bio-manufacturing processes, automation, and cGLP/cGMP practices necessary to meet quality standards. Prerequisites: ABT 700, ABT 705, ABT 710 | 3 Credits |
Identifies and examines the key regulatory agencies and practices that govern the highly regulated and diverse biotechnology industry, both domestically and internationally. Highlights current and emerging FDA and ICH regulations and guidance documents to successfully navigate meeting with agencies and to submit required documentation for successful product development. Prerequisites: ABT 700, ABT 705, ABT 710 | 3 Credits |
Examines marketing case studies in diverse areas of biotechnology. Addresses marketing fundamentals and strategies, communicating value proposition strategy, ethical and regulatory concerns, startup strategies, pharmaceutical marketing, b2b marketing, salesforce development, branding, and promotion. Culminates with the creation of a marketing plan/analysis. | 3 Credits |
A survey of biotechnology assessments in areas such as regenerative medicine, agricultural biotechnology, and bioremediation. Course links disciplines with the critical evaluative role played by scientific discovery, market valuation, intellectual property, freedom-to-operate (FTO), and licensing strategy by assessing the role each played in the commercialization of a specific technology. Prerequisites: ABT 700 | 3 Credits |
Explores strategies in evaluating and implementing new technologies or products in the context of different bioindustries. Identifies considerations in product valuation, feasibility of production, scalability, and supply chain management. Models the process of business growth and innovation through integration of emerging technologies. Prerequisites: ABT 700, ABT 715 | 3 Credits |
Explore and apply existing bioinformatic tools, including implementation of pre-coded solutions to data acquisition, wrangling, analysis, visualization, and structural modeling problems. Students will complete a final project that generates a multi-system workflow to solve bioinformatic problems. Prerequisites: ABT 720, ABT 730 | 3 Credits |
Prepares the student for applied self-directed capstone experience. Addressing problem identification, research, and project formulation. Culminates in an oral and written proposal with project schedule. Prerequisites: Completion of all core courses and at least one track course. The second and third track courses can be taken along with 789 if necessary. | 1 Credits |
Student will complete a project (report, business plan, program, etc) in an area of quality assurance and compliance, business and management, and/or research and development. Culminating in a substantive body of work, executive summary, and reflection. Networking and communication in a professional capacity is expected. Learn more about the capstone. View examples of past capstone projects. Prerequisites: ABT 789 | 3 Credits |
Spring 2027
Registration Opens: November 09, 2026
Course Preview Week: January 19 - January 25, 2027
Semester Dates: January 26 - May 07, 2027
Spring 2027 - View Printable Version
| Course | Credits |
|---|---|
Application and analysis of professional scientific communication, both written and oral. Focuses on designing documents that convey complex, data-rich technical and scientific content to audiences with diverse information needs using a variety of professional genres, including reports, proposals, presentation, and documentation. | 3 Credits |
Application of biological and chemical methods to modern biotechnological product development. Overview of analysis techniques used to characterize products and evaluate quality and safety. Exploration of technological pipeline from conception to market, including proof-of-concept assessment, pre-clinical trials, clinical trials, and post-production testing. Prerequisites: ABT 700 It is also recommended that students either complete ABT 720 prior to enrolling in this course, or enroll in ABT 720 in the same semester as this course. | 3 Credits |
Principles of descriptive and inferential statistics with applications in biotechnology including experimental design, quantitative data analysis, and bioinformatic evaluation of complex molecular and biological data sets. | 3 Credits |
Focuses on strategies and tools that managers use to maximize employee contribution and create organizational excellence. Basic business and leadership principles. Best practices to overcome biases that inhibit organizations and teams from communicating effectively. Examples will come from diverse biotechnology fields, including pharmaceutics, agriculture, and biotechnology services. | 3 Credits |
Examines the global regulatory environments in risk-based assessment of biotechnological developments across diverse sectors, ensuring consumer and environmental protection. Addresses how validation is essential to the incorporation of emerging technologies into viable, accessible, and successful products. Highlights the stakeholders role in regulatory oversight and policy through relevant industry case studies. Prerequisites: ABT 700, ABT 705, ABT 710 | 3 Credits |
Focuses on the strategic importance of the supply chain to overall performance relevant to a variety of business processes specific to biotechnology. Topics include life cycle analysis, corporate social responsibility, production, transportation, distribution systems, sourcing, and purchasing. | 3 Credits |
Quality and project management issues and roles during different phases from R&D to market. Introduction to installation, operations, and process qualification (IQ/OQ/PQ). Project management phases: conceptualizing, planning, executing and closing. Project schedule and time management tools and techniques. Project requirements including quality assurance. Prerequisites: ABT 720, ABT 725 | 3 Credits |
Using a variety of existing and emerging bioinformatics tools and computational methods, emphasizes hands-on experiences analyzing and interpreting large data sets (e.g. genomic, proteomic, microbiomics, target discovery). Students will also evaluate and adapt existing computational approaches for specific use in solving a problem in biotechnology. Prerequisites: ABT 705, ABT 715 It is also recommended students complete ABT 720 prior to enrolling in this course. | 3 Credits |
Develop competencies that promote efficient analysis of biological data. Learn how to match a research problem with the most effective tools for its completion, balancing the use of existing software and de novo software development. Advanced aspects of Python and R, algorithmics, machine learning, simulations, and effective communication of results are emphasized. Prerequisites: ABT 720, ABT 730 | 3 Credits |
Prepares the student for applied self-directed capstone experience. Addressing problem identification, research, and project formulation. Culminates in an oral and written proposal with project schedule. Prerequisites: Completion of all core courses and at least one track course. The second and third track courses can be taken along with 789 if necessary. | 1 Credits |
Student will complete a project (report, business plan, program, etc) in an area of quality assurance and compliance, business and management, and/or research and development. Culminating in a substantive body of work, executive summary, and reflection. Networking and communication in a professional capacity is expected. Learn more about the capstone. View examples of past capstone projects. Prerequisites: ABT 789 | 3 Credits |
The Applied Biotechnology program was developed with advice from industry experts across various biotechnology disciplines to ensure you’ll graduate with skills and knowledge that match employer needs and expectations. Program outcomes are based on current industry standards and best practices.
Upon completion of your master’s degree, you will have achieved the following learning outcomes:
Demonstrate professional and scientific communication appropriate for biotechnology settings.
- Select the most appropriate modalities, methodologies, tools, and practices to communicate complex ideas effectively across diverse audiences.
- Demonstrate effective listening, written, verbal, and nonverbal communication skills.
- Construct and deliver effective professional presentations.
Demonstrate comprehensive understanding of organizational processes and product development pipelines.
- Evaluate and describe systems of product research, development, and production.
- Analyze the potential for commercialization for innovations within the biotechnology industry.
- Critique and integrate changes to an existing product development pipeline.
- Compare organizational processes employed by biotech firms.
Distinguish among diverse methods and technologies and their applications in biotechnology.
- Compare and contrast emerging with existing technologies.
- Exhibit strong technical knowledge to evaluate and choose appropriate technologies.
- Demonstrate the ability to read, interpret, and apply scientific literature.
- Demonstrate competency in data analysis and statistics.
Demonstrate strategic leadership and decision-making skills necessary in biotechnology.
- Compare best practices in leadership required for executive action.
- Demonstrate the skills and processes that maximize team performance to successfully meet goals both as an effective team member and leader.
- Identify and provide evidence-based solutions to problems in compliance, development, personnel, and finance.
Appraise the current regulatory, quality control, and legal frameworks that impact biotechnology.
- Demonstrate understanding of relevant domestic and global regulatory agencies, laws, policies, and guidance.
- Assess intellectual property considerations in biotechnology.
- Justify the importance of quality and risk management in biotechnology and explain current good practices.
Demonstrate professional and ethical behavior that fosters positive and productive interactions in diverse biotechnology settings.
- Recognize, foster and apply principles of ethical and professional conduct.
- Identify professional opportunities and personal success by acquiring knowledge, networking, and other career development strategies.
- Understand cultural differences that exist in the global marketplace.
Upon completion of this certificate, you will have achieved the following learning outcomes:
Demonstrate professional and scientific communication appropriate for biotechnology settings.
- Select the most appropriate modalities, methodologies, tools, and practices to communicate complex ideas effectively across diverse audiences.
- Demonstrate effective listening, written, verbal, and nonverbal communication skills.
- Construct and deliver effective professional presentations.
Distinguish among diverse methods and technologies and their application in biotechnology.
- Compare and contrast emerging with existing technologies.
- Exhibit strong technical knowledge necessary to evaluate and choose appropriate technologies.
- Demonstrate the ability to read, interpret, and apply scientific literature.
- Demonstrate competency in data analyses and statistics.
Demonstrate comprehensive understanding of organizational processes and product development pipelines.
- Evaluate and describe systems of product research, development, and production.
- Analyze the potential for commercialization of innovations within the biotechnology industry.
- Critique and integrate changes to an existing product development pipeline.
Upon completion of this certificate, you will have achieved the following learning outcomes:
Demonstrate professional and scientific communication appropriate for biotechnology settings.
- Select the most appropriate modalities, methodologies, tools, and practices to communicate complex ideas effectively across diverse audiences.
- Demonstrate effective listening, written, verbal, and nonverbal communication skills.
- Construct and deliver effective professional presentations.
Demonstrate strategic leadership and decision-making skills necessary in biotechnology.
- Compare best practices in leadership required for executive action.
- Demonstrate the skills and processes that maximize team performance to successfully meet goals both as an effective team member and leader.
Demonstrate professional and ethical behaviors that foster positive and productive interactions in diverse biotechnology settings.
- Recognize, foster, and apply principles of ethical and professional conduct.
- Identify professional opportunities and personal success by acquiring knowledge, networking, and other career development strategies.
- Understand cultural differences that exist in the global marketplace.
Appraise the current regulatory, quality control, and legal frameworks that impact biotechnology.
- Demonstrate understanding of relevant domestic and global regulatory agencies, laws, policies, and guidances.
- Assess intellectual property considerations in biotechnology.
- Justify the importance of quality and risk management in biotechnology and explain current good practices.
Demonstrate comprehensive understanding of organizational processes and product development pipelines.
- Analyze the potential for commercialization of innovations within the biotechnology industry.
- Compare organizational processes employed by biotechnology industries.
Distinguish among diverse methods and technologies and their application in biotechnology.
- Demonstrate the ability to read, interpret, and apply scientific literature.
Tuition is $875 per credit. There are no additional course or program fees, with the exception of textbooks which are purchased separately and are not included in tuition.
- You’ll pay the same tuition whether you live in Wisconsin or out of state.
- You will not pay technology fees. If software or special technology is required in a course, it will be provided to you and is included in tuition.
- You will not pay segregated fees (fees for student services, activities, programs, and facilities).
- $27,125 total tuition for 31-credit master’s degree.
- $7,875 total tuition for 9-credit graduate certificate.
Financial Aid
Financial aid may be available for students who qualify and is awarded by your home campus. Learn more about our campus partners and choosing a home campus.
To learn more, contact an enrollment adviser or your home campus financial aid office:
- UW-Green Bay Financial Aid
- UW-Parkside Financial Aid
- UW-Platteville Financial Aid
- UW-Stevens Point Financial Aid
- UW-Whitewater Financial Aid
Please check with your home campus regarding minimum credits required to qualify for financial aid as a full- or part-time student.
You can also visit our financial aid page to learn more about FAFSA and other sources of financial aid.
Experience UW Applied Biotechnology
Learn about applied biotechnology, meet the faculty, read student stories, and more. Read the blog.