University of Wisconsin - Stevens Point

What you'll study

The curriculum builds a foundation in biotechnology principles and techniques through a required core and then allows focused study via specialization tracks. There are no elective courses; students must complete at minimum 11 courses (31 credits) to earn the degree.

• 6 required core courses (3 credits each)
• Specialization track of 3 courses (3 credits each) — choose from quality assurance and compliance, business management, or research and development; students may pursue one or more tracks
• Capstone preparation (1 credit)
• Capstone project course (3 credits) — a project-based applied experience aligned to student interests and career aims

Course delivery is fully online with a cloud-based Virtual Lab and a range of software provided as part of tuition.

Entry requirements

Applicants must hold a bachelor’s degree and typically have a cumulative GPA of 3.0. A 1,000-word statement of personal intent is required. Application materials must be completed at least two weeks prior to semester start to be considered. No GRE or GMAT is required.

Prerequisite coursework: two semesters of college-level lab coursework in biology and/or chemistry. To meet this prerequisite a student must have either two semesters of biology, two semesters of chemistry, or one semester each of biology and chemistry, and all required coursework must include a lab component.

Campuses may waive some requirements. Candidates who do not meet minimum admission criteria (for example GPA below 3.0 or missing prerequisite coursework) must submit two letters of recommendation, which can be academic (professor or advisor) or professional (supervisor or colleague). International applicants may need to provide proof of English proficiency and official translations or evaluations of transcripts. Enrollment advisers are available to assist.

Career prospects

The program prepares graduates to demonstrate professional and scientific communication, an understanding of organizational processes and product development pipelines, the ability to distinguish among biotechnology methods and technologies, and strategic leadership and decision-making within biotechnology. The bioscience industry has grown by about 7 percent since 2016 and wage growth has consistently exceeded that of other occupations, offering a range of applied career opportunities across quality assurance, business management, research and development, and related roles.

Scholarships & funding angle (general)

Tuition is charged as a flat rate per credit; the program notes a per-credit cost and states there are no additional segregated or technology fees. Software or special technology required by courses is provided and included in tuition. Financial aid may be available and is awarded by the student’s home campus; prospective students should consult an enrollment adviser and the program’s financial resources for details.