Why This Matters

  • PREPARE FOR CAREERS IN 10+ DIFFERENT AREAS

    Biotechnology is a diverse field with opportunities that go beyond traditional lab work. A master’s in biotechnology can lead to jobs in research and development, manufacturing, quality assurance, policymaking, and more.

  • BIOPHYSICIST JOBS TO INCREASE 6% BY 2028

    As technology advances, there are new opportunities for biophysicists and biochemists to integrate technology and life sciences. The Bureau of Labor Statistics predicts that 1,900 new jobs will be added to this occupation within the next decade.

  • 3,700 NEW SALES ENGINEER JOBS ANTICIPATED

    Individuals who are interested in the business end of biotechnology may explore a career as a sales engineer. These individuals are responsible for selling biotechnology products to customers and investors. Employment in this field is expected to grow 6%.

Our Research

This list focuses on master’s degrees in biotechnology. As a STEM field, the most common advanced degree in biotechnology is a Master of Science (MS).

We concentrated on finding programs that are delivered completely or primarily online, to guarantee access to the greatest number of students, regardless of their geographic location or schedules. Please note, however, that most programs do have in-person requirements for lab work.

All of the programs on our list are offered by regionally accredited institutions, ensuring that they meet the highest standards of quality for postsecondary education. Some programs are also accredited by the National Accrediting Agency for Clinical Laboratory Sciences (NAACLS), or the Accreditation Council for Continuing Medical Education (ACCME).

Our team reviewed programs based on their outcomes, cost, reputation, faculty, and flexibility, and calculated an Intelligent Score of 0 to 100 for each program. Our top picks for the best online master’s in biotechnology are affordable, flexible, and industry leaders. (For a more extensive explanation, check out Our Ranking Methodology.)

  • 83 hours to write this article
  • 155 universities and colleges we assessed
  • 400 education programs we compared

The Top 9 Online Master’s in Biotechnology Programs

Best Online Master's in Biotechnology Degree Programs
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What You Should Know About This Degree

Biotechnology is a versatile field that incorporates principles of life sciences, technology, engineering, and business. A biotechnology degree is best suited for individuals who are adaptable, curious, and eager to contribute to research and scholarship in the field.

Individuals who are specifically interested in developing equipment and devices used in medical or biological settings may want to explore a master’s in biomedical engineering degree. This related field combines biology and engineering to design and create biomedical devices like artificial organs, replacements for body parts, and diagnosis and treatment tools.

As biotechnology relies heavily on research and lab work, most master’s programs have in-person lab requirements, regardless of how other coursework is delivered. Labs may be held on evenings or weekends to accommodate working professionals, but the ability to travel to campus may affect the programs in which you can enroll. When researching programs, be sure to review their lab requirements, so you can select a program that works for your schedule and location.

Depending on your career goals, you may need to pursue doctoral study after earning your master’s degree. In order to lead a research team as a medical scientist, you typically need a medical degree or a PhD in a life science. Consider this additional investment of time and money when selecting your career path and master’s program.

What’s Next?

Here are some questions to ask when researching Online Master’s in Biotechnology programs:

  • What are the prerequisites for this program? Biotechnology draws on knowledge of biology, engineering and chemistry. Therefore, most programs require students to have an undergraduate degree or undergraduate coursework in these areas. Before applying to a program, review their eligibility requirements to confirm that you have the necessary background for admission.
  • Does this program have the specialization that I want? Within biotechnology, there are a number of specialization options, including bioinformatics, biotechnology management, pharmaceutical technologies, and more. Now is a good time to think about what area you may be interested in focusing on, so you can select a program that offers the specialization you are seeking.

At this time, you should also start gathering your application materials, and reviewing the application deadlines for the programs that interest you. Submitting application materials ahead of deadlines can help your admissions process go smoothly.

You should also consider how you will pay for your graduate education. Find out if the program offers any assistantships, scholarships or grants. You can also look into federal financial aid, and tuition assistance benefits from your employer, if you are currently working.