M.S. Program in Applied Molecular Biotechnology: The Microbiology Department is pleased to announce a new concentration in Applied Molecular Biotechnology (AMB) as part of our professional M.S. degree program. AMB is a one year program (2 semesters and one summer) specifically designed for students interested in careers in the biotechnology and pharmaceutical industries.
Requirements / qualifications: A minimum of a Bachelor’s degree from an accredited four year college or university is required for consideration into graduate programs at UMass-Amherst. Candidates must have demonstrated success in several of the following areas:
- Genetics,
- Biology,
- Biochemistry,
- Molecular Biology,
- Cell biology,
- Calculus,
- Organic Chemistry,
- Physics,
- Statistics,
Key Features:
- Students are required to complete core courses in molecular biology, biochemistry, and genetics (see Program Requirements).
- students will have the opportunity to tailor their training through elective courses and “Lab Modules” that will be offered during the summer months.
- The lab modules are designed to give students highly specialized, in-depth training in specific areas of biotechnology.
- work in collaboration with partners in industry to develop a summer internship program that will provide students with valuable job experience.
Upon successful completion of the AMB program, students will:
- Learn molecular biology and biochemistry techniques
- Develop applied research skills in biotechnology
- Conduct independent research on real world problems
- Obtain broad knowledge through courses, laboratory, and the scientific literature
- Develop oral and written communication skills, and data record keeping
- Tailor educational training through course electives and “Lab Modules”
- Compete for internship opportunities at biotechnology companies
- Work in an enthusiastic and supportive environment
- Develop the skills to be competitive for jobs in industry and academia
Program Design:
A total of 30 credits are required for a M.S. degree. Below is the curriculum.
Fall Semester
BIOCHEM 642 Advanced Molecular Biology (4 credits)
Elective course 600 level or higher (3 credits)
MICROBIO 681F AMB Laboratory (5 credits)
Spring Semester
MOLCBIO 690G Advanced Concepts in Genetics (3 credits)
MOLCBIO 623 Advanced Biochemistry (3 credits)
MICROBIO 681S AMB Laboratory (5 credits)
Summer
AMB Laboratory/Internship (7credits)
Contact Information
Information about the application process can be found on the Graduate Program Overview page. For more information about the AMB program, please contact us via email at microbio-dept@microbio.umass.edu or refer to the AMB Master’s Program frequently asked questions page.
How to Apply
Application material can be obtained from the Graduate School. Prospective students are NOT required to take the GRE. Applications for admission must be received by the Graduate School by December 20. Applications must be sent directly to the Graduate School, not to the Department of Microbiology, and must be accompanied by payment of the application fee. The application will not be processed or forwarded to the Microbiology Department until the payment has been received by the Graduate School. Late applications will be considered, only if space is available.