About the Biotechnology Master’s Program
The Texas Tech Center for Biotechnology and Genomics administers the Master of Science in Biotechnology, with an emphasis in bioinformatics as a new option.
The degree is a two-year program, with the first two semesters consisting of required and elective coursework. The second year (nine to 12 months) is devoted to research (and possibly additional advanced coursework). Students may satisfy the research requirement in either of two ways: (1) complete an M.S. thesis, based on research carried out in the laboratory of a participating faculty member, or (2) complete a non-thesis internship in a research laboratory on campus, an industrial research laboratory, a government laboratory, or a not-for-profit foundation laboratory. Students who select a non-thesis option must pass a comprehensive final exam during their fourth (or final) semester. Options should be carefully discussed with the director and/or graduate advisor of the center.
First-year students take a core curriculum consisting of an introductory lecture course (BTEC 6301 ), an introductory lab course (BTEC 5338 ), a course on the ethics of research (PHIL 5125 ), a bioinformatics course (BTEC 5322 ), and a course in scientific communication (BTEC 5100 ). The remaining coursework requirements are satisfied by selections from a broad list of approved electives offered by the Center for Biotechnology and Genomics or other departments.
Students interested in the program should have an undergraduate degree that provides a sound background in biological sciences, preferably from a molecular perspective. A minimum of one semester of organic chemistry is required. A second semester of organic chemistry and at least one semester of biochemistry or cell biology and one semester of molecular biology/molecular genetics are highly recommended. Admission will be based on the student’s undergraduate record and GRE scores and on other considerations such as previous research experience and letters of recommendation. Applications should be submitted through the Office of Graduate Admissions.
The Center for Biotechnology and Genomics also offers two concentrations for the M.S. in Biotechnology, one in Bioinformatics Research and one in Life Sciences Research. Students interested in hands-on experience in biotechnology will carry out research leading to an internship or thesis in Biotechnology. In addition to the 30 credit hours required to complete a Master’s Degree in Biotechnology, these concentrations will necessitate an 8 credit hour increase.
Concentrations
Students interested in hands-on experience in biotechnology will carry out research leading to an internship or thesis in Biotechnology. In addition to the 30 credit hours required to complete a Master’s Degree in Biotechnology, these concentrations necessitate an 8 credit hour increase.
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