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Keck School of Medicine of USC

Translational Biotechnology MS

About MS in Translational Biotechnology Program

The Department of Cancer Biology at the Keck School of Medicine offers a Master of Science (MS) degree in Translational Biotechnology. This program combines a unique curriculum and distinctive practical training that exposes students to biotechnology and its applications in translating genomic and molecular insights into developing novel therapies and precision medicine. Drawing strength from the Keck School of Medicine faculty’s education, research, and practice expertise, this program educates students on approaches used in the academic research, biotechnology and medical sciences industries.

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Program Summary

Students in this program will gain an understanding of:

  • The science and technology of underlying diseases and their interventions;
  • The role of biotechnology in developing new therapies;
  • The regulatory framework that will impact the use of new interventions; and
  • The private and public capital that will develop the growing biotechnology and biomedical markets

The program is ideal for those who are passionate about biomedical sciences and would like a career in biotechnology beyond laboratory research

  • Students with a moderate biology background have the opportunity to extend their course work in biotechnology and biological sciences and continue in these fields.
  • Professionals in management, investment, regulatory affairs or law in the biotechnology industry are able to extend their knowledge of the science behind this industry, enabling them to make better decisions regarding this rapidly developing technology.
  • Students interested in doctoral programs or professional degree programs, such as medical school and law school, will build a strong foundation in biotechnology prior to applying to their top programs of study.

Translational Biotechnology is also available as a Progressive Degree Program. It is designed to enable USC students to begin taking master’s level courses while completing bachelor’s degree requirements.

A minimum of 28 units of graduate level course and field work is required for graduation. The program can be completed by full-time students in 1 year including the summer semester or at a reduced pace by part-time students.

Progressive Degree Information

The PDP allows you to begin working toward your master’s degree while you finish your bachelor’s. Unlike the standard graduate admissions track, the PDP application is handled entirely by email.

Eligibility: To apply, you must have earned a minimum of 64 units, excluding any units earned before high school graduation.

Once eligible, please prepare the following four documents:

  1. PDP plan — Complete the Progressive Master’s Degree Program Course Plan using the template provided (attached). This lays out the courses you intend to take and how they count toward the degree. When selecting courses, keep in mind that each course is offered only in specific terms — check the registration calendar to confirm a course is offered in the semester you plan to take it. The three experiential learning courses (TRGN 539, 540, and 541) are offered every semester: spring, summer, and fall.
  2. Statement of purpose — A one-page personal statement describing your background, your academic and career goals, and your reasons for pursuing the MS in Translational Biotechnology. There is no set template; write it in your own words.
  3. Two letters of recommendation — preferably from USC faculty members. Please ask each recommender to email their letter directly to the Program Director, Tirzah Petta, at [email protected]. The letters must be sent by the faculty members themselves, not forwarded by you.
  4. Recent STARS transcript — An up-to-date STARS report reflecting your current coursework and grades.

Before you submit: Please coordinate all of your application documents with your student advisor, Karina Recinos [[email protected]], who will help you assemble your materials and can answer any questions about the process.

Learn More!

Complete the form below for information on our Translational Biotechnology MS program. Your journey towards a rewarding academic experience starts here!

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