Translational Biotechnology

Resources

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Career Opportunities for Graduates

Career options for graduates include, but are not limited to:

  • Graduate studies in PhD and other professional programs
  • Research scientists in academic or industry settings
  • Research, validation and field applications scientists
  • Outcomes research, clinical trial managers, project coordinators
  • Institution contract and licensing manager
  • Educators: community college, primary and secondary schools, technical and specialty schools
  • Consultants
  • Medical science liaisons
  • Marketing professionals
  • Founders and executives of biotech firms
  • Investor relations, analysts, investment banking, fund managers, business development (additional degreed or nondegreed business training required)
  • Associates, attorneys, counsels (JD required) or technical specialists and patent agents in law firms
  • Agents or officers in government agencies such as FDA, USPTO, NIH

Cost of Attendance and Financial Aid

Estimated budgets for tuition, fees, books, supplies, room, board, and other living expenses can be found in the university catalogue and here. Tuition is charged at the same rate for both in-state and out-of-state residents.

Students may apply for financial aid through USC Financial Aid Office, which provides additional information for federally backed student loans, private financing, and federal work-study program. Limited funding opportunities can be found at the Office of Academic Honors and Fellowships and USC Graduate School.

Additional Web Pages

Spring 2026 Information Session Recap

In May 2026, Program Director Tirzah Petta and program faculty held a virtual information session covering curriculum, career outcomes, and what to expect from the program. Below are answers to some of the most common questions from that session.

  • Most core curriculum isn’t offered over the summer, but the practicum courses are, along with a limited selection of electives across USC schools. Students can complete up to four practicum units over the summer, often through internships or lab placements arranged with a mentor.

  • Students take the lead in this process. During the first semester, you’ll identify which area of translational biotechnology interests you most, then reach out to potential faculty mentors within USC. If a placement doesn’t work out, or a lab is unavailable, the program helps connect students with its broader network. Placements can also be revisited if a lab isn’t the right fit, students aren’t locked into their first choice.

  • No. Permanent residents aren’t subject to the same minimum unit requirements as international students on an F-1 visa, who generally must maintain at least 8 units per semester except in their final term.

  • Yes. Practicum units can be spread across two semesters, allowing students to gain experience in more than one setting if their interests shift or a placement isn’t the right fit.

  • Graduates may apply for Optional Practical Training (OPT), which provides up to 12 months of work authorization after graduation. Because the program is STEM-designated, eligible graduates can apply for an additional 24-month extension on top of that, for up to three years of total work authorization. Students are encouraged to begin the OPT application process several months before graduation, since processing times vary.

  • Students have access to USC Student Health’s 24/7 support line, free mindfulness programs through Mindful USC, and confidential legal consultations through the USC Gould Immigration Clinic, among other campus resources.

  • Graduates pursue a range of paths: many enter biotech and pharmaceutical industry roles such as research science, regulatory affairs, or product management; a notable share go on to PhD programs; others pursue medical or veterinary degrees or clinical research; and some go on to found their own biotech ventures.