Translational Biotechnology MS

About MS in Translational Biotechnology Program

Based in Los Angeles, one of the nation’s emerging hubs in biotechnology, the Department of Cancer Biology at the Keck School of Medicine of USC offers this biotechnology master’s program, 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 academic research, biotechnology, and medical sciences industries.

Program Summary

Students in this biotechnology masters program will gain an understanding of::

• A small cohort of approximately 35 students, with individualized mentoring;
• 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.

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.

Capstone Experiential Learning in a World-Class Innovation Ecosystem

The MS in Translational Biotechnology program sits at the heart of one of the nation’s most dynamic biomedical innovation ecosystems. Through our capstone experiential learning course (TRGN-539), students step beyond the classroom to complete mentored, project-based experiences with leading research institutes, innovation offices, and biotechnology partners across USC and the Keck School of Medicine.

Our students have access to an exceptional network of opportunities, including:

• USC MESH Academy, the Keck School’s hub for bioscience innovation, industry collaboration, and transdisciplinary team science
• USC Stevens Center for Innovation, the university’s technology transfer office, where students gain hands-on training in technology licensing, IP strategy, and commercialization
• USC Norris Comprehensive Cancer Center, an NCI-designated comprehensive cancer center, including its state-of-the-art shared resources such as the Molecular Genomics Core
• The Southern California Clinical and Translational Science Institute (SC CTSI), advancing translational research from discovery to community impact
• The USC Michelson Center for Convergent Bioscience, where chemistry, biology, engineering, and computation converge to accelerate drug discovery
• The joint Department of Biomedical Engineering (Keck School of Medicine and USC Viterbi School of Engineering), driving AI-powered innovation in medicine
• The Eli and Edythe Broad Center for Regenerative Medicine and Stem Cell Research, at the forefront of cell and gene therapy