Biotechnology and M(double degree)

The Bachelor of Science in Biotechnology and M Double Degree program at California State University is a comprehensive and interdisciplinary program designed to prepare students for successful careers in the rapidly evolving field of biotechnology. This dual degree pathway offers students the unique opportunity to earn both undergraduate and graduate degrees concurrently, providing a competitive edge in the biotechnology industry and academia. The curriculum combines rigorous coursework in molecular biology, genetics, biochemistry, microbiology, and engineering principles with practical laboratory training and research experience. Students will gain a solid understanding of the fundamental biological sciences, as well as cutting-edge techniques such as gene editing, bioinformatics, and bioprocessing. The program emphasizes experiential learning through internships, research projects, and collaborations with industry partners, equipping students with real-world skills and professional networks. In addition to technical expertise, students develop critical thinking, problem-solving, and communication skills essential for innovation and leadership in biotechnology enterprises, healthcare, and environmental applications. The M Double Degree structure allows students to accelerate their education and reduce the time required to enter the workforce or pursue advanced research opportunities. Graduates will be well-prepared for careers in pharmaceutical development, agricultural biotech, environmental management, and regulatory agencies, or to continue their education in graduate or professional schools. The program benefits from California State University's strong connections with local biotech companies and research institutions, providing students with valuable insight into industry trends and employment opportunities. Overall, the Biotechnology and M Double Degree program offers a rigorous, multidisciplinary education tailored to meet the demands of today’s biotechnology sector and to foster the next generation of scientific innovators and leaders.

Required Foundation Courses:

Required Foundation Courses in Biology and Chemistry for students without a BS in the science disciplines mentioned above (16 units)

CHEM 110 Chemistry of Life (4)
BIOL 201 Principles of Cell And Molecular Biology (4)
BIOL 300 Cell Biology (4)
BIOL 400 Molecular Biology (4)

Required Foundation Courses in Business and Economics for students without a BS/BA in Business or Economics or a related discipline (16 units)

BUS 500 Economics for Managers (3)
BUS 502 Quantitative Methods for Decision-Making (3)
BUS 504 Introduction to Accounting and Finance (4)
BUS 506 Principles of Management and Marketing (3)
BUS 508 Business Ethics and Law (3)

Required Common Core Courses in the Dual Degree Program (9 units):

MGT 471 Project Management (3)
BIOL/BUS 610 (6) Capstone Project (6)

Required Courses in Master of Science in Biotechnology (23 units):

Required Core Courses (16 units)

BINF 500 DNA and Protein Sequence Analysis (3)
BIOL 502 Techniques in Genomics and Proteomics (3)
BIOL 503 Biotechnology Law and Regulation (3)
BIOL 504 Molecular Cell Biology (3)
BIOL 510 Tissue Culture Techniques and Stem Cell Technology (3)
BIOL 601 Seminar in Biotechnology and Bioinformatics (1)

Elective Courses (7 units) 
(A minimum of 7 units from the following courses)

BIOL 505 Molecular Structure (4)
BIOL 507 Pharmacogenomics and Pharmacoproteomics (3)
BIOL 508 Advanced Immunology (4)
BIOL 509 Plant Biotechnology (4)

Required Courses in Master of Business Administration (24 units):

Required Core Courses (18 units)

BUS 510 High Performance Management (3)
BUS 520 Strategy and Leadership (3)
BUS 530 Managing Business Operation (3)
BUS 540 Financial Reporting and Analysis (3)
BUS 550 The Contemporary Firm (3)
BUS 560 The Entrepreneurial Manager (3)

Elective Courses (6 units) 

Double Counted:

BINF 500 DNA and Protein Sequence Analysis (3)
BIOL 503 Biotechnology Law and Regulation (3)

International Graduate Admission Requirements

International (F-1) students may be accepted if they fulfill the following requirements:

Have earned a degree or diploma that CI considers to be the equivalent to a 4-year U.S. bachelor's degree from an accredited institution

If educated in the U.S., have attained a minimum GPA of 2.7 (A = 4.0) or more in the last 60 semester (90 quarter) units attempted. If educated in a non-U.S. university, have acceptable academic performance as determined by the Graduate Admissions Office. Certain programs have stricter requirements regarding academic preparation (please see program websites below for specific GPA requirements).

An official TOEFL score report with a minimum score of 550 paper, 213 computer, 80 iBT (Internet-Based Test) or an overall IELTS band score of 6.5 except where English is the official language of the country. Certain programs may require a higher TOEFL/IELTS score.

All Graduate programs require the GRE or GMAT. (please see program websites below for details)

The California State University (CSU) system offers various financial aid options for students pursuing a Bachelor's degree in Biotechnology, including the possibility of a Double Degree program. Students enrolled in this program can access federal and state financial aid programs such as the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA), which provides grants, loans, and work-study opportunities to eligible students. The CSU system is committed to making education affordable, and financial assistance is a significant component of its strategy to support student success.

In addition to federal and state aid, students may qualify for institutional scholarships offered directly by CSU campuses. These scholarships are awarded based on academic merit, financial need, or specific criteria related to the biotechnology field. Private scholarships from industry partners, foundations, and external organizations are also available to students in the program, providing additional funding opportunities.

Students are encouraged to explore work-study programs, which enable them to earn income while gaining relevant work experience in laboratories, research projects, or administrative roles within the university. The availability of these positions depends on the campus and the student's eligibility.

CSU also offers loan programs, including federal Direct Loans and alternative private loans, to cover educational expenses not met by grants or scholarships. Loan options typically have favorable interest rates and repayment terms, allowing students to finance their education responsibly.

For students enrolled in the Double Degree program, financial planning is especially important due to the extended duration and increased costs associated with earning two degrees. Many students apply for loans early and seek out additional scholarship opportunities specific to their field of study or demographic group.

The university provides financial counseling and planning services to help students understand their options and develop a sustainable funding strategy throughout their studies. Additionally, some campuses may have dedicated resources for international students or those participating in special programs, including assistantships or fellowships, which can further reduce financial burdens.

Overall, the CSU system emphasizes accessibility and affordability in higher education, offering comprehensive financial aid packages and support services to enable students in the Biotechnology degree and Double Degree programs to focus on their academic and professional goals without undue financial stress.

The California State University offers a Bachelor of Science in Biotechnology, which is designed to prepare students for careers in the rapidly evolving field of biotechnological sciences. The program emphasizes a comprehensive understanding of molecular biology, genetics, microbiology, and biochemistry, with a focus on practical laboratory skills and modern biotechnological techniques. Students gainHands-on experience through laboratory coursework, research projects, and internships, which are integral parts of the curriculum. The program also covers bioethics, regulatory issues, and the commercial applications of biotechnology, preparing graduates for diverse roles in pharmaceuticals, agriculture, diagnostics, and environmental applications. Additionally, the program aims to develop critical thinking, problem-solving skills, and the ability to communicate scientific information effectively.

For students interested in a broader academic experience, California State University offers a dual degree (M-double degree) option, enabling students to combine their undergraduate studies in Biotechnology with graduate-level coursework, often leading to a master's degree in a related field. This path is designed to enhance career opportunities, provide advanced knowledge, and foster research skills. The institution collaborates with local biotech companies, government agencies, and research institutions to provide internship opportunities, facilitating real-world experience and networking within the industry.

The faculty involved in the program are experts in various biotech disciplines and actively participate in research, contributing to innovations and advances in the field. The university's state-of-the-art facilities include modern laboratories equipped with cutting-edge technology to support student learning and research. Graduates of the program are well-positioned to pursue employment in biotech firms, research institutions, healthcare companies, and governmental agencies, or to continue their education through master's and doctoral programs. Overall, the California State University’s Biotechnology program offers a rigorous, comprehensive education designed to prepare students for successful careers in the dynamic biotechnology sector and related industries.