Oregon PSM

The worlds of science and business are increasingly interconnected – creating strong demand for individuals who can bridge these two disciplines. Biomedical industries and start-up companies need employees who can combine their scientific and technical knowledge with good business management and communication skills. The Professional Science Master’s (PSM) in Applied Biotechnology at OSU is the first program of its kind in the Pacific Northwest and was created with the help of professional affiliates employed in leadership roles in the biotech industry. The objective of this degree is to train students to be able to function effectively in industrial environments. Special training in business management, communications, and ethics complement core science curriculum, and students are required to complete an internship in lieu of thesis research.

The PSM program can usually be completed in two years, based on full-time study and at least 54 credit hours. Core lecture courses provide the conceptual framework necessary in the biotechnology sector. Microbial genetics, structure and function of eukaryotic cells, eukaryotic molecular genetics, and cell signaling and development are some of the topics that are covered. An intensive laboratory experience is a 2-week summer course that has attracted students from around the country for 8 years to learn molecular biology theory and practice. Bioinformatics training is also an option. Approved electives in an area of concentration give focus and identity to each student’s curriculum and allow for flexibility in response to changing employment demands. Current areas of concentration include: Bioinformatics, Biotechnology, Cell Biology, Developmental Biology, Genome Biology, Molecular Biology, Molecular Pathogenesis, Molecular Virology, Plant Molecular Biology and Structural Biology. Professional courses are required in communication, research ethics, and business management. Students are required to complete a 3 to 6 month internship (6-12 credits) in lieu of thesis research.