Master of Science in Biotechnology
| Web Site: http://bio.utsa.edu Phone: (210) 458-4459 Fax: (210) 458-5658 E-Mail: Melinda.Villarreal@utsa.edu |
Contact: Melinda Villarreal Department of Biology The University of Texas at San Antonio One UTSA Circle San Antonio, TX 78249-0662 |
About the Program
The Master of Science in Biotechnology is designed to enable the graduate to enter the biotechnology industry. A common base of knowledge for biotechnology encompasses key areas in biology, computer science, and statistics. Directed research opportunities allow development of additional technical expertise. Thesis and non-thesis options are available.
The biotechnology faculty conducts research on a variety of topics, and graduate students work closely with them to play an important role in this research. Class sizes are generally small, and students receive individual attention.
Facilities
State-of-the-art laboratories are equipped with instrumentation for a variety of molecular and cellular tasks. Several laboratories have active research programs for training in molecular cloning and sequence analysis, tissue culture, transgenic plant and animal production, and gene expression/function studies. A variety of cell and molecular techniques are supported by equipment for absorption and fluorescence spectrophotometry, HPLC, ultracentrifugation, and DNA cloning and sequencing. Facilities are also available for sophisticated microscopic analyses such as confocal microscopy, computer-based image analysis, and both scanning and transmission electron microscopy. Laboratories are equipped for state-of-the-art research in all areas of biology. Excellent computer-based support is a standard part of all research and training facilities.
Admission
Admission is granted to students who have satisfied the University-wide graduate admission requirements (a GPA of 3.0 or above), and have a background equivalent to a UTSA bachelor's degree in biology. Applicants must submit transcripts, GRE scores, two letters of recommendation, and a Statement of Future Plans. Prospective students should review the course work and degree requirements for the bachelor's degree as described in the current UTSA catalog. Students with training differing from that outlined in the catalog or returning to school after several years may be required to take undergraduate courses before they receive unconditional admission to the program.
Assistantships
Some teaching and research assistantships are available to qualified students.