Click here to find out more about the ranking methodology that we used to compile this list.

Congratulations! If you represent a college or university that is included in this list, please collect your seal below.

Deciding which college to attend can be a daunting task. For many, it will be the most important decision that they make in their lives. To make an informed decision, you have to consider a lot of variables, such as cost of attendance, financial aid, student/teacher ratio, academics, student life, and more. These factors will either positively or negatively impact the quality of education that you receive.

Do you want to acquire an online master’s degree in biotechnology, but don’t know what institution you should attend? Well, if you are as ambitious as I was in my late teens, then you want to attend a top school, instead of an average or mediocre one. Fortunately, we have already done the legwork for you. To help you find the right school for your interests and goals, we’ve compiled a list of 2022’s best online master’s in biotechnology programs.

What institution did we forget? Leave your thoughts in the comment section below.

1. Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD

Johns Hopkins University is a leading medical institution that has a master’s in biotechnology online. Available concentrations consist of biodefense and bioinformatics, biotechnology enterprise, regenerative and stem cell technologies, regulatory affairs, and drug discovery. With so many degree focuses available, this degree program enables learners to tailor their education to their interests and professional objectives.

Comprising 10 classes totaling 30 credits, learners can finish the degree program via part-time or full-time enrollment. The optional thesis path normally takes two semesters to finish and contains guiding classes on project design and composition. The thesis path has a chance for learners to carry out independent research and design a project that demonstrates individual expertise in the field to future employers. Full-time, thesis-path learners normally finish this degree program in two years.

Candidates must submit undergraduate transcripts with a minimum 3.0 GPA or higher, along with a record of a minimum of two semesters in biology and four semesters in inorganic and organic chemistry (two semesters in each area, preferably with laboratories). Learners without all these prerequisites may apply, though their acceptance may remain provisional until they finish biology and chemistry classes via Johns Hopkins online.

This degree program does not require standardized test scores from the GRE or GMAT. Applications are accepted year-round. Learners can begin this degree program in the spring, summer, or fall semesters. Though adaptable, Johns Hopkins encourages candidates to submit all materials at least six weeks before the term in which they intend to begin classes.

2. Columbia University, New York, NY

The master of science in biomedical engineering online at New York City’s Columbia University takes a multidisciplinary viewpoint on biotechnology. The 30-credit degree program comprises classes that cover subjects, including human physiology, computational neuroscience, biophysical modeling, tissue engineering, and computational genomics.

Learners must submit an online application form, GRE scores, and official undergraduate transcripts demonstrating a minimum 3.0 GPA. Learners with lower GPAs can still apply, though they may need to finish two classes while enrolled at CU as non-matriculated learners. Those credits can then transfer into the degree program following successful completion with a minimum 2.5 GPA. CU accepts a maximum of six transfer credits, the equivalent of two classes, from a sanctioned institution. Learners must finish the MS degree program in five years, but most accomplish all prerequisites in two years.

All candidates should boast one year of prior experience in each of the following subjects: calculus, biology, chemistry, and physics. Learners also need to supply three letters of recommendation, a professional resume, and an individual statement. CU recommends that learners submit applications at least two months before the desired term of enrollment. CU prides itself on offering class material that fits into busy schedules, such as Livestream class lectures and access to recorded presentations.

3. University of Washington-Seattle Campus, Seattle, WA

The University of Washington (UW) has a master’s in pharmaceutical bioengineering online with concentrations in drug discovery and design, translational pharmaceutics, and basic bioscience. The 38-credit degree program entails 16 basic bioscience credits in pharmaceutics and molecular biology, six credits in bioengineering, and 10 credits in an area of concentration.

The degree program culminates with a six-credit capstone class during which learners produce a research project for their professional portfolio. Full-time learners normally finish the degree program in two years, though part-time learners take longer. UW welcomes international learners, but enrollment does not automatically qualify learners for F-1 work visas.

Though the MS degree program prioritizes candidates with a BS degree, potential learners with a BA can apply if they have a minimum of one class in calculus, chemistry, biology, physics, and statistics along with recommended classwork in organic chemistry. Learners lacking degree prerequisites or with an undergraduate GPA below 3.0 may apply to enter the degree program as a graduate non-matriculated learner (GNM). GNM learners can take prerequisite classes and a maximum of 12 credits of the graduate degree program to prove their qualifications before transferring into the MS. But candidates should bear in mind that acceptance as a GNM learner does not guarantee acceptance into the online MS in pharmaceutical bioengineering.

4. The University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Champaign, IL

The master’s in engineering in bioengineering online at the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign lists three degree concentrations. The general bioengineering path centers on the modern healthcare system, especially about data acquisition and protection, healthcare costs, and business structures. In the computational genomics concentration, learners focus on genomic biology by carrying out statistical and data analyses on real-world biomedical issues. The degree program takes place 100 percent online, except a weeklong boot camp before the start of the degree program, to reacquaint all learners with the foundations of bioengineering.

Candidates should have a working knowledge of physics, algebra, and chemistry, and UI recommends prior classwork in biology. BA learners who have taken these classes can apply to the general bioengineering and bioinstrumentation paths. Still, learners interested in the computational genomics degree program should hold a BS in a scientific or engineering-related field along with additional experience in statistics, molecular genetics, and computer programming. Learners must supply official transcripts, three letters of recommendation, a resume, and an individual statement. Learners may submit GRE scores if they select, but the school does not accept transfer credits.

5. Worcester Polytechnic Institute, Worcester, MA

Worcester Polytechnic Institute (WPI) has a master’s in biotechnology online that full-time learners normally finish in one to two years. The 30-credit degree program contains three skills-based classes, five biology and biotechnology classes, and two electives. Though the majority of the MS degree program’s classwork is available online, some classes require on-campus lab involvement, such as animal cell culture, fermentation biology, protein purification and downstream processing, and scale-up bioprocessing.

WPI sustains several support systems for online learners, including online orientation videos that prepare incoming learners for classwork and scheduling. At the outset of the degree program, learners work with WPI representatives and learner success mentors to help plan their degree paths.

The primary prerequisite to apply for the MS degree program is a BS in engineering or a related scientific field, as all learners should begin the degree program with at least a basic comprehension of biochemical principles. Beyond degree prerequisites, candidates should hold a minimum 3.0 undergraduate GPA, and GRE score submissions are optional for U.S. citizens but required for international candidates.

6. Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, OH

Case Western Reserve University, a private research institution, has an online master of science in biomedical engineering via the Case School of Engineering. The degree program’s core classes cover subjects including cellular and molecular physiology, applied engineering, bioelectric phenomena, and medical device design; technical electives consist of classes in business engineering and biomanufacturing.

Classes take place 100 percent online, and professors deliver classwork asynchronously—meaning learners access class materials, submit assignments, and take exams at their own pace. The degree normally takes one to two years to finish and culminates in a final holistic examination administered by the department’s educational administration and curricular committee.

Interested candidates should submit transcripts demonstrating strong undergraduate scores with a minimum 3.0 GPA and an application fee. The school does not require GRE scores. A maximum of six credit hours from a pre-endorsed, sanctioned institution may transfer. All learners need access to a computer or laptop with reliable high-speed internet, a microphone, webcam, and headphones. Learners enjoy access to CWRU career center resources and supports, including career development programs, entrepreneurship webinars, and online associations. CWRU’s online MS in biomedical engineering degree program holds accreditation from the Higher Learning Commission and the Engineering Accrediting Commission of the Accrediting Body Board for Engineering and Technology.

7. University of Maryland–College Park, College Park, MD

Students learn to develop and test new technologies and mechanical devices intended to improve modern healthcare systems and procedures. The 10 classes of this degree program span cellular transport phenomena, bioinformatics, physiology for bioengineering, medical imaging, biopharmaceuticals, and tissue engineering.

Candidates to UMD need a minimum 3.0 GPA across their undergraduate studies, with a focus on engineering, biology, chemistry, physics, or another equivalent field. Prerequisites focus on calculus and biology. Candidates without a related BS (most often those with a BA) must demonstrate previous classwork in bioengineering, molecular biology, or physical chemistry. BA candidates should expect to take one fundamental of thermals class in their first term. The school recommends but does not require GRE scores. Admissions accept applications twice annually, in spring and summer.

All learners work with an academic adviser upon enrollment at UMD to help plan out their academic careers. They enjoy access to several learner resources and supports, including UMD’s counseling center, tutoring services, and graduate writing center. The department also sustains two career centers: the general career center, which is open to all graduates and an additional engineering career services center that links learners with local and national employers.

8. George Washington University, Washington, DC

George Washington University (GW) has an online master of science in health sciences in immunohematology and biotechnology (MSHS). As its name implies, this 35-credit degree centers on the effect of hematology on biotechnological innovation. As such, learners study the principles of the human immune system in immunology and serology classes.

The close focus on hematology means that all candidates should hold national licensure as a medical laboratory scientist or professional equivalent, or otherwise hold blood banking licensure (BBC). For interested learners without licensure, GW has an examination review degree program for the BBC and the AABB cellular therapies certificate degree program.

The MSHS degree program culminates in a final capstone project in which learners work with a mentor to carry out independent research and produce a final report based on a subject introduced in a previous class. As a non-clinical degree program, the MSHS takes place 100 percent online, and learners can finish the degree in two years of full-time study. The online application entails a resume, official transcripts (preferably with a 3.0 minimum GPA), two letters of recommendation, and a statement of purpose.

9. Rutgers University-New Brunswick, New Brunswick, NJ

Rutgers has an online master of engineering in biomedical engineering dedicated to delivering a broad comprehension of biomedical design. Learners can enroll in this degree program as full- or part-time learners and begin the degree in the fall, spring, and summer. The 33-credit degree program addresses molecular and cellular systems (with regard to nanosystem bioengineering), biomaterial engineering, and neurotechnological concepts.

The degree program readies learners for professional work in pharmaceutical and medical device production along with biotechnology design and implementation. Online MS learners carry out research one on one with a member of the faculty to finish an independent research prerequisite instead of pursuing a thesis.

The Rutgers application entails GRE test scores, official transcripts, three letters of recommendation, and an individual statement. The enrollment coach meets with prospective learners via Skype or a phone call to discuss school prerequisites, clarify educational objectives, and answer questions about Rutgers or academic procedures.

Once accepted, an executive coach helps learners map individual and educational objectives, investigate school resources and supports, and schedule classes. The executive coach helps learners work via time management issues and financial planning, along with helping keep them motivated and focused.

10. Purdue University, West Lafayette, IN

The online master’s degree program in biomedical engineering at Purdue comprises 30 credits and has a thesis or non-thesis path. The degree program centers on biomedical engineering, with additional concepts in regulatory engineering, and analytical analysis. The last 15 credits are electives and can cover any bioengineering subject matter, including tissue engineering, ethical medical device design, and digital image processing.

Once accepted, Purdue offers learners with an academic adviser who reviews and approves plans of study. All new arrivals finish an online orientation via the myPurdue online portal. Learners can transfer a maximum of 12 credits from another sanctioned engineering degree program.

Purdue’s multidisciplinary engineering department entails all candidates to hold a BS in engineering from a degree program sanctioned by the Accrediting Body of Board for Engineering and Technology. Interested candidates with related bachelor’s degrees in subjects such as biology or chemistry may apply with two college-level engineering calculus classes and one linear algebra class.

Otherwise, the school entails standard application materials, including an application form, official transcripts, statement of purpose, current resume, and three letters of recommendation. The degree program does not require GRE or GMAT scores.

11. Liberty University, Lynchburg, VA

Liberty University is a private religious institution that has a master of science in biomedical sciences with five subject-based concentrations. The biopsychology path delves into connections among physiological and psychological systems that affect human health with classes that cover several subjects.

The business management route contains classes focused on organizational behavior, strategic leadership, and accounting for healthcare institutions. Similarly, health informatics has administrative training on the latest technological systems in utilizing and on the market for healthcare, pharmaceutical, and bioengineering corporations. The molecular medicine path, by contrast, centers on immunology and pathogens. This degree concentration has classes on pathogenesis and virology.

Finally, the public health concentration couples administrative and analytical training with classes on biostatistics, epidemiology, and the politics of modern health policy. All of the degree paths take place 100 percent online, save for the molecular medicine path, which entails periodic and intensive on-campus cohort labs. Instructors deliver all classes synchronously, and each degree path comes with six required core classes and four classes connected to a concentration.

To apply, Liberty entails an application and official transcripts from a sanctioned bachelor’s degree program, demonstrating a minimum 2.75 GPA. Liberty accepts a maximum of 16 transfer credits from sanctioned institutions and welcomes international learner applications.

12. Colorado State University, Fort Collins, CO

Colorado State University (CSU) at Fort Collins has an online master’s in biomedical engineering that prioritizes disease prevention and disability assistance. Spread over 30 class credits, this online biotechnology master’s takes place 100 percent online with no thesis path. The degree contains seven core credits, 12 credits of foundational classwork, eight advanced credits, and three credits addressing broad analytical components of biomedical engineering, such as data analysis methods for researchers or regression models and their applications.

Though not required, candidates can select a concentration in biomechanics, materials (for learners with an engineering background), or tissue development and utilize. This degree program accepts a maximum of six transfer credits from a sanctioned institution and three additional credits taken as a non-matriculated learner of CSU before degree program enrollment.

13. University of California–Riverside, Riverside, CA

The master of science in engineering online at the Bourns College of Engineering at UC Riverside has an expedited concentration in bioengineering that learners can finish in 13 months. Learners cover 27 credits over nine classes, and core materials focus on the international nature of modern bioengineering, diverse technological resources and supports, and systems engineering, and management. The remaining four classes are electives that allow learners to follow their interests in molecular engineering, computational and experimental biology, or even physiological systems.

Learners normally take one core class and one focused subject class each term. By the end of the degree program, all learners must finish an independent project that enables them to delve into a particular area of concentration and produce a report demonstrating their knowledge for a professional portfolio. All classwork takes place 100 percent online.

Beyond counseling support, UC Riverside sustains a library resources and supports page for online learners. The school also sustains several learner resources and supports, including a career center, tutors, and a composition assistance lab.

All candidates need a BS in engineering or a related field and must submit official GRE and fundamentals of engineering (FE) exam scores. Candidates can bypass the GRE/FE test submissions with a minimum of two years of work experience at an engineering company along with a BS in engineering or natural sciences. Online applications consist of official transcripts (with a minimum 3.0 GPA), reference letters, and a record of professional experience (resume and relevant professional licensures).

14. University of Maryland-University College, Adelphi, MD

The master’s in biotechnology online at UMUC comes in four concentrations. In bioinformatics, learners focus on DNA, RNA, and protein sequence analysis and how these organic structures react with biotechnological advancements. Biosecurity and defense learners, by contrast, examine real-world case studies of biological warfare and security breaches with simulated bioterrorist attacks and policy writing instruction to prepare future biodefense professionals. In management, classes address the varying levels of biotechnology business—from startups to major corporations—and how to build strong and reliable team communication.

The biotechnology regulatory affair centers on creating and implementing complex project plans and the financial concerns of biotechnological corporations. This path also readies candidates to sit for the regulatory affairs sector licensure. Although this degree program takes place 100 percent online, some classes may have an on-campus component. Learners should check if the classes they need are entirely online or taught in a blended format.

While UMUC’s online master’s in biotechnology expects candidates with a molecular biology background, learners with an unrelated BS or BA can finish additional introductory classwork during their first term of enrollment. This classwork contains an introduction to molecular biology and a survey of societal issues in biotechnology. These prerequisites must be finished before taking core classes, and UMUC will accept a maximum of six transfer credits.

15. University of Missouri–Columbia, Columbia, MO

University of Missouri (MU) has a master of science in biomedical sciences with an emphasis on veterinary sciences that prioritizes biotechnological advances in animal medicine. This degree program takes place 100 percent online with no campus visits, and professors deliver classes synchronously. The 30-credit degree comprises classwork on subjects including advanced small animal clinical nutrition, veterinary pathobiology, and how to approach medical journal publication. All learners must finish a research project and partake in a special, 8000-level training class before submitting a thesis or practicum report to the department for approval before graduation.

The school accepts students on a rolling basis, and learners begin classwork at the same time as on-campus learners. Applications require official transcripts with a 3.0 GPA, an individual statement, a resume, and three letters of recommendation. MU learners enjoy access to several learner resources and supports, such as new learner orientations and technological assistance, a counseling center, online writing resources and supports, and a career center. Each learner pairs with an academic adviser upon admission to assist with class registration and classwork planning.