Program Overview
The Biological Design Master's Program at Arizona State University is a 30-credit-hour program that combines technology and biology to solve real-world challenges. Students choose from a range of biotechnology and statistics courses, and work on projects under the guidance of faculty from different disciplines. Graduates can pursue careers in various industries, including biotechnology, biomanufacturing, and medicine. The program is approved for a STEM-OPT extension, allowing international students to gain additional work experience in the United States.
Program Outline
Outline:
The program consists of 30 credit hours, including a thesis or applied project, with the following structure:
Required Courses:
- Core Course: BDE 502 Research Methods in Biological Design (3 credit hours)
- Statistics: Students choose one course from the following options (3 credit hours each):
- CHE 598 Topic: Six Sigma Methodology/Engineering Experimentation
- IEE 572 Design Engineering Experiments
- IEE 578 Regression Analysis
- IEE 670 Mathematical Statistics
- Biotechnology: Students choose one course from the following options (3 credit hours each):
- BME 598 Topic: Bioenergy and Microbial Biotechnology
- BME 598 Topic: Cellular and System Modeling
- BME 598 Topic: Chimeras and Recombinant Organisms in Medicine
- CEE 565 Advanced Environmental Biotechnology
- CEE 567 Environmental Microbiology
- CEE 598 Topic: Bio-inspired Design
- CHE 579 Microbial Bioprocess Engineering
- CHE 598 Topic: Nanobiotechnology
- CHE 598 Topic: Synthetic Biology and Metabolic Engineering
- Electives: Students choose 12 or 15 credit hours of electives in consultation with their advisor.
- Other Requirements:
- BDE 591 Seminar (3 credit hours, taken over three semesters)
- Culminating Experience:
- BDE 593 Applied Project (3 credit hours) OR
- Students work on real-world projects and research under the guidance of these faculty members.
- The program emphasizes a transdisciplinary approach, blending technology and biology to solve various challenges.
Careers:
- Graduates of the program can pursue careers in various industries, including:
- Biotechnology
- Biopharmaceutical processing
- Biomanufacturing
- Sustainable biotechnology
- Food and agribusiness
- Entrepreneurship
- Law (e.g., patent law)
- Regulatory affairs
- Medicine
- Specific examples of career paths include:
- Clinical laboratory technologist
- Environmental engineer
- Environmental scientist and specialist
- Epidemiologist
- Health and safety engineer
- Microbiologist
Other:
- The program is approved for a STEM-OPT extension, allowing international students to gain additional work experience in the United States.
- The application process is competitive, and students are encouraged to meet all priority deadlines.
Additional Notes:
- This program falls under the Ira A. Fulton Schools of Engineering.
- The program is offered in Tempe, Arizona.
Arizona State University: A Comprehensive Overview
Overview:
Arizona State University (ASU) is a top-ranked research university located in the greater Phoenix metropolitan area. It is known for its innovative approach to education, offering a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs across various disciplines. ASU is recognized for its commitment to inclusivity, serving learners at all stages of life and fostering a diverse and welcoming community.
Services Offered:
ASU provides a comprehensive range of services to support student success, including:
Academic Support:
Tutoring, advising, and academic success resources.Financial Aid:
Scholarships, financial aid programs, and tuition assistance.Student Life:
Housing and dining, clubs and activities, health and wellness services, and transportation.Career Services:
Job and career resources, internship opportunities, and career counseling.Student Life and Campus Experience:
ASU offers a vibrant and engaging campus experience with a strong sense of community. Students can participate in a wide array of clubs, organizations, and events, fostering personal growth and development. The university's diverse student body creates a rich cultural environment, promoting global perspectives and intercultural understanding.
Key Reasons to Study There:
Top-Ranked Programs:
ASU boasts numerous top-ranked programs, including 82 programs ranked in the top 25 nationally, with 37 in the top 10.Innovative Learning Environment:
ASU embraces a flexible and personalized approach to learning, allowing students to customize their academic journey.World-Class Faculty:
Students benefit from instruction led by renowned professors and researchers, many of whom are leaders in their fields.Global Impact:
ASU is consistently ranked among the top universities for global impact, demonstrating its commitment to addressing global challenges.Diverse and Inclusive Community:
ASU fosters a welcoming and inclusive environment, embracing students from all backgrounds and promoting a sense of belonging.Academic Programs:
ASU offers over 800 degree programs across a wide range of disciplines, including:
Undergraduate:
More than 400 undergraduate degrees in fields such as engineering, journalism, business, sustainability, nursing, education, and more.Graduate:
Over 450 graduate degrees, including master's and doctoral programs.Other:
ASU is known for its commitment to research and innovation, with a strong focus on addressing real-world challenges. The university is also a leader in sustainability, promoting environmental responsibility and social justice.
Entry Requirements:
EU Home Students:
- Bachelor's or master's degree in a related field (e.g., physical sciences, biological sciences, engineering) from a regionally accredited institution.
- Minimum cumulative GPA of 3.00 (scale is 4.00 = "A") in the last 60 hours of their first bachelor's degree program or a minimum cumulative GPA of 3.00 (scale is 4.00 = "A") in an applicable master's degree program.
- Official transcripts from all colleges and universities attended.
- Three letters of recommendation.
- Personal statement.
- Proof of English proficiency (minimum score of 90 on the TOEFL iBT for non-native English speakers).
International Overseas Students Outside the EU:
- Same requirements as EU home students, with additional requirements:
- Valid passport.
Language Proficiency Requirements:
- Non-native English speakers must provide proof of English proficiency by achieving a minimum score of 90 on the TOEFL iBT.
Additional Notes:
- The application process is competitive, so it is highly recommended to adhere to all deadlines.
