Overview

The Biotechnology and Pharmaceutical Engineering at Carnegie Mellon University provides a rigorous academic foundation for those looking to lead in the rapidly evolving healthcare sector. This joint initiative between the biological sciences and chemical engineering departments ensures students gain a comprehensive perspective on modern biomanufacturing.

The curriculum is specifically designed to bridge the gap between different scientific disciplines. Engineers receive intensive training in modern biology, while students from a biological background master essential engineering principles to ensure all graduates can collaborate effectively in professional industry environments.

Students benefit from a culture of boundary-pushing collaboration, learning directly from renowned faculty members who are active researchers.

Why Biotechnology and Pharmaceutical Engineering at Carnegie Mellon University?

This programme stands out due to its unique interdisciplinary structure, bringing together experts from two distinct departments. This collaborative approach allows students to uncover new findings at the intersection of molecular biology, medicine, and chemical engineering through shared research projects.

The university provides extensive hands-on research opportunities, allowing students to work on drug delivery systems and cellular production improvements. Participants are mentored by world-class professors and have the option to conduct original research leading to a published thesis or seek industry internships.

Developed in close consultation with industry leaders, the course responds to the specific needs of major pharmaceutical companies and startups. This alignment ensures that graduates possess the technical expertise and regulatory knowledge required to contribute immediately to the global biotechnology workforce.

Tuition Fee Breakdown

International fee: USD 58000 per year
National fee: USD 58000 per year
Local fee: USD 58000 per year

Visit the Fees and Funding section for a breakdown in your local currency.

Syllabus

Modules may include:

Modern Biology
Engineering Principles
Bioinformatic Integration
Commercial Research
Drug Development
Medicinal Chemistry
Regulatory Compliance
Biomanufacturing
Therapeutics

Careers with Biotechnology and Pharmaceutical Engineering

Graduates are well-prepared for diverse roles in both professional and academic settings, including hospital laboratories and global pharmaceutical firms. The programme's focus on practical skills and industry alignment helps students transition into high-impact positions within the biotech sector.

Recent alumni have secured employment with prominent organisations such as Genentech, Ginkgo Bioworks, Oxford Biomedica, and Scribe Therapeutics. These roles span various specialisms, reflecting the versatile nature of the training received during the degree.

Common career paths for graduates include:

Automation Engineer
Process Development Program Associate
Research Associate

Programme Structure

Courses include:

Material and Mass Balance

Metabolism, Cell Biology, and Molecular Biology

Bioseparations

Genome Editing

Mathematical Modeling of Chemical Engineering

Key information

Duration

Full-time
- 24 months

Start dates & application deadlines

Starting 2027-08-25 00:00:00
- Apply before 2027-03-01 00:00:00

Language

English

TOEFL^® IBT

102

Schedule TOEFL®

IELTS

7.5

IELTS & PTE Test Preparation

E2 Language Test Prep

Trusted by 7M+ Students

Start Studying Today

Admission to your dream university starts with a high IELTS or PTE score. Earn your target score with E2's guided test preparation.

Study on your own schedule
Live classes with current and ex-examiners
Accurate score assesment, always
E2 Score Guarantee - Get your score or your money back!

Credits

108 SCH

108-117 Units

Delivered

On Campus

Campus Location

Pittsburgh, United States

Disciplines

Pharmacy Biotechnology Pharmacology View 197 other Masters in Biotechnology in United States

Join for free or log in to access our complete career info list.

Academic requirements

We are not aware of any specific GRE, GMAT or GPA grading score requirements for this programme.

English requirements

TOEFL^® IBT

102

Schedule TOEFL®

IELTS

7.5

IELTS & PTE Test Preparation

E2 Language Test Prep

Trusted by 7M+ Students

Start Studying Today

Admission to your dream university starts with a high IELTS or PTE score. Earn your target score with E2's guided test preparation.

Study on your own schedule
Live classes with current and ex-examiners
Accurate score assesment, always
E2 Score Guarantee - Get your score or your money back!

Other requirements

General requirements

Application Fee of $75 (Non-refundable)

The graduate applicationOpens in new window

Three letters of recommendation - At least two letters from faculty at your current/recent institution are preferred. For applicants to our research-based programs, at least one letter from someone who has supervised you in a research setting is preferred.

Uploaded unofficial transcripts - Students who enroll in the program will be instructed to submit hard copy, official transcripts and proof of degree completion before the start of the semester.

Statement of Purpose

Resume/CV

GRE score report

Tuition Fees

Tuition fees are shown in and the most likely applicable fee is shown based on your nationality.

International Applies to you

Applies to you

Non-residents

58000 USD / year

≈ 58000 USD / year
Out-of-State

58000 USD / year

≈ 58000 USD / year
Domestic

Applies to you

In-State

58000 USD / year

≈ 58000 USD / year

Living costs

Pittsburgh

United States

1148 - 1944 USD / month

The living costs include the total expenses per month, covering accommodation, public transportation, utilities (electricity, internet), books and groceries.

Financing

Interested in financing your studies? Find a student loan that works for you.

MPOWER Financing No cosigner. No collateral. No hidden fees.

Check your Eligibility

Get the funding you need to study in the U.S. or Canada - with a process that's fast, simple, and built for international students.

Flexible loans from US$2,001 to US$100,000
Fixed interest rates -- no inflation surprises
No upfront fees or prepayment penalties
Accepted at 500+ universities across the U.S. & Canada
100% online application -- instant conditional offer
Free visa & career support through our Path2Success program

Funding

Win a €10000 Scholarship! Deadline: 30 June 2020

Embark on your journey with the Studyportals Scholarship! We're giving away a total of 20,000 euros to help you achieve your dream of studying abroad.

Win a €10000 Scholarship! Deadline: 30 June 2020

Embark on your journey with the Studyportals Scholarship! We're giving away a total of 20,000 euros to help you achieve your dream of studying abroad.

Need help with your student visa?

Get Visa Support

Get personalized guidance from a certified VFS Global advisor and save 20% through Studyportals.

Avoid common visa mistakes and delays
Know exactly what documents you need
Get a clear checklist tailored to your situation

In order for us to give you accurate scholarship information, we ask that you please confirm a few details and create an account with us.

Scholarships Information

Below you will find Master's scholarship opportunities for Biotechnology and Pharmaceutical Engineering.

Available Scholarships

You are eligible to apply for these scholarships but a selection process will still be applied by the provider.

Biotechnology and Pharmaceutical Engineering

About

About

Overview

Programme Structure

Key information

Duration

Start dates & application deadlines

Language

IELTS & PTE Test Preparation

Credits

Delivered

Campus Location

Disciplines

What students do after studying

Academic requirements

English requirements

IELTS & PTE Test Preparation

Other requirements

General requirements

Tuition Fees

International Applies to you

Domestic

Living costs

Pittsburgh

Financing

Funding

Need help with your student visa?

Scholarships Information

Available Scholarships

Our partners