DC Career Launch
Find cutting-edge government and private industry laboratory jobs in Washington, DC, a growing hub for biotech.
Please note: No new students will be admitted to this program for the 2025-2026 academic year.

American University’s Master's Degree in Biotechnology integrates rigorous science with entrepreneurship and business. In our program, you will master the science, immerse yourself in real-life entrepreneurial ventures, and take management courses at AU’s Kogod School of Business. Our MS prepares you to blend science, business, and technology to become a leader across cutting-edge biotech, life sciences, biodefense, agriculture, public policy, and pharmaceutical industries.
Find cutting-edge government and private industry laboratory jobs in Washington, DC, a growing hub for biotech.
Complete the degree full-time in just 16 months. Or choose evening, online, and summer courses for part-time students and working professionals.
Our students intern with companies like AstraZeneca, start-ups such as Sanaria Inc., and government agencies including NIH and Walter Reed.
Select one of four tracks best for your own research and career goals. Coursework culminates in the Capstone Experience, structured as a guided entrepeneurial venture, internship, or applied research project. See Admission & Course Requirements for complete details, including electives and course descriptions.
The Washington, DC, area is a technology and research hub that plays a critical role in supporting our national defense. Students in this track take courses in physical, material, and microbial science while preparing to work with organizations contracted by the Department of Defense, Homeland Security, and others.
Genomics and data science have accelerated biological innovation in the last decade. Students in this track graduate with advanced knowledge in the life sciences and highly soft-after computational skills.
Behind every scientific discovery, there is a strong leadership team supporting research. The management track prepares students to become industry executives through courses and experiences in entrepreneurship, finance, and information technology.
Careers abound in the pharmaceutical and biotechnology industries. Students in this track take courses in molecular biosciences, as well as applied courses, including QA/QC, spectroscopy, and healthcare IT.