MBB, Biomanufacturing & Bioprocessing

Degree Program Summary:

The Master of Biomanufacturing and Bioprocessing (MBB) at the University of Georgia trains science and technology graduates for leadership roles in this rapidly expanding and vitally important field. Biomanufacturing is the common operation that links together all the different market sectors of the world’s biotechnology industry. It is a diverse field encompassing the massive production scales of the liquid biofuels industry at one end, to the high-quality and highly regulated biopharmaceutical industry at the other. While many biotechnology programs touch on biomanufacturing and bioprocessing, the UGA MBB program is unique in its focus on the full biomanufacturing experience with hands-on training and exposure to industrial grade equipment. Its curriculum includes academic courses in science and business, along with professional training with cutting edge companies through case study projects and internships. The worlds of science and business are becoming increasingly interconnected — creating strong demand for professionals who can combine scientific and technical knowledge with business and communication skills. In the UGA MBB program, students are not only trained in aspects of microbiology, biochemistry, biochemical engineering, genetics and process development, but will be given a solid base in the business aspects of the biomanufacturing industry, including finance, supply chain issues and manufacturing practices. The UGA MBB program is a two-year, 38-credit hour interdisciplinary degree program incorporating rigorous scientific training, an understanding of business principles, case studies involving teamwork and real-world problem solving, and professional communications opportunities. Students accepted into the program choose one of three focus areas− biofuels / biochemicals, industrial / environmental or pharmaceutical −and one of two business tracks − large company or small firm. Instead of a thesis, students complete a research project during the summer of Year One and a 120-hour industry internship during the summer of Year Two. These experiences allow students to find a practical application for what they are learning while building contacts with potential employers.

Recent successful applicants have had a baccalaureate in the biological sciences or engineering with a knowledge of industrial microbiology or biomanufacturing processes.

The University of Georgia will accept satisfactory scores on either the TOEFL or IELTS language proficiency examinations for admission to graduate programs. Test scores must be submitted directly from the testing agency.

Minimum TOEFL score requirement: overall score of 80 with at least 20 on speaking and writing.
Minimum IELTS score requirement: overall band-width of 6.5, with no single band (score) below 6.0.
Applicants whose primary language is not English must submit official TOEFL or IELTS scores that are not more than two years old. Applicants who have received degrees from accredited institutions in the U.S. or from institutions in countries where English is the primary language (e.g., the United Kingdom, Australia, New Zealand) usually are not required to submit the TOEFL (or IELTS) scores.