College of Science

Biodefense and Biosecurity

Certificate: Boston, MA
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This program is designed in response to a need in the biotechnology industry for individuals who desire to become professionals in biodefense or biosecurity. 

Boston, MA
Location
Part-Time
Commitment
6-12 months
Duration of Program
Fall, Spring
Entry Terms
No
Meets F1 Visa Requirements
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Overview

The Graduate Certificate in Biodefense and Biosecurity seeks to give individuals a background into the technology to detect, analyze, and respond to biosecurity threats. Enrolled students will study the microbiology and epidemiology of biological agents that are potential threats; identify and propose what countermeasures can be used; and through coursework develop expertise in the response, strategies, and policies related to biodefense and biosecurity. The graduate certificate consists of three biotechnology courses and one public policy and urban affairs course totaling 13-semester-hour credits.

More Details

Unique Features

  • Certificate consists of four graduate courses
  • This certificate may serve as a gateway to the MS in Biotechnology program. Individuals who successfully complete the certificate, then apply to the MS in Biotechnology program and are accepted, may apply all 13 credits toward the degree program. 
  • This certificate was designed for individuals with or without experience in biodefense and biosecurity.

Program Objectives

  • Develop specialized skills and knowledge in the biodefense and biosecurity field to fill a need in the biotechnology and pharmaceutical sciences industry.
  • Earn stackable credentials that can later be applied to a Master of Science in Biotechnology.
  • Set yourself apart from peers and advance your career with cutting-edge skills in biodefense and biosecurity.

Career Outlook

A career in biodefense and biosecurity offers an excellent professional opportunity in a growing biotechnology industry. Average salaries, according to BLS.gov, are $85K depending on position and role in the field. The demand for those qualified to enter this field is expected to grow quickly over the coming years. Careers in the sciences often require an advanced degree, and this certificate program provides stackable credentials to put toward a master’s degree in the future.

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Admissions

A graduate degree or certificate from Northeastern—a top-ranked university—can accelerate your career through rigorous academic coursework and hands-on professional experience in the area of your interest. Apply now—and take your career to the next level.

Program Costs

$24.2K *
Tuition

Finance Your Education We offer a variety of resources, including scholarships and assistantships.

How to Apply Learn more about the application process and requirements.

Requirements

  • Online application
  • Unofficial transcripts (official transcripts required upon acceptance of admissions)
    • The Foreign Credential Evaluation (FCE) is a required assessment of all transcripts and documents from non-U.S. accredited post-secondary education institutions. (Review the FCE requirements by country.)
  • GPA 3.0 or higher
  • Personal statement
  • English language proficiency:
    • Degree earned or in progress at a U.S. institution
    • Degree earned or in progress at an institution where English is the only medium of instruction
    • Official exam scores from either the TOEFL iBT (institution code is 3682), IELTS, PTE exam, or Duolingo English Test. Scores are valid for 2 years from the test date.

Are You an International Student? Find out what additional documents are required to apply.

Admissions Details Learn more about the College of Science admissions process, policies, and required materials.

Admissions Dates

Learn more about applying to the College of Science and our admissions deadlines.

Curriculum

Industry-aligned courses for in-demand careers.


For 100+ years, we’ve designed our programs with one thing in mind—your success. Explore the current program requirements and course descriptions, all designed to meet today’s industry needs and must-have skills.

 

Experiential Learning

Northeastern's signature experience-powered learning model has been at the heart of the university for more than a century. It combines world-class academics with professional practice, allowing you to acquire relevant, real-world skills you can immediately put into action in your current workplace. This makes a Northeastern education a dynamic, transformative experience, giving you countless opportunities to grow as a professional and person.

 

Faculty

Our Faculty

Northeastern University faculty represents a broad cross-section of professional practices and fields, including finance, education, biomedical science, management, and the U.S. military. They serve as mentors and advisors and collaborate alongside you to solve the most pressing global challenges facing established and emerging markets.

Students

By enrolling in Northeastern, you’ll be connected to students at our 13 campuses, as well as 300,000-plus alumni and more than 3,500 employer partners around the world. Our global university system provides you with unique opportunities to think locally and act globally and serves as a platform for scaling ideas, talent, and solutions.

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