MS in Biotechnology Abroad 2025 – Best Universities, Fees & How to Apply

Studying MS in Biotechnology abroad is a great option for international students who want to study advanced topics in biology and technology. With a broad scope and desirable job opportunities, this course gives you a chance to learn from the best universities in the world, use modern labs, and work on real research projects.

Biotechnology is growing fast. It is used in healthcare, food, the environment, and even in space research. If you study biotechnology abroad, you can explore areas like genetic engineering, bioinformatics, biopharma, and molecular biology. Countries like the United States, Canada, the UK, Australia, and Germany are top choices to study this subject.

This guide will help you understand what biotechnology is, the top universities for MS in Biotechnology, costs, salary after graduation, and job scope. If you are planning to study abroad, this article can clear your doubts and give you the information you need.

What Is Biotechnology: A Brief Overview for MS Aspirants

In essence, biotechnology refers to the use of biology and its effective integration with technology to enhance the value of specific products. A notable example of biotechnology is genetic engineering. 

The term biotechnology came into existence a lot later, somewhere in the 60s. Later in 1976, the first biotechnology company, Genentech, was established to commercialize recombinant DNA technology.

In the current scenario, biotechnology has branched out into a wide variety of specializations, expanding its scope significantly. A master's in biotechnology abroad gives you the option to delve into its various branches, such as:

• Bioinformatics
• Biophysics
• Biochemistry
• Molecular biology
• Genetic engineering
• Medical biotechnology 
• Marine biotechnology 
• Genomics and Proteomics 
• Food technology 
• Nanotechnology 
• Biochemical engineering
• Chemical reaction engineering, etc. 

Top Universities for MS in Biotechnology Abroad

Studying MS in Biotechnology abroad offers the best universities for international students with strong Biotechnology programs with modern labs, and expert professors. Some popular universities to study MS in Biotechnology Abroad are as follows: 

University	THE Subject Ranking
Harvard University (United States – Cambridge)	1
Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) (USA)	2
Stanford University (United States – Stanford)	3
University of Chinese Academy of Sciences (China)	4
University of Cambridge (United Kingdom)	5
Johns Hopkins University (United States – Baltimore)	6
Zhejiang University (China)	7
University of California, San Diego (USA – La Jolla)	8
Shanghai Jiao Tong University (China)	9
China Agricultural University (China – Beijing)	10

1. Harvard University

Country: U.S.

Being one of the oldest educational institutions in the country, it also happens to be one of the world’s top universities. Also, the U.S. happens to be the best country to study biotechnology.

Harvard University is the home to the world’s best biotechnology master’s program and offers disciplines such as nanotechnology, life sciences, bioengineering, etc. 

Subject ranking of the university

• Rank 1 in Biological Sciences (U.S.News)
• Rank 1 in Biochemistry / Biophysics / Structural Biology (U.S.News)
• Rank 1 in Molecular Biology (U.S.News)
• Rank 1 in Genetics / Genomics / Bioinformatics (U.S.News) 

Cost

• Tuition: $2,980 for every 4-credit course (INR 2,30,100)
• Living expenses: $32,780 (INR 25,40,100)
• Total expenses: $35,760 (INR 27,70,200)

2. Massachusetts Institute of Technology

Country: U.S.

Being the home to 85 Nobel Laureates, 29 National Medal of Technology, and 58 National Medals of Science winners, Massachusetts Institute of Technology is home to some of the best biotechnology courses offered by the country. 

Moreover, standing at rank 3 in Biological Sciences, it offers courses across many disciplines. 

Subject ranking of the university

• Rank 3 in Biological Sciences (U.S.News)
• Rank 5 in Biochemistry / Biophysics / Structural Biology (U.S.News) 
• Rank 2 in Genetics / Genomics / Bioinformatics (U.S.News) 
• Rank 5 in Microbiology (U.S.News)

Cost

• Tuition: $57,590 yearly (INR 44,63,300)
• Living expenses: $28,781 yearly (INR 22,30,600)
• Total expenses: $86,371 yearly (INR 66,93,900)

3. Stanford University

Country: U.S.

Earning the number 2 spot behind Harvard University as the best institution for Biotechnology, Stanford University is home to 31 Nobel Prize winners. Moreover, it is well known for significant technological contributions spreading across innovations and the great Silicon Valley.

Subject ranking of the university

• Rank 1 in Biological Sciences (U.S.News)
• Rank 2 in Biochemistry / Biophysics / Structural Biology (U.S.News)
• Rank 3 in Microbiology (U.S.News)
• Rank 3 in Genetics / Genomics / Bioinformatics (U.S.News) 

Cost

• Tuition: $18,105 quarterly (INR 14,03,200)
• Living expenses: $13,622 quarterly (INR 10,55,700)
• Total expenses: $31,727 quarterly (INR 24,58,900)

4. University of Chinese Academy of Sciences

Country: China

The University of Chinese Academy of Sciences (UCAS) is one of the top institutions in China for science and research. It is known for its strong focus on biotechnology, genomics, bioinformatics, and molecular sciences. Backed by the Chinese Academy of Sciences, the university gives students access to world-class research labs and ongoing national-level scientific projects.

For students planning to do their MS in Biotechnology abroad, UCAS is a great option in Asia with affordable tuition and high research output.

Subject ranking of the university(U.S. News)

• Rank 4 in Biotechnology and Applied Microbiology
• Rank 54 in Best Global Universities (tie)
• Strong focus in Molecular Biology and Bioinformatics (China-based rankings)

Cost

• Tuition: Approx. ¥32,000 per year (INR 3,70,000 approx)
• Living expenses: Approx. ¥18,000–¥24,000 per year (INR 2,00,000 approx)
• Total expenses: Around ¥50,000–¥56,000 yearly (INR 5,70,000 approx)

5. University of Cambridge

Country: UK 

Situated in the north of London, the University of Cambridge is one of the most historic schools in the UK. This university is known for achieving significant scientific milestones such as discovering stem cells, splitting of atoms, and discovering the structure of DNA. 

With a brilliant faculty and excellent facilities, the University of Cambridge is truly one of the best places to pursue a master’s degree in Biotechnology.  Lastly, the UK is the second-best country to study biotechnology.

Subject ranking of the university

• Rank 4 in Biotechnology and Applied Microbiology (U.S.News)
• Rank 29 In Microbiology (U.S.News)
• Rank 5 in Biochemistry / Biophysics / Structural Biology (U.S.News)

Cost

• Tuition: £ 33,972 yearly (INR 38,80,100)
• Living expenses: £ 10,170 yearly (INR 9,82,000)
• Total expenses: £ 44,142 (INR 48,62,100)

6. Johns Hopkins University

Country: U.S.
Johns Hopkins University is a world-renowned research institution and a leader in biomedical sciences, biotechnology, and public health. With a strong focus on life sciences and medical research, it offers some of the best master’s programs for students looking to study biotechnology abroad. Johns Hopkins is also known for its partnerships with top research hospitals, offering students hands-on experience in real-world biotech and clinical settings.

The university’s programs cover areas like genomics, bioinformatics, biomedical engineering, and biophysics, making it a preferred choice for students aiming for careers in advanced biotech fields.

Subject ranking of the university

• Rank 6 in Biotechnology and Applied Microbiology
• Rank 14 in Best Global Universities
• Rank 4 in Molecular Biology (U.S.News)
• Rank 6 in Genetics / Genomics / Bioinformatics (U.S.News)
• Rank 7 in Biochemistry / Biophysics / Structural Biology (U.S.News)

Cost

• Tuition: $60,480 yearly (INR 46,90,000 approx)
• Living expenses: $20,236 yearly (INR 15,70,000 approx)
• Total expenses: $80,716 yearly (INR 62,60,000 approx)

7. Zhejiang University

Country: China
Zhejiang University (ZJU) is one of the top and oldest universities in China, known for its excellence in engineering, life sciences, and biotechnology research. It is a part of the C9 League (China’s Ivy League) and offers strong programs in molecular biology, biochemistry, genetics, and bioinformatics. With state-of-the-art research centers and international collaborations, ZJU is becoming a global hub for students planning to pursue MS in Biotechnology abroad.

The university’s College of Life Sciences and related departments work closely with biotech companies, giving students real industry exposure through internships and research projects.

Subject ranking of the university(U.S. News)

• Rank 7 in Biotechnology and Applied Microbiology
• Rank 45 in Best Global Universities
• Strong academic performance in Biochemistry and Molecular Biology (China-based and subject-specific rankings)

Cost

• Tuition: Approx. ¥35,000 per year (INR 4,00,000 approx)
• Living expenses: Approx. ¥18,000–¥22,000 per year (INR 2,00,000–2,50,000 approx)
• Total expenses: ¥53,000–¥57,000 yearly (INR 6,00,000–6,50,000 approx)

8. University of California, San Diego (UCSD) 

Country: U.S.
The University of California, San Diego (UCSD) is one of the top research universities in the U.S., especially known for its strength in life sciences, biotechnology, and genomics. UCSD is located in La Jolla, California, which is a major biotech hub with many leading companies and research labs nearby. This location gives students excellent opportunities for internships, research, and job placements in the biotechnology industry.

UCSD’s master’s programs focus on molecular biology, bioinformatics, biomedical engineering, and biophysics, making it a great choice for students who want to do MS in Biotechnology abroad in a practical and industry-driven environment.

Subject ranking of the university (U.S. News)

• Rank 8 in Biotechnology and Applied Microbiology
• Rank 21 in Best Global Universities (tie)
• Strong reputation in Biochemistry, Genetics, and Molecular Biology

Cost

• Tuition: $32,000–$35,000 yearly (INR 25,00,000–27,40,000 approx)
• Living expenses: $18,000–$20,000 yearly (INR 14,00,000–15,60,000 approx)
• Total expenses: $50,000–$55,000 yearly (INR 39,00,000–43,00,000 approx)

9. Shanghai Jiao Tong University (SJTU)

Country: China
Shanghai Jiao Tong University (SJTU) is one of China’s most prestigious universities and a member of the C9 League. It is well-known for its academic excellence and advanced research in biotechnology, life sciences, biomedical engineering, and bioinformatics. Located in Shanghai, a global tech and innovation hub, SJTU provides strong industry links and research-driven education, making it a popular choice for students who want to pursue an MS in Biotechnology abroad.

The university collaborates with global institutions and biotech firms, giving students access to cutting-edge labs, interdisciplinary learning, and international opportunities.

Subject ranking of the university (U.S. News)

• Rank 9 in Biotechnology and Applied Microbiology
• Rank 46 in Best Global Universities
• Well-ranked in fields like Biochemistry, Structural Biology, and Molecular Sciences (subject-specific rankings)

Cost

• Tuition: Approx. ¥45,000 per year (INR 5,10,000 approx)
• Living expenses: ¥20,000–¥24,000 per year (INR 2,30,000 approx)
• Total expenses: ¥65,000–¥69,000 yearly (INR 7,40,000 approx)

10. China Agricultural University (CAU)

Country: China
China Agricultural University (CAU) is one of the top agricultural and life sciences universities in China, with a strong reputation in biotechnology, genetics, molecular biology, and bioengineering. Located in Beijing, CAU focuses heavily on research and innovation in biotechnology, especially related to agricultural and environmental sciences.

For students who want to explore MS in Biotechnology abroad with an interest in agricultural or plant-based biotech research, CAU is a great and affordable option. The university also collaborates with international research institutions and has advanced laboratories for genetic engineering, microbiology, and bioprocessing.

Subject ranking of the university (U.S. News)

• Rank 10 in Biotechnology and Applied Microbiology
• Rank 202 in Best Global Universities
• Known for high research output in Agricultural Biotechnology and Plant Genetics

Cost

• Tuition: Approx. ¥32,000 per year (INR 3,70,000 approx)
• Living expenses: ¥15,000–¥18,000 per year (INR 1,70,000 approx)
• Total expenses: ¥47,000–¥50,000 yearly (INR 5,40,000 approx)

Cost of Studying MS in Biotechnology Abroad

Studying MS in Biotechnology abroad can be expensive, but the cost depends on the country, university, and lifestyle. 

Country-wise Tuition Fees and Living Costs

Country	Average Tuition Fees (per year)	Living Expenses (per year)	Total Estimated Cost (per year)
United States	$30,000 – $60,000 (INR 25–50 Lakh)	$18,000 – $25,000 (INR 15–21 Lakh)	$48,000 – $85,000 (INR 40–70 Lakh)
United Kingdom	£22,000 – £38,000 (INR 24–42 Lakh)	£9,000 – £13,000 (INR 10–15 Lakh)	£31,000 – £51,000 (INR 34–57 Lakh)
Canada	CAD 25,000 – 40,000 (INR 15–25 Lakh)	CAD 10,000 – 15,000 (INR 6–9 Lakh)	CAD 35,000 – 55,000 (INR 21–34 Lakh)
Germany	Mostly Free or €1,500 – €3,000 (INR 1–2.5 Lakh)	€9,000 – €12,000 (INR 8–11 Lakh)	€10,000 – €15,000 (INR 9–13 Lakh)
Australia	AUD 30,000 – 45,000 (INR 16–25 Lakh)	AUD 18,000 – 22,000 (INR 10–12 Lakh)	AUD 48,000 – 67,000 (INR 26–37 Lakh)
China	¥30,000 – ¥50,000 (INR 3.5–6 Lakh)	¥15,000 – ¥25,000 (INR 1.5–3 Lakh)	¥45,000 – ¥75,000 (INR 5–9 Lakh)

Job Prospects after Completion of a Biotechnology Degree

The current state of biotechnology branches out to many fields such as agricultural production, cosmetics, animal rearing, pharmaceuticals, etc. With that being said, the scope of biotechnology in abroad after a master’s degree is massive.

Another industry that extensively utilizes biotechnology is the medical industry. This applies to nanobiotechnology, molecular biology, rational drug design, nutraceuticals, organ transplantation, etc. 

Biotechnology Salary in Abroad Per Month

With the biotechnology salary abroad per month being around $8,400, they make for pretty enviable positions. Even biotech jobs abroad for freshers offer positions like Plant Biotechnologists, Biopharmaceutical Specialist, Laboratory Manager, Clinical Research Coordinator, Biomedical Engineer, etc.

Since the U.S. is the best country to study biotechnology, it offers similar high-end job opportunities. Hence, the country is a complete package for people willing to pursue biotechnology.

Furthermore, a master’s degree can also open doors for biotechnology jobs abroad, such as clinical research, data management, and quality control. 

Salary After MS in Biotechnology Abroad

Country	Average Salary (Yearly)	Popular Job Roles
United States	$70,000 – $100,000 (INR 58–83 Lakh)	Biotech Analyst, Research Scientist, Bioinformatics Specialist
Canada	CAD 60,000 – 85,000 (INR 37–52 Lakh)	Clinical Researcher, QA Specialist, Biomedical Tech
Germany	€45,000 – €65,000 (INR 40–58 Lakh)	Biotech Engineer, Lab Manager, R&D Scientist
United Kingdom	£30,000 – £50,000 (INR 32–54 Lakh)	Molecular Biologist, Biotech Consultant
Australia	AUD 70,000 – 95,000 (INR 39–53 Lakh)	Biotech Officer, Genomics Analyst
China	¥150,000 – ¥250,000 (INR 17–28 Lakh)	Biotech Researcher, Pharma Analyst
Netherlands	€42,000 – €60,000 (INR 37–53 Lakh)	Bioprocess Engineer, Medical Technologist
Singapore	SGD 50,000 – 70,000 (INR 31–44 Lakh)	Biotech Officer, Regulatory Affairs Exec

Conclusion

An MS in Biotechnology abroad opens doors to top research, global job opportunities, and advanced labs. Leading countries for this degree include the USA, UK, Germany, Australia, and Singapore, with top universities like Harvard, Technical University of Munich, the National University of Singapore, and the University of Melbourne offering strong programs. 

Most courses last 1–2 years and require a relevant bachelor’s degree, good academic scores, and proof of English proficiency like IELTS or TOEFL. Tuition fees and living costs vary by country, but scholarships and assistantships are available for international students.

If you want help finding the best university or need support with your application, connect with upGrad experts. They’ll guide you step by step to start your MS in Biotechnology abroad journey!