Frequently Asked Questions


What is the difference between a Master’s (Applied) and a thesis based Master’s degree?

The Master’s (Applied) is a non-thesis program and is usually course-based. Thesis Master’s programs are research oriented. Although the Master’s (Applied) has a small research project component, it is mainly course and laboratory based. Both types lead to PhD programs.

How competitive is entrance to this program?

The program has limited enrolment and the best candidates are selected first. The level of competition varies from year to year depending on the quality and quantity of applications received. It is recommended to apply early and not wait until the application deadline date.

How can I get more information about the Master of Science (Applied) program in Biotechnology besides the website?

An information/admissions package is provided to all potential applicants that communicate with our office by email. Feel free to communicate by gradstudies.macdonald [at] mcgill.ca (email) or by phone (514-398-7838) for any questions you may have, it will be our pleasure to help you.

How do I know if I am eligible to the Biotech program?

Information is available in the Admissions section of the website. Please note that we do not offer pre-screening of admission eligibility. The best way to know if you are eligible is to apply.

How do I apply?

You must complete an application online at www.mcgill.ca/gradapplicants/apply.

What is the admission deadline?

For September admissions into both programs, a complete online application with supporting documents should be submitted by January 15 for international, Canadian and Permanent Resident applicants.

Do I still have a chance if I don’t have the necessary prerequisites?

It would be unlikely. The biochemistry, molecular biology and cell biology prerequisites are essential to understanding the content of the program. As this program is non-thesis, a sufficient level of knowledge in the above-mentioned areas is necessary to avoid any failures in the program. It is also understood that knowledge in molecular biology should have been obtained recently within the last 5 years.

My cumulative grade point average is not calculated according to a 4.0 system. How do I know if I meet the minimum requirement?

McGill Graduate and Postdoctoral Studies has provided a tool to demonstrate the accepted grade conversion and equivalencies for many countries. The typical grading scale shown will give you an idea of the equivalency when using the overall standing of a degree, but the conversion using the formula may show a different result since both grade and course credit weight or hours are variables of the formula.

Who needs to provide an English proficiency certification?

Anyone who did not attend a Canadian university or who has obtained a degree from a university outside of Canada where instruction was not in English must show proof of English proficiency. The testing centre must send your results directly to McGill University electronically (Institution Code 0935).

Is a GRE (Graduate Record Examination) part of the admission requirements?

A GRE is not an entrance requirement but can still be submitted as part of your application file for the benefit of the Admissions Committee. The testing centre should send your results directly to McGill University electronically (Institution Code 0935).

What is the tuition fee for the programs?

Please refer to our Biotech Admissions page.

What type of funding is available?

Please refer to our scholarships page.

Do you offer a graduate program at the doctorate level?

No PhD program is offered in the discipline of biotechnology. However, most departments in the Faculties of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences (AES), Medicine or Science offer PhD programs in a research domain related to biotechnology. Please refer to the information on AES graduate units and programs on the faculty website. 

What kind of job opportunities are available after completing the Master’s (Applied)?

Employment consists of technical, scientific or junior management positions primarily in the biomedical and pharmaceutical sector in the private and public sectors, and other related fields such as the agri-food and environmental sectors.

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