MBA Coursework
The Master of Microbial Biotechnology (MMB) program at NC State integrates rigorous MBA-level coursework through the Poole College of Management with immersive, real-world industry experience. As a Professional Science Master’s (PSM) degree, its business criteria focus on bridging the gap between the lab and the boardroom through core training in biosciences management, corporate economics, and leadership. This foundation is reinforced by multi-semester industry practica, where students act as consultants to solve complex commercial challenges for biotechnology firms, and a mandatory summer internship. Ultimately, the program is designed to transform scientists into versatile professionals capable of navigating market assessments, regulatory hurdles, and project management within the global life sciences sector.
Coursework Descriptions
MBA 585: Current Topics in Biosciences Management
This course presented an overview of the forces that are shaping the Biosciences industries. We defined Biosciences as including such areas as advanced medical technologies, cell and drug therapies, vaccines, genomics, diagnostics, bioremediation, combination products, agriculture, nutrition and industrial products. The coursework focused on the economic impact of biotechnology, new product development, intellectual property, strategic planning, partnering, business development, marketing and brand management, process improvement, outsourcing, federal regulation, global distribution, and deployment challenges for executives in the Biosciences industries. The course was explored through a series of management presentations, collaborative projects, and secondary research, with an emphasis on managing innovation in the dynamic and competitive Biosciences industries.
Final Project: The Economic Implications of Next-Generation Biomanufacturing Technologies
This project explores the economic shift from traditional batch processing to next-generation biomanufacturing technologies, specifically focusing on continuous bioprocessing, AI-driven digital twins, and the rise of CDMO platform models. By analyzing how these innovations reduce capital expenditures and accelerate speed-to-market, the report demonstrates how the industry is moving toward a more flexible, cost-effective production paradigm. Ultimately, the findings highlight how the integration of these technologies democratizes access to manufacturing for smaller biotech firms while significantly improving global production efficiency.
