Why a Professional Science Master's Degree?

As the world of business becomes more dependent on scientific technologies, there is an increasing demand for managers who are comfortable in the business of science. The Professional Science Master’s (PSM) degree, dubbed the new “Science MBA”, aims to fill this niche by equipping graduates with skills in both business and science, priming them for employment outside academia.

Oregon State University (OSU) currently offers four types of PSM programs:

• Applied Biotechnology
• Applied Systematics in Botany
• Environmental Sciences
• Applied Physics

and we are open to suggestions for additional programs!

Students take many of the same core science courses as do traditional M.S. students, but they also receive additional training in ethics, communications, and business management. Instead of conducting academic research for their thesis project, PSM students complete an internship off-campus, which allows them to apply their scientific skills and knowledge to real-world challenges.

Industry and agency partners are an essential part of the PSM programs at OSU. Regional employers understand the needs of the workforce and initially helped shape development of these programs at OSU. We continue to rely on representatives from the public and private employment sectors to help maintain competitive, cutting-edge programs.

Learn more to find out how your company can get involved in and benefit from the PSM programs at OSU!