The Advanced Biosciences Program provides graduate-level and upper-division science coursework for individuals seeking advanced training in biotechnology, biopharmaceutical sciences, molecular biology and related life sciences disciplines. The program is designed to help students deepen their scientific knowledge and strengthen their academic and professional credentials.
This program is designed for professionals working in biotechnology, pharmaceuticals, health care and related industries; students preparing for graduate or professional programs; and individuals seeking advanced science coursework to support career advancement or academic goals.
This program is designed to help adult learners prepare for advanced study and entry into careers across the biosciences. The curriculum features a core course focused on current topics and emerging techniques in the field, complemented by a selection of electives that allow students to tailor their studies to specific disciplinary interests. This program serves as a flexible pathway for students seeking to strengthen foundational knowledge, prepare for graduate school, transition into bioscience careers, or pursue professional advancement within the industry.
Yes. Many students enroll in advanced biosciences courses to demonstrate academic readiness, complete advanced science coursework and strengthen applications to graduate, professional and health sciences programs.
No. Students may begin taking courses before registering for the program. However, students who intend to earn the Award of Completion should register for the program before completing the required coursework.
Yes. The program can be completed entirely online or through a combination of online and in-person courses, depending on your preferences and course availability.
No. While Current Topics in the Biosciences is a required course for students pursuing the Award of Completion, it is not required to be taken before other courses in the program. Students may take courses in the order that best supports their academic and professional goals. However, many students choose to take Current Topics in the Biosciences early in their studies because it provides valuable exposure to emerging trends, technologies and developments across the biosciences field.
Students may enroll in as many courses as they wish at one time. However, we encourage students to carefully consider their workload and pace themselves appropriately to ensure they can successfully engage with and complete their coursework.
Students are welcome to take additional courses beyond the 10-semester unit requirement. Extension courses are open to the public, so formal admission to the program is not required to enroll. For information on course registration, transcript requests, and other Extension policies and guidelines, please visit our Enrollment page.
Students have up to five years to complete the program requirements. Completion time varies depending on course selection and pace of study.
Students who enroll in the program receive a structured pathway through advanced biosciences coursework and are eligible to earn an Award of Completion upon meeting program requirements. The program also provides a framework for pursuing focused study in advanced life sciences topics.
While our students are not eligible for federal financial aid programs related to FAFSA, students may consider private education loans. More information about financial assistance options is on the website.
If you have any additional questions or would like to learn more about whether the Advanced Biosciences Program would be a good fit for you, please email us at extension-science@berkeley.edu. In addition, you may also attend an online information session to learn more about the curriculum, course offerings and career pathways and allow you to ask staff questions in real time.