STUDENT LEARNING OUTCOMES
Professional Science Masters – Biotechnology
Department of Biology
University of Northern Iowa
Outcome I: Graduates from the PSM Biotechnology program will demonstrate the theoretical
knowledge and practical skill sets necessary for a position in industry.
Competency 1:
Students will demonstrate an understanding of the concepts and ideas appropriate
for the field of biotechnology including: the broad spectrum of the field, an overview
of wide ranging regulatory issues, a general understanding of quality analysis/quality
control regulations as well as having a strong skill set in regards to relevant laboratory
techniques.
Competency 2:
Students will have introductory-level familiarity with basic business organizational
management principles.
Outcome II: Graduates from the PSM programs will be able to effectively use both oral and
written communication skills.
Competency 1:
Students will effectively communicate scientific observations, analyses, and
arguments in a written format typically required by professionals in their fields
Competency 2:
Students will effectively communicate scientific observations, analyses, and
arguments orally in group interactions and presentations
Outcome III: PSM Biotechnology graduates will be effective problems-solvers and team
workers.
Competency 1: Individual problem-solving skills
Students will be familiar with modern problem solving techniques and creative
thinking methods. Lateral thinking, critical thinking, and innovative thinking methods
(based on the ideas of the De Bono School and others) will be applied to develop
solutions for typical real-world problems encountered in biotechnology companies
such as market analysis, target identification, product development, process
optimization, and strategic development.
Competency 2: Teamwork development skills
PSM students will learn to work in diverse teams consisting of students with different
skill sets and backgrounds. They will gain experience in leading small teams in
reaching a common goal and successfully integrate varied opinions into a final
solution. While learning to elucidate, identify, and manage interpersonal problems
that will occur during group work, students will strengthen their oral communication
skills to become better team workers capable of reaching consensus solutions.