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College of Science

Process Science

Certificate

This program is designed in response to a need in the biotechnology industry for individuals with an advanced knowledge of the principles and practices of process development of biopharmaceuticals.

Two scientists in lab coats discussing in a laboratory. The woman holds a pipette and the man holds a clipboard. Various lab equipment and colorful boxes are visible in the background.
Program Format
Online
Time Commitment
Part time, Full time
Duration
1 Year(s)
Entry Term(s)
Fall, Spring
Meets F1 visa requirements
No

Program overview

Expertise in process science

The online Graduate Certificate in Process Science is designed for students and professionals to develop expertise and achieve their career goals within the growing industry of biotech.

Students enrolled in the online program will improve their competency and learn new practical skills, enabling them to increase productivity and contribute further to their professions.

The online program-based certificate may serve as a gateway to the MS in Biotechnology program. Individuals who successfully complete a certificate can apply to the MS in Biotechnology program and, if accepted, apply all credits toward the degree program.

  • Stackable certificates consist of four or five courses totaling 12 s.h. credits.
  • The certificate may serve as a gateway to the MS in Biotechnology program. Individuals who successfully complete a certificate can apply to the MS in Biotechnology program and, if accepted, apply all credits toward the degree program.
  • All programs can be performed on ground in Boston. Some can be performed entirely online.
  • Lab courses are delivered on ground.
  • Industry-aligned faculty have real-world experience.

The multi-billion-dollar biotechnology industry is diverse, growing, and filled with opportunity. Individuals with advanced scientific knowledge, intellectual flexibility, drive, and professional skills can pursue paths of innovation with the potential to meet critical healthcare and environmental challenges-and to change lives. The industry’s unparalleled growth is projected to continue in the coming years. The result is an ongoing expansion of career opportunities on every level and in every industry sector, from large pharmaceutical operations to entrepreneurial biotechnology start-ups.

Admissions

Apply to the program

A graduate degree or certificate from Northeastern can accelerate your career through rigorous academic coursework and real-world professional experience in your area of interest. Apply to take your career to the next level.

  • Online application

  • Unofficial transcripts (official transcripts required upon acceptance of admissions)

    • The Foreign Credential Evaluation (FCE) is a required assessment of all transcripts and documents from non-U.S. accredited post-secondary education institutions. (Review the FCE requirements by country.)

  • GPA 3.0 or higher

  • Personal statement

  • English language proficiency:

    • Degree earned or in progress at a U.S. institution

    • Degree earned or in progress at an institution where English is the only medium of instruction

    • Official exam scores from either the TOEFL iBT (institution code is 3682), IELTS, PTE exam, or Duolingo English Test. Scores are valid for 2 years from the test date.

Program objectives

Prepare for success

This program provides students with the professional skills, communication skills, scientific knowledge, and management experience to advance their careers in biotech.

Become a process science expert

Students in the program learn about the principles and practices of process development of biopharmaceuticals.

Gain applicable experience

Northeastern’s signature experiential learning model combines academics with professional practice to help students acquire relevant, real-world skills they can apply to their desired industry.

Market outlook
Industry at a glance
Here's a look at current market trends and the career landscape.

Occupations

Cost of attendance

Tuition and financial aid

  • $23,136
    Tuition in USD

Estimated Total Tuition

This is an estimate based on the tuition rates for Academic Year 2025-2026 and does not include any fees or other expenses. Some courses and labs have tuition rates that may increase or decrease total tuition. Tuition and fees are subject to revision by the president and Board of Trustees at any time. Select programs at select campuses offer additional scholarships of up to 25% off the listed price for domestic students studying on campus. For more detailed information, please visit Student Financial Services.

For students interested in pursuing financial assistance or educational loans, additional educational costs, known as Cost of Attendance (COA) components, can be included in the calculation of aid and loan eligibility. Components may include food, housing, books, course materials, supplies, equipment, transportation, personal expenses, and the cost of obtaining a first professional licensure. You can find comprehensive details on the Student Financial Services website. Please keep in mind that COA can vary significantly depending on academic program, enrollment intensity, and individual circumstances.

There are many ways to pay for your education, including scholarships, financial aid, and more. Connect with a financial counselor to learn about your options and make your dream a reality.

Visit tuition & financial aid
Online Programs

Your education, your way

A person with curly hair in a white zip-up jacket sits at a modern kitchen table, focused on their laptop. They hold a mug and appear engaged, with natural light filtering through a window behind them.

Northeastern's online classes give you the same top-tier education you'd get in person, on a schedule that works for your lifestyle and career needs. They offer a range of videos, interactives, breakout sessions, and experience-focused learning opportunities to immerse you in the material and build community. You'll graduate with the same degree as your in-person peers.

#8

Northeastern's national ranking for Most Innovative Schools

(U.S. News & World Report, 2024)

53.5%

Percent of graduate students in the U.S. enrolled in online courses

(NCES, 2022)

97%

Percent of students in the U.S. who recommend online education

(BestColleges, 2024)

Connect with us

Want more information?

We’re here to answer your questions about this program, the application process, and more. Complete the form below to receive additional program details and speak with a member of our enrollment team. 

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