Professional Science Master's Degree Program

The California State University (CSU) has initiated a systemwide program that currently makes the prestigious Professional Science Master's (PSM) available through 24 programs in 16 fields at 12 campuses. The PSM programs result in the awarding of master's of science degrees and prepare students for science and mathematics careers in business, government, or non-profit organizations in which workforce needs are increasing rapidly.

PSM programs that CSU campuses have begun or are planning are in the fields of biotechnology, biostatistics, bioinformatics, clinical project management, medical physics, computational science, environmental science, ecological economics, forensic science, and genetic counseling.

The national concern with economic competitiveness and with the nation's ability to remain at the leading edge makes the PSM programs and their degree holders particularly significant. These programs are aimed at preparing skilled professionals for the economic sectors that are leading the nation's global innovativeness.

PSM programs combine graduate study in science or mathematics with coursework in management, policy, or law, and result in the awarding of a master of science degree. They include an internship in a corporate or public sector position. These internships frequently lead to paid employment, and PSM graduates have median starting salaries in the private sector that approach $70,000.