MS in Biotechnology Innovation & Regulatory Science (Hybrid)
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Andrew Rusch, IT Engineer - LIMS
Catalent (Soon to be Novo Nordisk)
I first discovered the BIRS program through my familiarity with Purdue University. Both of my brothers graduated from Purdue, and I grew up just down the road in Kokomo. After several years in industry, I decided to pursue graduate studies and came across the Biotechnology Quality and Regulatory Compliance (BQRC) program website. I later learned that a former manager of mine had also graduated from the program and spoke very highly of her experience. This connection helped confirm that the program was the right fit for me.
The biggest challenges I faced in pursuing the program were managing my full-time job and my responsibilities as a father. The hybrid nature of the BQRC program was ideal for my busy professional and personal life. Fortunately, my wife and managers were incredibly supportive, helping me balance my personal and professional life with my academic commitments. A memorable moment was when my youngest daughter was born just hours after I finished my first course in the BQRC program, a testament to the challenges and timing involved.
The flexibility of the courses allowed me to learn at my own pace through readings and video lectures without disrupting my career or parenting responsibilities. The on-campus weekends were particularly valuable, featuring instructors with real-world industry and regulatory experience. These weekends allowed me to meet classmates from different companies and industries, which broadened my understanding of the larger regulatory landscape. Networking with peers from diverse backgrounds has been one of the greatest benefits of the program, and the connections I’ve made have helped me immensely in my career. After completing the BQRC graduate certificate, I was inspired to apply for the full MS degree.
If you’re considering the BQRC or the BIRS MS concentration program, be prepared to dedicate time to complete the assignments, but understand that this investment will be worthwhile. The knowledge you gain will pay dividends in the future, and your classmates will offer valuable perspectives you may not have encountered in your current or past roles. The program is an investment in your professional growth.
On a personal level, the BIRS program has been transformative. The program has broadened my understanding of quality and regulatory interactions, empowering me to think critically about existing practices and contribute fresh ideas to improve my team’s impact on the company’s mission.