Bioengineering and Bioscience PGDip Program

The Post Graduate Diploma (PGDip) is awarded upon successful completion of a minimum of 30 credits with a minimum of 3.0 cumulative GPA. Courses require a minimum of B- for course credit.

Duration of Study

Students must complete the PGDip in 2 Semesters and 1 Summer Session. Students are not permitted to change tracks.

PGDip Program Requirements

The PGDip program has the following components:

  • English Courses (6 credits)
  • Core Courses* (18 credits)
  • Capstone Project (6 credits)
  • Winter Enrichment Program** (WE 100) (non-credit)

*6 technical courses specific to each program.

**Students must successfully complete the Micro-Credential in Python, offered as part of WEP, to receive a Satisfactory (S) grade.

Course Requirements (24 credits)

Semester 1:
ENG 100 Advanced English Language Communication  3
BESE 100 Basic Chemistry for Life Science  3
BESE 102 Introductory Cell Biology  3
Choose 1:
CEMSE 102  Calculus  3
PSE 100   Physics and Mechanics I  3
PSE 102  Chemistry & Thermodynamics I  3
Semester 2:
ENG 101 Critical Writing Discussion & Debate  3
BESE 200 Bio Lab 3
BESE 104* Introductory Molecular Biology
3
BESE 101* Introductory Biochemistry
3

Students who fail any of the course requirements will be dismissed from the PGDip Program. Given the sequential nature of the course offering, appeals are not considered. 

*With approval from the Program Chair/Assoc. Dean high performing students (CGPA >3.7) can replace BESE 101/ BESE 104 with a BESE program 200- level course. Students can transfer 200-level credits earned during the PGDip to the KAUST MS degree.

Capstone Project (6 credits)

During the summer session, all PGDip Students must register for six (credits) of Capstone Project. Students must choose one of the following:

  • Bioinformatics
  • Lab paper connected to the Bio Lab
  • On-campus/Off-campus internships at start-ups (in collaboration with the Entrepreneurship Center)