Student Life at Keck Graduate Institute

The MBS degree is designed to prepare students for careers in the biotech, medical device, and pharmaceutical industries; that preparation includes becoming well-rounded, personable professionals. Our belief is that there are many aspects of life as a graduate student that influence KGI and the MBS learning experience.

Therefore, students are encouraged to continue to develop their talents and interests beyond the KGI academic curriculum. Mentorship from faculty, and participation in social events, student clubs and activities are a part of daily life at KGI.

The biotech industry is an important part of commerce and discovery in Southern California and KGI receives a great deal of support from this community. Students have ample opportunity to meet with company leaders, venture capitalists, innovators and entrepreneurs in both formal and informal settings on campus. It is this industry network, these relationships, that provide a background for KGI’s rich academic program. Students develop further sophistication, intellectually and socially, during venues that range from brown-bag lunches with corporate leaders to the festivities surrounding The Si Ramo Lecture and the lively meetings of our Advisory Council.

One of the advantages of our being a small, stand-alone institution is that the faculty:student ratio is remarkable (approximately 1:4). Often it is through relaxed conversation or a chance encounter that students enjoy meaningful experiences at school. In addition, the administration, including the Dean of Faculty and the President, are actively involved in student life and student development.

The greater Los Angeles and San Diego areas are complex, fascinating and dynamic. KGI students have full access to the recreation, cultural richness, and beauty of the area. Graduate school is demanding and, at KGI, brings with it a wealth of new experiences both in and out of the classroom.