The Biotechnology curriculum, which has emerged from molecular biology and chemical engineering, is designed to meet the increasing demands for skilled laboratory technicians in various fields of biological and chemical technology.
Course work emphasizes biology, chemistry, mathematics and technical communications. The curriculum objectives are designed to prepare graduates to serve in three distinct capacities: research assistant to a biologist or chemist, laboratory technician/instrumentation technician or quality control/quality assurance technician.
Graduates should be qualified for employment in various areas of industry and government, including research and development, manufacturing, sales and customer service.
The Biotechnology AAS degree focuses on the application of the biological sciences, biochemistry and genetics to the preparation of new and enhanced agricultural, environmental, clinical and industrial products, including the commercial exploitation of microbes, plants and animals. Potential course work includes instruction in general biology, general and organic chemistry, physics, biochemistry, molecular biology, immunology, microbiology, genetics and cellular biology.
This certificate provides instruction on biology, chemistry and laboratory techniques used in the biotechnology industry. Credits earned in this program are transferable toward an Associate in Applied Science in Biotechnology degree.