This curriculum is designed to prepare skilled technicians for careers in the modern biotechnology industry. Students who complete the program successfully will be able to work in commercial and research laboratories under the supervision of research scientists in the biological, chemical, and physical sciences. Biotechnology laboratory technicians are involved in performing test procedures and in observing and evaluating test results used for the development and marketing of products in various fields of science. Emphasis is placed on a variety of laboratory skills. Basic courses in mathematics, biology, and chemistry form the foundation for more technical training in the second year.
Students take three off-campus laboratory training courses prior to graduation.
Although the program culminating in an A.A.S. is sufficient to enter the job market, the curriculum is designed to provide flexibility for students wishing to pursue further education. Students must have completed high school biology, chemistry, and algebra I or equivalent. A grade of C or better in mathematics, science, and chemistry courses in curriculum is required in order to complete the biotechnology laboratory technician program. To ensure currency, all practicum courses must be completed with a grade of C or better within one calendar year following completion of the corresponding campus course. CH 100A cannot be used.