Biotechnology
Program description
The Biotechnology Program provides you with a comprehensive science background, hands-on experiences with lab techniques, an understanding of regulations that govern the bioscience industry and the development of soft skills (critical thinking, teamwork and communication). Upon graduation, you will be prepared to continue in a four-year degree program or begin a science career.
Program start and location
New students are accepted into this program for fall and spring semesters. Classes take place in the Science Center.
Degree options and requirements
Biotechnology A.S. Degree—64 credits
Click here for program and course information.
What you will learn
- Coursework provides you with a strong foundation in the biological and chemical sciences and emphasizes critical thinking, problem solving, oral and written communication, teamwork and computer and math skills.
- Classes are designed to build an integrated knowledge of several science disciplines where you will develop skills in industrial regulatory affairs, quality control and lab techniques.
- Most courses feature industry guest speakers and tours of business and research labs.
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Points of pride
- The Biotechnology program is taught by highly qualified faculty members with research and business experience as well as industry instructors, visiting scientists and mentors.
- The Biotechnology program is housed in MCTC’s Science and Allied Health Center which opened in fall 2009. Biotechnology lab facilities include a wide variety of instrumentation, biosafety cabinets, fume hoods, HVAC systems and cold-, dark- and tissue-culture rooms.
- The program provides you with “hands-on” laboratory training in technical skill sets widely required and recommended by local biotechnology industry; four-year graduates lacking necessary hands-on skills can register for specific individual courses.
- Provides you with a strong foundation in biological and chemical sciences with an emphasis on critical thinking, problem-solving, oral and written communication, teamwork, basic computer and math skills.
Where you could work
- You can work in the industry- both in academic and government settings in Laboratory and Instrumentation, Quality Control and Quality Assurance, Production and Manufacturing, Documentation and many others!
- You can also pursue a four-year degree in several majors.
Potential job titles
- Lab employee
- Regulatory & QA/QC employee
- Pre-clinical & Clinical employee
- Manufacturing & Engineering employee
Occupational outlook
According to Ernst & Young’s 2009 Global Biotechnology Report, there were 1,754 public and private biotechnology companies in the U.S. with 128,200 employees in 2008. Minnesota is uniquely positioned to grow its bioscience industry. The state has 19 Fortune 500 companies as well as an internationally renowned medical technology cluster. State leaders have made it a goal for Minnesota to capitalize on these assets and become a global leader in the biosciences by 2025.
Beyond-the-classroom opportunities
- MCTC has developed partnerships within the local industry and community, and you will benefit in numerous ways from these alliances, including possible industry internships, seminars by guest speakers from industry, and industry and research laboratory tours.
- You may also choose to join the Science Club, which will engage you in interdisciplinary science activities outside the classroom such science outreach activities, field trips, guest lectures, local conferences and other projects each semester.
- You can receive college credit for internship experiences.
Articulation Agreements and Common Course Outlines
Please contact the program dean for information about articulation agreements.
Click here for Common Course Outline information.
