Biotechnology applies scientific and engineering principles
to living organisms in order to produce products and services of value to
society. It is used in processes ranging from cheese production, brewing, and
waste water management, through to drug design and gene therapy. The program
examines microorganisms, plants and animals in the context of the discovery,
understanding, improvement and development of viable products or activities.
The discipline combines elements from many areas such as molecular genetics,
microbiology, immunology, physics, chemistry, engineering and mathematics.
Courses in the first three years establish a foundation of basic knowledge for the study of biotechnology, and also offer flexibility through electives. Students take many of the core technical skill courses offered in the Bachelor of Science, but also complete a number of courses with a commercial focus. The fourth year can be taken at honours or pass level. Each student completes a substantial research project addressing the industrial, regulatory and management issues surrounding biotechnology.
What
Courses Will I Take in a Biotechnology Bachelor's Degree Program?
If natural sciences are your strong
suit, you'll thrive in a curriculum that is intensely focused on biology and
chemistry, with a touch of physics. Along with general education requirements
in liberal arts, math and social sciences, you will take degree-related courses
in the fundamentals of:
- Microbiology
- Biochemistry
- Molecular biology
- Cellular biology
- Organic chemistry
- Genetics
- Immunology
Biotechnology programs tend to
emphasize hands-on experience, including huge amounts of laboratory time,
research, internships and cooperative learning experiences in local
biotechnology industries. That's why you won't find biotechnology bachelor's
degree programs online. You may even be able to work in a professor's own
laboratory, helping with research that will be published in a scientific
journal.
Can
I Specialize within the Degree Program?
In most programs, you can use
elective courses to concentrate on a particular area of biotechnology.
Depending on your long-term goals, concentrations can be oriented toward life
sciences or business. Possibilities include:
- Animal systems
- Plant systems
- Microbial systems
- Bioinformatics
- Bioscience policy and management
- Regulatory affairs and practices
What
Can I Do with My Degree?
Many biotechnology jobs require
advanced degrees, especially careers in genetics, independent research and
postsecondary teaching. Bachelor's degree holders may become research
associates, performing laboratory work that's typically designed and directed
by graduate degree holders. Because of this, many graduates opt to continue
their studies. If you're looking to enter the workforce directly, a bachelor's
degree still qualifies you for a wide range of entry-level positions. According
to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), you will most likely find
opportunities in applied research, product development, management or
inspection. Other less traditional options are biotechnology sales and
marketing or technical writing.
What
Kinds of Graduate Programs Can I Pursue?
A Master of Science (M.S.) or Doctor
of Philosophy (Ph.D.) degree in biotechnology would significantly expand your
career opportunities. Master's degree programs emphasize lab work, research and
field experience. They offer concentrations such as stem cell research,
virology, immunology or biotechnology management. Some schools have combined
B.S. and M.S. programs which allow you to earn both degrees in five years. A
Ph.D. is required for most independent biotechnology research and university
faculty positions. These programs tend to be research intensive.
Remember, too, that you are not
limited to biotechnology graduate programs! A bachelor's degree in
biotechnology can form a solid foundation for medical school; dental school; or
advanced degrees in biochemistry, molecular biology and other life sciences.
