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Biotechnology

The Biotechnology curriculum is designed to meet the ever-expanding need for trained personnel in the field of biotechnology. The commonwealth of Massachusetts currently has the highest concentration of biotechnology activity in the world. There are now over 300 companies employing more than 28,000 people statewide. The biotechnology industry also employs over 150,000 people across the United States. This industry continues to grow in New England and is looking for trained employees. Graduates of this program will be in a challenging, exciting field with excellent benefits and opportunities. 

What is biotechnology? The term biotechnology encompasses a wide range of applications associated with the use of living things such as cells and bacteria to make useful products. Current applications of biotechnology include industrial production of pharmaceuticals such as vaccines and insulin, genetic testing, DNA fingerprinting, and genetic engineering of plants and animals.

Transfer Compact Option

The Biotechnology/Transfer Compact Option has been designed to meet the transfer requirements of four-year public colleges or universities that are members of the Commonwealth Transfer Compact, or those colleges that are accredited by the AACSB. All course choices should be discussed with the College’s transfer counselor or your advisor, as different institutions may vary in their particular program requirements.

Career Option

The Biotechnology Career Option concentrates on the methodology and techniques of microbiology, biochemistry, cell biology, genetics, and cell culture. Career option graduates will be qualified for positions such as lab assistant, research assistant, media prep technician, quality control inspector, safety technician, manufacturing technician, and documentation specialist.

Entrance Requirements

In order to be admitted to the Biotechnology program, an applicant should have completed two years of algebra, one year of geometry, and one year of trigonometry or senior math, and one year each of chemistry and biology with a grade of “B” or better.  Physics is recommended, but not required. Applicants should also have achieved a minimum of 800 combined SAT score.

Applicants not meeting all the entrance requirements may still be considered, but should understand that it might require additional time and effort on their part in order to prepare themselves for the required mathematics and science courses.

Applicants not deemed ready to enter the program are offered an alternate acceptance to the General Studies program. Students typically spend one year in this core remedying their academic deficiencies in the mathematics and sciences, and then reapply to the Biotechnology program.

Biotechnology Program Goals

1. Have a fundamental understanding of the field of Biotechnology.
2. Have mastered techniques used in modern biotechnology.
3. Are prepared for employment in biotechnology or transfer to a four year institution.
4. Have developed critical thinking and problem-solving skills.
5. Can communicate effectively, both orally and in writing.
6. Can conduct research from a variety of sources.
7. Are computer literate.

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Notes:

1. Career option students should take MATH-132 and MATH-232.
2. Career option students should take BIOL-140.
3. Career option students should take STAT-142.

Upon successful completion of requirements for this program, the degree of Associate in Science in Biotechnology will be awarded. A grade of "C" or better is required in all program courses.

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