Biotechnology Major

Biotechnology Major

IN THIS SECTION

Get the training you need for an exciting career.

The interdisciplinary Biotechnology Major integrates key knowledge and skills from both the biological and chemical sciences to meet the need for skilled laboratory associates in the experimental laboratory and in manufacturing facilities of the biotechnology industry. Through coursework in biology, chemistry, physics, mathematics, and writing, you will develop critical-thinking, problem-solving, and hands-on laboratory skills that will prepare you for graduate school and a wide range of career opportunities.

You will be trained in tissue culture, molecular biology, protein purification, analytical chemistry, and regulatory affairs. An internship will give you additional practical experience.

You can choose areas of specialization with upper elective course options and by engaging in research projects mentored by faculty members. You can also take advantage of the expedited 4+1 program that enables you to complete both your BS and MS degrees in just 5 years.

What you will do:

  • Develop a solid understanding of the principles of biological and chemical processes and the application of cells and organism for industrial purposes
  • Use scientific methodology to solve problems and design experiments
  • Apply analytical and laboratory skills and effectively communicate scientific information
  • Participate in faculty-led research in areas like biochemistry, cancer biology, tissue culture, chemical synthesis, and microbiology or intern at a local biotechnology company such as Bristol-Myers Squibb or Curia
  • Discover the global impact of biotechnology on the environment and society

Graduates are qualified for careers in research and development, quality assurance, quality control, and manufacturing as well as for further (graduate) education.

The biotechnology major is sponsored jointly by the Departments of Biology and Chemistry. Biotechnology majors are not eligible for a chemistry minor.

Options

Explore the different options available to biotechnology majors.

Explore sample courses in this program.

BI-141 Intro to Cellular and Molecular Biology

Cellular and molecular concepts in biology. Emphasis on the structure and varied functions of the cell. 3 lecture hours and 3 laboratory hours per week. Intended for STEM majors.
4 credits

BT-101 Introduction to Forensic Sciences

Survey of forensic case studies and the laboratory techniques used to solve crimes including microscopy, chromatography, ballistics, and DNA analysis.
4 credits

BI-204 Microbiology

The cytology, metabolism, and genetics of bacteria. Immune responses and control of microorganisms are stressed. 3 lectures and a 3-hour laboratory per week.
4 credits

BT-240 Research Experience for Undergraduates

Lab- and/or field-based research on a specific research topic under the supervision of a faculty member.
1 to 6 credits

BI-313 Histology

The structure and function of animal tissues. Each student is required to prepare tissues using histological methods. 3 hours of lecture and a 3-hour laboratory per week.
4 credits

CH-350 Medicinal Chemistry

A study of how drugs work and the science and technology of modern drug discovery is illustrated with case histories. 3 lecture hours per week.
3 credits

BT-360 Introduction to Bioprocessing

This laboratory course covers the process development and manufacturing of biologics. It includes process development, upstream, downstream, and other topics central to large scale production. At the end of the course, students will see the importance of every step from discovery to bulk fill in providing safe drugs to market.
4 credits

BT-375 Tissue Culture

A review of the methods of animal and plant tissue culture. Media preparation, aseptic techniques, and cell culture technology. 3 lecture hours and 3 laboratory hours per week.
4 credits

BT-376 Biotechnology

Principles, applications of recombinant DNA (molecular/microbial aspects). The biotechnology industry including bioreactor manufacturing standards and government rules. 3 lecture hours and 3 laboratory hours per week.
4 credits

BT-377 Fermentation Technology

Explores the application of biological and engineering principles involved in manufacturing pharmaceutical products.
4 credits

BT-378 Bioinformatics

Provides an overview of bioinformatics, including database structure, genomics, computational biology, and proteomics. 3 lecture hours and 3 laboratory hours per week.
4 credits

BI-398 Cancer Biology

Cellular and molecular basis of cancer, including cancer genetics, biochemical pathways related to cancer, and modern treatment approaches.
4 credits

BT-408 Directed Study: Biotechnology

Directed study offers students who, because of unusual circumstances, may be unable to register for a course when offered the opportunity to complete an existing course with an established syllabus under the direction of and with agreement from a faculty member.
3 credits

BT-410 Biotechnology Seminar

Up-to-date developments in biotechnology; reparation and presentation of technical literature. Students study new techniques and procedures used by the industry.
1 to 4 credits

BT-440 Advanced Research Experience

Advanced lab- and/or field-based research on a specific research topic under the supervision of a faculty member.
1 to 6 credits

BT-450 Internship in Biotechnology

Qualified upper-level biotechnology majors can learn experimental techniques by working in a company laboratory or a professional manufacturing environment.
3 to 6 credits

CH-410 Biochemistry I

The chemistry of proteins, nucleic acids, carbohydrates, and lipids; enzymes, biological oxidations; and correlations in intermediary metabolism. 3 hours of lecture and a 3-hour laboratory per week.
4 credits

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