Biotechnology Degree Programs
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“Cultivate a strong foundation in both biology and engineering, but also appreciate the importance of interdisciplinary collaboration. Being able to communicate effectively and work with experts from various fields will be key to your success in advancing biotechnological innovations.”
Keaun Amani, Founder & CEO of Neurosnap Inc.
Ever since the introduction of genetic engineering in the 1970s, biologists have increasingly implemented chemistry, math, and physics to acquire an in-depth knowledge of how living cells create substances at the molecular level. Biotechnology emerged from that research.
Biotechnology uses living systems to create various products that improve the planet’s lives and health. Biotechnologists efficiently manufacture medicine, food, and even fuel, among other products, by manipulating living cells and components of cells.
Thanks to biotechnology, traditional industries such as fermentation and food processing have undergone significant changes in the last few decades. For example, technologies now exist that change how people create and work with antibiotics, hormones, energy and food sources, and waste material processing.
People do not have to look far to see the effects of biotechnology in their everyday lives. It covers numerous disciplines, including biochemistry, genetics, and molecular biology. One of the primary use cases for biotechnology is the development of new medications. Other uses include biofuels, modified plants, and the production of chemicals, food, paper, and textiles.
The biotechnology field has many opportunities for specialization, including in the following areas:
Students and young professionals wishing to join the biotechnology industry have many academic options. Many biotechnology programs in the United States offer the above specialties for aspiring biotechnologists.
Depending on each student’s career path, aspirations, professional experience, academic background, and time commitment, students can choose to enroll in a bachelor’s or master’s program in biotechnology that can be completed online, on-campus, or as a hybrid of both—usually referred to as “blended.” More seasoned professionals can opt for a graduate certificate.
Read on to explore various programs in biotechnology and hear directly from a biotech expert.
Meet the Expert: Keaun Amani, Founder & CEO
As the founder and CEO of Neurosnap Inc., a biotech startup focused on merging biology with machine learning, Keaun Amani leads a skilled team of engineers, scientists, and researchers who share a passion for innovation in this emerging field. His career began in software engineering, where he spent nearly a decade specializing in data science, algorithm development, and software design.
Amani later transitioned to synthetic biology, applying computational expertise to tackle biological challenges. Notable achievements include developing algorithms for predicting enzyme stability and genetically engineering plants to glow in the dark. His journey reflects a commitment to challenging the status quo and pushing the boundaries of innovation, a spirit that continues to drive the work at Neurosnap Inc.
MedicalTechnologySchools.com: What is something most people don’t know about being a biotechnologist?
Amani: One thing most people don’t realize about being a biotechnologist is how much trial and error is involved in the work. It’s not just about following procedures; it’s about navigating the unknown and it often feels like a high-stakes game of educated guesses. Each experiment can be incredibly costly, and the outcome is never guaranteed, making the process akin to gambling in some respects. You’re constantly refining your approach as new data emerges, iterating on hypotheses, and sometimes, despite best efforts, things don’t work out as expected.
Moreover, being a biotechnologist demands a deep integration of biology with engineering principles. While the popular image might be of someone working with cells and organisms, the reality often involves designing and optimizing complex systems like bioreactors or genetic modification platforms. This requires not only an understanding of biological systems but also expertise in chemistry, data science, and, in my case, computational biology.
The field is inherently interdisciplinary, with biotechnologists regularly collaborating with professionals in data science, regulatory affairs, and even economics. The path from a groundbreaking discovery to a market-ready product is fraught with regulatory hurdles, ethical considerations, and market dynamics, which can be as challenging, if not more so, than the scientific research itself.
MedicalTechnologySchools.com: What is one piece of advice you would give to an aspiring biotechnologist?
Amani: One piece of advice I would give to an aspiring biotechnologist is to prioritize networking as early as possible. Biotechnology is a highly collaborative field, and building a strong professional network can open doors to opportunities, knowledge, and mentorship that can significantly accelerate your career. Most major cities and academic institutions host clubs, journal clubs, seminars, and industry events that are perfect for meeting established professionals in both industry and academia. Engage with these communities, attend events, and don’t be afraid to initiate conversations.
Talking to a wide range of people in the field will expose you to diverse expertise and perspectives that you can learn from, helping you to navigate the complexities of biotechnology better. Beyond just technical knowledge, networking will help you understand the broader context of your work, including industry trends, regulatory landscapes, and emerging technologies. These insights are invaluable as you shape your career and make strategic decisions about your professional development.
In addition to networking, embrace the uncertainty of the field. Biotechnology is constantly evolving, and resilience, adaptability, and a problem-solving mindset will be crucial as you face the inevitable challenges and setbacks. Cultivate a strong foundation in both biology and engineering, but also appreciate the importance of interdisciplinary collaboration. Being able to communicate effectively and work with experts from various fields will be key to your success in advancing biotechnological innovations.
List of Biotechnology Schools
| School | City | State | Website | GRADS ('21) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Seminole State College of Florida | Sanford | Florida | https://www.seminolestate.edu | 515 |
| Gaston College | Dallas | North Carolina | https://www.gaston.edu | 372 |
| North Carolina State University at Raleigh | Raleigh | North Carolina | https://www.ncsu.edu | 124 |
| Northeastern University Professional Programs | Boston | Massachusetts | https://www.northeastern.edu | 113 |
| University of Houston | Houston | Texas | https://www.uh.edu | 71 |
| California State Polytechnic University-Pomona | Pomona | California | https://www.cpp.edu | 59 |
| California State University-San Marcos | San Marcos | California | https://www.csusm.edu | 59 |
| University of Alabama at Birmingham | Birmingham | Alabama | https://www.uab.edu | 57 |
| University of California-Davis | Davis | California | https://www.ucdavis.edu | 50 |
| University of Kentucky | Lexington | Kentucky | https://www.uky.edu | 46 |
Admissions Requirements to Biotechnology Programs
The specific admissions requirements for prospective students depend on the school and the degree they decide to pursue. That said, there are some common requirements across all programs, such as:
- A minimum grade point average, typically 3.0 on a 4.0 scale
- Submission of official transcripts from previous colleges
- Letter(s) of recommendation
- A personal statement describing the reason for pursuing the specific degree
- Professional resume
- Completion of prerequisite courses or an undergraduate degree in a relevant field
- Application fee
- English language proficiency and Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) for international students
On-Campus Biotechnology Bachelor’s Degree Programs
This bachelor’s degree program is specifically designed for people who have completed an associate’s degree or the equivalent of two years of undergraduate coursework. Emphasizing practical application and critical thinking, the program’s hands-on curriculum includes a six-credit internship within industry or academia.
This 120-credit program includes 37 credits of general science classes, nine credits of applied science core classes, 36 credits of biotechnology courses, 24 credits of KU Core courses not covered by major requirements, and 14 credits of open electives. Examples of coursework for the general science requirements include foundational chemistry; organic chemistry; physics; principles of molecular & cell biology; principles of organismal biology; and genetics.
Core courses that students can expect to complete include science communications; elementary statistics or biostatistics; and a survey of management. For the biotechnology requirements, typical courses include applied immunology; biotechnology ethics and responsible conduct of research; molecular & microbial techniques; and bioinformatics.
- Location: Overland Park, KS
- Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission (HLC)
- Expected Time to Completion: Four years
The biosciences and biotechnology program at ASU prepares students for exciting careers in agriculture, healthcare, and other industries. This degree differs from others in its intense focus on biotechnology and molecular biology. Additionally, students will complete many hours of hands-on research as a final Capstone project.
Earning the degree requires a minimum of 120 credits, 45 of which must be upper-division and 30 of which students must complete at Arizona State University. Students must complete courses to earn a bachelor’s degree in biotechnology, include genetic engineering, the biology of microorganisms, organic chemistry, calculus for life sciences, and statistics for life science. The school also offers an accelerated degree option for interested students.
Graduates will be prepared for several positions, such as bioinformatics scientists, bioinformatics technicians, biological sciences professors, clinical trial managers, geneticists, health sciences managers, hydrogeologists, medical scientists, molecular biologists, and nanosystems engineers.
- Location: Tempe, AZ
- Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission (HLC)
- Expected Time to Completion: Four years
Liberty University offers a bachelor of science program in biotechnology that is packed with the courses and laboratory experience required by students to pursue their careers directly after graduation or attending the medical school of their choice. Nearly all chemistry and biology courses have labs associated with them. This means that students will get hands-on experience in their classes, which will be essential to their future in laboratory work or medical school.
This 120-credit program includes courses in biochemistry; general biology; genetics; microbiology; cell biology; molecular techniques; organic chemistry; analytical chemistry; and origins.
Graduates will be ready to take up positions such as biomedical laboratory supervisors, college professors or researchers, industrial laboratory technicians, laboratory research assistants, pharmacists, and physicians.
- Location: Lynchburg, VA
- Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC)
- Expected Time to Completion: Four years
Online Biotechnology Bachelor’s Degree Programs
University of Maryland Global Campus
Students who enroll in this program must already have technical knowledge of biotechnology through direct field experience, transfer credits, or both. This bachelor’s degree combines laboratory work, applied coursework, and an internship. The degree requires the completion of 120 credits, which includes 36 credits of major coursework, 43 credits of electives, and 41 credits of general education requirements.
Students should expect to take biological sciences; cellular and molecular biology; bioinformatics; laboratory safety and management; workplace learning in biology; and current applications and trends in the life sciences in the core portion of the program. Options for elective classes include biotechnology, biochemistry, chemistry, cell biology, immunology, genetics, molecular biology, microbiology, and physics.
- Location: Largo, MD
- Accreditation: Middle States Commission on Higher Education (MSCHE)
- Expected Time to Completion: Two to four years
On-Campus Biotechnology Master’s Degree Programs
This master’s program is particularly appropriate for those who wish to pursue a career in either the biotechnology or pharmaceutical industry. Recent graduates of the program hold positions in research laboratories, drug approval regulations, and law firms specializing in biotechnology. Students often choose this program as an alternative to spending up to seven years to earn a doctorate. Because the pharmaceutical and biotechnology industries are among the largest in the country, the demand for professionals with this specialized training continues to grow.
Core courses in this 30-credit program include biotechnology, drugs and disease, and a seminar in biotechnology. Students also complete an intensive laboratory course in biotechnology which provides them with hands-on experience in biotechnology methods. The school requires 15 credits of electives, which include entrepreneurship in biotechnology; molecular biology of cancer; biotechnology law; cellular neurobiology; genetics; systems neurobiology; cell biology; immunology; and molecular biology.
- Location: New York, NY
- Accreditation: Middle States Commission on Higher Education (MSCHE)
- Expected Time to Completion: Full-time students (one year); part-time study is also available
In response to the explosive growth of the biotechnology industry, the Tandon School of Engineering has created a master’s degree program that prepares students for careers in drug design, healthcare biotechnology, and more.
The program requires the completion of 30 credits and includes 15 credits of core courses in biotechnology and the pharmaceutical industry; biotechnology and health care; biosensors and biochips; biocatalysis in the industry; and protein engineering. Additionally, students will be required to take nine to fifteen credits of electives in bioanalytical chemistry; biochemistry; drug delivery; genetic engineering; neuroscience, and six credits from two elective courses in guided studies in biotechnology.
Students must earn at least a 3.0 grade point average in all courses to graduate. The school also offers a dual biotechnology and entrepreneurship master’s program for biotechnologists interested in creating and growing a business.
- Location: Brooklyn, NY
- Accreditation: Middle States Commission on Higher Education (MSCHE)
- Expected Time to Completion: Two to three years
Online Biotechnology Master’s Degree Programs
As a leading research university, Johns Hopkins offers a 10-course biotechnology master’s degree program that provides students with a strong background in biochemistry, cell biology, genomics, molecular biology, and proteomics. Students can choose from six concentrations: biodefense, bioinformatics, biotechnology enterprise, regenerative and stem cell technologies, regulatory affairs, and drug discoveries.
All students complete four core courses in biochemistry; molecular biology; advanced cell biology; and cellular signal transduction, then six electives according to their concentration. The program comprises 40 credits.
- Location: Baltimore, MD
- Accreditation: Middle States Commission on Higher Education (MSCHE)
- Expected Time to Completion: One to two years; both full-time and part-time available
Worcester Polytechnic Institute (Hybrid)
This is a blended 30-credit program that requires online coursework and on-site laboratory work at the school’s campus in Worcester, Massachusetts. Students complete several skill-based biology and biotechnology courses, including fermentation biology; protein purification; cell biology; genetic engineering; and bioinformatics. They also complete two chemistry electives—in drug regulations and membrane protein-targeted drug design—and several business electives.
Examples of business electives include managing technical innovation, entrepreneurship, and project management. Students must take 15 credits of biology and biotechnology courses, nine credits of skills-based courses, and six credits of elective courses. Before enrolling in this program, they must also possess an undergraduate degree in engineering or life sciences.
- Location: Worcester, MA
- Accreditation: New England Commission of Higher Education (NECHE)
- Expected Time to Completion: Two to three years
Northeastern University’s MS in biotechnology is an innovative, non-thesis graduate degree that combines advanced interdisciplinary training in biology, biotechnology, pharmaceutical sciences, and chemistry. Graduates are prepared to collaborate, lead, and innovate as managerial, technical, or research professionals in various biotechnology specialties. The program offers students the opportunity to pursue one of the ten available concentrations for furthering their knowledge in a specific topical area of the field.
Concentration options include agricultural biotechnology; biodefense; biopharmaceutical analytical sciences; biotechnology enterprise; biotechnology regulatory science; manufacturing and quality operations; molecular biotechnology; pharmaceutical technologies; process science; and scientific information management. Some concentrations require a two-week Boston residency.
The program’s core courses consist of 34 credits, including molecular cell biology for biotechnology; foundations in biotechnology; the biotechnology enterprise; scientific information management for biotechnology managers; cell culture processes for biopharmaceutical production; experimental design and biostatistics; and protein chemistry.
- Location: Boston, MA
- Accreditation: New England Commission of Higher Education (NECHE)
- Expected Time to Completion: Two to three years
Other On-Campus Biotechnology Programs
This school’s associate degree in science in biotechnology prepares students for entry-level or mid-career level work in the field. The degree requires a minimum of 61 credits. Courses are taught by faculty members with extensive experience in research settings.
Examples of courses include an introduction to biotechnology and lab; applied molecular biology; biomolecular separation and analysis; college biology; cell culture; advanced molecular methods; and two sessions of general chemistry with labs. Students also choose three elective credits, such as microbiology; statistics for applied science; and organic chemistry. Salt Lake Community College also offers a 16-credit certificate of proficiency in biotechnology. The certificate of proficiency stacks fully into the AS degree in biotechnology.
- Location: Salt Lake City, UT
- Accreditation: Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities (NWCCU)
- Expected Time to Completion: Two years if full-time
University of Maryland Baltimore County
In addition to its master’s program, the University of Maryland Baltimore County offers certificate programs in biotechnology management and biochemical regulatory engineering. Each certificate requires the completion of 12 credits.
The certificate in biotechnology management requires students to complete four three-credit courses. These include project management fundamentals; business principles of the biotechnology industry; legal & ethical issues in the science professions; and management, leadership, and communication.
The four three-credit courses for the certificate in biochemical regulatory engineering include regulatory issues in biotechnology; good manufacturing practices for bioprocess; quality control and quality assurance for biotechnology products; and biotechnology GMP facility design, construction, and validation.
- Location: Baltimore, MD
- Accreditation: Middle States Commission on Higher Education (MSCHE)
- Expected Time to Completion: One year part-time
Other Online Biotechnology Programs
The biotechnology graduate certificate at Northeastern University requires the completion of four three-credit courses. These include molecular cell biology for biotechnology; foundations in biotechnology; cell culture processes for biopharmaceutical production; and protein chemistry. The certificate was designed in response to the growing need in the biotechnology industry for students without a biotechnology background looking to gain a strong foundation in basic biotechnology skills and concepts.
Available both part-time and full-time, this graduate certificate can serve as a gateway to the MS in biotechnology program. The program comprises 12 credits.
- Location: Boston, MA
- Accreditation: New England Commission of Higher Education (NECHE)
- Expected Time to Completion: One year
Harvard University Extension School (Hybrid)
This hybrid graduate program requires the completion of 12 courses, two or more of which must be completed on campus. Students can choose electives relevant to their certificate topic or a second graduate credential, including bioinformatics, biotechnology management, innovation and entrepreneurship, and project management.
The bioinformatics certificate teaches students to work with genetic and biological data in various contexts. The biotechnology management certificate introduces the business side of biotechnology. The innovation and entrepreneur certificate focuses on these topics relating to biotechnology and the project management certificate focuses on technical and business management skills. Students can also choose a thesis or capstone track as they complete their courses.
- Location: Cambridge, MA
- Accreditation: New England Commission of Higher Education (NECHE)
- Expected Time to Completion: One to two years
Accreditation and State Authorization for Online Programs
When selecting a school, it is important for students to ensure that it has received outside accreditation. This means that a third-party organization has reviewed the college, its programs, admissions process, job placement rate, and several other factors and determined that all meet high standards. A school can earn regional accreditation for the entire campus or separate accreditation for various programs. The most reputable regional accrediting bodies include:
- New England Commission of Higher Education (NECHE)
- Higher Learning Commission (HLC)
- Middle States Commission on Higher Education
- New England Association of Colleges and Schools
- North Central Association of Colleges and Schools
- Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities (NWCCU)
- Western Association of Schools and Colleges (WASC)
Finally, another essential component prospective students should be aware of is whether an online school located in a different state has received authorization to offer degrees to out-of-state students. The formal term for this is “state authorization.” Since each state reaches separate agreements with other states, programs may not be available to students in all locations. It’s also common for tuition to cost more for out-of-state students as opposed to in-state students.
