Biotechnology - Associate in Applied Science

This program has been discontinued or temporarily suspended. Currently enrolled students may complete their program of study, but new students will not be admitted.

Program Info

Year Established
2009
Program Code
BIOTECH.AAS
Degree Type
Associate in Applied Science
Office Contact
School of Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM): 313-845-9632, steminfo@hfcc.edu, Health Careers Education Ctr, Room: G-122 and J-115
Faculty Contact
Jolie Stepaniak: 313-845-9646, jastepaniak@hfcc.edu, Science Bldg, Room: J-114C

Program Description

Description

An intensive program which prepares students for positions as biotechnology technicians in molecular biology-based industries and institutions. Coursework integrates authentic work-based experiences, training in modern instrumentation and new technologies, and rigorous scientific content.

Program Learning Outcomes

Upon successful completion of this program, students should be able to:

  1. Demonstrate proficiency with current standard biotechnology laboratory techniques.
  2. Demonstrate proficiency in preparing, dispensing, and appropriately labeling laboratory solutions/reagents, and in maintaining solution/reagent integrity.
  3. Demonstrate proficiency in using, calibrating, and maintaining standard laboratory equipment; perform method validation.
  4. Perform basic laboratory measurements, calculations, and statistical analyses of data.
  5. Demonstrate the appropriate use of computers for data acquisition, analysis, reporting, record keeping, communication, and instrument control.
  6. Communicate professionally both orally and in writing.
  7. Demonstrate biotechnology laboratory workplace skills, including safety skills, scientific accountability and ethical behavior, appropriate workplace behavior.
  8. Demonstrate appropriate use of standard forms of laboratory documentation
  9. Solve problems in biotechnology by determining the appropriate application of standard biotechnology techniques and equipment
  10. Apply the scientific method to the design and execution of experiments and the analysis and interpretation of experimental data
Career Opportunities

Biotechnology is a growing field, so the number of positions available for Biotechnology Technicians is expected to increase. Starting salary for students completing an associate degree is estimated to be $12-14/hour (based on information from regional biotech employers). Students who have earned an associate’s degree or certificate in Biotechnology can obtain an entry-level job as a Biotechnology Technician in an:

  • Industrial laboratory (e.g., Pharmaceutical company)
  • Forensic laboratory (e.g., Police crime laboratory)
  • Research laboratory (e.g., University research laboratory)
  • Government laboratory (e.g., USDA laboratory)

This is not a medical technology program, and so is not designed to prepare students to work in clinical laboratories.


Occupational Exposure/Risk

Applicants considering a career in biotechnology should be aware that, during their course of study and in subsequent employment in the field, they may work in situations where exposure to infectious agents is possible. Proper education and strict adherence to well established infection-control guidelines can reduce the risk to a minimum.

Admission Requirements

Admission Requirements and Eligibility

NOTE: Students are required to pass a drug screen prior to beginning the internship experience (BIO-263). The cost for this test is in addition to the basic tuition and fee schedule. For questions regarding this policy, contact the Program Director.

General Education

Category 4: Social Sciences
Complete any one, from a different discipline.
Credit Hours
3.00

See General Education Requirements for details.

Program Requirements

Note

Complete additional 100-level, or higher, courses to complete the requirements for this degree.

Elective Hours
10.00
Minimum Total Credit Hours
60.00
Requirements are subject to change. The information represented here is effective starting Fall 2021 and applies to the current catalog year. If you were admitted prior to this year, please check your requirements under the My Progress section of HFC Self Service.