Associate of Biotechnology: Degree Overview
Biotechnology is a combination of biology and technology that uses cells and molecules to find solutions to human and environmental problems. An associate's degree program in biotechnology can prepare students for entry-level careers in laboratories.
Associate Degree in Biotechnology
Students enrolled in associate's degree programs in biotechnology can learn how to perform a myriad of tasks in molecular biology laboratories. These duties include isolating proteins, analyzing data and completing lab experiments. These 2-year degree programs tend to be lab-intensive and prepare graduates for employment in a biotech laboratory.
Some schools offer two separate tracks for students to choose from, including a transfer track and a track for immediate employment. The transfer track is geared toward students who want to continue their education with a bachelor's degree or further, while the immediate employment track is ideal for those who want to find a job after graduation. Most programs are available at community colleges and technical schools.
Educational Prerequisites
To enroll in most associate's degree programs in biotechnology, students typically need a high school diploma or GED. Some colleges recommend that applicants complete specific biology, chemistry and algebra courses prior to enrollment.
Course Topics
In addition to general education courses, students typically complete courses in specialized areas of biology and chemistry. A student may also partake in an internship in order to work with a biotechnology company or assist university faculty members. Courses may include:
- Microbiology
- Genetics
- Bioinformatics
- Inorganic chemistry
- Genetics
Popular Career Options
Associate's degree holders can seek immediate employment in laboratory settings where they can help researchers in a variety of subjects, such as pharmaceutical, medical research, governmental and legal issues. They may be able to work their way up in the ranks with experience or additional education. Some career options include:
- Biotechnician
- Research technician or assistant to biologists or chemists
- Agricultural research assistant
- Process technician
Continuing Education Information
If students opt to further their education, they can seek out bachelor's degree programs in biotechnology, and eventually master's and doctoral degree programs. Bachelor's degree programs typically expand upon associate's degree programs and offer students additional internship opportunities. The graduate degree programs prepare students for work as biological scientists or researchers, and can allow students to learn about bioengineering and biomedical science.
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7 Popular Schools
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Minimum eligibility requirements:
- Must live within close proximity to school locations
- Must be graduated from high school by 2011
School locations:
- Arizona (1 campus)
- Florida (1 campus)
- Texas (1)
Classroom-Based Programs
- Associate
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Minimum eligibility requirements:
- Must be a high school graduate or have completed GED
School locations:
- California (1 campus)
- Minnesota (1 campus)
- Texas (1)
Classroom-Based Programs
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Minimum eligibility requirements:
- Must be a high school graduate or have completed GED
School locations:
- Colorado (3 campuses)
Classroom-Based Programs
- Associate
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Minimum eligibility requirements:
- Must be a high school graduate or have completed GED
School locations:
- Online Learning
Online Programs
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Associate
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- AS in Health Science
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Minimum eligibility requirements:
- Must be a high school graduate or have completed GED
- Currently not accepting applicants from Minnesota or Tennessee
School locations:
- Online Learning
Online Programs
- Associate
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Minimum eligibility requirements:
- Must be a high school graduate or have completed GED
School locations:
- Online Learning
Online Programs
- Associate
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School locations:
- Georgia (1 campus)
Classroom-Based Programs
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Associate
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- AS in Allied Health Science
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Other Related Schools:
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School locations:
- Ohio (2 campuses)
Areas of study you may find at University of Cincinnati include:
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- Non-Degree: Certificate, Coursework
- Undergraduate: Associate
- Biological and Biomedical Sciences
- General Biology
- Science Technologies
- General Biology
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School locations:
- New Hampshire (1 campus)
Areas of study you may find at University of New Hampshire include:
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- Undergraduate: Associate, Bachelor
- Biological and Biomedical Sciences
- General Biology
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School locations:
- New York (1 campus)
Areas of study you may find at Rochester Institute of Technology include:
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- Graduate: Master
- Non-Degree: Certificate, Coursework
- Post Degree Certificate: Postbaccalaureate Certificate
- Undergraduate: Associate, Bachelor
- Biological and Biomedical Sciences
- Bioinformatics
- Ecology and Evolutionary Biology
- General Biology
- Science Technologies
- Molecular Biology, Biochemistry and Biophysics
