Life Sciences: Biotechnology

Associate in Science Degree with a major in Biotechnology; Transfer Program; Certificate of Completion

Career opportunities:
Biotechnology is a field of scientific research which combines the study of engineering and molecular life sci-ences. The biotechnologist therefore requires the knowledge and skills of the biochemist, molecular biologist, microbiologist, and im-munologist, as well as those of the engineer. An advanced degree in Biotechnology can lead to career opportunities in manufacturing/production, marketing/sales, patents, quality control, regulatory affairs, and research. In addition, there are extended career opportuni-ties for biotechnology specialists as lawyers, physicians, professional managers at all cor-porate levels, regulatory agency personnel, toxicologists, veterinarians, pharmaceutical manufacturers and clinical researchers.

A.S. Degree

Recommended high school preparation:
High school Biology (1 year); Chemistry (1 year); Physics (1 year); Mathematics (1 year).
For those students who have little or no high school preparation in one or more of the above subjects, the following courses should be completed: BIOL 100, CHEM 100 or 192 and PHYS 100 before pursuing the major.

Major requirements: BIOL 123, 210 or 220, 230, 240, 666; CHEM 210/220. Total: 25 semester units.
Plus General Education and other requirements for the A.S. Degree (see Index: General Education in the Catalog).

Transfer Program

Most career opportunities in Biological Sciences require a B.S. or advanced degree. Students can fulfill lower division General Education and major requirements at College of San Mateo. See the Transfer Planning and Major Preparation Recommendations sections of the Catalog. Students should also consult the catalog of the college or university to which they plan to transfer.