Biotechnology

ASSOCIATE IN SCIENCE, 60 CREDITS

A biotechnology Associate of Science (AS) degree is a two-year undergraduate program that provides students with a foundational education in the principles and techniques of biotechnology. The program is designed to prepare students for careers in the biotechnology industry, including pharmaceutical and medical device companies, bioresearch organizations, and biomanufacturing facilities.

A typical biotechnology AS degree program covers topics such as cellular biology, genetics, microbiology, and biochemistry, as well as laboratory techniques and safety procedures. Students may also have the opportunity to gain hands-on experience through laboratory courses, internships, and research projects.

In addition to providing a strong scientific foundation, a biotechnology AS degree program may also include courses in business and communication, allowing students to develop the technical writing, presentation, and project management skills necessary for success in the biotechnology industry.

Upon completion of a biotechnology AS degree program, graduates are typically qualified for entry-level positions in the biotechnology industry, such as laboratory technicians, research assistants, or quality control specialists. Some graduates may also choose to continue their education and pursue a bachelor's degree in biotechnology or a related field.

Location: Albert Lea, Austin, Owatonna, Online Course(s)
Program Starts: Fall
Course Plan: Four Semesters
Faculty: Sue Knoll


For in-depth information including outcomes, program fees, course descriptions, and more please visit the Biotechnology program page at riverland.edu.

Required General Education/MnTC Courses (54 Credits)

BIOL1091 General Biology I (Goal 2 & 3) 4 CR
BIOL1092 General Biology II (Goal 3 & 10) 4 CR
BIOL2040 General Microbiology (Goal 2 & 3) 4 CR
CHEM1201 General Chemistry I (Goal 3 & 10) 5 CR
CHEM1202 General Chemistry II (Goal 2 & 3) 5 CR
ENGL1101 Composition I (Goal 1 & 2) 3 CR
GEOG1200 Human Geography (Goal 5 & 10) 3 CR
MATH1210 Calculus I (Goal 2 & 4) 5 CR
MATH2021 Fundamentals of Statistics (Goal 2 & 4) 4 CR
PHIL1130 Ethics (Goal 6 & 9) 3 CR
PHYS1501 College Physics I (Goal 2 & 3) 4 CR
PHYS1502 College Physics II (Goal 2 & 3) 4 CR
SOCI1103 Social Problems (Goal 5 & 9) 3 CR
SPCH1100 Fundamentals of Speech (Goal 1 & 9) 3 CR
- Goal 6 - Humanities and Fine Arts 1 CR

Electives (6 credits)

MATH1220 Calculus II 5 CR
BIOL2300 Genetics 4 CR