Biotechnology - Bioprocess Manufacturing Technology Option, AAS
Students learn to apply scientific principles and technical skills in support of biologists and biotechnologists in research, industrial, and government settings.
The program – which is new this fall – can be completed over five semesters and includes coursework in biology, bioprocess manufacturing, biotechnology, chemistry, mathematics, and general education.
This program is ideal for students aiming for high-demand careers as bioprocess technicians, pharmaceutical production specialists, quality assurance analysts, and biotech lab assistants in industries such as biomanufacturing, bioengineering and biopharmaceuticals.
Whether you're looking to enter the workforce or transfer to a four-year institution, bioprocess manufacturing technology equips you with the technical knowledge and practical skills needed to succeed.
Credentialing Options
Biotechnology - Bioprocess Manufacturing Technology Option, AAS
This curriculum prepares individuals to apply scientific principles and technical skills in support of biologists and biotechnologists in research, industrial, and government settings.
Coursework, most of which is hands-on, includes topics such as fermentation technology, cell culturing, protein purification, biologic synthesis, assaying and testing, quality control, industrial microbiology, bioprocessing, chromatography and bioseparation, genetic technology, laboratory and hazardous materials safety, and computer applications.
Graduates should be qualified for employment in various biotechnology-related laboratory and manufacturing areas of industry and government, including research and development, QA, QC, process technicians, sales, and customer service.
The Bioprocess Manufacturing Technology curriculum is designed to prepare individuals to work as Process Operators in biological products manufacturing facilities. Students will develop knowledge and skills in basic sciences, communication, manufacturing technologies, and good manufacturing practices. Students will be expected to develop a strong basic science foundation with a sound understanding of the major technologies employed in the industry. They will also be expected to develop collaborative and disciplined work ethics while consistently practicing problem-solving skills. Upon successful completion of the program, individuals should possess the necessary skills to qualify for numerous positions in a variety of Bioprocessing and pharmaceutical manufacturing industries. Employment opportunities include, but are not limited to, the following: Process Technician/Associate, Quality Assurance, Quality Control, Environmental Monitoring, Product Inspection, Documentation Review, Manufacturing, and Product/Process Validation.
Fall Semester I
- ENG 111 Writing and Inquiry
ENG 111 Writing and Inquiry
Close - BIO 110 Principles of Biology
BIO 110 Principles of Biology
Close - BPM 110 Bioprocess Practices
BPM 110 Bioprocess Practices
Close - PTC 110 Industrial Environment
PTC 110 Industrial Environment
Close
Total Credits: 15
Spring Semester I
- MAT 152 Statistical Methods I
MAT 152 Statistical Methods I
Close - BIO 175 General Microbiology
BIO 175 General Microbiology
Close - BPM 111 Bioprocess Measurements
BPM 111 Bioprocess Measurements
Close - BTC 181 Basic Lab Techniques
BTC 181 Basic Lab Techniques
Close - CIS 110 Introduction to Computers
CIS 110 Introduction to Computers
Close
Total Credits: 18
Fall Semester II
- BPM 112 Upstream Processing
BPM 112 Upstream Processing
Close - BPM 113 Downstream Processing
BPM 113 Downstream Processing
Close - CHM 131 Introduction to Chemistry
CHM 131 Introduction to Chemistry
Close - CHM 131A Introduction to Chemistry Lab
CHM 131A Introduction to Chemistry Lab
Close - HUM 115 Critical Thinking
HUM 115 Critical Thinking
Close
Total Credits: 16
Spring Semester II
- BTC 150 Bioethics
BTC 150 Bioethics
Close - BTC 285 Cell Culture
BTC 285 Cell Culture
Close - ISC 278 cGMP Quality Systems
ISC 278 cGMP Quality Systems
Close - ISC 280 Validation Fundamentals
ISC 280 Validation Fundamentals
Close - PSY 150 General Psychology
PSY 150 General Psychology
Close
Total Credits: 14
Total credits required for degree: 66
Biotechnology - Bioprocess Manufacturing Technology
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Frequently Asked Questions
You will need to follow the general enrollment process for GTCC. During the advising process you will have the opportunity to indicate your desire to study within this curriculum. Your advisor will help you sign up for the specific courses you need.
To be determined
Yes, Financial aid is available if you qualify. Please visit the Financial Aid web page or contact the Financial Aid office at 336-334-4822 Option 3.
Yes, if you are admitted to GTCC, you can qualify for this program. It is important to note that some students may be required to complete some developmental education courses before registering for degree courses.
Careers for students with an Associate in Applied Science in bioprocess manufacturing technology are vast including: process technician/associate, quality assurance, quality control, environmental monitoring, product inspection, documentation review, manufacturing, and product/process validation.
A Lightcast economic data report shows there are currently 109 local jobs in the Biotechnology sector in Guilford County with a median salary of $59,200, which is above the current average wage for the county overall ($57,190).*
* Lightcast Analytics. (2024). Biology/Biotechnology Technician Program Development and Review. Lightcast Q1 2024 Data Set. lightcast.io
In high school, you should take available courses in biology, chemistry, and mathematics.
Students interested in continuing their education beyond the AAS will have 30 credit hours in general education courses that can transfer to a variety of four-year programs. As part of the North Carolina Comprehensive Articulation Agreement, GTCC is prepared to help students interested in pursuing a bachelor’s degree after completing an associate degree.