Biotechnology

The Biotechnology curriculum is designed to meet the increasing demands for skilled laboratory technicians in various fields of biological and chemical technology. Course work emphasizes biology, chemistry, mathematics, and technical communications.

Graduates may find employment in various areas of industry and government including research and development, manufacturing, sales, and customer service. 

The Biotechnology Program at Guilford Technical Community College (GTCC) is a collaborative educational program offered by Alamance Community College (ACC) and GTCC. Students are able to complete the first two semesters as well as some selected general education courses from the second year at GTCC. Students who successfully complete at least the first two semesters at GTCC will be admitted to the Alamance Community College program and will be able to complete the program requirements at ACC. Alamance Community College will award the Associate of Applied Science degree to all students who meet degree requirements.

Credentialing Options

Biotechnology, AAS - CIP Code: 26.1201

A 20 10 0 AL

Contact: (336) 334-4822, ext. 50357

The Biotechnology curriculum is designed to meet the increasing demands for skilled laboratory technicians in various fields of biological and chemical technology.

Course work emphasizes biology, chemistry, mathematics and technical communications. The curriculum objectives are designed to prepare graduates to serve in three distinct capacities: research assistant to a biologist or chemist; laboratory technician/ instrumentation technician; and quality control/quality assurance technician.

Graduates may find employment in various areas of industry and government including research and development, manufacturing, sales, and customer service.

The Biotechnology Program at GTCC is a collaborative educational program offered by Alamance Community College (ACC) and GTCC. Students are able to complete the first two semesters, as well as some selected general education courses from the second year, at GTCC. Students who successfully complete at least the first two semesters at GTCC will be admitted to the Alamance Community College program and will be able to complete the program requirements at ACC. Alamance Community College will award the Associate of Applied Science degree to all students who meet degree requirements.

Program Outcomes:

  • Demonstrate effective oral and written communication skills.
  • Evaluate the principles and concepts related to biotechnology.
  • Demonstrate effective lab skills necessary for the biotechnology workforce.
  • Incorporate critical thinking in a variety of independent and collaborative laboratory projects.
  • Demonstrate academic skills necessary for transition into articulating educational institutions.
  • Incorporate laboratory procedures in a safe and organized manner into laboratory exercises.

Courses that may be completed at GTCC

Fall Semester I

Total Credits: 18

Spring Semester I

Total Credits: 17

Courses that may be completed at ACC

Total credit hours required for degree: 72

Electives

1. Chemistry Electives

2. Humanities/Fine Arts Electives

3. Social/Behavioral Science Electives

Note:

Additional Biology courses including

BIO 250 Genetics
 and
BIO 275 Microbiology
 can be taken at GTCC for credit at ACC.

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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.

Jameson McCann, Professor of Biology and Coordinator of Biotechnology

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 AAS Biotechnology degree are vast including: laboratory research technicians, medical technologists, biomanufacturing technicians, and clinical lab technicians. 

The Bureau of Labor Statistics projects a 10% increase in growth of biotechnology jobs over the next ten years.  The average annual salary for these jobs is $40,000.

In high school, you should take available courses in biology, chemistry, and mathematics. 

General Biology I (BIO111), General Biology II (BIO 112), Introduction to Chemistry + Lab (CHM131, 131A), Organic and Biochemistry (CHM 132), Microbiology (BIO275), Genetics (BIO250), Writing and Inquiry (ENG111), Art Appreciation (ART111), General Psychology (PSY150), and Introduction to Computers (CIS110)

You can complete the first two semesters of the AAS Biotechnology degree at GTCC and then complete the remaining course requirements at ACC, where the degree is awarded.