Biotechnology

Program Overview
Jefferson College’s new Biotechnology program prepares students for careers in biomanufacturing, medical innovation, research, and agricultural improvement. The curriculum covers lab safety, genetics, DNA, lab techniques, biological physics, and immunology. Graduates are eligible to take the industry-recognized Biotechnology Aptitude and Competency Exam (BACE) and may transfer to four-year universities to continue studies in research, development, or manufacturing.
“Everything about this program is built around doing the work, not just learning about it,” said Dr. Cheryl Miller, a Biomedical Engineer and Research Scientist who will lead the program. “You’ll be in the lab from day one, using the same tools that employers use, with direct access to companies who are hiring.”
This program will be available at the Arnold location.
Degree Information
The Associate of Applied Science (A.A.S.) degree is designed for entry-level employment through practical and theoretical courses.
Academic Plan
The Academic Plan is a semester-by-semester plan for the full-time college-ready student. Part-time students should work with an advisor to customize the map to fit individual needs.
Course Guides
Jefferson College Institutional Course Guides (ICGs) are found in the Simple Syllabus - Syllabus Library AND/OR within your Canvas class page via the Simple Syllabus link in the Course Navigation Menu.
Career Opportunities
A background in biotechnology can open the door to a variety of exciting and impactful careers, including:
Biotech Lab Technician - Assist in research and development by conducting experiments and analyzing data.
Biomanufacturing Specialist - Produce biopharmaceuticals, vaccines, and other biotech products in controlled environments.
Research Associate - Support scientific studies in areas such as genetics, microbiology, and drug development.
Quality Control Analyst - Ensure biotech products meet industry standards and regulations.
Regulatory Affairs Specialist - Help companies comply with biotechnology laws and FDA regulations.
Clinical Research Coordinator - Manage clinical trials and support the development of new medical treatments.
Bioinformatics Technician - Use software tools to interpret biological data, such as genetic sequences.
Agricultural Biotechnologist - Develop genetically modified crops or improve agricultural productivity.
Environmental Biotechnologist - Use biological processes to solve environmental problems, like pollution cleanup.
Forensic DNA Analyst -Work in crime labs analyzing DNA samples for law enforcement investigations.
Bio Tech Bootcamp
Free summer Bio Tech Bootcamp! For more information, contact: workforce@jeffco.edu or 636-481-3144.