Biotechnology (BTC)

Professors Ball, Beckmann and McNally; Associate Professor Keeton; Assistant Professors Calhoun, Doyle and Turk.

The science of biotechnology combines content and techniques from multiple disciplines in pursuit of a common goal; the solution of problems in medical science and health care, pharmaceutical science, agriculture and environmental science. Curricular components of distinction include extensive laboratory work that includes a summer research fellowship/internship, immersion in critical analysis of current research literature, and integration of coursework from the humanities and social sciences. The curriculum has been developed to prepare students for graduate work in biomedical sciences as well as employment in academic and commercial research laboratories, the underlying philosophy including an emphasis on experiential learning as well as placement of biotechnology into the appropriate social and ethical context.

Major Requirements

  1. Core: 54 credits. Each student must take 20 credits of CHM 115, 223, 224, 230 and BCM 321; 8 credits of BIO 121 and 204; 8 credits of PHY 112 or 121, and 113 or 122; 8 credits of Computation including 4 credits of MTH at 112 or higher, and Biostatistics; 4 credits of BTC Techniques; 6 credits of Journal Club BTC 101, 201, and 301.
  2. Successful completion of the capstone experience, BTC 401 (2 credits).
  3. Electives: 12 credits. Each student must take at least 8 credits from BIO 207 or IPH 226; BIO 308, 330; BCM 430; IPH 340; PSY 201; and at least 4 credits from BTC 280, 380 (2 credit special topics courses approved by the program).
  4. Successful qualification for and completion of an intensive summer research experience in an academic or industrial setting.
  5. Integrative Electives: 12 credits. Students will take at least 12 biotechnology-related credits outside the natural sciences, such as COM 243, HST 280 (special topics courses in medical or public health history), PHL 229, POL 141, or other offerings as approved by the program.

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