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 are 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.

Program Considerations

  1. Students with AP Biology test scores of 5 may elect to receive four credits of BIO 121, thus fulfilling this requirement.
  2. Yearly enrollment in a Journal Club offering is the expectation. These are currently provided in the Winter Term.
  3. In order to ensure academic options within a four year plan, CHM 115/223 and BIO 121 are desirable first year courses.
  4. For maximum benefit, consider enrolling in BTC 180 Molecular Techniques in the first available Spring Term.
  5. An off-campus summer research experience is viewed as most valuable.
  6. Students are invited to petition the Biotechnology Steering Committee in writing if they encounter new or distinctive offerings that are relevant to the major.
BTC 101/*201/*301/*401. Biotechnology Journal Club
2 credits each (8 credits maximum)
Gain familiarity with, and conversancy of current literature and developments in the biotechnology sector. Primary research literature articles of various thematic topics are discussed and presented in a student-directed format. Graduating seniors must enroll in BTC 401 and will receive advanced assignments consistent with a capstone experience.
BTC 280. Biostatistics
4 credits
Introduction to the analytical methods commonly used in biotechnology and biomedical sciences. Emphasis on the basic concepts of experimental design, quantitative analysis of data and hypothesis testing. Provides a foundation to evaluate information critically to support research objectives and a better understanding of statistical design of experimental trials for biological products/devices.
BTC 320. Medical Botany
4 credits
Study of the contribution of plants to modern medicine. Topics include the botany, anthropology, chemistry and pharmacology of plant derived drugs.