UH Biotechnology degree plan

Biotechnology is the study of how living organisms can be used to advance developments in the fields of medicine, technology and engineering. A graduate degree is generally required to become a scientist in biotechnology, but students can become entry-level technicians with an associate's degree. This article looks at three schools within 35 minutes of downtown Houston that cover a range of degree levels. There's also a table that contains information prospective students can use to assess the schools and make an educated decision about their training.

• Houston Community College offers a certificate and an associate's degree program in biotechnology at its Northeast campus, about eight miles east of downtown Houston.
• The University of Houston is about six miles from downtown and has a bachelor's degree program in biotechnology.
• Approximately 25 miles from the city center, the University of Houston - Clear Lake offers a bachelor's degree, master's degree and a post-baccalaureate certificate program in the field.

Houston Community College

Houston Community College (HCC) offers certificate and associate's degree programs at its Northeast campus in Houston. Biotechnology programs are offered through the campus' Division of Science and Engineering Technologies. The programs are designed to prepare students for entry-level technician roles in settings that could include forensics, research and development, food processing and pharmaceutical labs.

Certificate in Biotechnology

This 32-credit certificate program at HCC takes three semesters to complete and includes basic coursework in biotechnology. In addition to biology and chemistry, some classes include lab instrumentation and an optional internship in biological technology.

Associate of Applied Science in Biotechnology

This program provides students with the practical skills needed for a job in the biotechnology industry. In addition to coursework offered in the certificate program, this 72-credit program includes some classes in organic chemistry, cell culturing, molecular biology, medical biotechnology and immunology. Students must complete an internship during the associate's degree program.

University of Houston

The University of Houston (UH) offers a bachelor's degree in biotechnology that combines coursework from the College of Technology and the College of Natural Science and Math.