Biotechnology, A.A.S.

Purpose

This program is designed to prepare graduates for employment in entry-level positions at biotechnology and pharmaceutical companies as laboratory, research, or manufacturing technicians. Coursework will develop an understanding of basic scientific principles in biology and chemistry, and will emphasize laboratory techniques and procedures such as solution and media preparation, DNA purification and analysis, electrophoresis, chromatography, maintenance of cells in culture, and quality control techniques.

Transfer Information

Transfer is not the primary purpose of an A.A.S. program, but NOVA has articulation agreements that facilitate the transfer of this and other career-oriented programs to selected senior institutions. Many of the courses within the program are accepted for transfer to almost any senior institution. Students interested in transfer should contact their academic advisor early in their program.

Individuals wishing to enroll in the A.A.S. in Biotechnology should follow these steps for admission, starting at least one semester prior to when they wish to enroll in the program:

1. Attend an information session or schedule an advising appointment with a Biotechnology academic advisor.
   • This can be completed prior to or after steps 2-4. Students are encouraged to seek information very early in the process.
2. Apply to NOVA.
   • Students may choose to enroll in the A.S. in General Studies prior to their acceptance into the program.
3. Take the College placement test for English and Mathematics in one of the College’s Testing Centers (located on each campus).
4. Complete pre-admission requirements for the program. Students applying to the A.A.S. program must have documentation of the following:
   • placement into college-level English (ENG 111 College Composition I),
   • placement into MTH 161 PreCalculus I or higher, and
   • completion of BIO 101 General Biology I with a “C” or better.
     Students who are currently enrolled in BIO 101 General Biology I may apply to the program and be admitted on a provisional basis after meeting with and if recommended by a biotechnology faculty advisor until their final grade is submitted. If a student has taken BIO 101 General Biology I or any of the course requirements at another institution, he/she must submit official transcripts and if applicable, foreign transcripts, and submit a formal evaluation of the courses/degree, along with a Request for Evaluation of Transcripts Form (125-049), for each institution.
5. Apply to the program.
   • Apply to the program by emailing the Biotechnology application form to Dr. Xin Zhou at xzhou@nvcc.edu. An advising session will be scheduled if not already completed. Students will be notified within 2 - 4 weeks as to whether they have been accepted or not.
6. Receive the Biotechnology Program Handbook and register for core biotechnology classes, BIO 250 Biotechnology Research Methods and Skills and BIO 253 Biotechnology Concepts.

Two Years

Electives should be chosen with the advice of an academic advisor to meet the requirements of the intended transfer institution. 

¹

Must complete with a “C” or better.

²

Students must be approved by the Biotechnology program coordinator(s) for an internship. Criteria for approval include successful completion of biotechnology courses (including a demonstrated proficiency of basic lab skills), a professional work ethic, and an ability to work well with others. Please see a Biotechnology academic advisor for assistance in determining and placement or for approval of a topic for a Project or Supervised Study.