Science: Biotechnology Major

The Roanoke region is emerging as a hub for biotechnology, thanks to its strong research institutions and growing life sciences companies. Whether you’re driven to save lives through medical breakthroughs, protect the environment or solve crimes using science, Virginia Western’s Associate of Science in Biotechnology will give you the skills and knowledge to make a meaningful impact in your community. With this program, you can start building that future now and earn your AS degree in just two years. If you’re looking to get started sooner or add to your existing science-based skillset, a Biotechnology Career Studies Certificate is available to give you a quicker way to enter the workforce or add new credentials to your resume. 

What will I learn? 

The Biotechnology Program will provide you with a strong foundation in core sciences, including general biology and general chemistry, along with specialized biotechnology courses. These courses will help you build essential laboratory skills and introduce you to advanced methods such as bioinformatics, cell culture and imaging. You’ll learn how biotechnology is used to develop new treatments for diseases like cancer or diabetes, aid in the discovery of alternative energy sources, ensure access to clean water and food, and help solve crimes by analyzing evidence. 

What credentials will I earn? 

Throughout the program, you will earn multiple microcredentials from the Bioscience Core Skills Institute (BCSI), which validate specific laboratory skills like documentation, laboratory math, solution preparation, micropipetting and more. You will also be eligible to sit for the Biotechnology Aptitude and Competency Exam (BACE), an industry-recognized credential for technician-level positions in biotechnology, life science, healthcare and related fields. This combination of skills-based curriculum, stackable BCSI microcredentials and the BACE credential will prepare you for success in both the workforce and your further academic pursuits.  

What careers can I pursue? 

The Biotechnology Program will prepare you for several roles in the biotechnology industry, including: 

• Biotechnology laboratory technician 
• Environmental health and safety technician 
• Forensic scientist 
• Research assistant 
• Environmental technician 

If you plan on pursuing a baccalaureate degree before entering the workforce, you’ll be well-prepared to transfer to one of the many four-year institutions in Virginia to continue your studies and gain valuable research experience. 

Learn more:

• Program Brochure (PDF)
• Watch the WDBJ7 Hometown Jobs report on Biotechnology at Virginia Western!
• Article on Articulation Agreement with James Madison University
• Article on Articulation Agreement with Roanoke College
• Implementing the BACE Credential in our Biotechnology degree pathways

Related Programs

• Science (Associate of Science)
• Biotechnology (Career Studies Certificate)

Transferring

If you graduate from Virginia Western with an AA or AS degree and a minimum grade point average, you may obtain guaranteed admission to more than 30 of the commonwealth’s colleges and universities. Click here for a list of Virginia Transfer Partners.

In addition, Virginia Western has entered into the following agreement specific to the Science: Biotechnology major. This list is subject to change, and the most current agreements can be found on our Transfer Agreements page.

• James Madison University: AS in Science: Biotechnology to BS in Biotechnology (PDF)
• Radford University: AS in Science: Biotechnology to BS in Biology (PDF)
• Roanoke College: AS in Science: Biotechnology to BS in Biotechnology (PDF)