Science: Biotechnology Major

Science: Biotechnology Major

Do you enjoy working with both your hands and your mind? Are you passionate about pursuing a career that can change lives, whether by developing new treatments for diseases like cancer or diabetes, discovering alternative energy sources and cleaning up the environment, ensuring access to clean water and food, or helping to solve crimes by studying the evidence left behind? If so, the Associate of Science (A.S.) in Biotechnology degree at Virginia Western Community College can help you achieve that goal.

The A.S. in Biotechnology curriculum provides a strong foundation in core sciences, including general biology and general chemistry, along with specialized biotechnology courses. These courses build essential laboratory skills and introduce advanced methods such as bioinformatics, cell culture, and imaging. Throughout the degree program, students can earn multiple microcredentials from the Bioscience Core Skills Institute (BCSI), which validate specific laboratory skills like documentation, laboratory math, solution preparation, micropipetting, and more. In addition, near the end of the program, students are 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 skills-based curriculum, combined with stackable BCSI microcredentials and the BACE credential, prepares students for success in both the workforce and further academic pursuits. Graduates are qualified for careers such as Biotechnology Laboratory Technician, Environmental Health and Safety Technician, or Forensic Scientist. They are also well-prepared to transfer to one of the many four-year institution in Virginia to continue their studies and gain research experience. Begin your journey today toward a rewarding career in biotechnology, knowing that your work will benefit not only yourself, but the world around you.

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

• Biotechnology (Career Studies Certificate)

Transfer Agreements

Students that graduate from Virginia Western with an associate degree and a minimum grade point average 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 program. 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)