Biotechnology

A Minor

DNA (deoxyribonucleic acid) is the building block of all forms of life, from plant to animal to human.  This genetic code defines what we are, how we function, and how we differ from each other.

Biotechnology is the study of DNA and how it can be used and manipulated for commercial applications including drug development and hereditary disease prevention, biochips in microprocessors, biomining extraction of valuable minerals, environmental cleanup, increased production in agriculture, and DNA forensics.

The Biotechnology minor is an emerging field that is becoming increasingly important as new developments lead to products and processes that improve the quality of human life.  The minor is available to all students. Five courses are required for the minor, which offer insights into the theory and practical application of genetic manipulation.

Studying Biotechnology at Bryant

Biotechnology is one of the fastest growing fields today because of the endless possibilities it presents for genetically modifying plants, animals, and microbes.  Through extensive research and development (R&D), biotechnologists are on the forefront of creating new commercial applications that can transform daily life.

Courses in the Biotechnology minor are taught in small classes that emphasize close faculty interaction.  Through a combination of theory, critical thinking and problem solving, and real-world applications, students are equipped with the knowledge and practical experience they need to understand the issues and concerns fundamental to the field.  Faculty emphasize biotechnology laboratory techniques.  They also address controversial issues related to genetics, such as cloning and genetically modified foods. 

The Science and Technology faculty have diverse backgrounds in the biotechnology field and offer a flexible curriculum to meet the individual interests of each student. Through collaborative research, review sessions, or personal tutoring, students benefit from the expertise and dedication of their professors.

Courses

Students in the Biotechnology minor will take the following:

Complete three (3) Core courses and two (2) labs from the following:

• General Chemistry and Lab
• Biology and Lab
• Introduction to Biotechnology and Lab

Choose one (1) course from the following

• Nutrition
• Human Sexuality
• Genetics
• Microbiology
• Issues in Biological Science

Required Capstone course:

• Biotechnology Seminar

For complete course descriptions, please refer to the course catalog.

Opportunities After Graduation

Analysts are predicting that biotechnology will be one of the most important applied sciences of the 21^st century.  Students in this field can explore careers that include:

• Medical Research scientist
• Life sciences Research scientist
• Scientist, industrial research
• Scientist, product development
• Forensic scientist (DNA fingerprinting)
• Scientific laboratory technician
• Scientific journalist
• Research scientists in the agriculture
• Research scientists in horticultural
• Research scientists in food industry
• Teachers, tutors and lecturers in schools and universities

Students are also prepared for further graduate study.

For More Information

To learn more about the Biotechnology minor, please contact:

Hong Yang, PhD
Professor
Department of Science and Technology
hyang@bryant.edu