Biotechnology, B.S.

Program Code: BIOTC_BS

Program Description

Biotechnology may be broadly defined as the application of principles of molecular and cell science in the production of biologically important or industrially useful products. Therefore, students in the Biotechnology major will

  1. acquire a strong foundation in the life and chemical sciences,
  2. learn how fundamental science is applied to problems through biotechnology,
  3. develop basic laboratory skills, perform standard techniques, work with state-of-the-art instrumentation, describe and evaluate analytical methodology used in biotechnology, and
  4. become familiar with societal concerns and governmental regulations regarding the biotechnology industry.

One very important strength of this major is the extensive laboratory experience each student receives. In the General option, students are very strongly encouraged to consider Cooperative Education with industry as an integral part of their curriculum. In addition to the General option in Biotechnology, the major also offers the Clinical Laboratory Science option.

What is Biotechnology?

Biotechnology is broadly defined as the application of principles of molecular and cell science to the production of biologically important or industrially useful products. Topics in biotechnology include genetic engineering, pharmaceutical development, and bio-manufacturing.

You Might Like This Program If...

  • You like learning by doing experiments.
  • You enjoy complex problem solving, teamwork, and collaboration with specialists from different fields (e.g. sciences and engineering).
  • You desire to understand how to apply scientific concepts to the development of new products and technologies for human benefit or to benefit human surroundings.
  • You are interested in medicine but don't want to work directly with patients (Clinical Lab Science Option).

Entrance to Major

In order to be eligible for entrance to the Biotechnology major, a student must have:

  1. attained at least a 2.00 cumulative grade-point average, and
  2. completed CHEM 110, CHEM 111, CHEM 112, and MATH 140 and earned a grade of C or better in each of these courses.

Degree Requirements

For the Bachelor of Science degree in Biotechnology, a minimum of 125 credits is required:

Requirement Credits
General Education 45
Requirements for the Major 95

15 of the 45 credits for General Education are included in the Requirements for the Major. This includes: 9 credits of GN courses; 6 credits of GQ courses.

Requirements for the Major

To graduate with a B.S. degree in Biotechnology, a grade of C or better is required in 9 credits of any BIOTC, B M B, or MICRB 400-level course except BMB 442, BMB 443W, BMB 445W, BMB 448, BMB 488, BMB 496, MICRB 421W, MICRB 422, MICRB 447.

To graduate, a student enrolled in the major must earn a grade of C or better in each course designated by the major as a C-required course, as specified by Senate Policy 82-44.

Common Requirements for the Major (All Options)

Prescribed Courses
BMB 211Elementary Biochemistry3
BMB 221Applied Biochemistry2
BMB 251Molecular and Cell Biology I 13
BMB 252Molecular and Cell Biology II 13
CHEM 113Experimental Chemistry II Keystone/General Education Course1
MATH 141Calculus with Analytic Geometry II Keystone/General Education Course4
MICRB 201Introductory Microbiology 13
MICRB 202Introductory Microbiology Laboratory2
MICRB 410Principles of Immunology3
MICRB 421WLaboratory of General and Applied Microbiology3
PHYS 250Introductory Physics I Keystone/General Education Course4
PHYS 251Introductory Physics II Keystone/General Education Course4
PSU 16First-Year Seminar Science1
Prescribed Courses: Require a grade of C or better
CHEM 110Chemical Principles I Keystone/General Education Course3
CHEM 111Experimental Chemistry I Keystone/General Education Course1
CHEM 112Chemical Principles II Keystone/General Education Course3
MATH 140Calculus With Analytic Geometry I Keystone/General Education Course4
Requirements for the Option
Select an option48
1

To graduate with a B.S. degree in Biotechnology, a grade of C or better is required in two of the following courses:

Requirements for the Option

General Biotechnology Option (48 credits)
Prescribed Courses
BIOL 322Genetic Analysis3
BIOTC 416Microbial Biotechnology2
BIOTC 459Plant Tissue Culture and Biotechnology3
BIOTC 479Methods in Biofermentations3
BIOTC 489Animal Cell Culture Methods3
BMB 442Laboratory in Proteins, Nucleic Acids, and Molecular Cloning3
STAT 250Introduction to Biostatistics Keystone/General Education Course3
Additional Courses
Select one of the following sequences:6-8
Fundamentals of Organic Chemistry I
and Fundamentals of Organic Chemistry II
Organic Chemistry I
and Organic Chemistry II
and Laboratory in Organic Chemistry
Supporting Courses and Related Areas
Select 14-16 credits from department list C14-16
Select 6 credits of the following:6
Any 400-level BMB/BIOTC/MICRB lecture course
Food Microbiology
Additional courses from department list D
Clinical Laboratory Science Option (48 credits)

This option provides both the academic and clinical preparation for students interested in a career as a clinical laboratory scientist. Positions are found in hospital, physician-office, reference, industrial, and research laboratories. To complete baccalaureate degree requirements, students enter a ten-month clinical practicum (MICRB 405A, MICRB 405B, MICRB 405C, MICRB 405D, MICRB 405E, MICRB 405F) at an affiliate hospital for the senior year. (Current affiliations are with Mount Nittany Medical Center, State College and Pennsylvania Hospital, Philadelphia.) Students are recommended for a fixed number of hospital positions on a competitive basis. Cumulative grade-point average and hospital school admission requirements serve as criteria for recommendation. The B.S. degree is awarded at the first commencement following completion of the clinical practicum.

Prescribed Courses
BMB 212Elementary Biochemistry Laboratory1
MICRB 405ASeminar and Practicum in Medical Technology8
MICRB 405BSeminar and Practicum in Medical Technology1
MICRB 405CSeminar and Practicum in Medical Technology6
MICRB 405DSeminar and Practicum in Medical Technology5
MICRB 405ESeminar and Practicum in Medical Technology7
MICRB 405FSeminar and Practicum in Medical Technology3
MICRB 412Medical Microbiology3
MICRB 422Medical Microbiology Laboratory2
Additional Courses
BIOL 322Genetic Analysis3
or BIOL 222 Genetics
Select one of the following sequences:6-8
Fundamentals of Organic Chemistry I
and Fundamentals of Organic Chemistry II
Organic Chemistry I
and Organic Chemistry II
and Laboratory in Organic Chemistry
Supporting Courses and Related Areas
Select 1-3 credits from department list1-3

General Education

Connecting career and curiosity, the General Education curriculum provides the opportunity for students to acquire transferable skills necessary to be successful in the future and to thrive while living in interconnected contexts. General Education aids students in developing intellectual curiosity, a strengthened ability to think, and a deeper sense of aesthetic appreciation. These are requirements for all baccalaureate students and are often partially incorporated into the requirements of a program. For additional information, see the General Education Requirements section of the Bulletin and consult your academic adviser.

The keystone symbol Keystone/General Education Course appears next to the title of any course that is designated as a General Education course. Program requirements may also satisfy General Education requirements and vary for each program.

Foundations (grade of C or better is required and Inter-Domain courses do not meet this requirement.)

  • Quantification (GQ): 6 credits
  • Writing and Speaking (GWS): 9 credits

Breadth in the Knowledge Domains (Inter-Domain courses do not meet this requirement.)

  • Arts (GA): 3 credits
  • Health and Wellness (GHW): 3 credits
  • Humanities (GH): 3 credits
  • Social and Behavioral Sciences (GS): 3 credits
  • Natural Sciences (GN): 3 credits

Integrative Studies

  • Inter-Domain Courses (Inter-Domain): 6 credits

Exploration

  • GN, may be completed with Inter-Domain courses: 3 credits
  • GA, GH, GN, GS, Inter-Domain courses. This may include 3 credits of World Language course work beyond the 12th credit level or the requirements for the student’s degree program, whichever is higher: 6 credits

University Degree Requirements

First Year Engagement

All students enrolled in a college or the Division of Undergraduate Studies at University Park, and the World Campus are required to take 1 to 3 credits of the First-Year Seminar, as specified by their college First-Year Engagement Plan.

Other Penn State colleges and campuses may require the First-Year Seminar; colleges and campuses that do not require a First-Year Seminar provide students with a first-year engagement experience.

First-year baccalaureate students entering Penn State should consult their academic adviser for these requirements.

Cultures Requirement

6 credits are required and may satisfy other requirements

  • United States Cultures: 3 credits
  • International Cultures: 3 credits

Writing Across the Curriculum

3 credits required from the college of graduation and likely prescribed as part of major requirements.

Total Minimum Credits

A minimum of 120 degree credits must be earned for a baccalaureate degree. The requirements for some programs may exceed 120 credits. Students should consult with their college or department adviser for information on specific credit requirements.

Quality of Work

Candidates must complete the degree requirements for their major and earn at least a 2.00 grade-point average for all courses completed within their degree program.

Limitations on Source and Time for Credit Acquisition

The college dean or campus chancellor and program faculty may require up to 24 credits of course work in the major to be taken at the location or in the college or program where the degree is earned. Credit used toward degree programs may need to be earned from a particular source or within time constraints (see Senate Policy 83-80). For more information, check the Suggested Academic Plan for your intended program.

Integrated B.S. in Biotechnology and M.BIOT. in Biotechnology

Requirements for the Integrated B.S. in Biotechnology and M.BIOT. in Biotechnology can be found in the Graduate Bulletin.

Program Learning Objectives

  • Demonstrate knowledge of major biotechnological concepts, theories, and empirical findings.
  • Demonstrate the ability to apply biotechnological concepts and theories to research and real life situations.
  • Differentiate among different techniques used in biotechnology and apply them in designing an experiment.
  • Demonstrate the ability to analyze and interpret quantitative biotechnological data using statistics, graphs, and data tables.
  • Use critical and creative thinking, skeptical inquiry, and the scientific approach to solve problems related to current issues in biotechnology.
  • Demonstrate critical thinking in the analysis and evaluation of information to distinguish scientific from nonscientific claims related to biotechnology and demonstrate critical thinking in the analysis, evaluation, and interpretation of information in the scientific literature to distinguish the scientific literature from other sources.
  • Communicate effectively (in writing and/or orally) the results of a project or internship.
  • Demonstrate the ability to effectively create solutions to current issues in biotechnology and present these to peers.
  • Demonstrate efficiency to extract central points and summarize biotechnological research literature and to write in the format of biotechnological research.
  • Demonstrate knowledge, and the application of, basic principles of scientific and professional ethics.
  • Demonstrate knowledge of professional options and required training for careers in the major subfields of biotechnology.
  • Demonstrate the ability to identify personally-relevant career options to implement their biotechnological knowledge, skills, and values in occupational pursuits in a variety of settings.

Academic Advising

The objectives of the university's academic advising program are to help advisees identify and achieve their academic goals, to promote their intellectual discovery, and to encourage students to take advantage of both in-and out-of class educational opportunities in order that they become self-directed learners and decision makers.

Both advisers and advisees share responsibility for making the advising relationship succeed. By encouraging their advisees to become engaged in their education, to meet their educational goals, and to develop the habit of learning, advisers assume a significant educational role. The advisee's unit of enrollment will provide each advisee with a primary academic adviser, the information needed to plan the chosen program of study, and referrals to other specialized resources.

READ SENATE POLICY 32-00: ADVISING POLICY

University Park

Jennifer Keefer
Academic Adviser
239 Ritenour Building
University Park, PA 16802
814-863-5487
jls227@psu.edu

Suggested Academic Plan

The suggested academic plan(s) listed on this page are the plan(s) that are in effect during the 2024-25 academic year. To access previous years' suggested academic plans, please visit the archive to view the appropriate Undergraduate Bulletin edition.

General Biotechnology Option: Biotechnology, B.S. at University Park Campus

The course series listed below provides only one of the many possible ways to move through this curriculum. The University may make changes in policies, procedures, educational offerings, and requirements at any time. This plan should be used in conjunction with your degree audit (accessible in LionPATH as either an Academic Requirements or What If report). Please consult with a Penn State academic adviser on a regular basis to develop and refine an academic plan that is appropriate for you.

First Year
FallCreditsSpringCredits
PSU 16 1MICRB 20113
CHEM 110*#†3MICRB 202 or 203 (Consult with an academic adviser for options)2
CHEM 111*#†1CHEM 112*#†3
MATH 140 or 140B*‡#†4CHEM 1131
ENGL 15 or 30H3MATH 141 or 141B‡†4
General Education Course3CAS 100A, 100B, or 100C3
 15 16
Second Year
FallCreditsSpringCredits
BMB 25113BMB 25213
CHEM 202 or 2103CHEM 203 or 212 and 2133
PHYS 2504PHYS 2514
Department List C (Consult with an academic adviser for options)3General Education Course3
General Education Course3General Education Course3
 16 16
Third Year
FallCreditsSpringCredits
BIOTC 48923BIOTC 45923
BMB 2113BMB 2212
MICRB 421W3BMB 4423
Department List C (Consult with an academic adviser for options)3BIOL 3223
General Education Course3ENGL 202C, 202A, 202B, or 202C3
General Education Course (GHW)1.5General Education Course (GHW)1.5
 16.5 15.5
Fourth Year
FallCreditsSpringCredits
BIOTC 41622MICRB 41023
BIOTC 47923BIOTC 400-Level Lecture Selections (Consult with an academic adviser for options)23
BIOTC 400 Level Lecture Selections (Consult with an academic adviser for options)23STAT 2503
Department list C Free (Consult with an academic adviser for options)4Department List C (Consult with an academic adviser for options)3
General Education Course3Department List C (Consult with an academic adviser for options)3
 15 15
Total Credits 125
*

Course requires a grade of C or better for the major

Course requires a grade of C or better for General Education

#

Course is an Entrance to Major requirement

Course satisfies General Education and degree requirement

1

To graduate, a grade of C or better is required in two of the following courses: Introductory Microbiology (MICRB 201), Molecular and Cell Biology I (BMB 251)/Molecular and Cell Biology I (MICRB 251), and/or Molecular and Cell Biology II (BMB 252)/Molecular and Cell Biology II (MICRB 252)

2

To graduate, a grade of C or better is required in 9 credits of any BIOTC, BMB or MICRB 400-level course except those listed in the requirements for the major (consult with an academic adviser for clarification)

University Requirements and General Education Notes:

US and IL are abbreviations used to designate courses that satisfy Cultural Diversity Requirements (United States and International Cultures).

W, M, X, and Y are the suffixes at the end of a course number used to designate courses that satisfy University Writing Across the Curriculum requirement.

General Education includes Foundations (GWS and GQ), Knowledge Domains (GHW, GN, GA, GH, GS) and Integrative Studies (Inter-domain) requirements. N or Q (Honors) is the suffix at the end of a course number used to help identify an Inter-domain course, but the inter-domain attribute is used to fill audit requirements. Foundations courses (GWS and GQ) require a grade of 'C' or better.

All incoming Schreyer Honors College first-year students at University Park will take ENGL 137H/CAS 137H in the fall semester and ENGL 138T/CAS 138T in the spring semester. These courses carry the GWS designation and satisfy a portion of that General Education requirement. If the student’s program prescribes GWS these courses will replace both ENGL 15/ENGL 30H and CAS 100A/CAS 100B/CAS 100C. Each course is 3 credits.

General Biotechnology Option (math 22 sTART): Biotechnology, B.S. at University Park Campus

The course series listed below provides only one of the many possible ways to move through this curriculum. The University may make changes in policies, procedures, educational offerings, and requirements at any time. This plan should be used in conjunction with your degree audit (accessible in LionPATH as either an Academic Requirements or What If report). Please consult with a Penn State academic adviser on a regular basis to develop and refine an academic plan that is appropriate for you.

First Year
FallCreditsSpringCreditsSummerCredits
PSU 16 1CHEM 110*#†3CHEM 112*#†3
MATH 2213CHEM 111*#†1CHEM 1131
MATH 2613MATH 140 or 140B*#†14 
ENGL 15, ESL 15, or ENGL 30H3CAS 100A, 100B, or 100C3 
General Education Course6General Education Course3 
 16 14 4
Second Year
FallCreditsSpringCreditsSummerCredits
MICRB 20123BMB 25123PHYS 251 (Consult with an academic adviser for alternative options)4
MICRB 2022CHEM 2033 
CHEM 2023PHYS 250 (Consult with an academic adviser for alternative options)4 
MATH 141 or 141B†14General Education Course3 
General Education Course3  
 15 13 4
Third Year
FallCreditsSpringCredits 
BMB 25223BIOTC 45933 
BMB 2113BMB 2212 
MICRB 421W3BMB 4423 
Department List C (Consult with an academic adviser for options)2BIOL 3223 
General Education Course3ENGL 202C, 202A, 202B, or 202D3 
General Education Course (GHW)1.5General Education Course (GHW)1.5 
 15.5 15.5 
Fourth Year
FallCreditsSpringCredits 
BIOTC 41633BIOTC 47933 
BIOTC 48933BIOTC 400-Level Lecture Selections (Consult with an academic adviser for options)33 
BIOTC 400 Level Lecture Selections (Consult with an academic adviser for options)33MICRB 41033 
Department List C (Consult with an academic adviser for options)5STAT 25013 
 Department List C (Consult with an academic adviser for options)3 
 14 15 
Total Credits 126
*

Course requires a grade of C or better for the major

Course requires a grade of C or better for General Education

#

Course is an Entrance to Major requirement

Course satisfies General Education and degree requirement

1

6 credits of MATH 22, MATH 26, MATH 140, MATH 141, or STAT 250 require a grade of C or better for General Education.

2

To graduate, a grade of C or better is required in two of the following courses: Introductory Microbiology (MICRB 201), Molecular and Cell Biology I (BMB 251)/Molecular and Cell Biology I (MICRB 251), and/or Molecular and Cell Biology II (BMB 252)/Molecular and Cell Biology II (MICRB 252)

3

To graduate, a grade of C or better is required in 9 credits of any BIOTC, BMB or MICRB 400-level course except those listed in the requirements for the major (consult with an academic adviser for clarification).

University Requirements and General Education Notes:

US and IL are abbreviations used to designate courses that satisfy Cultural Diversity Requirements (United States and International Cultures).

W, M, X, and Y are the suffixes at the end of a course number used to designate courses that satisfy University Writing Across the Curriculum requirement.

General Education includes Foundations (GWS and GQ), Knowledge Domains (GHW, GN, GA, GH, GS) and Integrative Studies (Inter-domain) requirements. N or Q (Honors) is the suffix at the end of a course number used to help identify an Inter-domain course, but the inter-domain attribute is used to fill audit requirements. Foundations courses (GWS and GQ) require a grade of 'C' or better.

All incoming Schreyer Honors College first-year students at University Park will take ENGL 137H/CAS 137H in the fall semester and ENGL 138T/CAS 138T in the spring semester. These courses carry the GWS designation and satisfy a portion of that General Education requirement. If the student’s program prescribes GWS these courses will replace both ENGL 15/ENGL 30H and CAS 100A/CAS 100B/CAS 100C. Each course is 3 credits.

Clinical Laboratory Science Option: Biotechnology, B.S. at University Park Campus

The course series listed below provides only one of the many possible ways to move through this curriculum. The University may make changes in policies, procedures, educational offerings, and requirements at any time. This plan should be used in conjunction with your degree audit (accessible in LionPATH as either an Academic Requirements or What If report). Please consult with a Penn State academic adviser on a regular basis to develop and refine an academic plan that is appropriate for you.

First Year
FallCreditsSpringCredits
PSU 161MICRB 20113
CHEM 110*#†3MICRB 202 or 203 (Consult with an academic adviser for options)2
CHEM 111*#†1CHEM 112*#†3
MATH 140 or 140B*‡#†4CHEM 1131
ENGL 15, 30H, or ESL 153MATH 141 or 141B‡†4
General Education Course3CAS 100A, 100B, or 100C3
 15 16
Second Year
FallCreditsSpringCredits
MICRB 25113MICRB 25213
CHEM 202 or 2103BMB 2113
PHYS 2504CHEM 203 or 212 and 2133
General Education Course3PHYS 2514
General Education Course3General Educaiton Course3
 16 16
Third Year
FallCreditsSpringCredits
BMB 2121BMB 2212
BIOL 222 or MICRB 41023BIOL 322 or MICRB 41023
MICRB 421W3MICRB 41223
Department List C (Consult with an academic adviser for options)1.5MICRB 4222
General Education Course3Department List C (Consult with an academic adviser for options)1.5
General Education Course3ENGL 202C, 202A, 202B, or 202D3
General Education Course (GHW)1.5General Education Course (GHW)1.5
 16 16
Fourth Year
FallCreditsSpringCredits
MICRB 405A28MICRB 405D25
MICRB 405B21MICRB 405E27
MICRB 405C26MICRB 405F23
 15 15
Total Credits 125
*

Course requires a grade of C or better for the major

Course requires a grade of C or better for General Education

#

Course is an Entrance to Major requirement

Course satisfies General Education and degree requirement

1

To graduate, a grade of C or better is required in two of the following courses: Introductory Microbiology (MICRB 201), Molecular and Cell Biology I (BMB 251)/Molecular and Cell Biology I (MICRB 251), and/or Molecular and Cell Biology II (BMB 252)/Molecular and Cell Biology II (MICRB 252).

2

To graduate, a grade of C or better is required in 9 credits of any BIOTC, BMB or MICRB 400-level course except those listed in the requirements for the major (consult with an academic adviser for clarification)

University Requirements and General Education Notes:

US and IL are abbreviations used to designate courses that satisfy Cultural Diversity Requirements (United States and International Cultures).

W, M, X, and Y are the suffixes at the end of a course number used to designate courses that satisfy University Writing Across the Curriculum requirement.

General Education includes Foundations (GWS and GQ), Knowledge Domains (GHW, GN, GA, GH, GS) and Integrative Studies (Inter-domain) requirements. N or Q (Honors) is the suffix at the end of a course number used to help identify an Inter-domain course, but the inter-domain attribute is used to fill audit requirements. Foundations courses (GWS and GQ) require a grade of 'C' or better.

All incoming Schreyer Honors College first-year students at University Park will take ENGL 137H/CAS 137H in the fall semester and ENGL 138T/CAS 138T in the spring semester. These courses carry the GWS designation and satisfy a portion of that General Education requirement. If the student’s program prescribes GWS these courses will replace both ENGL 15/ENGL 30H and CAS 100A/CAS 100B/CAS 100C. Each course is 3 credits.

Clinical Laboratory Science Option (MATH 22 Start): Biotechnology, B.S. at University Park Campus

The course series listed below provides only one of the many possible ways to move through this curriculum. The University may make changes in policies, procedures, educational offerings, and requirements at any time. This plan should be used in conjunction with your degree audit (accessible in LionPATH as either an Academic Requirements or What If report). Please consult with a Penn State academic adviser on a regular basis to develop and refine an academic plan that is appropriate for you.

First Year
FallCreditsSpringCreditsSummerCredits
PSU 161CHEM 110*#†3CHEM 112*#†3
MATH 2213CHEM 111*#†1CHEM 1131
MATH 2613MATH 140 or 140B*#†14 
ENGL 15, ESL 15, or ENGL 30H3CAS 100A, 100B, or 100C3 
General Education Course6General Education Course3 
 16 14 4
Second Year
FallCreditsSpringCreditsSummerCredits
MICRB 20123BMB 25123PHYS 251 (Consult with an academic adviser for alternative options)4
MICRB 2022BMB 2113 
CHEM 2023CHEM 2033 
MATH 141 or 141B†14PHYS 250 (Consult with an academic adviser for alternative options)4 
General Education Course3General Education Course3 
 15 16 4
Third Year
FallCreditsSpringCredits 
BMB 25223BMB 2212 
BMB 2121BIOL 322 or MICRB 410 (Consult with an academic adviser for options)33 
BIOL 222 or MICRB 410 (Consult with an academic adviser for options)33MICRB 41233 
MICRB 421W3MICRB 4222 
General Education Course3ENGL 202C, 202A, 202B, or 202D3 
General Education Course (GHW)1.5General Education Course (GHW)1.5 
 14.5 14.5 
Fourth Year
FallCreditsSpringCredits 
MICRB 405A38MICRB 405D35 
MICRB 405B31MICRB 405E37 
MICRB 405C36MICRB 405F33 
 15 15 
Total Credits 128
*

Course requires a grade of C or better for the major

Course requires a grade of C or better for General Education

#

Course is an Entrance to Major requirement

Course satisfies General Education and degree requirement

1

6 credits of MATH 22, MATH 26, MATH 140, or MATH 141 require a grade of C or better for General Education.

2

To graduate, a grade of C or better is required in two of the following courses: Introductory Microbiology (MICRB 201), Molecular and Cell Biology I (BMB 251)/Molecular and Cell Biology I (MICRB 251), and/or Molecular and Cell Biology II (BMB 252)/Molecular and Cell Biology II (MICRB 252).

3

To graduate, a grade of C or better is required in 9 credits of any BIOTC, BMB or MICRB 400-level course except those listed in the requirements for the major (consult with an academic adviser for clarification).

University Requirements and General Education Notes:

US and IL are abbreviations used to designate courses that satisfy Cultural Diversity Requirements (United States and International Cultures).

W, M, X, and Y are the suffixes at the end of a course number used to designate courses that satisfy University Writing Across the Curriculum requirement.

General Education includes Foundations (GWS and GQ), Knowledge Domains (GHW, GN, GA, GH, GS) and Integrative Studies (Inter-domain) requirements. N or Q (Honors) is the suffix at the end of a course number used to help identify an Inter-domain course, but the inter-domain attribute is used to fill audit requirements. Foundations courses (GWS and GQ) require a grade of 'C' or better.

All incoming Schreyer Honors College first-year students at University Park will take ENGL 137H/CAS 137H in the fall semester and ENGL 138T/CAS 138T in the spring semester. These courses carry the GWS designation and satisfy a portion of that General Education requirement. If the student’s program prescribes GWS these courses will replace both ENGL 15/ENGL 30H and CAS 100A/CAS 100B/CAS 100C. Each course is 3 credits.

General Biotechnology Option: Biotechnology, B.S. at Commonwealth Campuses

The course series listed below provides only one of the many possible ways to move through this curriculum. The University may make changes in policies, procedures, educational offerings, and requirements at any time. This plan should be used in conjunction with your degree audit (accessible in LionPATH as either an Academic Requirements or What If report). Please consult with a Penn State academic adviser on a regular basis to develop and refine an academic plan that is appropriate for you.

First Year
FallCreditsSpringCredits
CHEM 110*#†3CHEM 112*#†3
CHEM 111*#†1CHEM 1131
MATH 140*‡#†4MATH 141‡†4
BIOL 1104Department List C (Consult with an academic adviser for options)4
ENGL 15, ESL 15, or ENGL 30H3General Education Course3
General Education Course (GHW)1.5General Education Course (GHW)1.5
 16.5 16.5
Second Year
FallCreditsSpringCredits
BIOL 230W†14CHEM 2123
CHEM 2103CHEM 2132
PHYS 250 (Consult with an academic adviser for alternative options)4PHYS 251 (Consult with an academic adviser for alternative options)4
General Education Course3STAT 2004
CAS 100A, 100B, or 100C3General Education Course3
 17 16
Third Year
FallCreditsSpringCredits
BMB 2113BIOTC 45923
BMB 25213BMB 2212
MICRB 20113BMB 4423
MICRB 2022BIOL 3223
General Education Course3ENGL 202C, 202A, 202B, or 202D3
Department List C (Consult with an academic adviser for options)2 
 16 14
Fourth Year
FallCreditsSpringCredits
BIOTC 41623BIOTC 47923
BIOTC 48923MICRB 41023
MICRB 421W3BIOTC 400 Level Lecture Selections (Consult with an academic adviser for options)23
BIOTC 400 Level Lecture Selections (Consult with an academic adviser for options)23General Education Course3
General Education Course3Department List C (Consult with an academic adviser for options)2
 15 14
Total Credits 125
*

Course requires a grade of C or better for the major

Course requires a grade of C or better for General Education

#

Course is an Entrance to Major requirement

Course satisfies General Education and degree requirement

1

To graduate, a grade of C or better is required in two of the following courses: Introductory Microbiology (MICRB 201), Molecular and Cell Biology I (BMB 251)/Molecular and Cell Biology I (MICRB 251) or Biology: Molecules and Cells (BIOL 230W), and/or Molecular and Cell Biology II (BMB 252)/Molecular and Cell Biology II (MICRB 252).

2

To graduate, a grade of C or better is required in 9 credits of any BIOTC, BMB or MICRB 400-level course except those listed in the requirements for the major (consult with an academic adviser for clarification).

University Requirements and General Education Notes:

US and IL are abbreviations used to designate courses that satisfy Cultural Diversity Requirements (United States and International Cultures).

W, M, X, and Y are the suffixes at the end of a course number used to designate courses that satisfy University Writing Across the Curriculum requirement.

General Education includes Foundations (GWS and GQ), Knowledge Domains (GHW, GN, GA, GH, GS) and Integrative Studies (Inter-domain) requirements. N or Q (Honors) is the suffix at the end of a course number used to help identify an Inter-domain course, but the inter-domain attribute is used to fill audit requirements. Foundations courses (GWS and GQ) require a grade of 'C' or better.

General Biotechnology Option (math 22 sTART): Biotechnology, B.S. at Commonwealth Campuses

The course series listed below provides only one of the many possible ways to move through this curriculum. The University may make changes in policies, procedures, educational offerings, and requirements at any time. This plan should be used in conjunction with your degree audit (accessible in LionPATH as either an Academic Requirements or What If report). Please consult with a Penn State academic adviser on a regular basis to develop and refine an academic plan that is appropriate for you.

First Year
FallCreditsSpringCreditsSummerCredits
BIOL 1104CHEM 110*#†3CHEM 112*#†3
MATH 2213CHEM 111*#†1CHEM 1131
MATH 2613MATH 140*#†14 
ENGL 15, ESL 15, or ENGL 30H3CAS 100A, 100B, or 100C3 
General Education Course3General Education Course3 
 16 14 4
Second Year
FallCreditsSpringCreditsSummerCredits
BIOL 230W†24CHEM 2123PHYS 251 (Consult with an academic adviser for alternative options)4
CHEM 2103CHEM 2132 
MATH 141†14PHYS 250 (Consult with and academic adviser for alternative options)4 
General Education Course3STAT 20014 
General Education Course (GHW)1.5General Education Course3 
 15.5 16 4
Third Year
FallCreditsSpringCredits 
BMB 2113BIOTC 45933 
BMB 25223BMB 2212 
MICRB 20123BMB 4423 
MICRB 2022BIOL 3223 
General Education Course3ENGL 202C, 202A, 202B, or 202D3 
 14 14 
Fourth Year
FallCreditsSpringCredits 
BIOTC 41633BIOTC 47933 
BIOTC 48933MICRB 41033 
MICRB 421W3BIOTC 400 Level Lecture Selections (Consult with an academic adviser for options)33 
BIOTC 400 Level Lecture Selections (Consult with an academic adviser for options)33General Education Course3 
General Education Course (GHW)1.5Department List C (Consult with an academic adviser for options)2 
 13.5 14 
Total Credits 125
*

Course requires a grade of C or better for the major

Course requires a grade of C or better for General Education

#

Course is an Entrance to Major requirement

Course satisfies General Education and degree requirement

1

6 credits of MATH 22, MATH 26, MATH 140, MATH 141, or STAT 200 require a grade of C or better for General Education.

2

To graduate, a grade of C or better is required in two of the following courses: Introductory Microbiology (MICRB 201), Molecular and Cell Biology I (BMB 251)/Molecular and Cell Biology I (MICRB 251) or Biology: Molecules and Cells (BIOL 230W), and/or Molecular and Cell Biology II (BMB 252)/Molecular and Cell Biology II (MICRB 252).

3

To graduate, a grade of C or better is required in 9 credits of any BIOTC, BMB or MICRB 400-level course except those listed in the requirements for the major (consult with an academic adviser for clarification).

University Requirements and General Education Notes:

US and IL are abbreviations used to designate courses that satisfy Cultural Diversity Requirements (United States and International Cultures).

W, M, X, and Y are the suffixes at the end of a course number used to designate courses that satisfy University Writing Across the Curriculum requirement.

General Education includes Foundations (GWS and GQ), Knowledge Domains (GHW, GN, GA, GH, GS) and Integrative Studies (Inter-domain) requirements. N or Q (Honors) is the suffix at the end of a course number used to help identify an Inter-domain course, but the inter-domain attribute is used to fill audit requirements. Foundations courses (GWS and GQ) require a grade of 'C' or better.

Clinical Laboratory Science Option: Biotechnology, B.S. at Commonwealth Campus

The course series listed below provides only one of the many possible ways to move through this curriculum. The University may make changes in policies, procedures, educational offerings, and requirements at any time. This plan should be used in conjunction with your degree audit (accessible in LionPATH as either an Academic Requirements or What If report). Please consult with a Penn State academic adviser on a regular basis to develop and refine an academic plan that is appropriate for you.

First Year
FallCreditsSpringCreditsSummerCredits
CHEM 110*#†3BIOL 230W†14General Education Course3
CHEM 111*#†1CHEM 112*#†3 
MATH 140*‡#†4CHEM 1131 
BIOL 1104MATH 141‡†4 
ENGL 15, 30H, or ESL 153CAS 100A, 100B, or 100C3 
 General Education Course (GHW)1.5 
 15 16.5 3
Second Year
FallCreditsSpringCreditsSummerCredits
MICRB 20113BIOL 322 or 22223BMB 2113
MICRB 2022CHEM 2123 
CHEM 2103CHEM 2132 
PHYS 250 (Consult with an academic adviser for alternative options)4PHYS 251 (Consult with and academic adviser for alternative options)4 
General Education Course3General Education Course3 
 15 15 3
Third Year
FallCreditsSpringCredits 
BMB 2121BMB 2212 
BMB 25213MICRB 41033 
MICRB 421W3MICRB 41233 
General Education Course (GHW)1.5MICRB 4222 
General Education Course6ENGL 202C, 202A, 202B, or 202D3 
 General Education Course3 
 14.5 16 
Fourth Year
FallCreditsSpringCredits 
MICRB 405A38MICRB 405D35 
MICRB 405B31MICRB 405E37 
MICRB 405C36MICRB 405F33 
 15 15 
Total Credits 128
*

Course requires a grade of C or better for the major

Course requires a grade of C or better for General Education

#

Course is an Entrance to Major requirement

Course satisfies General Education and degree requirement

1

To graduate, a grade of C or better is required in two of the following courses: Introductory Microbiology (MICRB 201), Molecular and Cell Biology I (BMB 251)/Molecular and Cell Biology I (MICRB 251) or Biology: Molecules and Cells (BIOL 230W), and/or Molecular and Cell Biology II (BMB 252)/Molecular and Cell Biology II (MICRB 252).

2

BIOL 222 is an approved substitute for BIOL 322.

3

To graduate, a grade of C or better is required in 9 credits of any BMB or MICRB 400-level course except those listed in the requirements for the major (consult with an academic adviser for clarification).

University Requirements and General Education Notes:

US and IL are abbreviations used to designate courses that satisfy Cultural Diversity Requirements (United States and International Cultures).

W, M, X, and Y are the suffixes at the end of a course number used to designate courses that satisfy University Writing Across the Curriculum requirement.

General Education includes Foundations (GWS and GQ), Knowledge Domains (GHW, GN, GA, GH, GS) and Integrative Studies (Inter-domain) requirements. N or Q (Honors) is the suffix at the end of a course number used to help identify an Inter-domain course, but the inter-domain attribute is used to fill audit requirements. Foundations courses (GWS and GQ) require a grade of 'C' or better.

Clinical Laboratory Science Option (MATH 22 Start): Biotechnology, B.S. at Commonwealth Campuses

The course series listed below provides only one of the many possible ways to move through this curriculum. The University may make changes in policies, procedures, educational offerings, and requirements at any time. This plan should be used in conjunction with your degree audit (accessible in LionPATH as either an Academic Requirements or What If report). Please consult with a Penn State academic adviser on a regular basis to develop and refine an academic plan that is appropriate for you.

First Year
FallCreditsSpringCreditsSummerCredits
BIOL 1104CHEM 110*#†3CHEM 112*#†3
MATH 2213CHEM 111*#†1CHEM 1131
MATH 2613MATH 140*#†14 
ENGL 15, ESL 15, or ENGL 30H3CAS 100A, 100B, or 100C3 
General Education Course3General Education Course3 
 General Education Course (GHW)1.5 
 16 15.5 4
Second Year
FallCreditsSpringCreditsSummerCredits
MICRB 20123BIOL 230W†24PHYS 251 (Consult with an academic adviser for alternative options)4
MICRB 2022CHEM 2123BMB 2113
CHEM 2103CHEM 2132 
MATH 141†14PHYS 250 (Consult with an academic adviser for alternative options)4 
General Education Course3General Education Course3 
 15 16 7
Third Year
FallCreditsSpringCredits 
BIOL 222 or MICRB 410 (Consult with an academic adviser for options)33BIOL 322 or MICRB 410 (Consult with an academic adviser for options)33 
BMB 2121BMB 2212 
BMB 25223MICRB 41233 
MICRB 421W3MICRB 4222 
General Education Course3ENGL 202C, 202A, 202B, or 202D3 
General Education Course (GHW)1.5General Education Course3 
 14.5 16 
Fourth Year
FallCreditsSpringCredits 
MICRB 405A38MICRB 405D35 
MICRB 405B31MICRB 405E37 
MICRB 405C36MICRB 405F33 
 15 15 
Total Credits 134
*

Course requires a grade of C or better for the major

Course requires a grade of C or better for General Education

#

Course is an Entrance to Major requirement

Course satisfies General Education and degree requirement

1

6 credits of MATH 22, MATH 26, MATH 140, or MATH 141 require a grade of C or better for General Education.

2

To graduate, a grade of C or better is required in two of the following courses: Introductory Microbiology (MICRB 201), Molecular and Cell Biology I (BMB 251)/Molecular and Cell Biology I (MICRB 251) or Biology: Molecules and Cells (BIOL 230W), and/or Molecular and Cell Biology II (BMB 252)/Molecular and Cell Biology II (MICRB 252).

3

To graduate, a grade of C or better is required in 9 credits of any BIOTC, BMB or MICRB 400-level course except those listed in the requirements for the major (consult with an academic adviser for clarification).

University Requirements and General Education Notes:

US and IL are abbreviations used to designate courses that satisfy Cultural Diversity Requirements (United States and International Cultures).

W, M, X, and Y are the suffixes at the end of a course number used to designate courses that satisfy University Writing Across the Curriculum requirement.

General Education includes Foundations (GWS and GQ), Knowledge Domains (GHW, GN, GA, GH, GS) and Integrative Studies (Inter-domain) requirements. N or Q (Honors) is the suffix at the end of a course number used to help identify an Inter-domain course, but the inter-domain attribute is used to fill audit requirements. Foundations courses (GWS and GQ) require a grade of 'C' or better.

Career Paths

This major has two options: Clinical Laboratory Option or General Option. Graduates from the General option frequently accept positions in the bio-pharmaceutical industry or with newly-emerging biotechnology companies bringing new products to market. Graduates from the Clinical Lab Science Option are prepared to complete the certification exam necessary to work as a Medical Laboratory Scientist in a hospital or other medical laboratory.

Careers

A BS in Biotechnology prepares students for a wide variety of careers, including industry, health related professions, and careers in academic or government labs. Examples of biotechnology related careers are:

  • Biomedical or Clinical Research Health Professions – e.g. Dentist, Optometrist, Pharmacist, Physician, Physician Assistant
  • Manufacturing Associate
  • Medical Lab Scientist (CLS option)
  • Pharmaceutical Sales
  • Pharmaceutical Sciences
  • Quality Control and Assurance
  • Research and Development
  • Science Policy Expert
  • Science Writer
  • Patent Attorney
  • Professor

Opportunities for Graduate Studies

Many students with a BS in Biotechnology will pursue graduate education in biotechnology, management, policy or other related disciplines. Penn State students interested in pursuing a MS in Biotechnology can enroll in the integrated undergraduate graduate (IUG) program. IUG students complete a BS and MS with 5 years of coursework, which includes a nine-month internship in industry, government or academia. A BS in Biotechnology also prepares students to pursue higher degrees in the health professions. Opportunities for graduate studies include, but are not limited to, the following:

  • Graduate Studies (MS or PhD)
  • Dental School Medical School (MD or DO)
  • Optometry School
  • Pharmacy School
  • Veterinary School

MORE INFORMATION ABOUT OPPORTUNITIES FOR GRADUATE STUDIES

Accreditation

All affiliated programs that provide the fourth-year clinical experience for the Biotechnology major, CLS option students are accredited by the National Accreditation Agency for Clinical Laboratory Science.

MORE INFORMATION ABOUT THE NATIONAL ACCREDITATION AGENCY FOR CLINICAL LABORATORY SCIENCE

Contact

University Park

DEPARTMENT OF BIOCHEMISTRY AND MOLECULAR BIOLOGY
108 Althouse Laboratory
University Park, PA 16802
814-863-5487
bmbundergrad@psu.edu

https://science.psu.edu/bmb