Associate in Applied Sciences in Biotechnology

The AAS degree in Biotechnology is suited for individuals with minimal prior college background who seek employment as a laboratory technician. The AAS degree is also suited for individuals with a baccalaureate education in fields other than biotechnology who seek a career change. The degree path provides a solid foundation in the biological sciences in addition to intense hands-on practical training. The hands-on training makes our graduates competitive with upper classmen and even graduates of traditional universities who, sadly, often lack these skills. Students who complete the AAS degree may also transfer directly into year 3 of the BSc in Biotechnology degree path offered at Athlone Institute of Technology (Athlone, Ireland).

Some students may enroll in the core curriculum of the Biotechnology Program without completing the actual AAS degree. These are usually transfer students who intend to pursue a bachelors degree in other scientific disciplines such as biochemistry, microbiology, bioengineering and genetics. Such students realize the importance of doing research as an undergraduate, and the training provided by the Biotechnology Program will allow them access to competitive laboratories at the 4 year institutions they transfer to.

The AAS degree path builds a foundation based on fundamental principles of biology and chemistry, and then explores the applications of this knowledge with 3 core laboratory courses. For this reason it is imperative that students take the courses in the appropriate order.

For full time students with no prior background the AAS degree may be completed in 2.5 years.


AAS Degree Requirements