Biotechnology Post-Baccalaureate Certificate

Program Overview

The Biotechnology Post-baccalaureate Certificate program provides hands-on training in biotechnology techniques for students with a life science bachelor's degree. The flexible and individualized program allows students to tailor their coursework to their interests and career goals. Graduates are qualified for entry-level positions in the biotechnology industry, with over 90% receiving job offers before completing the certificate.

Program Outline

Degree Overview:

• Overview:
The Biotechnology Post-baccalaureate Certificate program provides hands-on training for students who have completed a bachelor's degree in a life science and are seeking to acquire the practical skills necessary for success in the biotechnology job market.
• Objectives:
The program aims to provide students with proficiency in the following workplace skills and biotechnology techniques:
• Introducing genes into bacteria
• Performing PCR
• Purifying proteins
• Working with mammalian cell culture
• Learning about bioinformatics
• Description:
All courses in the program are taught in fully equipped laboratories that provide access to industry-grade supplies and equipment. The program is designed to be flexible, allowing students to complete it in as little as one semester or over a longer period, and individualized, enabling them to tailor their coursework to their specific interests and career goals.

Outline:

• Content:
The program covers fundamental concepts and techniques in biotechnology, including:
• Biotechnology Laboratory Skills for a Regulated Workplace
• Chromatography Techniques
• Bioprocess Technology
• Human Stem Cell Methods
• Applied Biochemistry
• Protein Bioseparations Methods
• Cell Culturing
• Molecular Biology
• Research Methods in Molecular Biology
• Laboratory Math for Biotechnology
• Selected Topics in HPLC
• Making Biotech Products in a Quality Environment
• Quality Regulations and Standards for Biotechnology
• Applied Microbiology
• Introduction to Business
• Structure:
The program consists of 15 credits of coursework, including 3 credits of Biotechnology Laboratory Skills for a Regulated Workplace and a minimum of 12 additional credits selected from the elective courses listed above.
• Course Schedule:
Course offerings and schedules may vary based on the campus location and semester.
• Individual Modules:
The elective courses cover a broad range of topics in biotechnology, allowing students to customize their program to their specific interests and career goals.

Assessment:

• Assessment Methods:
The program employs various assessment methods to evaluate student learning, including:
• Homework assignments
• Quizzes
• Exams
• Lab reports
• Projects
• Assessment Criteria:
The assessment criteria are based on the program's learning objectives and include:
• Understanding of biotechnological principles and techniques
• Proficiency in laboratory skills
• Ability to apply knowledge to solve problems
• Communication and teamwork skills

Teaching:

• Teaching Methods:
The program utilizes a variety of teaching methods to engage students and promote learning, including:
• Lectures
• Hands-on laboratory exercises
• Discussions
• Group projects
• Faculty:
The program is taught by experienced faculty with expertise in biotechnology and related fields.
• Unique Approaches:
The program emphasizes hands-on training and practical application of biotechnology techniques. Students have access to state-of-the-art laboratory facilities and equipment, providing them with a realistic and immersive learning experience.

Careers:

• Career Paths:
Graduates of the Biotechnology Post-baccalaureate Certificate program are qualified for various entry-level positions in the biotechnology industry, including:
• Research Scientists
• Entry-level Scientists
• Associate Scientists
• Process Scientists
• Laboratory Manager
• Quality Assurance
• Laboratory Supervisor
• Team Leader
• Opportunities:
The program prepares students for employment in research, production, and quality control environments within the biotechnology industry.
• Outcomes:
Over 90% of students receive job offers before completing their certificate. Graduates are employed at various companies, government labs, and academic settings in the Madison area.