Biotechnology draws from many disciplines, including genetics, immunology and molecular biology. Recent advances in this field have improved our understanding of biological processes that has accelerated discoveries in medicine and environmental sciences.
Students can earn one of three degrees or certificates, including an Associate of Science degree in Biotechnology, a Certificate of Achievement in Biotechnology, or an entry level Certificate of Proficiency in Biotechnology. The coursework in the program integrates academic and applied instruction preparing students for entry-level and mid-level employment as bioscience technicians in this exciting field.
Career Opportunities
- State and Federal laboratories
- Academic research laboratories
- Public and private laboratories
- Pharmaceutical and biotechnology industries
Our Graduates Work in the Laboratories such as
Specialty in Stem Cell Biology
In 2009, the Biotechnology Program at BCC was awarded a $1.2m grant from the California Institute of Regenerative Medicine to support student internships in laboratories conducting research in stem cell biology and regenerative medicine. This grant has been renewed twice for a total of $3.7m. Each year 8-10 students receive ten-month paid internships to work in research and pharmaceutical laboratories. The research institutions presently aligned with BCC include Children’s Hospital Oakland Research Institute, the University of California, Berkeley, Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratories, and the University of California, San Francisco. Following completion of special coursework and an internship, students are eligible for the Certificate in Stem Cell Biology.
If you are interested in applying for a Berkeley City College CIRM Bridges to Stem Cell Research Internship, please read the requirements and contact Dr. Barbara Des Rochers (bdesrochers@peralta.edu).