Associate in Science Degree in Biotechnology
San Bruno, USA
Associate of Science
DURATION
2 years
LANGUAGES
English
PACE
Full time
APPLICATION DEADLINE
EARLIEST START DATE
Sep 2027
TUITION FEES
STUDY FORMAT
On-Campus
Fast-track counseling
By contacting the school, you'll get access to free priority counselling for any study and application questions.
Key Summary
About: Skyline College’s Associate in Science in Biotechnology prepares students for careers in life science industry and for transfer. You’ll get hands-on training in biology and chemistry and learn lab techniques, assays, testing, material processing, equipment maintenance, inventory control, data collection, quality assurance, record keeping and regulatory compliance. Programs run on campus or fully online via Global Online Learning (GOL).
Career Outcomes: Graduates may work as biotech technician, lab technician, research assistant or quality-control technician, or as manufacturing associate, or transfer to bachelor programs. Tasks include assays, product manufacture, lab support, inventory management and regulatory compliance; internships lead to jobs.
The Biotechnology degree and certificates prepare graduates for careers in the life science industry and for transfer. Students receive hands-on training in biology and chemistry and master a variety of skills essential to the field of biotechnology.
Biotech technicians perform experiments and assays, manufacture products, or assist with research. Key tasks include testing procedures, material processing, equipment maintenance, inventory control and data collection and evaluation. Technicians also observe and document safe practices, quality assurance, record keeping and compliance with government regulations.
In addition to in-person studies, most programs are available through the Global Online Learning (GOL) Program, which allows students to take classes fully online from their home countries.
Required Core Courses
- Organismal Biology: Core I
- Introduction to Cell Biology: Core II
- General Microbiology
- Organic Chemistry I
- Organic Chemistry II
- Organic Chemistry Lab I
- Organic Chemistry Lab II
Total Required Major Units: 24
And required General Education coursework and electives as needed to meet the minimum 60 units required for the Associate degree.
The San Mateo Colleges of Silicon Valley (SMCSV) offer more than 50 institutional scholarships each year, and all enrolled students are eligible to apply. Award amounts range from $300 to $7,000, helping make college more affordable. Students can also apply for external scholarships, such as the $1,000 Study in California Scholarship, to further support their educational journey.
Build your English skills while earning credits toward your degree through the IESL Pathway Program at Cañada College. No English proficiency test score is required to apply to IESL.