Best Biotechnology Associate Degree Programs, Jobs, and Salaries

Established in 1973, Austin Community College is recognized as one of the best schools for engineering degree programs. It has over 100 programs in 10 areas of study. Its programs include business management, agriculture, biological and biomedical sciences, and more. According to the college, it has a yearly enrollment of more than 75,000 students.

Associate of Applied Science in Biotechnology

This program equips students with biotechnology experience through various quality courses to prepare them to work in research, medical, and laboratory areas. With courses in molecular biology, cell culture techniques, bioinformatics, and more, plus through a biological technician internship experience, you’ll hone the critical thinking skills needed to land key roles in big organizations. 

Associate of Applied Science in Biotechnology Overview

• Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools, Commission on Colleges
• Tuition (and Fees): $85/credit (in-district); $286/credit (in state); $353/credit (out of state/international)
• Required Credits: 60 credits
• Program Length: 2 years
• Learning Format: In-person
• NCES School Graduation Rate: 12%

Associate of Applied Science in Biotechnology Admission Requirements

• GPA: No minimum requirement
• Standardized Tests: Not required
• Application Fee: None
• Minimum Education: High school or equivalent
• Other Requirements: High school transcript, meningitis vaccination record if you are under 22, and Texas Success Initiative (TSI) test (circumstantial)

Applying to Austin Community College

1. Talk to a recruiter to schedule and attend a virtual information session.
2. Fill out your online application with the help of an enrollment advisor. 
3. Submit required documents, such as your high school transcript and meningitis vaccination record.
4. Retrieve your ACCeID and ACCmail email accounts and attend an orientation event.
5. Register for your courses and set up a payment plan.

CUNY Borough of Manhattan Community College is a renowned public university in New York that was founded in 1963. It is nationally recognized and highly ranked for academic research, increasing graduates’ earning power, and supporting minority students. 22,426 students enrolled in fall 2020 to study in over 50 associate degree programs.

Associate in Science in Biotechnology

The biotechnology program gives students a thorough understanding of the physical and life sciences and offers a rich curriculum that provides an easy transfer to a bachelor’s degree program. The biotechnological program also provides career coaching to help students access job postings and professional development activities for top organizations.

Associate in Science in Biotechnology Overview

• Accreditation: Middle States Commission on Higher Education
• Tuition (and Fees): $2,400/semester (New York City residents); $320/credit (out of state/international)
• Required Credits: 60 credits
• Program Length: 2 years
• Learning Format: In-person
• NCES School Graduation Rate: 27%

Associate in Science in Biotechnology Admission Requirements

• GPA: No minimum requirement
• Standardized Tests: Not required
• Application Fee: $65
• Minimum Education: High school or high school equivalency certificate
• Other Requirements: High school transcripts, complete remedial courses (if necessary), immunization records, and proof of residency

Applying to CUNY Borough of Manhattan Community College

1. Create an account on the school website. 
2. Complete your online application form.
3. Submit your online application by paying the $65 application fee.
4. Submit your high school transcripts and other requirements, like your rubella, mumps, and measles vaccination proof.
5. Receive feedback from the admission team and complete any other requirements your admissions advisor asks of you, like remedial courses or proof of English competency, for instance.

Holyoke Community College is a public college that was founded in 1946. The school offers both associate degrees and certificate programs, and it has a total student population of 5,521. Class sizes are small, with a student-to-faculty ratio of 12-to-one, giving students individualized attention from professors.

Associate of Arts in Biotechnology

This program teaches the basic principles involved in biotechnology, like cell functions and protein purification. It is built around recent advances in biotechnology, and it teaches students the required theoretical background and laboratory skills needed for career and research opportunities in areas like environmental science, biomedical technology, and animal sciences.

Associate of Arts in Biotechnology Overview

• Accreditation: New England Commission of Higher Education
• Tuition (and Fees): $357/credit (in state); $563/credit (out of state/international)
• Required Credits: 62 credits
• Program Length: 2 years
• Learning Format: Hybrid
• NCES School Graduation Rate: 23%

Associate of Arts in Biotechnology Admission Requirements

• GPA: No minimum requirement 
• Standardized Tests: Not required; ACT or SAT recommended to waive placement test
• Application Fee: $0 (US resident); $100 (international)
• Minimum Education: High school or high school equivalency certificate
• Other Requirements: High school transcript; placement test

Applying to Holyoke Community College

1. Create an account on the Holyoke Community College website.
2. Fill out your application form and submit it for free.
3. Receive an email on your next steps, and follow the directions included.
4. Figure out your course level placement, then take either take a placement test or send documents for waiving the test, such as SAT or ACT scores.
5. Meet with an advisor and register for your classes.

Ivy Tech Community College is a public institution that was established in 1963. It is known for its accessible and affordable adaptive learning and world-class education. It is the only full-fledged community college in Indiana and offers more than 150 programs. The college has a total enrollment of 72,006 students.

Associate of Applied Science in Biotechnology

This biotechnology program is handled by instructors from professional organizations with real-world experience. The classes focus on teaching students the principles, techniques, and basic procedures to execute laboratory projects through practical laboratory activities. The courses discuss biomedical interventions, cell culture and cellular processes, and other topics.

Associate of Applied Science in Biotechnology Overview

• Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
• Tuition: $149.55/credit (in state); $292.57/credit (out of state/international)
• Required Credits: 60 credits
• Program Length: 2 years
• Learning Format: In-person
• NCES School Graduation Rate: 28%

Associate of Applied Science in Biotechnology Admission Requirements

• GPA: No minimum requirement; 2.6 recommended to waive placement test
• Standardized Tests: None required; SAT, ACT, or PSAT to waive placement test
• Application Fee: None
• Minimum Education: High school or high school equivalency certificate
• Other Requirements: Placement assessment (conditional)

Applying to Ivy Tech Community College

1. Create an account on the school website.
2. Complete and submit your free application online.
3. Upload all required documents to waive the placement assessment or take the placement assessment.
4. Receive an email from your academic advisor and take the next steps that they suggest.
5. Attend an orientation event and register for classes. 

Established in 1946, Montgomery College is a public college that teaches a variety of popular majors and is highly ranked as one of the overall best community colleges in the US. It has also been recognized multiple times for being the most technologically advanced community college in the country. The school also offers online programs and has a total enrollment of 21,720.

Associate of Applied Science in Biotechnology

Besides training students in the field of biotechnology, this program also produces entry-level workers for practical biotechnology laboratory work in Montgomery County, working in antibody production and isolation, DNA isolation or sequencing, cell biology, and other areas. The course subjects include protein biotechnology, microbiology, general genetics, and many other related topics.

Associate of Applied Science in Biotechnology Overview

• Accreditation: Middle States Commission on Higher Education
• Tuition (and Fees): $2,661/15 credit hours (Montgomery County residents); $5,1227/15 credit hours (Maryland State residents); $2,661/15 credit hours (Maryland residents)
• Required Credits: 60 credits
• Program Length: 2 years
• Learning Format: Hybrid
• NCES School Graduation Rate: 28%

Associate of Applied Science in Biotechnology Admission Requirements

• GPA: No minimum requirement
• Standardized Tests: Not required
• Application Fee: Not required
• Minimum Education: High school or high school equivalency certificate
• Other Requirements: Be at least 16 years of age, standardized test scores, like SAT and ACT, may be used to determine your course placement

Applying to Montgomery College

1. Create an account on the school website.
2. Complete and submit your free online application.
3. Submit your high school transcript or GED.
4. Activate your account and determine your course placement, either by submitting standardized test scores or a sufficient high school transcript or taking a placement assessment.
5. Complete your orientation and meet a counselor who will guide you through the remaining steps.

Northern State University was founded in 1901 and is known for academic and extracurricular excellence. Its nationally accredited academic programs cover majors in arts and sciences. The school was ranked the 79th most affordable university by College Consensus, and it has a total enrollment of 3,622, making for intimate learning experiences.

Associate in Science in Biotechnology

This program develops students’ knowledge of biotechnology and biology sciences so that they can apply their skills to practical operations and problems in the biotech industry. The courses include Cell Culture Techniques, Introduction to Bioinformatics and Proteomics, Genetics Lab, and more. The program includes an internship with a partnered regional business.

Associate in Science in Biotechnology Overview

• Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
• Tuition: $253.85/per credit (in state/resident of CO, ND, IA, MT, NE, or WY); $357.25/per credit (out of state)
• Required Credits: 60 credits
• Program Length: 2 years
• Learning Format: Hybrid 
• NCES School Graduation Rate: 45%

Associate in Science in Biotechnology Admission Requirements

• GPA: 2.6
• Standardized Tests: ACT or SAT (optional)
• Application Fee: $20
• Minimum Education: High school or high school equivalency certificate
• Other Requirements: High school transcript

Applying to Northern State University

1. Create an account on the school website.
2. Complete your application and submit your transcripts.
3. Complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA).
4. Submit your SAT or ACT test scores, if desired. You may need to take a college placement test if you do not have an ACT score of 18, redesigned SAT score of 960, a minimum high school GPA of 2.6, or if you were not in the top 60 percent of your high school class.
5. Register for your classes and make a payment plan.

Northern Virginia Community College is a public institution that is known for its international diversity. It was established in 1965 and covers nationally accredited programs in IT, cyber security, healthcare, business management, science, and many other areas. This school has a good acceptance rate, and it has a total enrollment of 52,873 students. 

Associate of Applied Science in Biotechnology

This program gives biotechnology students practical laboratory experience, with research and lab work to build their knowledge and readiness to work with biotechnology firms in the biotechnology field. The courses cover fundamental aspects of biotechnology, such as bioinformatics and computer applications in biotechnology, general microbiology, and others.

Associate of Applied Science in Biotechnology Overview

• Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools, Commission on Colleges
• Tuition (and Fees): $185.50/credit (in state); $388.25/credit (out of state)
• Required Credits: 64 credits
• Program Length: 2 years
• Learning Format: Hybrid
• NCES School Graduation Rate: 29%

Associate of Applied Science in Biotechnology Admission Requirements

• GPA: No minimum requirement
• Standardized Tests: Not required; SAT or ACT recommended
• Application Fee: None
• Minimum Education: High school or high school equivalency certificate
• Other Requirements: High school transcript with completion of BIO 101 with a C or higher, be at least 18 years of age, college placement test for English and mathematics

Applying to Northern Virginia Community College

1. Schedule a discussion with a biotechnology academic advisor to be walked through your admission process.
2. Complete and submit your online application.
3. Complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA).
4. Submit your high school transcript, proving you have graduated from math, English, and BIO 101 courses with a C grade or higher.
5. Complete direct enrollment and a college placement test if deemed necessary by your advisor.

Established in 1961, Portland Community College is a public institution located in Portland, Oregon. It is known as the largest post-secondary institution in Oregon and offers high-quality education and opportunities to students. The school prepares students for a successful transfer to a four-year undergraduate program or advanced degree. It has a total enrollment of 27,046.

Associate of Applied Science in Bioscience Technology

The program teaches students the basics of biotechnology and helps them understand the manipulation of DNA and proteins, cell culture, biochemical assays, and other analytical procedures. The courses include Bioscience Lab Math, Cell Biology for Health Occupations, Exploring Bioscience, and Preparatory Chemistry.

Associate of Applied Science in Bioscience Technology Overview

• Accreditation: Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities
• Tuition: $123/credit (in state); $258/credit (out of state)
• Required Credits: 90 credits
• Program Length: 2 years
• Learning Format: Hybrid
• NCES School Graduation Rate: 20%

Associate of Applied Science in Bioscience Technology Admission Requirements

• GPA: No minimum requirement
• Standardized Tests: Not required
• Application Fee: None
• Minimum Education: High school or high school equivalency certificate
• Other Requirements: High school transcript, be at least 16 years of age, take prerequisite courses

Applying to Portland Community College

1. Create an account on the school website.
2. Complete and submit your application online for free.
3. Receive an acceptance email, then speak to an academic advisor.
4. Complete the orientation and take prerequisite courses of Intermediate Algebra, College Composition, Preparatory Chemistry or General Chemistry I, Cell Biology for Health Occupations or Principles of Biology.
5. Set up your MyPCC account and plan your first term, then apply for the AAS in Bioscience Technology program and register for classes.

Founded in 1900, Rasmussen University is a renowned private institution of higher learning that is dedicated to offering innovative programs, education skills, and a dynamic curriculum to students. It has undergraduate and graduate degree programs taught at 23 campuses across the United States. The St. Cloud campus has a total enrollment of 4,124.

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Associate of Science in Medical Laboratory Technology

The school’s NAACLS-accredited associate degree program exposes students to clinical chemistry, transfusion medicine, hematology, microbiology, and a well-rounded knowledge of medical laboratories. Based on the Lake Elmo campus, the curriculum has a blend of hands-on and virtual practicums designed to help you gain job-ready skills for a fulfilling career.

Associate of Science in Medical Laboratory Technology Overview

• Accreditation: National Accrediting Agency for Clinical Laboratory Sciences (NAACLS)
• Tuition (and Fees): $269/credit (in state and out of state)
• Required Credits: 91 credits
• Program Length: 2 years
• Learning Format: Hybrid
• NCES School Graduation Rate: 36%

Associate of Science in Medical Laboratory Technology Admission Requirements

• GPA: No minimum requirement
• Standardized Tests: Not required; ACT or SAT recommended
• Application Fee: None
• Minimum Education: High school or GED equivalent
• Other Requirements: None

Applying to Rasmussen University

1. Fill out your basic information and your desired program to submit a free online application.
2. An admissions advisor will walk you through the remainder of the program.
3. Take an entrance placement exam, if necessary.
4. Sign enrollment documents and submit transcripts.
5. Enroll and complete an online orientation course.

With over 40 degree programs, Southern Maine Community College is known as the biggest, oldest, and most diverse community college in Maine. The tuition is also very affordable despite the high-quality education it offers. It was established in 1946, and it has a total enrollment of 6,000 undergraduate students.

Associate of Applied Science in Biotechnology

This program teaches students the use of applied biology and technology to find solutions to problems and the fundamentals of biology and chemistry. It provides research and career opportunities in areas such as pharmaceuticals, immunology, and biomedical technologies. The courses include microbiology, cell biology, biotechnology with lab, statistics, and others. 

Associate of Applied Science in Biotechnology Overview

• Accreditation: New England Commission of Higher Education
• Tuition: $96/credit hour (in state); $192/credit hour (out of state)
• Required Credits: 64 credits
• Program Length: 2 years
• Learning Format: Hybrid
• NCES School Graduation Rate: 22%

Associate of Applied Science in Biotechnology Admission Requirements

• GPA: No minimum requirement; 2.0 recommended
• Standardized Tests: ACT, SAT, or Accuplacer
• Application Fee: None
• Minimum Education: High school or GED equivalent
• Other Requirements: High school transcript, college transcript if applicable, prerequisite courses may be required, proof of COVID-19, tetanus, measles, mumps, and rubella vaccinations

Applying to Southern Maine Community College

1. Create an account on the school website.
2. Complete and submit your application online.
3. Submit your high school transcript, college transcript, or GED, standardized test scores, vaccination records, and any other required documents via secure file transfer.
4. Complete any required prerequisite courses for your program.
5. Attend an orientation event, then register for classes.

A research scientist is a scientist who gathers knowledge and then interprets and understands their research. Most research scientists work in applied scientific fields, such as biochemical engineering, and they are responsible for the development and design of scientific experiments.

• Average Salary: $85,438
• Job Outlook: 6% job growth from 2020 to 2030
• Number of Jobs: 19,300
• Highest-Paying States: Arizona, Massachusetts, Minnesota, New Mexico, Connecticut

Biophysicists and biochemists use advanced technologies, such as fluorescent microscopes and lasers, to conduct scientific analyses and experiments. These scientists plan and conduct complex projects in applied and basic research. They are also responsible for managing laboratory teams and ensuring quality within their work.

• Average Salary: $75,000
• Job Outlook: 5% job growth from 2020 to 2030
• Number of Jobs: 34,800
• Highest-Paying States: Oregon, Virginia, Colorado, Massachusetts, New Jersey

Agricultural engineers execute projects related to agricultural science and technology. They are usually in the farming industry, non-profit organizations, or environmental or government agencies. They create specifications, designs, drawings, and prototypes for agricultural engineering technology and also perform calculations to check that the products will function.

• Average Salary: $69,198
• Job Outlook: 6.8% job growth from 2020 to 2030
• Number of Jobs: 1,120
• Highest-Paying States: Texas, Illinois, Indiana, Georgia, Wisconsin

These engineers are responsible for installing, maintaining, and providing technical support for all biomedical equipment. Bioengineers and biomedical engineers design and create devices, computer systems, and equipment through the combination of engineering principles and biomedical sciences. They create new and improved ways of treating diseases and injuries.

• Average Salary: $68,976
• Job Outlook: 6% job growth from 2020 to 2030
• Number of Jobs: 19,300
• Highest-Paying States: Arizona, Massachusetts, Minnesota, New Mexico, Connecticut

Epidemiologists are specific research scientists who study the relationship between the cultures and vectors in which illnesses spread, and the spread of communicable diseases. Epidemiologists collect data to cover several varieties of cultural factors and help to identify new ways to stop or impede the spread of such diseases.

• Average Salary: $67,702
• Job Outlook: 30% job growth from 2020 to 2030
• Number of Jobs: 7,800
• Highest-Paying States: Washington, Pennsylvania, New York, Connecticut, New Jersey