Biotechnology
Push the boundaries of science and technology.
From developing new ways to detect cancer to using DNA to produce insulin, biotechnologists use living organisms or life processes to improve society. As a biotechnology minor, you will:
- Learn how to leverage biological systems for practical purposes in areas such as agriculture and medicine.
- Study analytical methods used to assess findings in biotechnology and biomedical sciences.
- Participate in faculty-mentored research on or off campus.
At A Glance
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12:1Student-to-faculty ratio
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18Average class size
Possible Careers
Push the boundaries of science and technology.
From developing new ways to detect cancer to using DNA to produce insulin, biotechnologists use living organisms or life processes to improve society. As a biotechnology minor, you will:
- Learn how to leverage biological systems for practical purposes in areas such as agriculture and medicine.
- Study analytical methods used to assess findings in biotechnology and biomedical sciences.
- Participate in faculty-mentored research on or off campus.
Get to Know Biotechnology
Meet the Faculty
Research
Through the Alma Venture, you can design a unique research experience at home or abroad. Find out more about Venture funding.
Explore the Curriculum
Learn more about the fundamental courses that will offer a roadmap for your academic growth and expertise development.
Harness your knowledge to create real-world solutions.
Biotechnology is a field where biologists, chemists, physicists, computer scientists, philosophers and others collaborate on exciting new advancements that address pressing societal challenges.
As a biotechnology minor, you’ll take core and elective courses from multiple disciplines. These include biotechnology, biology, biochemistry, chemistry, and integrative physiology and health science.
You’ll then apply everything you learn in hands-on settings. Most students take part in independent research. Many pursue internships in industry or at other academic institutions. And you can put your abilities to the test at iGEM, an annual competition that encourages students to pioneer new applications of synthetic biology.
What You Need to Know
Jobs in biotechnology have increased rapidly over the past decade. In fact, between January 2021 and 2022, the biotechnology research and development industry grew by 11.5%.
At Alma, we have a strong history of successfully placing our graduates in biotechnology positions. We designed our minor to equip you with the skills needed for advanced study and work in health, pharmaceutical, environmental science and agricultural biotechnology settings.
Get Connected
Student Organizations
From solving complex problems to exploring post-graduate pathways, you’ll find plenty of ways to expand your horizons in our 100+ student organizations.