GCC offers biotechnology degree program

Genesee Community College's Board of Trustees endorsed a new Associate in Science (A.S.) degree program in biotechnology. The program must be approved by the State University of New York and then by the New York State Education Department. If approvals are received, the new program would launch in September 2007.

Graduates of the biotechnology program would be ready to transfer to baccalaureate colleges offering bachelor of science degrees in this field. Individuals with academic backgrounds in biotechnology will be prepared to work in a variety of laboratory, medical and scientific settings. Although Genesee's program is geared toward students wishing to earn bachelor's degrees, faculty members anticipate that students could use their education to begin work as laboratory assistants or technicians immediately after graduating.

In addition to general education courses required of all Genesee students, biotechnology students would complete science courses, including biology, genetics, physics, microbiology, molecular and cell biology, general chemistry and organic chemistry.

May 21, 2006