2012 - 2013 CNM Catalog June 2012, Volume 45 [The CNM Academic Year includes Fall, Spring, Summer Terms]
Biotechnology
|
|
 Return to: Programs of Study
Get Started 
CNM Contact Center to get in touch with us 
Program Description
The Biotechnology Program prepares students for work in dynamic and exciting careers as biotechnicians where they will use cutting-edge technology to uncover the molecular causes of disease, develop new drugs and therapies, enhance agricultural products or remediate environmental problems. Biotechnicians conduct research experiments, run assays, operate lab equipment, and help manage laboratory activities by maintaining records, performing data analysis, and establishing and maintaining quality controls. Students in the Biotechnology Program build knowledge and skills through a program of lectures and extensive hands-on laboratory experience. Laboratory techniques include molecular biology, recombinant DNA, protein isolation and analysis, immunology and cell culture skills. Degree students will also participate in a supervised internship at laboratory facilities during the final term of the program.
The Associate of Science degree is designed for students who wish to acquire the skills necessary to work in the field of biotechnology. Students will receive classroom training in the fundamentals of biology, chemistry and biochemistry, as well as skills taught in biotechnology core courses.
The Certificate in Biotechnology is designed for students who wish to acquire or upgrade their hands-on laboratory skills in biotechnology. The certificate is composed solely of biotechnology core courses. The prerequisite for the certificate is that the student must hold a B.S. degree or have significant, transcripted upper-level coursework in chemistry (including biochemistry) and the biological sciences.
This program’s first term courses are offered in the summer term only. This may delay a student’s program start date. Please check with an academic advisor for more information.
Special Requirements
Students must complete an application process administered through the Coordinated Program Entry Office and be selected to enter this program.
Because the program builds upon skills learned in previous semesters, the Biotechnology core courses must be taken in sequence.
Students are required to purchase a lab coat and lab notebook.
Career and Educational Opportunities
Gainful Employment information is available from Job Connection Services.
Both the Biotechnology A.S. degree and Certificate prepare students for immediate employment in the field. Biotechnicians are employed in areas such as basic science research, clinical research, industrial research and development, pharmaceuticals, agricultural engineering and environmental science. Most CNM Biotechnology graduates find work in the first three fields because these are the most common biotechnology industries found in New Mexico. Biotechnology is an emerging industry in New Mexico, and as the bioscience industry continues to grow, so will the opportunities for biotechnicians. In New Mexico, entry level salaries start at $13/hr for A.S. degree technicians and $15 for B.S. degree technicians. Salaries for experienced Biotechnicians can reach $20+/hr.
Exit competencies (see Program Exit Competencies) for this program of study are available at cnm.edu/exitcomp.
For the graduation policy refer to the Graduating From CNM section, cnm.edu or the Students tab in my CNM.
Certificate and Degree Options
Return to: Programs of Study
|