Pennsylvania State University Park Campus

Biotechnology may be broadly defined as the application of principles of molecular and cell science in the production of biologically important or industrially useful products. Therefore, students in the Biotechnology major acquire a strong foundation in the life and chemical sciences; learn how fundamental science is applied to problems through biotechnology; develop basic laboratory skills, perform standard techniques, work with state-of-the-art instrumentation, describe and evaluate analytical methodology used in biotechnology; and become familiar with societal concerns and governmental regulations regarding the biotechnology industry. Each student receives extensive laboratory experience. In the General option, students are strongly encouraged to consider Cooperative Education with industry as an integral part of their curriculum. In addition to the General option in Biotechnology, the major also offers the Clinical Laboratory Science option.