Biotechnology Laboratory Technician Program

Biotechnology Laboratory Technician

Program Number: 10-007-2

• Two-year Associate Degree program
• Biotechnology & Electron Microscopy Program Cluster
• Center for Agriscience and Technologies
• Program offered at the following campuses:
  • Truax, Madison
• For information call: (608) 246-6800 or 1-800-322-6282 ext 6800

About the Program

View the Biotechnology Laboratory Webcast

The Biotechnology Laboratory Technician Program emphasizes skills necessary for entry-level employment in bioscience laboratories. The program focuses on techniques basic to the commercial development of products from biological systems. Students acquire proficiency in laboratory skills, effective communications and employment skills. Individuals who like the challenge of laboratory work are encouraged to apply.

Program graduates may seek entry-level employment in public or private laboratories for positions titled laboratory assistant, laboratory technician, laboratory tester or laboratory worker. These laboratories are found in universities, pharmaceutical companies, food processing industries, companies performing research and development, and companies involved in plant and animal breeding.

Check the MATC Website or with the program office for the following certificates also available: Bioinformatics Certificate, Biotechnology Post-baccalaureate Certificate, and Biotechnology Intensive Post-baccalaureate Certificate.

Program outcomes state what a graduate needs to be able to do with the essential knowledge, attitudes, skills, and behaviors acquired in a specific MATC program. The program outcomes communicate expectations to students, as well as other academic institutions and potential employers. The identification and assessment of program outcomes support MATC's efforts in documenting student learning and provide a context for the faculty's academic planning.

Admissions Requirements for All Applications Submitted for the Current Academic Year

You must meet Admissions Requirements (see below). To apply for the program, follow the admission procedures, including submitting the completed application, application/processing fees, and transcripts.

Admission requires competence in basic mathematics, science and English usage. Suggested coursework for high school students includes algebra, biology and chemistry.

Students who enter without high school chemistry and algebra will be required to take equivalent courses at MATC. Competency will be assessed with a COMPASS test (required), transcripts and/or personal interviews.

Career Potential

• Biotechnology Research Technicians - Complete scientific work in academic research laboratories, government research laboratories and biotechnology companies under direct supervision.
• Biotechnology Production Technicians - Produce useful products using biological systems including bacterial and yeast cells, plants and animals.
• Laboratory Technicians - Complete scientific work and conduct experiments in research and development or production laboratories in various biological and biochemical companies and private or public agencies.
• Quality Control/Assurance Technicians - Check product performance/characteristics to ensure regulatory compliance and minimize liability using physical, chemical and biological test equipment and instrumentation to ensure that the product is within acceptable tolerance.

With additional education and/or work experience, graduates may find employment as:

• Research Scientists
• Entry-level Scientists
• Associate Scientists
• Process Scientist