Bachelor of Applied Science in Biotechnology Degree
What is biotechnology?
Biotechnology is the use of biological systems to solve scientific challenges and positively impact our society. Biotech scientists foster creativity and innovation in a variety of fields, using a toolbox of science and technology expertise to put biological molecules such as DNA or proteins to work in useful and groundbreaking ways. This program can also put you on a pre-health path.
A biotech scientist’s duties might include:
- Creating vaccines to combat debilitating diseases
- Discovering novel antibiotics from biological sources
- Developing assays to diagnose complex clinical diseases
- Developing drought and pesticide resistant crops to aid in food production
- Using forensic science to analyze samples to help solve criminal investigation
- Helping reduce industrial waste by creating cleaner manufacturing processes
What jobs can I get with a bachelor's in biotechnology degree?
Nationally, the biotechnology industry is growing roughly 12 percent per year. Biotechnology is needed in a variety of fields, including pharmaceutical research and development, environmental science, agriculture, animal and human health and forensics.
Learn more about biotechnology careers (PDF) in Kansas City and beyond.
Is the B.A.S. in Biotechnology degree right for me?
KU’s biotechnology program is designed for undergraduate students who have completed an associate’s degree or equivalent hours, and want to complete the final two years of a bachelor’s degree program. Each course is designed to draw upon students’ scientific knowledge to solve real-world problems, emphasizing critical thinking and practical application. The program includes an internship within academia or industry.
How is the biotechnology program structured?
The Bachelor of Applied Science in Biotechnology consists of 120 credit hours, including 37 hours of general science courses, 9 hours of Applied Science core courses, 36 credit hours of biotechnology courses (including 6 hours of internship credit), 24 credit hours of KU Core courses not covered by major requirements, and 14 hours of open electives.
Flexible
- Acquired knowledge aligns with many career paths.
- Built-in internship experience
- In-state tuition equivalent rates for qualified Missouri students
Quality
- Credentialed, experienced faculty
- Globally recognized academics
- KU is one of 38 public university members of the prestigious Association of American Universities, a group of America's leading research universities
Useful
- Hands-on curriculum with real-world application
- Focus on workforce readiness and functional laboratory skills
- Training and practical experience in leadership, project management, and regulatory science
- Program unique to KC Metro area, with high level of professional interest from local institutions and organizations