Biotechnology Work Experience Certificate

The high density of biotechnology industry and research laboratories in the Bay area has generated an increased demand for jobs in biotechnology fields. This program is designed to provide laboratory skills and real-life work experience through internships for the students who are exploring careers in biotechnology. In addition to technical laboratory skills, students gain essential career skills with focus on workplace success. The internships are closely monitored by the faculty through a support class where the students share their experiences, discuss laboratory work etiquette and practice scientific communication. The program provides networking opportunities for the students with biotechnology industry professionals. The program allows the students to gain valuable real-life work experience that prepares them for entry level careers such as research and laboratory assistants and technicians in industry and academic laboratories.

Prerequisites

This program is designed for students who have a strong grasp of algebra, biology, and chemistry from previous college coursework. For students with no previous science background, the Bridge to Biosciences and Biotechnology Laboratory Assistant Certificate can provide the preparation needed for the Biotechnology Work Experience Certificate Program.

Courses Required for the Biotechnology Work Experience Certificate

Effective Spring 2021

Bioscience Internship pathway

Two semesters

Basic preparation:

BIO 11 - Science of living organisms 4 units

CHEM 32 - Medicinal Chemistry 4 units

Note: students who completed equivalent or higher level biology and chemistry courses at other institutions may be able to bypass the basic preparation for the certificate.

Technical preparation: Choose a minimum of 4 units from the following electives (one semester, more units are recommended if time permits)

Course Units

BTEC 14A - Biotechnology Laboratory Techniques 3

BTEC 20 - Mammalian Cell Culture 3

BTEC 21A - Mammalian Cell Culture 2

BTEC 21B - Fluorescent Cell Technology 2

BTEC 21C - Stem Cell Technology 3

BTEC 22 - Enzyme Linked Immunosorbent Assay (ELISA) 1

BTEC 23 - Western Blotting Techniques 1

BTEC 24 - Introduction to PCR 1

BTEC 25 - Analytical PCR Technology 1

BTEC 115 - Recombinant DNA Biotechnology 5

BTEC 120 - Molecular and Cell Biotechnology 5

Career preparation (take in first semester)

BTEC 15 - Career Exploration in Bioscience 2

Internship and support class (take in second semster)

BTEC 14B - Biotechnology Internship Support 4

BTEC 93 - Biotechnology Work experience 3 - 8

Stem Cell Internship Pathway

Three to four semesters

Basic preparation:

BIO 11 - Science of living organisms 4 units

CHEM 32 - Medicinal Chemistry 4 units

Note: students who completed equivalent or higher level biology and chemistry courses at other institutions may be able to bypass the basic preparation for the certificate.

Technical preparation: Follow pathway to qualify for the Stem Cell Internship, 1 - 2 semesters of course work.

Internship and support classes (take in semester 3 and 4)

Course Units

BTEC 21D - Introductory Stem Cell Internship Support 4

BTEC 21E - Advanced Stem Cell Internship Support 4

BTEC 93 - Biotechnology Work experience 16

Advising Contact Dr. Bob Del Vecchio (rdelvecc@ccsf.edu) for advice on course selection that is appropriate for your scientific background, interests, and career and educational goals.