Central Michigan University’s College of Science and Engineering is proud to announce the launch of a new, innovative biotechnology program scheduled to begin in Fall 2024. This innovative program is designed to equip students with the technical skills and professional development needed to succeed in the rapidly expanding field of biotechnology.
A Revolution in Education and Career Readiness
Biotechnology uses living systems and organisms to develop new products and methods that improve human health and society. This interdisciplinary field is transforming medicine, agriculture, food production and environmental management. CMU’s new program aims to harness this potential by emphasizing intensive, hands-on technical skills in the laboratory, preparing students to enter the workplace immediately.
Meeting industry needs
The decision to implement the program came in response to significant industry demand. According to MichBio, Michigan’s bioscience industry alone provides more than 39,000 jobs with a total economic impact of more than $28 billion. Nationwide, biotechnology companies provide more than 1.66 million jobs and generate approximately $140 billion in revenue.
“The new biotechnology major is an exciting opportunity for our students,” said Dr. Steven Gorcik, chair of the Department of Biology at Central Michigan University. “Our students are motivated to learn these hands-on skills, and employers are eager to hire CMU biology graduates.”
Curriculum Highlights
Our new biotechnology program provides students with a comprehensive education combining advanced technical laboratory skills and professional development. Key courses include:
BIO 115 Exploring Biotechnology: An overview course providing insight into the diverse applications of biotechnology. BIO 215 Career Paths in Biotechnology: A course focused on developing professional skills, including resume writing, interview preparation, and understanding bioethics.
The curriculum also mandates internships and research experiences, ensuring students gain real-world, experiential learning that is highly valued by employers.
Diverse career opportunities
Graduates of biotechnology programs can find opportunities in a variety of fields, including:
Medical and Clinical Laboratory Sciences: Clinical or Laboratory Technologist, DNA Analysis, Medical Device Development, Basic and Applied Research. Agriculture and Food Production: Food, Plant and Animal Research and Development, Greenhouse and Field Specialist Roles. Environmental Sciences: Environmental Remediation and Quality Control. Sales and Marketing: Technical Services and Sales Representative Roles. Hands-on learning and industry support
The new program is distinguished by its hands-on, experiential approach to learning. All electives include a laboratory component with an emphasis on problem-solving and troubleshooting, preparing students for real-world challenges. This approach is expected to attract students interested in a focused major that offers clear career preparation.
The program also receives strong support and feedback from a biotechnology industry advisory board, recruitment agencies, and survey data from current and alumni students. This feedback plays a key role in shaping the program to meet both educational and industry needs.
Program Start
We plan to offer BIO 115 in Fall 2024, followed by BIO 215 in Spring 2025. The complete program will be available starting in Fall 2024, providing students with an unparalleled opportunity to dive into the dynamic field of biotechnology.
For more information about CMU’s biotechnology program, prospective students and interested individuals should contact the Department of Biology at 989-774-3227.