Online Biotechnology Degrees

One of the most active fields of scientific research, biotechnology attracts a quarter of all scientific development funding, according to the National Science Board. Biotechnology combines the study of biology and applied technology to solve some of today's most pressing societal and scientific problems. Research in biotechnology has produced new drugs and vaccines, disease-resistant crops, and better ways of handling hazardous waste.

Degree programs in biotechnology focus on the practical applications of biological science, whereas biology degrees focus on the science itself. Coursework often includes:

• basic concepts of biotechnology
• manufacturing practices
• food biotechnology
• biological computation
• drug design

Biotechnology certificate degree programs offer a broad introduction to biotechnology, and often lead to a job as laboratory or research technician. Associate's degree programs in biotechnology are more in-depth, with a greater focus on research and technical skills, and may lead to a job as a research specialist. Bachelor's degree programs tend to highlight one area of biotechnology. Master's degrees require independent biotechnology research, sometimes leading to the more advanced research of a Ph.D.

No biotechnology degree can guarantee a particular job or salary. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, however, workers in scientific research earned an average of $1,006 per week in 2004, nearly twice the $529 average for all industries.

Available features universities and colleges offering online associate degree programs in the following disciplines: