Biotechnology is the use of biological components and/or processes to tackle human problems.

Most often, biotechnological solutions come in the form of products or tools. The Biotechnology Degree Program at JMU leverages the strengths of three founding departments—Biology, Chemistry and Biochemistry—and Integrated Science and Technology. It also incorporates two colleges—Science and Mathematics and Integrated Science and Engineering—to provide a unique program with both scientific and technical depth and cross-disciplinary breadth. Students undertake a rigorous curriculum, rich with three critically important areas: hands-on laboratory experiences; critical analyses of both the how and the why of biotechnological solutions; and the development of transferable skills to keep up in a rapidly changing field.

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JMU has the longest-running biotechnology program in Virginia.

The major is shared among the Departments of BiologyChemistry and Biochemistry, and Integrated Science and Technology (ISAT)

Biotechnology at JMU is a 4-year interdisciplinary major leading to a B.S. degree. Students undertake a rigorous curriculum rich with hands-on laboratory experiences, critical analyses of both the "how" and the "why" of biotechnological solutions, and the development of transferable skills to keep up in a rapidly changing field. The combination of both scientific/technical depth and cross-disciplinary breadth allow graduates to pursue diverse career paths in industry, government and advanced studies.

Biotechnology
  • Degrees Offered: 
    • B.S. in Biotechnology
  • Concentrations:
    • None
  • Minors:
    • General Business

For detailed program information and curriculum, please visit:


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