The Biotechnology curriculum, which has emerged from molecular biology and chemical engineering, is designed to meet the increasing demands for skilled laboratory technicians in various fields of biological and chemical technology.
Course work emphasizes biology, chemistry, mathematics, and technical communications. The curriculum objectives are designed to prepare graduates to serve in three distinct capacities: research assistant to a biologist or chemist; laboratory technician/instrumentation technician, and quality control/quality assurance technician.
Graduates may find employment in various areas of industry and government, including research and development, manufacturing, sales, and customer service.
This program is a collaborative effort between Randolph Community College (RCC) and Alamance Community College (ACC). Alamance Community College is the “host” college. This agreement allows for students to fulfill the requirements of the first year at Randolph Community College. Students will then transfer to ACC for all second year courses and completion of the program.
JOB OPPORTUNITIES
Biotechnology is the biggest growth area in the state. Job growth in the biotechnology field has averaged about 10% annually during the last several years and is expected to increase. Of the 2,500 jobs generated each year, about 500 could be filled with a community college graduate. The current output (numbers) of graduates from community college programs is insufficient to meet the demand. Future projections indicate that North Carolina biomanufacturing firms will need greater than 6,000 graduates with specialized training but less than a four-year degree.
A graduate of the Biotechnology program can expect to earn between $28,000-$35,000 per year at the entry level. With five years experience, the salary may reach between $35,000 - $42,000 annually.
Faculty Advisors
The faculty advisors for Biotechnology are:
Dr. Donna Perry, dmperry@randolph.edu, (336) 633-0232;
and Ann Cutter, acutter@randolph.edu, (336) 633-0232. |
