Biological Sciences (61) The goal of this project is to implement a biotechnology program that provides the required content knowledge and skills at the baccalaureate-degree level to allow students to enter biotechnology careers directly following graduation. To achieve this goal, they are establishing an inquiry-driven biotechnology program that centers on molecular biology, develops laboratory skills and provides practical laboratory experience. To accomplish this, the program is adapting proven components of established biotechnology programs to their own program, expanding their molecular biology course to include inquiry-based laboratory experiences, providing biotechnology research experiences for students, and introducing biotechnology-related courses. The biotechnology curriculum provides a broad background in molecular biology, genetics, physiology and biochemistry, emphasizes hands-on research experiences (e.g., hypothesis formation and testing, problem solving skills, data management) and provides independent research experiences (e.g. experimental design and project-oriented research).
