Program Overview

---

Biotechnology Program

The biotechnology program at North Dakota State University blends biology and technology to equip students with the skills to design and produce enhanced organisms from plants, animals, and microorganisms. Through hands-on learning, students explore gene cloning, recombinant DNA, and genetic engineering, gaining expertise in fields like medicine, agriculture, and pharmaceuticals.

Program Overview

Upon graduating from NDSU's biotechnology program, students will be prepared to lead innovations that address global challenges in disease prevention, food production, and environmental issues. The program blends theory and lab skills to prepare students for diverse careers.

Curriculum

• Major: On Campus
• Minor: On Campus

Post-Graduation Career Snapshot

Explore career possibilities within the first five years after graduation with a list of high-demand occupations. Discover how you can advance into more specialized or leadership roles through examples of potential career pathways.

High Demand Occupations

• Biomedical Engineer
• Bioinformatician
• Cytologist
• Cell Biologist
• Research Specialist

National Median Salary

$75,600

The median salary reflects national job listings for high-demand occupations in this field that require five years of experience or less.

Future Career Pathways

As you gain experience, you can advance into more specialized or leadership roles. Here are pathway occupations you might explore:

• Operations Biological Scientist
• Bioinformatics Software Engineer
• Bioinformatics Analyst

Experiential Learning

Our faculty provide mentoring experiences at all levels of study, with opportunities for students to participate in cutting-edge research in nationally-funded laboratories.

Contribute to Groundbreaking Discoveries

Harness the power of recombinant DNA technology to clone genes and transfer them between organisms, enabling breakthroughs in disease diagnostics and pharmaceutical development. You can also drive agricultural innovation by creating crop plants resistant to herbicides and insects, paving the way for sustainable farming solutions.

Leadership and Professional Development

Broaden your horizons and expand your experience outside the classroom by getting involved in the Biotechnology and Microbiology Club. The club tours local businesses related to biotechnology and microbiology, hosts guest speakers, and meets for social events throughout the year.

Accelerated Master's Option Available

High-achieving undergraduates can complete both their bachelor's degree and a Master of Science in Microbiology in five years.

Tuition & Costs

NDSU offers a high-quality, academically rigorous education at an affordable cost. To support you in covering tuition and expenses, we provide a wide range of need-based and merit-based scholarships and financial aid options.

Admission Info

At NDSU, we welcome students from all backgrounds who are seeking a dynamic learning environment within a supportive, welcoming community.

Department

The biotechnology program is part of the Department of Microbiological Sciences in the College of Agriculture, Food Systems, and Natural Resources at North Dakota State University.