Program Overview

Biology — Biotechnology

The world is filled with complex challenges and we need innovative minds to help overcome them. A degree in biology with an emphasis in biotechnology from UMKC will prepare you to make contributions in pharmaceutical development, agriculture efficiency or environmental sustainability by leveraging the biological process to produce favorable outcomes. Our program is designed to prepare you for careers in biotechnology or biological research, or for advanced degrees in cell and molecular biology, genetics, microbiology or biochemistry.

Other Emphasis Areas

• Biology — bioinformatics
• Biology — biomedical sciences
• Biology — clinical laboratory sciences

Program Details

• Program Type: Major
• Academic Unit: School of Science and Engineering
• Degree Type: Bachelor of Science
• Standard credit hours: 120
• Delivery Mode: In-person
• Typical Program Length: 4 years
• Typical Course Load: 4-5 per semester
• Estimated Program Cost: $63,900
  • All rates or costs are for illustrative purposes only. Estimated cost is calculated by multiplying the appropriate 2025/2026 UMKC academic year resident rate by standard credit hours. Fees are NOT included in the calculation. Your hours and total costs may differ, depending on transfer hours, course choices, academic progress, program- and university-specific fees, and your qualified tuition rate.

Why UMKC

Gain Professional Experience

Take advantage of ample internship and clinical opportunities with more than 250 biotechnology and life science companies in the Greater Kansas City area.

Kansas City is Our Classroom

Our university is deeply integrated into the community, providing students with exclusive opportunities to connect with area employers, gain hands-on experience and make an impact in their areas of interest.

Find Career Success

From academic and career advising to employment services and community partnerships, our award-winning faculty and staff deliver direction and support to help you succeed in your careers.

After Graduation

A bachelor's degree in biotechnology can lead to favorable career prospects. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics projects that employment in related fields such as biological technicians, biochemists and biophysicists will grow faster than the average for all occupations through 2033. This growth is driven by ongoing advancements in biological and medical research, increasing the demand for professionals skilled in biotechnology. Graduates may find opportunities in various sectors, including pharmaceuticals, healthcare and the agricultural industry, where they can apply their expertise to develop innovative solutions and products.

Potential Careers

• Food scientist and technologist
• Geneticist
• Drug developer

Median Salary

$83,949 per year

Potential Courses

Molecular Biology and Genetic Engineering

Evaluate the molecular aspects of gene structure and function, including gene regulation, genetic transfer and biotechnology.

Bioinformatics

Study the acquisition, storage, retrieval, analysis and distribution of information in biomolecular databases and understand recent developments in genomics and proteomics.

Genetics

Integrate the study of molecular and organismal genetics of both lower and higher organisms to understand gene transmission, heredity, plasticity and population genetics.

Related Programs and Pathways

• Biology — Clinical Laboratory Sciences (Major)
• Biology — Biomedical Sciences (Major)
• Biology — Bioinformatics (Major)
• Biology (Minor)
• B.S. Biology/M.S. Cellular and Molecular Biology (Major, Master's)

Application Process

1. Gather your materials
   • Official transcripts
   • Names and locations of previous college(s) or high school(s) and dates you attended
   • Citizenship, residency and visa information (if applicable)
   • ACT/SAT test scores (optional). Required if you would like to be considered for applicable scholarship opportunities
2. Complete the online application
   • No application fee for domestic undergraduate students — $75 for international students
3. Check admissions requirements
   • Some programs have specific admission requirements.

Application Dates

• To Start Classes in Fall: Apply by June 15, Classes begin in August
• To Start Classes in Spring: Apply by Nov. 15, Classes begin in January

Estimated Tuition Per Semester

• Resident Rate: $7,988
• Heartland Rate: $10,882
• Nonresident Rate: $17,910
  • All rates or costs are for illustrative purposes only. Estimated cost is calculated by multiplying the appropriate 2025/2026 UMKC academic year resident rate by standard credit hours. Fees are NOT included in the calculation. Your hours and total costs may differ, depending on transfer hours, course choices, academic progress, program- and university-specific fees, and your qualified tuition rate. This rate calculation is based on a course load of 15 credit hours per semester.

Financial Aid

An amazing education shouldn’t break the bank, which is why we offer a number of automatic and competitive scholarships, grants and other financial aid opportunities — plus financial guidance from our expert advisors.

Financial Aid Statistics

• 96% of first-time Roos who qualified for financial aid last year
• $12,617 average need-based scholarship or grant awarded to first-year students
• 80% of undergrads who received a scholarship or grant