Career and Program Description
Bioscience Technology refers to the research, development, and manufacturing of products that use the processes, materials, or principles of living organisms to solve problems. The applications of bioscience range from developing and manufacturing better ways to diagnose and treat disease, to improving the production of plant crops, and even using microorganisms to clean up toxic waste. The field is dynamic, with applications that often cut across traditional disciplines. Skilled bioscience technicians with broad-based laboratory training find employment in a variety of settings, working with scientists and engineers at all levels of research, development, manufacturing, testing, and quality assurance. Participants in the bioscience technology (BIT) program find careers at both large and small companies, research institutions, local and state agencies, private service laboratories, and in related industries that support these organizations. Additionally, some BIT graduates choose to continue their education in bioscience through transfer to a 4-year institution.
Course work in the Bioscience Technology program involves four distinct elements:
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Basic science courses can be taken before or after acceptance into the program and provide the background information that will make technical, hands-on elements of bioscience more understandable.
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Foundation course work provides a broad base of technical knowledge that prepares individuals for entry-level positions in a variety of Bioscience companies, with emphasis on working in a regulated environment, as well as developing skills in technical communication and job readiness. These foundation courses make up the core of the Bioscience Technician Certificate.
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Advanced technical courses develop more specific skill sets sought by employers in many research and industry settings. Students may choose some electives from outside of the BIT program for this purpose.
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Students also have the option to put their skills and knowledge into a working context through a work experience component.
Most students in the bioscience technology program work toward receiving the full AAS degree; however, a certificate and advanced certificate are available. Students must achieve an overall GPA of 2.0 in all required bioscience courses. At times, exceptions can be made for qualified students to take individual BIT courses without applying for and enrolling in a certificate or degree program.
Degrees and Certificates Offered
Associate of Applied Science Degree
Bioscience Technology
Less than One-Year: Career Pathway Certificate
Bioscience Technician
Advanced Bioscience Technologist
Academic Prerequisites
- AAS Bioscience Technology: Completion of MTH 95, WR 121 , Biology (BI 102, BI 112, BI 221Z or equivalent), and Chemistry (CH 104, CH 151 , or CH 221Z and CH 227Z or equivalent), each with a grade of "C" or "P" or better
- Bioscience Technician Certificate: Placement into IRW 115 or (WR 115 and RD 115) and MTH 95 .
- Advanced Bioscience Technologist Certificate: Placement into WR 121 , and MTH 95 .
- The Bioscience Technology program is a restricted entry program with limited enrollment. Contact the department for instructions.
- BIT 102, 105 and BIT 107 are open for all PCC students who meet the registration requirements and course prerequisites to enroll. Enrollment in subsequent BIT 109 and higher is limited to BIT majors.
Academic Requirements
- Students must achieve an overall GPA of 2.0 in order to earn the certificate.
Non-Academic Prerequisites
- None
Non-Academic Requirements
- None
Bioscience Technology AAS Degree
Minimum 90 credits. Students must also meet Associate Degree Comprehensive Requirements and Associate of Applied Science Requirements. Students must complete a total of four courses of General Education. Some courses specified within the program may be used as General Education. In addition to required courses in the program of study, students must satisfy MTH 58/65 competency. A Cooperative Education experience is not required, however, it is strongly encouraged. Students should consult with program advisors for course planning.
Bioscience Technology Degree Courses
| Code | Title | Credits |
|---|---|---|
| BA 169Z | Data Analysis Using Microsoft Excel (BA216A=BA 169Z) 1,Z | 4 |
| or CIS 121 | Information Systems and Programming | |
| BI 112 | Cell Biology for Health Occupations *, 2,Z | 5 |
| or BI 102 | Biology II | |
| or BI 221Z | Principles of Biology: Cells (BI221Z=BI211) | |
| BIT 102 | Current Topics in Bioscience Technology | 2 |
| BIT 105 | Safety in the Bioscience Workplace | 2 |
| BIT 107 | Bioscience Lab Math | 2 |
| BIT 109 | Basic Laboratory Techniques and Instruments | 5 |
| BIT 125 | Quality Systems in Bioscience Technology | 2 |
| BIT 126 | Applied Quality Practice | 3 |
| BIT 181 | Exploring Bioscience | 3 |
| Chemistry requirement (choose one) *, 2 | 5 | |
| Preparatory Chemistry | ||
| Allied Health Chemistry I | ||
| General Chemistry I and General Chemistry I Laboratory Z | ||
| WR 121 | Composition I (WR121=WR121Z) 2,Z | 4 |
| Basic Science Electives 1 | 9 | |
| Bioscience Degree Electives 3 | 38 | |
| General Education: 2 courses 1 | ||
| Total Credits | 90 | |
- *
Could be used as General Education.
- 1
General Education courses & additional foundation coursework can be completed before or during enrollment in BIT courses.
- 2
Prerequisite coursework (required before enrollment in BIT 105 or higher).
- 3
Bioscience Degree Elective coursework requires a minimum of 20 credits in courses with a BIT prefix.
- Z
This course is part of Oregon Common Course Numbering. The following courses are equivalent:
BA 216A and BA 169Z
BI 211 and BI 221Z
CH 221 and CH 221Z
WR 121 and WR 121Z
Basic Science Electives
| Code | Title | Credits |
|---|---|---|
| BI 121 | Introduction to Human Anatomy & Physiology I | 4 |
| BI 221Z | Principles of Biology: Cells (BI221Z=BI211) | 5 |
| BI 222Z | Principles of Biology: Organisms (BI222Z=BI212) | 5 |
| BI 223Z | Principles of Biology: Ecology and Evolution (BI223Z=BI213) | 5 |
| BI 222 | Human Genetics | 3 |
| BI 231 | Human Anatomy & Physiology I | 4 |
| BI 234 | Microbiology * | 5 |
| BI 287 | Introduction to Immunology | 4 |
| CH 221Z & CH 227Z | General Chemistry I and General Chemistry I Laboratory | 4 |
| CH 222Z & CH 228Z | General Chemistry II and General Chemistry II Laboratory | 4 |
| CH 223Z & CH 229Z | General Chemistry III and General Chemistry III Laboratory | 4 |
| MTH 244 | Statistics II | 4 |
| STAT 243 | Elementary Statistics I (MTH/STAT243=STAT243Z) Z | 4 |
- *
Could be used as General Education.
- 1
Students who are interested in transferring to PSU for a BS degree in Biology will need to complete BI 221Z, BI 222Z, BI 223Z, CH 221Z & CH 227Z, CH 222Z & CH 228Z, and CH 223Z & CH229Z in order to be eligible for placement in upper-division Biology and Chemistry courses at PSU.
- Z
This course is part of Oregon Common Course Numbering. The following courses are equivalent:
BI 211 and BI 221Z
BI 212 and BI 222Z
BI 213 and BI 223Z
CH 221 and CH 221Z
CH 222 and CH 222Z
CH 223 and CH 223Z
MTH 243, STAT 243, and STAT 243Z
Bioscience Degree Electives2
| Code | Title | Credits |
|---|---|---|
| Elective BIT Coursework (at least 20 credits required in BIT) | ||
| BIT 201 | Immunochemical Methods | 5 |
| BIT 203 | Recombinant DNA | 5 |
| BIT 205 | Bioseparations | 5 |
| BIT 207 | Cell Culture | 5 |
| BIT 215 | Protein Purification | 5 |
| BIT 223 | Advanced DNA Techniques | 5 |
| BIT 280A | Bioscience Technology Work Experience | 4-8 |
| Elective Coursework in other departments | ||
| BA 255 | Project Management - Business Environments | 4 |
| Computer Skills Electives (recommended for students interested in careers in bioinformatics and related fields) | ||
| CIS 121 | Information Systems and Programming | 4 |
| CIS 122 | Introduction to Programming Logic | 4 |
| CIS 125D | Database Application Development I | 4 |
| CIS 133Y | Python Programming I | 4 |
| CIS 233Y | Python Programming II | 4 |
| CIS 277A | Data Analytics | 4 |
| CIS 277S | Introduction to Data Science | 4 |
| Mechanical Skills Electives (recommended for students interested in careers in biomanufacturing and related fields) | ||
| MT 108 | Statistics for Process Control | 2 |
| MT 111A | DC and AC Electronics Intro | 4 |
| or MT 111 | Electronic Circuits & Devices I | |
| MT 121A | Digital Electronics Intro | 2 |
| or MT 121 | Digital Systems I | |
| MT 131 | Introduction to Programmable Logic Controllers | 3 |
| MT 151 | Intro to Hand Tools and Mechanical Assembly | 1 |
| MT 155 | Mechanical Systems | 5 |
| WR 227 | Technical Writing (WR227=WR227Z) Z | 4 |
- 2
20 must be BIT.
- Z
This course is part of Oregon Common Course Numbering. WR 227 and WR 227Z are equivalent.
Less than One-Year: Career Pathway Certificate
Advanced Bioscience Technologist
Bioscience Technician
Advanced Bioscience Technologist Career Pathway Certificate
Minimum 29 credits. Students must meet all certificate requirements. The Advanced Bioscience Technologist certificate is a Career Pathway. All courses are contained in the Bioscience Technology AAS Degree.
Advanced Bioscience Technologist Certificate Courses
| Code | Title | Credits |
|---|---|---|
| BIT 102 | Current Topics in Bioscience Technology | 2 |
| BIT 105 | Safety in the Bioscience Workplace | 2 |
| BIT 107 | Bioscience Lab Math | 2 |
| BIT 109 | Basic Laboratory Techniques and Instruments | 5 |
| BIT 125 | Quality Systems in Bioscience Technology | 2 |
| BIT 126 | Applied Quality Practice | 3 |
| BIT 181 | Exploring Bioscience | 3 |
| Advanced Bioscience Technology Electives | 10 | |
| Total Credits | 29 | |
Advanced Bioscience Technologist Electives
| Code | Title | Credits |
|---|---|---|
| BIT 201 | Immunochemical Methods | 5 |
| BIT 203 | Recombinant DNA | 5 |
| BIT 205 | Bioseparations | 5 |
| BIT 207 | Cell Culture | 5 |
| BIT 215 | Protein Purification | 5 |
| BIT 223 | Advanced DNA Techniques | 5 |
Bioscience Technician Career Pathway Certificate
Minimum 19 credits. Students must also meet certificate requirements. The Biotechnician certificate is a Career Pathway. All courses are contained in the Bioscience Technology AAS Degree.
Bioscience Technician Certificate Courses
| Code | Title | Credits |
|---|---|---|
| BIT 102 | Current Topics in Bioscience Technology | 2 |
| BIT 105 | Safety in the Bioscience Workplace | 2 |
| BIT 107 | Bioscience Lab Math | 2 |
| BIT 109 | Basic Laboratory Techniques and Instruments | 5 |
| BIT 125 | Quality Systems in Bioscience Technology | 2 |
| BIT 126 | Applied Quality Practice | 3 |
| BIT 181 | Exploring Bioscience | 3 |
| Total Credits | 19 | |
BIT 102. Current Topics in Bioscience Technology. 2 Credits.
Provides an overview of current topics in Bioscience Technology. Includes recombinant DNA technology, bioremediation, forensics, genetically modified organisms (GMO), stem cell technology, pharmaceutical drug discovery and medical devices as well as ethical and legal issues surrounding biotechnology today. Recommend: BI 102 or BI 112 or BI 211 or BI 221Z or equivalent. Audit available.
BIT 105. Safety in the Bioscience Workplace. 2 Credits.
Surveys technical and regulatory aspects of physical, chemical, radiation and biological safety in the bioscience laboratory. Covers topics such as: mechanical and electrical systems, hazards due to temperature and pressure, handling and storing hazardous chemicals, personal protective equipment, chemical waste disposals and spill, ionizing radiation and control measures, biological containment, disinfection/sterilization, medical waste handling, applicable regulations and guidelines. Prerequisite/Concurrent: CH 104 or CH 151 or CH 221 or CH 221Z and CH 227Z, BI 102 or BI 112 or BI 211 or BI 221Z. Prerequisites: Placement into WR 115 and RD 115. Audit available.
BIT 107. Bioscience Lab Math. 2 Credits.
Develops mathematics skill and problem-solving related to work in a bioscience laboratory or biomanufacturing environment. Covers calculations for solution preparation, analysis and manipulation of molecules and cells, analysis and interpretation of data and commonly used statistical methods. Prerequisites: CH 104 or CH 151 or CH 221 or CH 221Z and CH 227Z, BI 102 or BI 112 or BI 211 or BI 221Z, and MTH 65 or equivalent placement. Audit available.
BIT 109. Basic Laboratory Techniques and Instruments. 5 Credits.
Introduces fundamental principles and practices for the bioscience laboratory. Topics include: solution preparation, instrumentation for measurements (weight, volume, temperature, pH, conductivity and spectroscopy), assay techniques and routine laboratory maintenance. Covers principles of quality documentation, safety, and precise communication. Prerequisite/Concurrent: BIT 105 and BIT 107. Prerequisites: Placement into WR 115 and RD 115. Audit available.
BIT 125. Quality Systems in Bioscience Technology. 2 Credits.
Introduction to internal and external quality systems that apply to the bioscience industry, with emphasis on working in a regulated environment. Also covers various agencies that regulate the bioscience industry, FDA regulation for good laboratory and manufacturing practices (GLP and cGMP), and processes relating to product approval. Prerequisite/Concurrent: BIT 102, CH 104 or CH 151 or CH 221 or CH 221Z and CH 227Z, BI 102 or BI 112 or BI 211 or BI 221Z. Audit available.
BIT 126. Applied Quality Practice. 3 Credits.
Introduces concepts and skills that are needed by entry level workers in the regulated bioscience and related work environments. Emphasize validation, compliance, CAPA, audit, LEAN work habits, material and product control and coordinated quality teamwork through laboratory-based activities. Prerequisites: BIT 125 and BIT 109 or instructor permission. Audit available.
BIT 181. Exploring Bioscience. 3 Credits.
Provides an overview and analysis of various Bioscience Technology work environments including research, development, and manufacturing. Covers career options, pathways, and development of skills that are needed for identification and procurement of entry level positions, education, and training opportunities in the bioscience field. Includes portfolio development and refinement of job search, resume writing and interview skills. Participation in field trips is required. Recommended: completion or concurrent enrollment in BIT 125. Prerequisite/concurrent: BIT 109 or instructor permission. Audit available.
BIT 201. Immunochemical Methods. 5 Credits.
Introduces the general properties and uses of antibody molecules. Includes an overview of immune responses, biosynthesis of immunoglobulin, obtaining, purifying and labeling antibodies, and using antibodies in a variety of common applications (ELISA, western blot, immunoprecipitation and immunocytochemistry, antibody-based affinity chromatography). Prerequisite: BIT 109 or instructor permission. Audit available.
BIT 203. Recombinant DNA. 5 Credits.
Provides a laboratory-intensive experience focusing on the strategies and techniques used in recombinant DNA work. Covers vector and insert options and preparation, quantitation of DNA, ligation and transformation procedures, and analysis by restriction digest, blot hybridization and PCR. Prerequisite: BIT 109 or instructor permission. Audit available.
BIT 205. Bioseparations. 5 Credits.
Introduces commonly used methods for separation of biological molecules for both analytical and preparative applications. Covers the principles of and practice in filtration, differential precipitation, and electrophoretic and chromatographic techniques within a laboratory setting. Prerequisite: BIT 109 or instructor permission. Audit available.
BIT 207. Cell Culture. 5 Credits.
Introduces the practice and process of culturing animal cells and cell lines in a laboratory. Focuses on routine maintenance and record-keeping, including media preparation, cryopreservation, and troubleshooting common culture problems. Prerequisite/concurrent: BIT 109 or instructor permission. Audit available.
BIT 215. Protein Purification. 5 Credits.
Application of commonly used methods for separation of biological molecules in multi-step protein purifications. This laboratory intensive course will focus on issues of recovery and yield, step-to-step analysis and troubleshooting, as well as documentation and reporting procedures and results. Prerequisite: BIT 205 or instructor permission. Audit available.
BIT 223. Advanced DNA Techniques. 5 Credits.
Laboratory-intensive course focusing on the theory and practice of techniques for analysis and manipulation of nucleic acids. Topics include construction and use of plasmid and phage libraries, DNA sequence determination and analysis, bioinformatics, and applications of PCR. Prerequisites: BIT 203 or instructor permission. Audit available.
BIT 280A. Bioscience Technology Work Experience. 4-8 Credit.
Provides an opportunity to work in a biotechnology laboratory, supervised by professionals on site and by program instructor(s). Prerequisite: BIT 181 and department permission.