School Information
Biotechnology programs prepare students for various careers in the industry and can be found at the undergraduate and graduate levels at many high-ranking schools around the country. Four of the top schools for biotechnology in the U.S. include Purdue Global, Oregon State University, Stark State College, and Northwestern University. While each program is different, students may learn how to apply their understanding of biotechnology in areas related to agriculture, medicine, pharmacology, and other biological sciences. These schools were all ranked highly by publications like U.S. News and World Report and Washington Monthly.
Purdue Global in West Lafayette, IN
Purdue Global is a public institution that U.S. News & World Report ranked tied for #57 among national universities for 2020. Purdue's Polytechnic Institute offers a biotechnology minor, which is readily available to students majoring in a four-year bachelor's degree program. Students studying in the biotechnology minor program will take courses in the fundamentals of biology, molecular biology and genetics, in addition to taking biology labs.
Oregon State University in Corvallis, OR
Oregon State University is a public research and land-grant institution that U.S. News & World Report ranked at #64 among the best public schools for 2020. Oregon State University offers an applied biotechnology graduate major. This is a two-year program with course topics like microbial genetics, eukaryotic molecular genetics, and cell signaling and development.
Northwestern University in Evanston, IL
Northwestern University is a private research school that U.S. News & World Report ranked at #9 among national universities for 2020. The university is home to a Master of Biotechnology program that integrates processing engineering and life sciences with hands-on research in the field. At the end of the program, students will be prepared to pursue a doctoral program or for work in the biotechnology industry.
Stark State College in North Canton, OH
Stark State College offers distance learning opportunities. The school offers an associate's degree in biotechnology as well as a biotechnology career enhancement certificate. Coursework includes genetics, chemistry, and biotechnology instrumentation.
Top Biotechnology Schools
Let's review a few other schools that offer biotechnology programs.
| School Name | Distinction | Location |
|---|---|---|
| Southern Illinois University | Bachelor's and master's degree offered | Edwardsville, IL |
| Rutgers University | Research university | New Brunswick, NJ |
| Minnesota State University | Offers grants | Mankato, MN |
| East Stroudsburg University | Job placement for graduates | East Stroudsburg, PA |
| CUNY York College | Teacher certification available | Jamaica, NY |
| California State Polytechnic University | One of six polytechnic universities in the nation | Pomona, CA |
Schools like Purdue Global, Oregon State University, Stark State College, and Northwestern University offer biotechnology students many options and opportunities to consider when choosing a program to prepare them for professional success. Students may compare programs by looking at a school's rankings, job placement rates, and research opportunities.