Biotechnology Certificate

Location(s): Brookings Main Campus

DNA Genomics graphic

Program Coordinator/Contact

Jeremy Chambers, Department Head
Radhey Kaushik, Professor/Graduate Coordinator
Department of Biology and Microbiology
Alfred Dairy Science Hall 228, Box 2104A
605-688-6141

Program Information

The Biotechnology Certificate provides a solid foundation in the application of biological, biochemical and genetical processes in the development of agricultural, environmental, clinical, and industrial high-value products, including the commercial exploitation of microorganisms, plants and animals for biotechnological applications. The program will provide graduates with a competitive advantage and the necessary background to be successful in careers in the biotech industry. Complete the graduate certificate as a stand-alone credential or stacked into the Professional Science (M.S.) . Even better, it is available online, making it a great option for working professionals wishing to enhance their skills in a critical area.

Course Delivery Format

Courses will be delivered face-to-face and online.

Student Learning Outcomes

Broad knowledge about biotechnology techniques and their commercial application.
Understanding of bacterial genetics and ecology, and the commercial application of bacterial biotechnology.
Knowledge about the cellular basis of cancer and the development of therapeutic targets, and vaccine development.
Knowledge of disease pathogenesis, how the immune system works, general principles of vaccination, different types of vaccines and how vaccines can be used to protect from infectious diseases.

Certificate Requirements

BIOL 570 - Cancer Biology (COM) Credits: 3
MICR 524 - Medical and Veterinary Virology Credits: 3
or MICR 539 - Medical and Veterinary Immunology Credits: 3
MICR 550 - Application of Microbiology & Biotechnology Credits: 3
MICR 667 - Bacteriology Credits: 3

Total Required Credits: 12

Additional Admission Requirements

TOEFL: 71 Internet-based
TOEFL Essentials: 7.5
IELTS: 6.0
Duolingo: 100

Additional Information

Students enrolled in SDSU certificate programs are not eligible for federal student financial aid. The non-federal alternative loan programs may be used for students meeting the lender criteria as found at www.sdstate.edu (search alternative loans). For further information, please contact the SDSU financial aid office at 605-688-4695 or finaid@sdstate.edu.