Mar 29, 2024  
2016-2017 Course Catalog 
    
2016-2017 Course Catalog [ARCHIVED CATALOG]

Biotechnology, Agronomy Concentration, AAS


The degree is structured to allow students to develop marketable job skills while incorporating the requirements for an Associate in Applied Sciences degree. The program includes many hands on and lab-based courses, which enable students to apply what they learn in biology, microbiology, agronomy, genetics, chemistry, statistics, and molecular biology. Specific skills such as written and oral communications, critical thinking, problem-solving, computer skills and small group collaboration are an integral part of the program. Students participate in internships in cooperation with potential employers. Please check with the Biotechnology program chairperson or an advisor for additional assistance.

For more information about the Biotechnology program, please visit our website at www.go.dmacc.edu/programs/biotechnology.

Locations: Ankeny

Students start any term.

Program Entry Requirements

  1. Complete an application for admission to the Biotechnology Program.
  2. Satisfy the assessment requirements.
  3. Attend any required information/registration session and be accepted into the Biotechnology AAS Program.
  4. Must submit proof of one year of high school chemistry or Academic Achievement Chemistry I & II or successful completion of CHM 122  .
  5. Must submit proof of two years of high school algebra or MAT 063  & MAT 073  .

Graduation Requirements

To earn a Biotechnology Agronomy Concentration AAS degree, a student must complete all coursework as prescribed and maintain a 2.0 grade point average.

Semester 2


Option 1 - Select 1 Course


Semester 4


Total Credits Required to Complete this Degree - 71


Fixed Costs


Tuition……………………………………………………………………………………..$147.00 per credit

The costs for each program are estimates and subject to change.

Varied Costs


  Semester 1 Semester2 Semester 3 Semester 4 Semester 5
Books (approximate) 275 280 180 230 275
Supplies 120 120 125 125 120

Approximate total for program: $12,287*

*Program entry requirements are not included in the total approximate cost.

What Kind of Work Will You Do?


  • Record, analyze, summarize and present data.
  • Properly use, calibrate and maintain laboratory equipment.
  • Prepare reagents and chemicals used in the laboratory.
  • Design and conduct basic laboratory experiments or processes.
  • Use current technology such as gel electrophoresis, chromatography, or protein and DNA analysis for research,  manufacturing or quality control processes

What Skills and Abilities Will You Need?


  • Critical thinking and problem-solving.
  • Good interpersonal skills.
  • Ability to work effectively in groups or teams.
  • Effective oral and written communication skills.
  • Accuracy and attention to detail.
  • A good understanding of concepts of biology, chemistry, math and computers.
  • Self-motivation and ability to complete projects on time.

What Else Should I Consider about this Program of Career Choice?


  • This is a competitive and rapidly changing field. You need to continually learn new things and to keep your skills up to date.
  • This field requires attention to detail and an ability to recognize and solve problems.
  • Some parts of the job can be very repetitive.
  • There is opportunity for advancement, but it will often require additional formal education in addition to demonstrated performance as described above.
  • This is a rapidly growing field with more than 1,000 biotech companies, academic institutions, state biotech centers and related organizations in all 50 U.S. states and 33 other nations searching for students trained in biotechnology (iowabio.org).
  • Anticipated average starting salary $25,000-$38,000 depending on industry and position.  Benefits often include: healthcare, paid time off, tuition reimbursement, competitive pay, bonus programs and retirement plans.

Nondiscrimination Policy


Des Moines Area Community College shall not engage in nor allow discrimination covered by law against any person, group or organization. This includes in employment, hiring practices or the provision of services, and harassment or discrimination based on race, color, national origin, creed, religion, sex (including pregnancy and marital status), sexual orientation, gender identity, age, disability and genetic information. Veteran status in educational programs, activities, employment practices, or admission procedures is also included to the extent covered by law. Individuals who believe they have been discriminated against may file a complaint through the College Discrimination Complaint Procedure. Complaint forms may be obtained from the Campus Provost’s office, the Academic Deans’ office, the Judicial Officer, or the EEO/AA Officer, Human Resources. For information about the ADA, the Section 504/ADA Coordinator may be contacted at 515-964-6857.  For Title IX questions and concerns contact 515-964-6850. (2016)