Biotechnology (B.S.)

The Department of Cell and Molecular Biology at the University of Rhode Island offers a Bachelor of Science (B.S.) degree in Biotechnology. Biotechnology is commonly defined as the use of biological principles for the betterment of mankind. Examples of this technology include biopharmaceuticals produced by live cells, enhanced crop yields due to genetic engineering of seeds and medical devices that address a variety of human issues.  A BS in Biotechnology will prepare students for professional careers in the rapidly growing biotechnology and biomedical industries. Students will be qualified to work in areas such as technical support, manufacturing and research. The major includes a 12 credit internship at a biotechnology company or organization. A few key courses are offered only at the Providence Campus where students learn in specialized biotechnology laboratories. All other courses are offered on the Kingston Campus with some courses on both campuses.

Learning outcomes for Biotechnology Majors

  1. Students will be able to understand the fundamentals of chemistry/biology and key principles of biochemistry/molecular biology/genetic engineering.
  2. Students will be able to acquire advanced laboratory skills and integrate scientific knowledge with these lab skills within a lab setting.
  3. Students will be able to use critical thinking skills to analyze experimental data and determine the scope of a laboratory or production problem.
  4. Students will be able to communicate effectively and work well in teams. 

The following is an example of the typical course schedule for the first four semesters for a student majoring in Biotechnology. These are recommended course selections for Biotechnology students in University College. There will be variation based upon course availability and selection restraints. Some classes are not offered every semester. It is important to plan ahead and consult with your advisor to allow yourself time to enroll in the classes you wish to take. 

Semester I (Fall)

CourseCredits
URI101 Freshman at URI1
CHM101/102 Chemistry I, Lab4
BIO101/103 Principles of Biology I4
MTH111 or MTH131 or MTH1413/4
BTC110 Introduction to Biotechnology4
Total Credits16 - 17

Semester II (Spring)

CourseCredits
BIO102/104 Principles of Biology II4
BTC195 Biotechnology Manufacturing Methods5
CHM112/114 Chemistry II, Lab4
BTC102 Biotechnology Internship Prep1
BTC190 Issues in Biotechnology3
Total Credits17

Semester III (Fall)

CourseCredits
CMB211 Introductory Microbiology4
CHM124/126 Intro. Organic Chemistry 5
PHY111 General Physics I3
PHY185 General Physics Lab I1
General Ed. or Elective3
Total Credits15

Semester IV (Spring)

CourseCredits
CMB352 Genetics4
CMB311 Introductory Biochemistry3
MTH131/MTH141 or STA307/3083/4
General Ed. or Elective3
Total Credits13 - 14

Clinical Assistant Professor
302G Shepard Building (Providence)
239 Woodward, Kingston Campus
Phone: 401-277-5219
Email: doreen_osgood@uri.edu

Doreen Osgood-Dean

Clinical Assistant Professor
302G Shepard Building (Providence)
239 Woodward, Kingston Campus
Phone: 401-277-5219
Email: doreen_osgood@uri.edu
Clinical Assistant Professor
302I Shepard Building (Providence)
239 Woodward, Kingston Campus
Phone: 401-277-5212
Email: bplouffe@uri.edu

Brian Plouffe

Clinical Assistant Professor
302I Shepard Building (Providence)
239 Woodward, Kingston Campus
Phone: 401-277-5212
Email: bplouffe@uri.edu
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