Office & Contact Information

Every living organism, from the smallest and most primitive bacteria to every plant, insect, animal or human being, contains DNA as the primary genetic material. DNA directs all cellular processes, creating the incredible variety and diversity of living organisms in the biosphere. Biotechnology focuses on the mechanics of life processes and their application. Biotechnology means "life technology" and represents an integrated, multidisciplinary field, with a profound impact today on almost every aspect of human endeavor.

Preparatory Requirements

Biotechnology is a selective major. UC Davis students who wish to change their major to Biotechnology must complete the following courses (representing the subject areas of Biological Sciences, Chemistry, and Mathematics) with a grade point average of at least 2.500 in each subject area. Each course must be taken for a letter grade. Students who do not meet these requirements cannot be considered for transfer into the major:

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MAT 016A & MAT 016B are discontinued.

The Program

Preparatory Requirements

In the first two years, students develop a strong and general background in biological science with an emphasis on fundamental concepts and basic principles of genetics, molecular biology and cell biology.

Specialization

In the 3^rd year, students will choose from one of four options: Animal Biotechnology, Plant Biotechnology, Fermentation/Microbial Biotechnology, and Bioinformatics. They each provide in-depth training and specialized knowledge in an aspect of biotechnology. 

Internship

Each option has a strong laboratory component to reinforce theoretical concepts. Students also do an internship in an academic, government, commercial, or medical laboratory. Activity that meets the internship requirements should demonstrate that it strengthens theoretical knowledge or prepares you for graduate or medical school.

Restricted Electives

Students must complete at least 9 units or more of restricted electives. Restricted Electives (REs) are usually upper division-courses you choose, so that you may personalize your degree. These courses should allow you to explore other topics of interest, help prepare you for your intended career, or would present a competitive advantage on your application for graduate or professional school. We list a selection of courses that you may choose from, but you are not restricted to courses on this list. Feel free to explore the UC Davis catalog. The following courses are not accepted as REs: (1) a required biotechnology course, (2) a lower division course that is P/NP only, (3) an internship, or a (4) a discussion section of a course. Approval of REs not on listed on the major website must be sought from Lead Faculty Advisor Dr. Diane M Beckles. Please include a justification for your choice of course.

Internships & Career Opportunities

In the last decade, more industries are turning to biotechnology to solve problems and improve products, creating a growing job market for individuals trained in biotechnology in the agricultural, food and beverage, health care, chemical, pharmaceutical, and biochemical, and environmental and bioremediation industries. In 2023, the Greater Sacramento region was the second fastest growing in the nation for life sciences, which should create opportunities for graduates.

Graduates trained in the technologies designed for biotechnology will find their training applicable to advanced research in molecular biology, genetics, biochemistry, and the plant and animal sciences. Many of our majors are pre-health and pursue dental and medical careers.

Faculty 

Faculty includes members of the Departments of Animal Science; Engineering: Chemical Engineering & Materials Science; Computer Science; Engineering: Biological & Agricultural; Food Science & Technology; Land, Air, & Water Resources; Plant Pathology; Plant Sciences; Viticulture & Enology; and the College of Biological Sciences.

Lead Faculty Advisor

Diane Beckles in 133 Asmundson Hall

Major Advisor

Advising Center for the major is located in 1220 Plant & Environmental Sciences; you may also email Plant Science Advising for queries.

The major requirements below are in addition to meeting University Degree Requirements & College Degree Requirements; unless otherwise noted. The minimum number of units required for the Biotechnology Bachelor of Science is 113.

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Course(s) discontinued; see your advisor for course options.

Fermentation/Microbiology Biotechnology Option

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Course(s) discontinued; see your advisor for course options.

Plant Biotechnology Option

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Course(s) discontinued; see your advisor for course options.

Animal Biotechnology Option

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Course(s) discontinued; see your advisor for course options.

Bioinformatics Option

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Course(s) discontinued; see your advisor for course options.