Biotechnology is a comprehensive and ever growing field in this day and age of technology. Simply put, biotechnology means the use of biology plus technology in ways that improve products and lives. Products that are biotechnology products are found in daily life, from coffee filters to canola oil and a big majority of soybean based items. In fact, over 70% of processed food products found in the grocery store exist because of biotechnology. Those who wish to pursue biotechnology degrees have a vast array of career options to choose from. From entry level jobs all the way to six figure income positions, the field of biotechnology is booming.

Biotechnology degrees in general can be obtained in many ways, through local colleges and universities as well as through online education programs. This does depend on the specific type of biotechnology degree being pursued. In general, there are several different types of biotechnology degrees:

·    Certificate- a certificate in biotechnology generally takes a student about two years to complete. With few prerequisites, this type of program provides a broad introduction into the field and prepares students for basic, entry level jobs. Students who complete a certificate course in biotechnology are ideal candidates to fill jobs such as research technicians or lab technicians.

·    Associate's Degree- also a two year degree, this program is more in-depth than the certificate program in that in addition to the coursework, an industry internship is required. The focus when pursuing and associate's degree is on research training and technical skills. Students who graduate with an associate's degree in biotechnology are more than qualified for entry level jobs such as lab technicians and lab assistants. These students are also prepared to enter the next level program if they choose to do so.

·    Bachelor's Degree- the world of biotechnology has become so detailed and so specialized that a bachelor's degree in the field is not all that common. Those who wish to go beyond an associate's degree are expected to choose an area of concentration such as biology or chemistry for their bachelor's degree. The idea is that then the bachelor's degree has them prepared for a Master's program in biotechnology.

·    Master's Degree- A master's degree program in biotechnology requires that the student already hold a bachelor's degree in a related field. It is at this point that students become very specialized and precise in the area of study, combining technology with business.

Obtaining a biotechnology degree opens many varied doors in this day and age. Careers in the field of biotechnology pay anywhere from $10,000 for low level jobs all the way up to six figure incomes for high level executive positions. To pursue biotechnology degrees, students can start online or at their local college and move on to more complex programs as they complete the lower levels, if desired. There are many who obtain a certificate or associate's degree in biotechnology that are happy with entry level jobs in labs and research facilities. Then there are others who wish to purse more advanced positions, these require a bachelor's or a master's degree in the field.