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High School Center Programs ⟶ Program Themes ⟶ Biotechnology Studies

Biotechnology Studies

The Biotechnology Studies Center Program envisions a future where every student graduates as a confident scientific thinker, ethical innovator, and collaborative leader—prepared to advance biotechnology and improve human health, sustainability, and society. The program fosters a transformative learning community that ignites curiosity, nurtures talent, and opens doors to postsecondary education and careers in biotechnology, biomedical sciences, and related fields. Through immersive, hands‑on laboratory experiences and rigorous science coursework, students develop technical skills and a deep understanding of how biotechnology shapes the modern world.

 

Core Experiences

  • Earn Biotechnician Assistant Credentialing (BACE) Certification
  • Participate in career connected learning or college credit courses (optional)
  • Advanced laboratory work in biotechnology
  • Connect with healthcare professionals, university faculty, and industry mentors
  • Participate in competitions and student organizations

 

Program Goals

  1. Develop Foundational Knowledge and Skills
    Equip students with a strong academic foundation in biotechnology through rigorous, standards-based coursework.
  2. Provide Hands-On, Real-World Experience
    Engage students in experiential learning through labs, simulations, internships, and industry partnerships to build practical skills and career readiness.
  3. Foster Career and College, Career and/or Community Pathways
    Support students in exploring and pursuing postsecondary education and/or careers in research, laboratory biology or healthcare by offering certifications, dual enrollment opportunities, and mentorship from industry professionals.

 

Application & Locations

Selection Process: Criteria-based application

Schools:

  • Southern Region: Einstein
  • Central South Region: Kennedy
  • Central North Region: Quince Orchard
  • Northern Region: Northwest

Course Progression

Below is a sample sequence of courses for students enrolled in the Biotechnology Program. Cells in blue indicate courses related to the program pathway. Course offerings are subject to change as programs continue to develop.

 

Grades 6–8 Grade 9 Grade 10 Grade 11 Grade 12

Career advising, and claiming of RIASEC themes.

Career exploration

Summer enrichment & preparation

Honors Biology for MED Center Programs

Honors Chemistry with emphasis on Biotechnology

Biotechnology 1 DP (S1)
Biotechnology 2 DP (S2)

Biotechnology 3

Technology Credit - CS

  • AP CS Principles if no technology education credit

  • AP CS Principles, Programming 1 or AP CS Java if student has technology education credit

NGSS Science course (to complete three required credits)

  • Honors Physics

  • AP Physics 1

AP or Advanced Level Biology/Chemistry Elective*
U.S. History NSL Government World History

AP or Advanced Level Biology/Chemistry Elective*
English English English English
Math Math Math Math
World Language World Language World Language/Elective* World Language/Elective*
Elective (Physical Education or Fine Arts) Elective (Physical Education, Fine Arts or Health) Elective (Physical Education, Fine Arts or Health) Elective

* Elective requirements can be met in grades 11-12

Program Requirements

In addition to MCPS requirements for graduation, students must complete the following to remain enrolled in the Biotechnology Studies Center Program and earn the related certificate:

  • 1 credit Honors Biology
  • 1 credit Honors Chemistry
  • 1 credit CS (AP CS Principles, Programming 1, AP CS Java)
  • 1 credit Physics (Honors Physics or AP Physics 1 or higher)
  • 3 Credits Biotechnology (Levels 1, 2, 3)
  • 2 Elective credits in AP or advanced level Biology/Chemistry courses or related work-based learning/dual enrollment course