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High School Center Programs ⟶ Program Themes ⟶ Biotechnology Studies

Biotechnology Studies

Step into the future of science with MED Center Biotechnology Studies. Our students become ethical innovators and collaborative leaders prepared to transform human health and advance global sustainability. Unlock your potential, ignite your passion, and jumpstart your path to higher education and breakthrough careers in biotechnology.

 

Core Experiences

  • Earn the Biotechnician Assistant Credentialing (BACE) Certification
  • Engage 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, career-connected learning, 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.
Grade 9 Grade 10 Grade 11 Grade 12

Honors Biology for MED Center Programs

Honors Chemistry with emphasis on Biotechnology

Biotechnology I
Double Period (S1)*

Biotechnology III*

AP Computer Science Principles (if needed) or
AP Computer Science Programming 1 
or
AP Java (if already have tech credit)

Honors Physics  or

AP Physics I

Biotechnology II
Double Period (S2)*

AP or Advanced Level Biology/Chemistry Elective**
US History US Government Modern World History Elective or Career-Connected Learning
English English English English
Math Math Math Math
World Language* World Language* World Language or Elective World Language or Elective
Elective (PE or Fine Arts) Elective (PE or Fine Arts) Elective (PE or Fine Arts) Elective (PE or Fine Arts)

*Part of the MCPS graduation requirements includes either 2 credits in a world language or completion of a state-approved Career and Technical Education (CTE) program of study along with a minimum of 0.5 elective credit or more depending on the program of study. Biotechnology I, II, and III are part of the state-approved Biotechnology program of study. Students who plan to attend a four-year college or university after high school are encouraged to take world language courses to meet admission requirements and strengthen their college applications.

** 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 for MED Center Programs
  • 1 credit Honors Chemistry with emphasis on Biotechnology
  • 1 credit Computer Science (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