Frequently Asked Questions

Have a question? Use these Keck Biotechnology Program FAQ to help you get an answer! 

General Program Questions

The Keck Biotechnology Program offers five certificates:

  • Participation in the program can help you develop work-place competencies.
  • You can also earn an AS degree in conjunction with the Certificate of Achievements. The Keck Biotechnology Program currently offers three associate in science degrees:
    • A.S. - Biological Technology
    • A.S. - Biological Technology - Stem Cell Culture
    • A.S. - Biological Technology - Stem Cell-Based Biomanufacturing
  • To earn an AS degree, you will need to complete the AS Degree general education requirements.

The key to compete for an entry level position in the biotech industry is to have a solid personal skills package. The program is designed to help develop personal workplace skills, expose and train students to a variety of technical skills, and provide familiarity with laboratory instruments that are commonly used in the biotech industry.

  • As a Biotechnology student you will be required to participate in an internship. Internship hours are flexible and you will work out your internship schedule with your site manager.
  • The CIRM Bridges to Stem Cell Research Program offers a competitive full-time paid internship for a period of one year. Only current students nearing completion of the Keck Biotechnology Program may apply.  

Most of the courses required to earn certificate(s) in the program are transferable to UC and CSU campuses. It is your responsibility to check with the counseling staff at your specific school of choice to confirm course transferability.

Upon completion of the required courses to earn the Certificate of Achievement in Biological Technology and a Stem Cell Culture Certificate, you may apply for a CIRM-funded research internship. Interested students must attend an orientation meeting and submit an initial application, transcripts, resumé, and a letter of recommendation.

Program Admissions

You may still benefit from the Keck Biotechnology Program! Many college graduates may not have acquired the laboratory experience necessary to be competitive when applying for employment in the biotechnology industry or post-graduate program. Our program will help you gain laboratory experience through our required internships.

The Keck Biotechnology Program at PCC can help you develop basic laboratory skills, earn Certificates of Achievements through course equivalencies, and assist with internship placement that will add to your laboratory experiences.

Yes! Please submit your unofficial transcripts to biotech@pasadena.edu for review.

The tuition for the required courses is the current tuition cost to attend Pasadena City College. There may also be mandatory health fees associated with the cost of the tuition per semester as well as course material, and parking at PCC.

Please refer to the individual Certificates of Achievements awarded by the program for number of units of completion.

Once a formal application to PCC has been submitted through the PCC Office of Admissions, you will need to visit the Financial Aid Office to inquire about financial aid eligibility