Biotech: Empowering a Career in Research
How do I know if Biotech is the right path for me?
Do you have an investigative mind?
Do you exhibit strong organizational and complex problem-solving skills?
Are biology and technology two of your greatest passions?
If so, a career in biotech may be the perfect fit for you. Biotechnology combines high-tech and biology to create organic creations like sustainable farming techniques, vaccines, and clinical research to protect against deadly diseases. Specialties include agriculture/food science, bioengineering, and microbiology.
Your Pathway to Success
Read on for our comprehensive guide to Biotech education and training in Montana. Whether you're seeking rapid training programs, certificates, or advanced degrees, you'll find diverse educational pathways to help you align your studies with your career goals.
Check out our STEM Career Pathways page to explore in-demand biotech jobs in Montana and take the first step toward a successful career in Biotech.
Rapid Training, Certificates, and One- and Two-Year Programs
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Biotechnology Certificate of Technical Studies (C.T.S.)
Program Length: 1 year
Description: The FVCC Biotechnology certificate program offers hands-on, competency-based instruction to prepare students for entry-level positions in the biosciences industry. Students completing this program will be prepared to take the Biosciences Assistant Credentialing Exam (BACE), an industry-recognized credential. Courses in the Biotechnology CTS program can be used toward the completion an Associate of Science transfer degree, allowing students to pursue both concurrently.
Medical Laboratory Technology Associate of Applied Science (A.A.S.)
Program Length: 2 years
Description: The FVCC Medical Laboratory Technology (MLT) program prepares graduates for entry-level positions in a clinical laboratory environment such as in hospitals, physicians’ offices, commercial laboratories, biotechnology, research laboratories, pharmaceutical companies, technical services and sales, or veterinary laboratories. At entry level, the medical laboratory technician will possess the entry level competencies necessary to perform routine testing in the areas of Clinical Chemistry, Hematology/Hemostasis, Immunology, Immunohematology/Transfusion medicine, Microbiology, Urine and Body Fluid Analysis, and Laboratory Operations. After completing all academic and clinical requirements, students will be eligible to sit for the national certification exam and apply for state licensure.
Minors and Four-Year Programs
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Bachelor of Science (B.S.) in Biochemistry – Molecular Biology
Program Length: 4 years
Description: Students in the biochemistry–molecular biology program at Carroll study the biochemistry of neurodegenerative diseases and have the opportunity to research hands-on projects, like the West Nile virus in Montana. Working directly with professors, both inside the classroom and in the research lab, makes an education at Carroll the best of both worlds.
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Bioengineering Bachelor of Science (B.S.)
Program Length: 4 years
Description: Students in the Biological Engineering program at Montana State learn at the exciting interface of biology, chemistry, and industrial systems. Whether discovering how microbes in Yellowstone National Park could be used to recycle plastic or working in a lab to develop new tools for diagnosing diseases like malaria and cancer in low-resource settings, Biological Engineering students are afforded a variety of opportunities to develop skills that will serve them in positions in biomedicine, environmental remediation and more.
Program Length: 4 years
Description: The Biotechnology program at Montana State is an interdisciplinary degree that prepares students interested in microbiology, animal or plant science, biochemistry, or animal/human medicine for rewarding careers that create solutions for health, agriculture, and environmental quality. Students choose an area of emphasis in plant or animal/microbial systems.
Program Length:
Minor = 3 years;
B.S. = 4 years
Description: Microbiology is a diverse discipline that has become an umbrella term for a variety of studies, including bacteriology, mycology, protozoology, phycology, parasitology, and virology. In the Microbiology program at Montana State, students are able to delve into the study of all of these broad tracks of microbiology to prepare for careers in microbiology, the health profession, veterinary school or various topics in environmental microbiology. The Microbiology major at Montana State offers five additional Options Within the Major: Pre-Medicine, Pre-Veterinary, Environmental Microbiology, Environmental Health and Medical Laboratory Science. Additionally, Microbiology can be taken as a minor.
Program Length: 4 years
Description: Students in the Plant Biology program at Montana State start with a broad education of issues connected to the plant sciences before focusing their interest in the field with a cellular, molecular, organismal, ecological, or genetic perspective to botany.
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Chemistry Bachelor of Science (B.S.) – Biochemistry option
Program Length: 4 years
Description: Montana Tech’s biochemistry option is for students interested in pursuing careers in research and/or professional practice in biomedicine and health care, including careers in biotechnology, medicine, medical technology, pharmacy, dentistry, etc. Several transfer articulations have been developed for this option.
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Biochemistry Bachelor of Science (B.S.)
Program Length:
Minor = 3 years;
B.S. = 4 years
Description: The University of Montana’s biochemistry degree revolves around and the physical and chemical principles that make life possible. Come develop the theoretical foundations, critical thinking, and laboratory skills needed for a career as a physician, teacher, academic researcher, applied scientist in biotechnology or as a government advisor.
Microbiology Bachelor of Science (B.S.) or Bachelor of Arts (B.A.) option
Program Length: 4 years
Description: Microbiology is transforming our world more than ever before, from creating vaccines to driving new technological breakthroughs that impact our everyday lives. If you’re interested in careers in research and laboratory work, or pursuing medical school or graduate studies, the University of Montana’s degree program in microbiology is excellent preparation. As a microbiology major, you’ll examine microorganisms including bacteria, fungi, viruses, and protozoa, with an emphasis on microbial structure and function, as well as interactions with humans and other organisms. Our program is distinguished by opportunities to engage in translational research that can impact human health and move swiftly into practice. We also offer innovative course formats that emphasize discussion and active collaboration among students and faculty.
Post-Graduate Programs
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Biochemistry Master of Science (M.S.) and Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.)
Program Length:
MS = 2 years;
PhD = 3 – 8 years
Description: Graduate students in the Biochemistry program at Montana State conduct research in a highly collaborative department, with interdisciplinary research opportunities available on campus as well as abroad. Ranked among the nation’s 100 leading research universities by the Carnegie Foundation, candidates are given the freedom to tailor the program to their own needs and interests while conducting research in state-of-the-art LEED-certified laboratory facilities.
Bioengineering Master of Engineering (M.Eng)
Program Length: M.Eng = 2 years
Description: In the Bioengineering program at Montana State, graduate students further their understanding of topics related to biofilms, biochemical transformation and bioengineering in order to build professional skills and knowledge in the medical and energy system sectors. By earning a Masters of Engineering degree, candidates further their understanding of new subjects in the biological engineering field alongside award-winning faculty who are recognized leaders in their areas of expertise.
Immunology and Infectious Disease Master of Science (M.S.) and Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.)
Program Length:
MS = 2 years;
PhD = 3 – 8 years
Description: In the graduate program for Immunology and Infectious Disease at Montana State, candidates pursue research projects within state-of-the-art laboratories on subjects such as vaccines and disease evolution, as well as genetics, disease transmission and immune responses. Candidates conduct these projects in labs such as the Core Flow Cytometry Facility and the state-of-the-art Cooley Laboratory. They train under award-winning and world-leading researchers in the fields of genetics and immunology.
Microbiology and Cell Biology Master of Science (M.S.) and Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.)
Program Length:
MS = 2 years;
PhD = 3 – 8 years
Description: Candidates in the Microbiology and Cell Biology program at Montana State engage in state-of-the-art research within one of the premier infectious disease research programs in the Northwest. Studying alongside leaders in the field, candidates are able to explore research within the environmental sciences or biomedical sciences and are encouraged to develop interdisciplinary ties in their research with additional departments and programs.
Plant Science Master of Science (M.S.) and Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.)
Program Length: MS = 2 years; PhD = 3 – 8 years
Description: In the graduate program for Plant Sciences at Montana State, candidates pursue research projects within state-of-the-art laboratories on subjects such as plant breeding and genetics, plant pathology, mycology, biotechnology, plant physiology and systematics, molecular evolution and biochemistry. Candidates conduct these projects in labs such as the Plant BioScience Facility or the Plant Growth Center, with over 29 glasshouse rooms and 8,300 square feet of bench space.
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Biochemistry and Biophysics Master of Science (M.S.) or Doctor of Philosophy (PhD)
Program Length: MS = 2 years; PhD = 3 – 8 years
Description: The University of Montana’s program in Biochemistry & Biophysics is one of six graduate programs within the Molecular and Biomedical Umbrella. The graduate program provides a dynamic environment where students engage in cutting-edge research in close collaboration with faculty, and offers both M.S. and Ph.D. degrees in Biochemistry & Biophysics. Students pursuing these degrees will learn to apply the tools of physical biochemistry and structural biology to exciting problems through research projects with Biochemistry Program Faculty Members. The Center for Biomolecular Structure and Dynamics and related research in the Molecular and Biomedical Umbrella provide a rich context for graduate studies in Biochemistry & Biophysics at the University of Montana.
Pharmaceutical Sciences and Design MS and PhD
Program Length: MS = 2 years; PhD = 3 – 8 years
Description: The University of Montana Graduate Program in Pharmaceutical Sciences and Drug Design provides advanced training in the pharmaceutical and biomedical sciences and prepare them for career opportunities in academia, pharmaceutical and biotechnology industries, and governmental agencies. It is one of six programs coordinated through the Molecular and Biomedical Sciences Umbrella. The Pharmaceutical Sciences and Drug Design program is aimed at designing effective new drug therapies while minimizing adverse effects.
Skill Development and Certifications
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The Montana Bioscience Alliance is a growing community of businesses, entrepreneurs, laboratories, hospitals, clinics, and universities throughout Montana dedicated to commercializing, growing, and sustaining globally competitive bioscience enterprises. The alliance maintains a growing list of resources to help businesses gain a foothold in Montana’s expanding bioscience sector.
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The Biotechnician Assistant Credentialing Exam (BACE) is an industry-recognized exam designed to assess core skills and knowledge sets identified by industry and represented within the academic and performance standards of biotechnology programs.
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Kahn Academy is a nonprofit with the mission to provide a free, world-class education for anyone, anywhere. Through a wide array of study topics ranging from biotechnology to chemistry, Kahn Academy is the hub for all things STEM. Learners can go at their own pace, exploring articles, short video lessons, practice problems, teaching resources, and more. Although Kahn Academy is geared towards students K-12, there are resources for college students and those exploring career options on the website’s “careers” section.
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Structured query language (SQL) is a programming language for storing and processing information in a relational database. Explore comprehensive SQL learning paths from basic syntax to advanced querying.
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For those interested in learning specific topics, but don’t wish to make a financial or time commitment to a community college or university, check out Udemy’s online biotechnology course catalog. Udemy allows users to conveniently learn from home on their own time. Featuring both introductory and advanced courses in biotechnology, Udemy offers a variety of options to help you learn more about the vastly growing world of biotech. Keep an eye out for occasional course sales as well.
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The University of Providence’s Argo Connect and dual credit programs are crucial in helping to increase the educational options and opportunities for currently enrolled high school juniors and seniors. Not only do these programs provide students with a unique opportunity to earn credit at the secondary and postsecondary levels simultaneously – they provide students with an early glimpse of college life; including course load, deadlines, structure, and more. Students in Dual Enrollment can take up to three 3-credit courses at no cost.
Additional Career Resources
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Check out our biotech career pathways page to explore in-demand biotech jobs in Montana.
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Discover Montana’s 100+ year history of bioscience innovation, talent pipeline from R1 universities, and robust entrepreneurial support network including biotech incubators, local venture funding and SBIR/STIR success rate 2x the national average in our bioscience resource guide.
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Montana Biotech Companies to Watch 2024
These six Montana companies are leading the charge in biotech innovation, from improving healthcare for underserved populations to using AI for remote health monitoring and revolutionizing drug discovery with advanced tools.
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Discover how you can land a great internship, research position, or job in Montana’s burgeoning biotech sector in “Four Keys to Launching a Biotech Career in Montana.”
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Discover the biotech trends in state and national workforce data, key challenges and opportunities in bioscience, and best practices and recommendations for driving sustainable growth in 2024 and beyond by reading “3 Montana Bioscience Workforce Trends in 2024.”
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To identify in-demand roles in Montana, our team at the Montana High Tech Business Alliance pored over workforce data from the U.S. Department of Labor, research studies, and online job listings to create a list of tech jobs projected to grow fast in the next few years. See our list of 31 hot Montana jobs projected for 2023.
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Studies show Montana’s bioscience industry is a rapidly growing and high-paying segment of the economy. Co-hosted by the Montana Bioscience Cluster Initiative, this virtual panel offers insights from diverse professionals into how individual companies can effectively plan for growth, and how we can scale Montana’s biotech ecosystem. Guest speakers include Liz Marchi, Head of Community Engagement, Two Bear Capital; Choyce LaRue, Financial and Leasing Expert, Thermo Fisher Scientific; Matt Mellott, Commercial Real Estate Advisor, SterlingCRE, and Cynthia Ekberg Tsai, CEO, Healthquest.
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Montana is a great place to launch a world-class career in biotech. From supporting clinical research to improve healthcare for underserved populations, to building software to diagnose diseases through gene sequencing, get inspired to build your own career at the intersection of the biosciences and technology. Co-hosted by the Montana Bioscience Cluster Initiative, this webinar features guest speakers Karen Brown, PharmD, Founder and CEO of KLEO Research, Moses Leavens, PhD, Protein Biochemist at McLaughlin Research Institute, and Andreas Scherer, PhD, President and CEO of Golden Helix.
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Three Montana Innovators Share Their Tips for Launching a Career in Montana’s Biotech Industry – Q&A article recap from the “Montana Careers in Biotech” webinar.
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In this free webinar, hear from three biotechnology leaders whose companies were featured in our Montana Biotech Companies to Watch 2020 list and learn about their innovation, entrepreneurship, and growth.
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MHTBA’s Biotech Companies to Watch 2020
The caliber of companies selected as 2020 Montana Biotech Companies to Watch reflects the steady long-term growth of the state’s bioscience ecosystem.
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We invite you to take advantage of Microsoft's Skills for Jobs initiative, which offers free access to LinkedIn Learning courses covering a wide range of topics, including AI and soft skills. Enhance your digital skills and empower your team and community with valuable knowledge that aligns with the evolving needs of today's economy.
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Discover summer internships and local mentorship opportunities in Billings through the Campus Billings program hosted by Big Sky Economic Development.
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CompTIA’s Career Explorer is a comprehensive resource designed to inform, inspire, and guide individuals toward their next career step in the tech industry and beyond. Explore the entire portfolio of Career Explorer resources at no cost, watch video profiles featuring diverse professionals sharing their non-traditional paths into tech careers, and gain insights into earnings potential, job outlook, employer hiring trends, remote work opportunities, and much more across the U.S. and 250 metro areas.
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Reach Higher Montana’s Work-Based Learning Collaborative website features resources for employers to grow their talent pipeline through work-based learning, materials to help educators connect their classroom learning to careers, and links to resources that will help Montana students explore their career interests through on-the-job training.
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The WBLC Data Dashboard aims to make data on work-based learning in Montana accessible to help improve workforce support, work-based learning, and educational opportunities so that young people are better prepared for employment success and employers gain skilled workers. Updates are made annually.
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Produced by the Montana Work-Based Learning Collaborative, the WBL Toolkit for Employers provides employers with resources, tools, and guidance to successfully develop high-quality work-based learning experiences for student workers.
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Read “5 Tips to Set Yourself Up for Success in a Tech Career” to learn tips for launching a career in tech from hiring managers at Blackfoot Communications, Submittable, GL Solutions, onX, Skyfish, Cognizant, NorthWestern Energy, Pathlabs, Snapchat, and Instacart.
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In “5 Tips from Hiring Managers - How to Land a Montana Tech Job or Internship” local hiring managers from Boeing Helena, Hyundai Motor Group, and Zoot Enterprises share advice to help students stand out when applying for a Montana tech job or internship.
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Read “From College to Career - 5 Tips from Humanities & Sciences Graduates on Applying for High Tech Jobs and Internships” to discover helpful job and internship tips from four humanities and sciences graduates from Inimmune Corporation, onX, Cognizant, and Pathlabs.
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Learn how you can utilize your degree in the humanities & sciences to launch a fruitful career in Montana’s tech industry in “How to Get a High-paying Job with Your Humanities & Sciences Degree.”
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See what tips you can use to give you an advantage in pursuing Tech Jobs or Internships in Montana.
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Check out MHTBA’s Great Places for Tech article series to learn more about high-tech opportunities in Montana.
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Take a look at our Jobs board that we use to post many tech jobs that are in Montana from entry level to Senior level positions.
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If you can’t find what you’re looking for on our Jobs Board, see this O*NET Career Database for additional information.
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Interested in more careers outside of Montana or outside the High Tech Industry? Find additional occupational information on the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics website.
Do you have a helpful resource you’d like to suggest we add to this guide? Do you have information you are searching for, or other feedback? The Montana High Tech Business Alliance would love to hear from you. Please reach out to us at communications[at]mthightech.org.