Biotechnology is a challenging area that combines science and engineering concepts. Students who pursue this educational path will likely gain knowledge in microbiology, chemistry, genetics, cell biology, bioethics, gene cloning, bioinstrumentation, bioinformatics, genomics, and biometrics.

An associate degree is an undergraduate degree offered in the US and a few other countries. Associate degrees are a qualification below a bachelor's degree. Many students earn associate degrees during their first few years of higher education. Since they usually require about two years of study, these degrees can act either as job qualifications or as precursors to more advanced degrees.