Certificate Basics

Society is being reshaped by the technological application of the tools of modern biology. Bioprocessing plays a key role in manufacturing pharmaceuticals, biomaterials, and agents for gene and cell therapies. In addition, biological approaches play a pivotal role in the processing of corn and biomass into fuels such as ethanol. This certificate program provides specific training for students to enter and contribute to these growing industries. It also provides an in-depth preparation for future graduate study for those interested in biotechnology research. Unlike "areas of specialization" within engineering majors, this certificate program will appear on the student's NU transcripts, providing credentials for prospective employers or graduate schools.

The certificate includes core courses in biological sciences and biochemical engineering. An array of electives gives an opportunity for an even greater depth in both fundamental biology and engineering applications. Finally, the certificate requires at least one quarter of independent study to provide hands-on practical experience in a biotechnology related project.

For students pursuing a BS degree in Chemical Engineering, this array of electives expands upon the standard 'Biotechnology' area of specialization, and requires 5 technical classes outside of the 16 course 'major program' in the ChBE curriculum.

Students wishing to obtain the certificate are required to submit the declaration form before the beginning of the final quarter of study at Northwestern. Students are advised to consult with their advisor much earlier than this to plan out their course of study. Students must decide by the beginning of the winter quarter in their junior year to complete the Biol 210 series and upper level courses. *Note that students must earn a BS degree from McCormick to earn the certificate. A minimum 2.0 grade point average must be maintained in the 10 courses that define the certificate.

*Download Declaration Form for Certificate in Biotechnology (PDF)

Certificate Requirements

Ten units of science and technical engineering electives complete the certificate.

Course Requirements

Core Courses (5 units)

• Biol 210-1 Genetics and Evolutionary Biology
• Biol 210-2 Biochemistry and Molecular Biology OR
  • ChBE 275-0 Molecular & Cell Bio for Engineers (see FAQ)
• Biol 210-3 Physiology and Cell Biology
• ChBE 375-0 Biochemical Engineering
• ChBE 377-0 Bioseparations *Can be taken before ChBE 375 and with junior standing. This course is only offered in alternate years.

Independent Study (1 unit)

One unit of ChE 399 (Independent Study) in a bio laboratory (up to two additional units may be used; see below) is required. Students pursuing this certificate should verify the appropriateness of any planned ChE 399 project by consulting with Professor William Miller.

Advanced Electives (4 units)

• One of the following advanced ChBE Biotechnology courses:
  • ChBE 371, ChBE 372, ChBE 379, ChBE 475, ChBE 478 or ChBE 479
• One of the following advanced Biological Sciences courses:
  • Biol 301 OR Biol 309, Biol 315, Biol 319, Biol 323, Biol 333, Biol 355, and Biol 390
• Two additional electives from the lists above or
  • BME 315, BME 317, Chem 210-3, Civ Eng 441
  • Or up to two more units of ChBE 399.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q. Do I need to be a ChE student to pursue this program?
A. Since the certificate is geared towards students interested in the bioprocess industries, it fits most naturally within the ChE major. However, students from other fields such as Biomedical Engineering or Environmental Engineering may also be interested.

Q. What's the difference between this certificate program and the 'Biotechnology' area of specialization within the ChE BS program?
A. Although both options have a similar focus, the certificate program covers both greater depth and breadth due to its more extensive course requirements. Students interested in Biotechnology but unable to complete the certificate requirements can continue to pursue the Biotechnology specialization. Unlike areas of specialization, this certificate will appear on NU transcripts, and thus offers firmer credentials to prospective employers or graduate schools.

Q. ChBE 275-0 and Biol 210-2 seem to be the same course. Are they interchangable?
A. ChBE 275-0 Can be used instead of Biol 210-2 only in cases of exception when a student has decided to pursue the certificate after having already taken ChBE 275-0.

Q. Will extra time be required to graduate?
A. The certificate does require 5 units of technical work beyond the standard major requirements for a BS degree in ChE. Unrestricted electives may be chosen to satisfy these requirements; in addition, any available AP credits should help free up space to fulfill the course requirements.

Q. I’m a pre-med student. Can I pursue this program?
A. This certificate is compatible with standard medical school requirements.