Bachelor of Science, Major in Biotechnology with Emphasis in Microbial Systems

at Montana State University - Bozeman USA

Students in the Statistics program at Montana State are trained in the core principles of quantitative reasoning. By discovering patterns in data, how to display data, how to construct mathematical models and how to detect data bias and other uncertainties, Statistics students are able to then design and analyze observational studies, surveys and scientific experiments that contribute to understanding data across a wide variety of industries.

Students in the Soil & Water Science program at Montana State gain a core foundation in the biological, chemical and physical sciences and how they affect two of the core resources on Earth: water and soil. Soil & Water Science students undergo advanced training in soil science and hydrology so that they might be able to apply their skills to land resource management, watershed management, pollution treatment and prevention, land rehabilitation bioremediation.

Students in the Exercise Science option at Montana State focus on clinical and performance-based understandings of human movement throughout their studies. Core courses in the Exercise Science program range from anatomy and physiology to math and statistics, as well as biomechanics, nutrition and physiology. Students also have opportunities to learn through hands-on experiences such as internships and research opportunities. Graduates of the Exercise Science option go onto careers in corporate wellness programs, exercise rehab programs or graduate programs that relate to physical or occupational therapy.

In this interdisciplinary program in the departments of Physics, Electrical and Computer Engineering, and Chemistry and Biochemistry, Optics and Photonics graduate students at Montana State learn to harness the power of light to prepare for in-demand jobs or research careers in laser engineering, remote sensing and more. Montana State's Optical Technology Center, founded in 1995, has supported a culture of interdisciplinary research and has a long history of partnership with Bozeman's thriving optics and photonics industry.

From designing the next generation of spacecraft and automobiles to alternative energy systems and much more, mechanical engineers enjoy a wide variety of career opportunities that involve working with thermal and mechanical energy. Students in the Mechanical Engineering program at Montana State are given ample opportunity for hands-on experience, from studying in MSU’s computer-aided drafting, integrated manufacturing and machining laboratories to their capstone senior projects that solve real-world design problems.

Montana State’s American Studies undergraduate program provides world-class training for students who are seeking a broad understanding of American culture. Students can choose to study fields such as American Arts, American History and American Literature. The program is ideal for students who want to pursue a flexible, interdisciplinary curriculum that will explore the experiences and values of the people of the United States embodied in their history, literature, art and other forums of cultural expression.

Students in the Chemical Engineering major are constantly engaged in hands-on lab opportunities to explore the mechanics of chemical synthesis that are at the core of their profession. Whether it’s studying biofilms with a professor at the top of their field or earning a spot alongside students from across the country in the Research Experience for Undergraduates (REU) summer program, Chemical Engineering students are afforded a variety of opportunities to develop skills that will serve them in positions in chemical manufacturing and petroleum refining, pharmaceutical manufacturing and delivery, environmental engineering and more.

The Bachelor of Arts in Computer Science program at Montana State is an interdisciplinary program that pairs knowledge of computer science with the social sciences, humanities or business to become a creative problem-solver in a variety of fields. Computer Science B.A. students choose from dozens of paired majors in the arts, humanities or other non-STEM areas to build a program of study tailored to their interests. Students are then armed with the skills to enter into high-demand careers in social media, digital marketing, data analytics and more.

Students in the Biochemistry program at Montana State delve into core chemistry, biochemistry, and biology courses to gain a comprehensive understanding of the molecular nature of biological materials and life processes. Depending on their interests, students have the opportunity to take electives in areas such as immunology, microbiology, veterinary molecular biology or the environmental sciences. Additionally, all students in the Biochemistry program are assigned to an on-campus lab to conduct laboratory research as part of their degree, preparing them for either on-the-job laboratory work or higher education.

Students in the Sustainable Crop Production program at Montana State pursue the answers to hard-hitting questions pertaining to sustainability and agriculture. Those questions include “Where does our food come from? Are there ways to sustainably maintain production levels and yet protect our natural resources? Is it possible to improve the quality and nutrition of our food supply? Are local food systems a viable alternative to corporate agricultural production? Can crops grown for bioenergy production reduce our use of fossil fuels and lessen carbon dioxide emissions?” Coursework in the Sustainable Crop Production program help students in digging for those answers, including agronomy, soil fertility, plant genetics and physiology, greenhouse production, plant propagation, integrated pest management and small business management.