About the Course

Biotechnology

  • Grades 7-11
  • CTY-Level

The Human Genome Project has sequenced all of the approximately 20,000 genes in human DNA. How did scientists gather this information? Can it help cure congenital diseases or cancer? What ethical questions does it present? This course explores the intersection of biology, genetics, and technology and its impact on society. You’ll review fundamental principles of cell biology and genetics, including mitosis, meiosis, and Mendelian inheritance, and get to know the structure and function of DNA and RNA, sources and types of mutations. You’ll explore biotechnology’s applications in medicine, aquaculture, agriculture, and industry, and work in the lab to isolate the DNA molecule from common bacteria and split genes using restriction enzymes. You and your classmates will examine DNA vaccines, conduct gel electrophoresis, and model polymerase chain reaction. You’ll leave the course with an understanding of how the field of genetics impacts society, current research in molecular biology, and insight into the future of genetic inquiry and technology.

Typical Class Size: 18

Testing and Prerequisites

  Math Verbal
Required Level CTY-Level Not required
Check your eligibility using existing test scores If you do not have existing test scores:

Students must achieve qualifying scores on an advanced assessment to be eligible for CTY programs. If you don’t have qualifying scores, you have several different testing options. We’ll help you find the right option for your situation.

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Course Prerequisites

Biotechnology requires:

1 prerequisite

Successful completion of Online Programs' Honors Biology, Anatomy and Physiology, or at least a B in high school biology

Cost and Financial Aid

  • Tuition
    • Varies
  • Application fee
    • Nonrefundable Application Fee - $50 (Waived for financial aid applicants)
    • Nonrefundable International Fee - $250 (outside US only)

Financial Aid is available

We are committed to serving all talented youth regardless of financial circumstances. Financial assistance is available based on need.

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Course Materials

Students should bring basic school supplies like pens, notebooks, and folders to their summer program. You will be notified of any additional items needed before the course begins. All other materials will be provided by CTY.
 

Course Extras (Lab fee info, etc): Lab fee: $135

About Science and Engineering at CTY

Explore the world with our field science courses

Our field science courses let you explore the wonders of the world: in Marine Ecology, you’ll visit local wetlands and tidepools, observe flora and fauna, collect water samples and analyze them for clues about their health and humans’ impact. In our Introduction to Astronomy course, you’ll visit a nearby observatory or planetarium, see what the cosmos looks like through various spectra, and immerse yourself in the science and technology that bring the universe closer to home. And in our Paleobiology course, you’ll visit dig sites, tar pits, and museums, exploring fossils, the prehistoric environments that these ancient creatures inhabited, and the ways modern life forms have evolved through the ages.

Bond over chemistry

Our chemistry courses help you see the world differently, starting at the atomic level. The Edible World gives budding chefs and science lovers a glimpse into the chemical reactions that happen when we make food, and the chemical makeup of meals and treats we eat every day. In our Crystals and Polymers course, you’ll synthesize slime, grow rock candy, and isolate strawberry DNA to learn about the molecular structure of naturally occurring gems and human-produced plastics. In Chemistry in Society, you’ll consider how the chemicals in products can both enhance and degrade the world around us. You’ll produce biodiesel in a lab to understand alternative fuels, and prepare aspirin to learn about the healing and toxic properties of pharmaceuticals.

Meet our instructors and staff