The BioWork Certificate course, a 140-credit hour introductory course, brings together the basics of manufacturing technology and the fundamentals of science — two essential needs for competent, entry-level technicians working in biotechnology, pharmaceutical manufacturing, and chemical manufacturing. The course includes nine modules such as Quality, Measurements, Transforming Matter, Growing Living Cells, Safety, Sterile Processes, Process Control, and Nuts and Bolts. There are exams at the end of each module. Additionally, this course covers all aspects of a job search in the Biotechnology arena, including a job market overview, job search tools and strategies, résumé preparation, and interviewing practice. The time frame for course completion is one semester.

Certified completers enter the workforce ready to learn company operations and tasks. Students are prepared as follows: 

• Understand the importance of safety and safety awareness; 
• Follow chemical safety guidelines;
• Use and convert in the metric system.                        
• Assist with fermentation and downstream processing;
• Conduct industrial measurements;
• Prepare growth media and grow cells;
• Comply with cGMP and FDA regulations of pharmaceutical manufacturing;
• Know the foundations of various quality systems;
• Follow an SOP; 
• Complete a batch record properly; 
• Read and understand MSDS and NFPA;
• Identify process equipment;
• Understand the principles of working in a cleanroom and how to prevent contamination;
• Demonstrate proper aseptic techniques;
• Describe the basic separation methods used in pharmaceutical manufacturing;
• Explain basic feedback control; and
• Read process diagrams and P&IDs

Students complete the course with a safety mindset. They understand a quality product depends on the strict attention process technicians give to standards and procedures for every task. BioWork offers students many opportunities to develop and practice effective communication, teamwork, and problem solving to prepare for an entry-level position in biotechnology, pharmaceutical manufacturing, and chemical manufacturing.

Students complete an exam after each unit.

1. Must be 18 years of age or older;
2. Must have a high school diploma or GED;
3. Demonstrate appropriate reading level (COMPASS 54 or ASSET 35) and math level (COMPASS 27 or ASSET 36). Placement tests are offered in the DTCC Placement Testing Center; OR
4. Provide a copy of a transcript of any completed college degree (two-year or above).

Deliver to:
Northern Durham Center (NDC);
Main Campus – Corporate Education Center (CEC); or
Orange County Campus (OCC).

Fax to:919-536-7280 Attn: BioWork and BioPharma Programs

Mail to: DTCC, Attn: BioWork and BioPharma Programs, 2401 Snow Hill Road, Durham, NC 27712

To register: Visit us at one of three convenient locations:

    • Northern Durham Center (NDC)
    • Main Campus – Corporate Education Center (CEC)
    • Orange County Campus (OCC)

The BioWork Certificate course registration fee includes registration, supplies, materials, and rental of lab coat and safety glasses. The fee must be paid on the day of registration. Only credit cards, checks, and money orders are accepted for payment.

Yes, individuals who successfully complete this BioWork Certificate can take the Process Technician State Certification examination. Durham Tech offers this certification exam twice a year.

North Carolina ranks number three in the nation in the number of biotechnology companies. According to a report by the NC Biotechnology Center, jobs in the pharmaceutical industry are among the highest paid manufacturing jobs in the state.

Earnings vary based on the individual’s skills and experience, but the average salary is $12-$16 per hour. Process technicians are responsible for a variety of production duties from glassware and chemical component preparation to purification, formulation, and filling. The starting salary range may be anywhere from $22,250 to $30,000.

BioWork is intended for high school graduates, traditional manufacturing workers who have lost their jobs, or anyone interested in a new line of work. BioWork helps prepare students for such jobs as the following:

• Bioprocess Manufacturing Technician;
• Aseptic Manufacturing Technician;
• Manufacturing Preparation Technician;
• Formulation and Fill Technician;
• Packaging Technician;
• Process Technician;
• Manufacturing Associate;
• Chemical Equipment Operator; and
• Chemical Plant and System Operator.