January 28, 2025
Montgomery College Partners with University of Maine at Farmington to Boost Biotechnology Education
By Shennekia Grimshaw, DC News Now
GERMANTOWN, Md. (DC News Now) — Montgomery College and the University of Maine at Farmington (UMF) have announced a new partnership to help meet the growing demand for skilled professionals in the bioeconomy.
Starting in Spring 2025, students who earn an Associate in Applied Science Degree in Biotechnology at Montgomery College will receive guaranteed acceptance into UMF’s online Bachelor of Arts in Biology program with a Pre-Professional concentration.
The program, funded by a $400,000 National Science Foundation EPIIC Grant, offers students a flexible, asynchronous learning model. Coursework includes upper-level biology, organic chemistry, and physics, providing a strong foundation for advanced roles in biotechnology.
“This partnership saves students time and money while helping them achieve their goals,” said James Sniezek, Dean of Instruction at Montgomery College.
EmpowerEd — Building the Future Workforce Together
This is a collaborative project in which the cohort institutions will work together grow industry partnerships, improve alignment of program curricula with industry needs, and enhance faculty skills and knowledge of emerging technologies.