UMUC

School of Undergraduate Studies

Certificate in Biosecurity

Also available online

The biosecurity certificate provides a foundation in the basic scientific and managerial principles required to deal with infectious outbreaks and contamination in the context of terrorist acts. It is useful for public health and safety administrators and officers, epidemiologists, emergency management personnel and biological surveillance and decontamination professionals in today’s society. Students acquire scientific knowledge of the structure, function and infectious nature of microorganisms; the ability of microorganisms to be genetically manipulated; and the factors contributing to the re-emergence of once eradicated infectious agents. Students also gain an understanding of the institutional and emergency management, investigative and communication principles associated with effective preparation for and response to bioterrorism incidents. With appropriate choice of major and elective courses, this certificate may be completed while pursuing the Bachelor of Technical and Professional Studies in biotechnology.

Total Credits: 18

Note: Courses may be applied to only one certificate; some prerequisites may need to be fulfilled before beginning certificate courses.

A course in microbiology chosen from the following (3):

Three required courses:

  • BIOL 422 - Epidemiology of Emerging Infections (3)
  • BMGT 364 - Management and Organization Theory (3)
  • HMLS 302 - Homeland Security (3)

A supporting elective chosen from the following (3):                                                 

A second supporting elective chosen from the above list (3)