Roanoke College and Virginia Western Community College are joining together to begin a new biotechnology bachelor’s degree program, according to officials.
The program is expected to begin this fall. Officials say the development of the four-year program is a direct response to the region’s need for a strategic workforce that can help elevate the Roanoke Valley and New River Valley as leaders in biomedical research.
Roanoke College and Virginia Western hope initiatives such as a $4.9 million grant for Project VITAL, a project aiming to create over 1,300 jobs within the next five years, along with investments in new lab facilities, startup incubators, and public-private partnerships, demonstrate that local and state leaders are committed to funding this growth.
“Together, we are rising to meet this pivotal moment and answer our region’s growing need for skilled professionals,” Roanoke College President Frank Shushok Jr. said. “Biotechnology is one of the most promising and transformative fields of the 21st century — advancing discovery, improving lives, and driving economic growth. By collaborating with Virginia Western and aligning with key state goals, we’re preparing students for the jobs of today and for the breakthroughs that will shape tomorrow.”
This four-year program is built upon an associate’s degree developed by Virginia Western in 2023. Administrators have decided to collaborate on this initiative as a partnership that benefits students at both colleges.
According to officials, students at Roanoke will take several courses at Virginia Western. Students at Virginia Western will have the opportunity for a transfer path to Roanoke College to continue their education.
“Our faculty are deeply committed to advancing the biotechnology sector in the Roanoke region,” said Virginia Western President Laura Treanor. “By combining hands-on laboratory training with Roanoke College’s bachelor-level coursework, our biotechnology students will graduate well-prepared, whether they choose to join the region’s growing biotech workforce or pursue advanced studies with confidence in their strong academic foundation.”
Roanoke College announced that it will begin accepting students for its biotechnology bachelor’s degree program this fall.
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