Life Sciences Training Programs
A variety of training programs are available statewide to help individuals build foundational job skills, prepare for entry-level positions, and launch rewarding careers in the life sciences. Many of these jobs do not require scientific college degrees. The training programs include:
Certificate Programs
- Certificate programs can be completed in as few as 136 hours, preparing individuals for entry-level positions. For biopharma manufacturing jobs, the BioWork certificate is highly recommended. For contract research, certifications exist with varying time commitments. Certificates of apprenticeship also provide valuable experience and connections.
Associate Degree Programs
- Associate degrees are typically completed in two to three years and open new career pathways and opportunities. Most programs focus on following processes and assisting in critical scientific operations.
Bachelor's Degree Programs
- Bachelor's degrees can be completed in four years and are required for various career paths. Many colleges and universities in North Carolina offer degrees for roles in science and data analysis, or overseeing manufacturing processes.
Advanced Degree Programs
- Master's and doctoral degrees may be completed in two to 10 years. These degrees prepare individuals for leadership roles, including overseeing lab operations or performing research.
Financial Support
Financial support for training is available from Made in Durham's BULLS Academy, BioNetwork's Samuel M. Taylor Scholarship, NC Life Sciences Apprenticeship Consortium, and NCGrads2Work.
To explore training programs in your region, click the button below.
The Military Outreach and Veterans Engagement (MOVE) program helps transitioning military members find career coaching, training, and job opportunities in life sciences. MOVE is a free, DoD SkillBridge-approved program that also serves veterans and military spouses. No science background needed.
The North Carolina Life Sciences Apprenticeship Consortium (NCLSAC), led by industry professionals, is a collaboration of life sciences companies, academic institutions and nonprofit organizations. The consortium builds awareness of training and career opportunities and provides on-the-job training through apprenticeships.
NCGrads2Work offers high school graduates two days of hands-on training activities and virtual reality simulations at the NC PSN at Pitt Community College. Participants work in a pilot-scale manufacturing environment, learning manufacturing practices, operating procedures, and aseptic/sterile gowning techniques.
NCBiotech's Industrial Internship program provides students with real-world work experience, supporting their transition to a career in the life sciences. Participating companies gain valuable talent and assistance with business projects. Students build skills and business knowledge through meaningful assignments.
Made in Durham’s BULLS Life Sciences Academy expands awareness of and access to life sciences manufacturing opportunities for Durham County residents. Participants receive a stipend and wraparound support services to participate in the BioWork certificate program at Durham Technical Community College.
The two-week bioprocessing short course is offered at the University of North Carolina at Pembroke, Winston-Salem State University, Livingstone College, and other institutions. This hands-on, short course helps students from Tier 1 and Tier 2 counties prepare for entry-level positions in life sciences manufacturing.
The NC Community College Systems’ BioNetwork connects and supports students, companies and colleges with professional growth and career paths. Thirteen community colleges offer the BioWork certificate program, including in-person and eLearning options.
NC Central's Biomanufacturing Research Institute and Technology Enterprise specializes in life sciences training and research. BRITE students earn undergraduate majors, minors, or advanced degrees in biomanufacturing, pharmaceutical sciences and clinical sciences research.
At NC State's Biomanufacturing Training and Education Center, undergraduates, graduate students, and working professionals learn the latest biomanufacturing technologies via hands-on training at its facilities. BTEC’s pilot-scale, simulated-GMP labs prepare students for industry.
NCPSN is a collaboration between ECU and Pitt Community College that provides lab-based pharmaceutical education and training. Undergraduate students, graduate students, and local companies tap into NCPSN for instruction on oral solid dose theory and manufacturing techniques.
The ERPC provides biomanufacturing training in eastern North Carolina. ERPC, housed within East Carolina University's life sciences building, prepares students for careers in the pharma sector. It is well-connected with the BioPharma Crescent, five community colleges and regional pharma companies.
