Aseptic Processing Specialized Diploma

Allied Health & Sciences

Program Narrative
The Aseptic Processing Specialized Diploma focuses on the skills most needed in the aseptic (ultra-clean) production areas of biomanufacturing companies.  Industry advisors helped develop courses designed to decrease the time needed for diploma recipients to gear up to full productivity within biopharmaceutical and medical device companies.  Since this ability affects the bottom line, it is considered a distinct advantage when competing for jobs within these expanding fields.

The specialized degree program is for students who wish to enter the workforce directly upon completion of the specialized diploma.  Potential students should meet with their advisors for more information about the program and how to register for specific courses.

Program Features

• Gain an appreciation for FDA regulations, their effects on biomanufacturing and what it takes to work in a highly regulated environment.
  
• Gain valuable hands-on experience in a certified aseptic (cleanroom) setting.
  
• Develop or further enhance the “soft skills” required by biomanufacturers such as team work, attention to detail, and problem solving skills.
  
• Job placement assistance provided by NCC’s Career Development Office.

Program Requirements
The Aseptic Processing Specialized Diploma can be completed in as little as one semester of full-time study.  Courses are offered during the day and in the evening on both the Main and Monroe Campuses of Northampton Community College.  Aseptic training can only be held in NCC’s new ISO Class 7 cleanroom in Hartzell Hall of Technology on the north side of the Main campus.

There are no pre-requisites for the foundational course on current good manufacturing practice (GMP).  Students will need to take the NCC Math Placement examination upon admission.  Supplemental instruction may be needed in order to enroll in the statistics course required to complete the specialized diploma.

Since this program is highly technical and hands-on, the credits can not be transferred to a 4-year college.  These courses are considered supplemental only to those students who are intending to go on for a bachelor of science (BS) degree.  Students in the second year of the Biotechnology AAS Program are welcome to use these courses as free electives, but they can not substitute for AAS biotechnology degree requirements.

Career Potential
Biomanufacturing Technician
Biomanufacturing Fill-line Operator