The Pre-Biotechnology Academy is designed to enable middle school students to explore the connections between science content areas and the rapidly growing biotechnology industry. At the same time, students develop the knowledge base to ensure successful articulation to high school science academies. The program provides, through a series of science electives, an understanding of the basic principles which form the foundations of biotechnology. The topics that are explored include genetics, DNA structure and function,utilization of basic biotechnology tools and techniques, forensics, bioethics, and genetic engineering. Students also survey the major career area opportunities related to the field of biotechnology.