Northern Essex’s laboratory science associate degree, which prepares students for biotechnology jobs, has just received the highest endorsement from representatives from the biotechnology industry.

The college’s program was one of eight community college programs to be endorsed by the Massachusetts Life Science Education Consortium (MLSEC) and one of four colleges to receive a gold level endorsement, the highest given.

“We’ve closely reviewed these programs and we’re confident they graduate students with the skills companies are looking for,” said Sara MacDonald, a spokesperson for the Mass Biotechnology Council (MassBio). “If a student graduates from Northern Essex, we have the confidence they have the skills necessary to perform in the biotech environment.”

Launched in the fall of 2009, NECC’s associate of applied science in laboratory science was designed in response to a need voiced by area employers for skilled lab technicians. Students can choose from three focus areas: biotechnology, environmental sciences, or chemical analysis.