Biotechnology - Advanced (Co-op and Non Co-op Version)
Learn the science that drives biotechnology careers.
- Enjoy a more personalized learning environment with our small classes
- Benefit from supportive and experienced faculty who are active in their industry
- Gain the latest and best industry-specific knowledge and skills to be career-ready upon graduation
Program Availability and Schedule
Availability
Open
Closed
Waitlisted
Start Term
Availability
International
Availability
Competitive?
Fall 2024
Yes
Winter 2025
No
Schedule
Program Summary
Credential
Program Delivery
Program Code
Area of Interest
School
Campus
Work Integrated Learning
The three-year Biotechnology - Advanced Ontario College Advanced Diploma program gives you a strong overview of the science that drives biotechnology. With a mix of laboratory and theory courses, you learn about:...(read more)
Overview
Learn the science that drives biotechnology careers.
The three-year Biotechnology - Advanced Ontario College Advanced Diploma program gives you a strong overview of the science that drives biotechnology. With a mix of laboratory and theory courses, you learn about:
- cellular and molecular biology
- microbiology and tissue culture
- chemistry, biochemistry and analytical instrumentation
- biochemical engineering, and
- quality systems for professional labs and manufacturing environments
As a student, you have the opportunity to carry out experiments and use state of the art laboratory instruments and tools throughout the program. You will meet alumni, and have the opportunity to attend industry talks and professional networking events.
You have the opportunity to work with government and industry professionals through optional field placements or through participation in industry-aligned applied research projects.
Students also have the option to gain real-world experience through a paid co-operative education (co-op) work term (see Additional Information for more details). Please note that places in the co-op work term are subject to availability and academic eligibility. Please note admission to the co-op program does not guarantee a co-op placement.
Graduates of this program can pursue careers as lab technologists or analysts in biotechnology, health, agriculture and environmental fields. Graduates may seek employment in the production and testing of medical devices, the manufacture of pharmaceuticals and biologics and the production and testing of food/beverage products.
SUCCESS FACTORS
This program is well suited for students who:
- Are attracted to new technologies.
- Enjoy active and energetic job roles.
- Work well in team oriented environments.
- Are inquisitive and thorough.
- Enjoy working with their hands.
Courses
Programs at Algonquin College are delivered using a variety of instruction modes. Courses may be offered in the classroom or lab, entirely online, or in a hybrid mode which combines classroom sessions with virtual learning activities. Upon registration, each full-time student is provided an Algonquin email account which is used to communicate important information about program or course events.
Code:
BIO1300
Course Name:
Introduction to Biology
Course Description:
Biology helps us understand the living world. Students explore the biological characteristics of life including structure and function, evo... + Read More
Hours:
42.0
Code:
BIO1301
Course Name:
Biology Lab
Course Description:
Biotechnology students require hands-on experience working with living systems using the current laboratory tools and techniques. The proce... + Read More
Hours:
42.0
Code:
BTC1305
Course Name:
Understanding Biotechnology
Course Description:
Biotechnology is revolutionizing the fields of medicine, agriculture, energy and more. Students review historical developments in biotechno... + Read More
Hours:
42.0
Code:
CHE1302
Course Name:
General Chemistry
Course Description:
Biotechnologists require a strong background in the fundamentals of chemistry and principles of applied physics. Students gain an understand... + Read More
Hours:
56.0
Code:
CHE1303
Course Name:
Chemistry Lab
Course Description:
Chemistry is a physical science that helps explain our natural world. Students explore a chemistry from an atoms first approach. Through han... + Read More
Hours:
42.0
Code:
MAT1000
Course Name:
Mathematics for Biotechnology
Course Description:
A strong foundation in mathematics, data management and analysis is crucial for roles in the field of biotechnology. Through interactive lec... + Read More
Hours:
42.0
Code:
SCI1000
Course Name:
Essential Lab Skills
Course Description:
To work safely and efficiently in a laboratory environment requires a set of core skills, and an understanding of laboratory environment and... + Read More
Hours:
42.0
Code:
BIO1005
Course Name:
Cellular Biology
Course Description:
Understanding biological concepts at the cellular and molecular level is critical in the field of biotechnology. Through interactive lecture... + Read More
Hours:
42.0
Code:
BIO1006
Course Name:
Cellular Biology Lab
Course Description:
The cell is the basic unit of life. To understand larger organisms, biotechnologists require an understanding of cell structures and functi... + Read More
Hours:
42.0
Code:
CHE1401
Course Name:
Organic and Applied Chemistry
Course Description:
Biotechnologists require a strong understanding of the chemical and physical properties of molecules. Students examine various representatio... + Read More
Hours:
42.0
Code:
CHE1402
Course Name:
Organic and Applied Chemistry Lab
Course Description:
Biotechnologists investigate the physical and chemical properties of different classes of organic compounds, as well as carry out a variety ... + Read More
Hours:
42.0
Code:
ENL1813T
Course Name:
Communications I
Course Description:
Communication remains an essential skill sought by employers, regardless of discipline or field of study. Using a practical, vocation-orient... + Read More
Hours:
42.0
Code:
MAT1406
Course Name:
Statistics for Biotechnology Applications
Course Description:
Biotechnologists require an understanding of statistical methods in order to summarize and interpret data from experiments or studies. Usin... + Read More
Hours:
42.0
Code:
GED1020
Course Name:
General Education Elective
Course Description:
Students choose one course, from a group of general education electives, which meets one of the following five theme requirements: Arts in S... + Read More
Hours:
42.0
Code:
BCH2000
Course Name:
Biochemistry
Course Description:
Biochemistry is both an interdisciplinary field and a distinct natural science that explains the underlying chemical processes that drive bi... + Read More
Hours:
56.0
Code:
BCH2001
Course Name:
Biochemistry Lab
Course Description:
A strong foundation in biochemical tools and techniques is required for careers in the life sciences. Through lab activities, students work ... + Read More
Hours:
42.0
Code:
BIO2302
Course Name:
Microbiology Lab 1
Course Description:
Microbes claim a primary and fundamental role in biotechnology. Students differentiate between microorganisms microscopically. By growing, i... + Read More
Hours:
42.0
Code:
BIO2303
Course Name:
Microbiology 1
Course Description:
The ability to identify and differentiate microorganisms is essential in the field of biotechnology. Emphasis is placed on identification an... + Read More
Hours:
28.0
Code:
BTC2400
Course Name:
Quality Assurance and Quality Control for Biotechnology
Course Description:
In order to meet or exceed quality standards in Biotechnology, organizations commit to a culture of continuous improvement. Students investi... + Read More
Hours:
28.0
Code:
CHE2403
Course Name:
Analytical Chemistry
Course Description:
Students must demonstrate a sound understanding of the principles of analytical chemistry and show how these principles are applied in chemi... + Read More
Hours:
42.0
Code:
CHE2404
Course Name:
Analytical Chemistry Lab
Course Description:
Analytical Chemistry uses instruments to separate, identify and quantify chemical samples. Students demonstrate the ability to prepare chemi... + Read More
Hours:
42.0
Code:
MGT3405
Course Name:
Careers in the Bioeconomy
Course Description:
Biotechnology has the capacity to revolutionize medicine, agriculture, and energy industries. Students gain an overview of the current marke... + Read More
Hours:
28.0
Code:
BIO2000
Course Name:
Molecular Biology
Course Description:
Molecular biology seeks to provide the explanation for biological processes at the subcellular and molecular level. Students explore recent ... + Read More
Hours:
42.0
Code:
BIO2001
Course Name:
Molecular Biology Lab
Course Description:
Biotechnology has become synonymous with manipulating organisms' DNA at the genetic level. Through hands-on sessions, students perform molec... + Read More
Hours:
42.0
Code:
BIO2403
Course Name:
Microbiology 2
Course Description:
Microbiology is the study of microorganisms. Students explore the beneficial and practical uses of microorganisms by examining applied micro... + Read More
Hours:
28.0
Code:
BIO2404
Course Name:
Microbiology Lab 2
Course Description:
Microorganisms are ever present in our environment and in our bodies. Students further expand on techniques to identify microbes commonly fo... + Read More
Hours:
42.0
Code:
BTC2405
Course Name:
Analytical Instrumentation
Course Description:
Biotechnologists need to be familiar with figure of merits of analytical methods, and distinguish the most suited solution for an analytical... + Read More
Hours:
42.0
Code:
BTC2406
Course Name:
Analytical Instrumentation Lab
Course Description:
Biotechnologists require a solid foundation in the modern techniques of analytical chemistry and instrumentation. Students identify and carr... + Read More
Hours:
42.0
Code:
CST3301
Course Name:
Introduction to Bioinformatic Tools
Course Description:
Bioinformatics is the use of computers to manage, organize and analyze biological information. Students develop the skills to find online re... + Read More
Hours:
42.0
Code:
WKT2207
Course Name:
Work Term 1
Course Description:
Students gain valuable on-the-job experience. This Cooperative education work term develops further technical expertise for students.Prerequ... + Read More
Hours:
Code:
BTC3301
Course Name:
Biotechnology Theory I
Course Description:
Biotechnology is providing innovative products and technologies. Students explore nucleic acid manipulation. Nucleic acid replication, regul... + Read More
Hours:
28.0
Code:
BTC3303
Course Name:
Biotechnology Lab 1
Course Description:
Biotechnologists require knowledge of current molecular biology techniques. Through Laboratory experiments, students gain practical experien... + Read More
Hours:
42.0
Code:
BTC3304
Course Name:
Industrial and Bioprocessing
Course Description:
Industrial Biotechnology is disrupting traditional industries by producing consumer goods that are sustainable and cost effective. Industria... + Read More
Hours:
28.0
Code:
BTC3305
Course Name:
Bioprocessing Lab
Course Description:
The ability to use various organisms and cell cultures to produce high value bio-products is essential in the field of industrial biotechnol... + Read More
Hours:
42.0
Code:
ENL2019T
Course Name:
Technical Communication for Engineering Technologies
Course Description:
The ability to communicate effectively in a technically-oriented interdisciplinary workplace is a foundational skill in an innovation-driven... + Read More
Hours:
42.0
Code:
BTC3500
Course Name:
Experimental Design for Biotechnology
Course Description:
Scientific research applies the scientific method to find solutions to problems. Student participate in collaborative applied research proje... + Read More
Hours:
84.0
Code:
BTC3601
Course Name:
Biotechnology Field Placement 1
Course Description:
Work integrated learning provides students an opportunity to enhance professional skills and advance theoretical knowledge. Students partici... + Read More
Hours:
84.0
Code:
GED1020
Course Name:
General Education Elective
Course Description:
Students choose one course, from a group of general education electives, which meets one of the following five theme requirements: Arts in S... + Read More
Hours:
42.0
Code:
BTC3405
Course Name:
Biotechnology Theory 2
Course Description:
Biotechnology is a field of science that involves engineering organisms to have new abilities. Students learn cutting edge biotechnology tec... + Read More
Hours:
14.0
Code:
BTC3406
Course Name:
Biotechnology Lab 2
Course Description:
Collaboration and problem-solving in the biotechnology lab are skills that support innovation. Students acquire practical experience in cutt... + Read More
Hours:
42.0
Code:
BTC3600
Course Name:
Regulatory Affairs for Biotechnology
Course Description:
Biotechnologists must understand the role of regulation in serving public interest. Students explore the purpose and impact of regulations, ... + Read More
Hours:
42.0
Code:
BTC3501
Course Name:
Research Methods in Biotechnology
Course Description:
Scientific investigation requires planning, data collection and analysis to provide answers to research questions. Students carry out their ... + Read More
Hours:
98.0
Code:
BTC3603
Course Name:
Biotechnology Field Placement 2
Course Description:
Work integrated learning provides students an opportunity to enhance professional skills and advance theoretical knowledge. Students partici... + Read More
Hours:
98.0
Code:
GED1020
Course Name:
General Education Elective
Course Description:
Students choose one course, from a group of general education electives, which meets one of the following five theme requirements: Arts in S... + Read More
Hours:
42.0
Careers & Pathways
Careers
Graduates may find employment opportunities in a diverse range of sectors such as the production of pharmaceuticals or medical devices, food and beverages production, or roles as lab technologists in biotechnology, agriculture, environmental fields or in academia. Graduates may also pursue advanced studies through articulation agreements between the college and various universities.
Pathways
Please note: There may be more pathways available for this program than are listed here. Please use our Pathways search tool to see every option.
Learning Outcomes
The graduate has reliably demonstrated the ability to:
- Perform laboratory duties independently and in compliance with pertinent legislation and regulations, as well as biotechnology standards and guidelines.
- Collaborate in implementing and evaluating quality control and quality assurance procedures to meet organizational standards and requirements.
- Select and implement best practices for sustainability.
- Complete complex biotechnological applications using advanced principles of chemistry, biology and biostatistics as well as basic principles of physics.
- Co-ordinate, implement and validate laboratory procedures to carry out quantitative and qualitative tests and analyses.
- Co-ordinate, implement and validate standard cell culture procedures under aseptic conditions.
- Co-ordinate, implement and validate molecular biology procedures.
- Manage biological data to support biological scientists and researchers in capturing, organizing/summarizing and storing data.
- Prepare, analyze, interpret, maintain and communicate scientific data effectively.
- Develop and present a strategic plan for ongoing personal and professional development to enhance work performance.
- Apply basic business principles to biotechnology practices.
- Identify and apply discipline-specific practices that contribute to the local and global community through social responsibility, economic commitment and environmental stewardship.
Tuition & Fees
Get an idea of how much each semester will cost with our Tuition and Fee Estimator.
2023/2024 Academic Year
Tuition and related ancillary fees for this program can be viewed by using the Tuition and Fees Estimator tool at www.algonquincollege.com/fee-estimator.
Further information on fees can be found by visiting the Registrar`s Office website at www.algonquincollege.com/ro.
Fees are subject to change.
Additional program related expenses include:
- Books and supplies cost approximately $1,000 per year and can be purchased from the campus store.
- For more information visit www.algonquincollege.com/coursematerials.
- Each student is required to purchase two lab coats, two sets of goggles and rent a locker. Lab coats and goggles may be purchased in the campus store. Lockers may be rented through Parking Services or the Registrar`s Office.
Admissions Requirements
All applicants must satisfy both College Eligibility and Program Eligibility requirements.
College Eligibility
- Ontario Secondary School Diploma (OSSD) or equivalent. Applicants with an OSSD showing senior English and/or Mathematics courses at the Basic Level, or with Workplace or Open courses, will be tested to determine their eligibility for admission; OR
- Academic and Career Entrance (ACE) certificate; OR
- General Educational Development (GED) certificate; OR
- Mature Student status (19 years of age or older and without a high school diploma at the start of the program). Eligibility may be determined by academic achievement testing for which a fee of $50 (subject to change) will be charged.
Program Eligibility
- English, Grade 12 (ENG4C or equivalent) with a grade of 60% or higher.
- Mathematics, Grade 12 (MAP4C or equivalent) with a grade of 65% or higher.
- Biology, Grade 11 or 12 with a grade of 65% or higher; OR
- Chemistry, Grade 11 or 12 with a grade of 65% or higher; OR
- Physics, Grade 11 or 12 with a grade of 65% or higher.
- Applicants with international transcripts must provide proof of the subject-specific requirements noted above and may be required to provide proof of language proficiency. Domestic applicants with international transcripts must be evaluated through the International Credential Assessment Service of Canada (ICAS) or World Education Services (WES).
- IELTS-International English Language Testing Service (Academic) Overall band of 6.5 with a minimum of 6.0 in each band; OR TOEFL-Internet-based (iBT)-overall 88, with a minimum of 22 in each component: Reading 22; Listening 22; Speaking 22; Writing 22; OR Duolingo English Test (DET) Overall 120, minimum of 120 in Literacy and no score below 105.
Not sure if you meet all of the requirements? Academic Upgrading may be able to help with that: https://www.algonquincollege.com/access/.
Should the number of qualified applicants exceed the number of available places, applicants will be selected on the basis of their proficiency in English, Mathematics, Biology and Chemistry or Physics.
Application Information
BIOTECHNOLOGY - ADVANCED (CO-OP AND NON CO-OP VERSION)
Program Code 1020X01FWO
Applications to full-time day programs must be submitted with official transcripts showing completion of the academic admission requirements through:
ontariocolleges.ca
60 Corporate Court
Guelph, Ontario N1G 5J3
1-888-892-2228
Students currently enrolled in an Ontario secondary school should notify their Guidance Office prior to their online application at www.ontariocolleges.ca.
Applications for Fall Term admission received by February 1 will be given equal consideration. Applications received after February 1 will be processed on a first-come, first-served basis as long as places are available.
International applicants please visit this link for application process information: https://algonquincollege.force.com/myACint/.
For further information on the admissions process, contact:
Registrar`s Office
Algonquin College
1385 Woodroffe Ave
Ottawa, ON K2G 1V8
Telephone: 613-727-0002
Toll-free: 1-800-565-4723
TTY: 613-727-7766
Fax: 613-727-7632
Contact: https://www.algonquincollege.com/ro
Additional Information
Program Resources
CO-OP INFORMATION:
All applicants apply directly to the non-co-op version of this program through OntarioColleges.ca or our International Application Portal. Students may elect to participate in the co-op version, two terms prior to the first co-op work term, subject to availability and academic eligibility.
Co-operative education (Co-op) allows students to integrate their classroom learning with a real-world experience through paid work terms. Two academic terms prior to the cooperative education work term, students are required to actively participate in and successfully complete the self-directed co-op course, readiness activities and workshops.
Students must actively conduct a guided, self-directed job search and are responsible for securing approved program-related paid co-op employment. Students compete for co-op positions alongside students from Algonquin College and other Canadian and international colleges and universities. Algonquin College`s Co-op Department provides assistance in developing co-op job opportunities and guides the overall process, but does not guarantee that a student will obtain employment in a co-op work term. Co-op students may be required to relocate to take part in the co-op employment opportunities available in their industry and must cover all associated expenses; e.g., travel, work permits, visa applications, accommodation and all other incurred expenses.
Co-op work terms are typically 14 weeks in duration and are completed during a term when students are not taking courses. For more information on your program`s co-op level(s), visit the courses tab on your program`s webpage.
International students enrolled in a co-op program are required by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) to have a valid Co-op/Internship Work Permit prior to commencing their work term. Without this document International students are not legally eligible to engage in work in Canada that is part of an academic program. The Co-op/Internship Work Permit does not authorize international students to work outside the requirements of their academic program.
For more information on co-op programs, the co-op work/study schedule, as well as general and program-specific co-op eligibility criteria, please visit www.algonquincollege.com/coop.
Contact
Jacqueline Gilmet
Program Coordinator
Room B315b