Bachelor of Applied Biotechnology (Honours)

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Courses - September 2023

Level 1

Course details

Cell Biology
BIOL71020

Description:

This course introduces the principles and processes in prokaryote and eukaryote cell biology. Topics include structure, function, and chemistry of cellular membranes and organelles; membrane transport, receptors, and cell signaling; the cell cycle, genetic information, and sexual reproduction; the cytoskeleton and cellular movement; and exploring applications and advances in cell biology.

  • Hours: 56
  • Credits: 4
  • Pre-Requisites:
  • CoRequisites:

Strategies for Career Success
CDEV71020

Description:

In this course students learn to establish career goals, prepare an e-Portfolio and resume, identify biotechnology-related job opportunities, and acquire networking, self-marketing, job search, and interview skills for lifelong employment success. Students will learn to identify their transferable skills and market them effectively as they prepare targeted resumes and cover letters aimed at employers in the field of Science. Students will develop an understanding of workplace structures, ethics, and behaviors, as well as leadership roles that will enable them to excel within their place of employment.

  • Hours: 42
  • Credits: 3
  • Pre-Requisites:
  • CoRequisites:

Introductory Chemistry I
CHEM71010

Description:

This course will introduce the foundations of chemistry and working in a laboratory environment. Topics such as chemical health and safety, use and handling of glassware and laboratory instruments, measurement techniques, and atomic theory will be covered. Students will use a hands-on approach in the lab to explore these topics.

  • Hours: 56
  • Credits: 4
  • Pre-Requisites:
  • CoRequisites:

Conestoga 101
CON0101

Description: This self-directed course focuses on introducing new students to the supports, services, and opportunities available at Conestoga College. By the end of this course, students will understand the academic expectations of the Conestoga learning environment, as well as the supports available to ensure their academic success. Students will also be able to identify on-campus services that support their health and wellness, and explore ways to get actively involved in the Conestoga community through co-curricular learning opportunities.
  • Hours: 1
  • Credits: 0
  • Pre-Requisites:
  • CoRequisites:

Math for Biotechnology
MATH71020

Description:

This course will teach important mathematical theories with a focus on the application of these concepts to the field of Biotechnology. Topics include unit conversions, algebraic equations, proportions, linear and quadratic equations, graphing various functions, and the study of logarithmic and exponential functions.

  • Hours: 42
  • Credits: 3
  • Pre-Requisites:
  • CoRequisites:

Understanding Research
RSCH73000

Description: This course will present an overview of social scientific methods. The course will address the major components of the research process, including development of theoretically informed hypotheses, implementation of theoretical concepts, development of data collection instruments, testing of hypotheses through data analysis, and the presentation of research results. The student will develop the skills necessary to read and critically analyze social science research and discuss the ethics of social research.
  • Hours: 42
  • Credits: 3
  • Pre-Requisites:
  • CoRequisites:

Level 2

Course details

Microbiology I
BIOL71030

Description:

This course introduces the history and diversity of microorganisms as well as the impact of microbes on everyday life. Students will practice methods of cultivation, isolation, identification, enumeration, and will develop skills in microscopy. Skills developed in this course will include performing laboratory specific duties in compliance with policies and procedures relevant to occupational health, safety, professional practices, and operation of standard laboratory equipment.

  • Hours: 56
  • Credits: 4
  • Pre-Requisites:
  • CoRequisites:

Introductory Chemistry II
CHEM71020

Description:

This course provides students with an introduction to chemistry and performing chemical experiments in a laboratory. Topics covered will include states of matter and molecular forces, solution chemistry, acids and bases, chemical equilibrium, thermodynamics, reaction kinetics and organic chemistry. Students will increase their practical knowledge by performing a variety of experiments in the laboratory.

  • Hours: 56
  • Credits: 4
  • Pre-Requisites: CHEM71010
  • CoRequisites:

Scientific and Technical Communications
ENGL71200

Description: Documents that are written for scientific or technical purposes are written in a very precise and specific way that does not permit variations in interpretation. This course will prepare students to communicate scientific and technical information concisely and accurately using appropriate formats and graphic support. Students will study technical communication theory/ practice and apply the knowledge to creating, critiquing, and presenting technical documents. An oral presentation will emphasize the clear and concise communication of technical details and the use of appropriate visual support for technical information.
  • Hours: 42
  • Credits: 3
  • Pre-Requisites:
  • CoRequisites:

Applied Statistics
STAT73100

Description: This course introduces students to the basic concepts, logic, and issues involved in statistical reasoning. Major topics include descriptive statistics, probability, statistical inference, regression and correlation. The objectives of this course are to give students confidence in manipulating and drawing conclusions from data and provide them with a critical framework for evaluating study designs and results.
  • Hours: 42
  • Credits: 3
  • Pre-Requisites: NURS72050 OR RSCH73000
  • CoRequisites:

Electives: Interdisciplinary Elective
Student must pass 1 Course(s), selected in the Student Portal from available course options

Level 3

Course details

Microbiology II
BIOL72000

Description:

This course is designed to enable students to apply the knowledge and skills acquired in Microbiology I with a focus on advanced concepts such as the role of microorganisms in disease and antibiotic resistance. The beneficial aspects of microbes in food production, bioremediation, and their impact on the gut microbiome will also be explored. Laboratory activities include microscopy, identification, enumeration, antibiotic susceptibility testing, genetic transfer, and techniques used in quality control and quality assurance within the food industry.

  • Hours: 56
  • Credits: 4
  • Pre-Requisites: BIOL71030
  • CoRequisites:

Organic Chemistry I
CHEM72010

Description:

This course will introduce the chemistry of carbon-based compounds. Students will explore several different classes of organic compounds including saturated and unsaturated hydrocarbons, alcohols, ether, phenols, thiols, and haloalkanes. Each class of compound will be investigated through topics such as nomenclature, molecular structure and shape, physical and chemical properties, synthesis and reactions. Students will gain practical knowledge and skills by performing common organic chemistry techniques such as melting and boiling point measurements, refractive index measurements, distillation, refluxing, extraction and thin layer chromatography.

  • Hours: 56
  • Credits: 4
  • Pre-Requisites: CHEM71020
  • CoRequisites:

Analytical Chemistry I
CHEM72020

Description:

Students will explore topics in analytical chemistry including solution concentration and preparation, dynamic equilibrium, acid-base equilibria and buffers. Students will learn the importance of accuracy through emphasizing precision of measurements, significant figures, and propagating errors. Students will gain practical experience and knowledge in these analytical topics and concepts by performing experiments involving volumetric, gravimetric, and instrumental analysis.

  • Hours: 56
  • Credits: 4
  • Pre-Requisites: CHEM71020
  • CoRequisites:

Calculus for Biotechnology
MATH72010

Description:

This course is oriented towards applications of differentiation and integration to analyze data typically collected in biotechnological applications. Topics covered include limits, derivatives of algebraic and transcendental functions and their applications, integration of algebraic and transcendental functions and their applications and selected methods of integration.

  • Hours: 42
  • Credits: 3
  • Pre-Requisites: MATH71020
  • CoRequisites:

Topics in Management
MGMT74115

Description: This course examines a number of specific topics from the disciplines of Management (including Supervision), Human Resources (including Career Management) and Small Business (including a business plan). This course provides students with a basic functional understanding of management. Graduating students need to learn how to obtain suitable professional employment and how to successfully move up in their organization. In addition, both from a personal perspective and the perspective of a manager, technical professionals need to be aware of the workings of, and supports offered by, the corporate Human Resource Department. Finally students will focus on the skills of the entrepreneur, the workings of small business and the preparation of a small business plan. A variety of viewpoints relating to the study of Strategic Management are also presented. Designed to meet the future needs of technical professionals as they move into the management portion of their careers, students will learn how they will be contributing to the overall direction of their organization. Students will experience all phases of the strategic process including strategic analysis, strategic formulation and strategic implementation.
  • Hours: 42
  • Credits: 3
  • Pre-Requisites:
  • CoRequisites:

Level 4

Course details

Molecular Biology I
BIOL72010

Description:

This course introduces the theory and techniques associated with Molecular Biology. Topics include the structure and study of nucleic acids and proteins, and maintenance, expression, and regulation of the genome.

  • Hours: 56
  • Credits: 4
  • Pre-Requisites:
  • CoRequisites:

Organic Chemistry II
CHEM72030

Description:

This course will extend the chemistry of carbon-based compounds examined in Organic I. Students will explore several different classes of organic compounds including aromatics, aldehydes, ketones, esters, carboxylic acids, amines, and amides. Each class of compound will be investigated through topics such as nomenclature, molecular structure and shape, physical and chemical properties, synthesis and reactions, and identification through instrumental analysis. Students will gain practical knowledge and skills by synthesizing, purifying and identifying organic compounds using the techniques learned in Organic Chemistry I.

  • Hours: 56
  • Credits: 4
  • Pre-Requisites: CHEM72010
  • CoRequisites:

Analytical Chemistry II
CHEM72040

Description:

Students will explore topics in analytical chemistry including solubility, the formation of precipitates and complexes, reduction-oxidation reactions, and electrochemistry. Students apply these concepts in the laboratory by performing precipitation, complexometric, and potentiometric titrations, analytical separations, and simple electrochemical reactions. Students will use instrumental analysis to analyze the precision and accuracy of their standards and samples.

  • Hours: 56
  • Credits: 4
  • Pre-Requisites: CHEM72020
  • CoRequisites:

Physics
PHYS73010

Description:

This course covers fundamental principles of physics relating to the field of chemistry and instrumental analysis. Topics include kinematics and energy, chemical and molecular physics, electricity, waves, and optics.

  • Hours: 42
  • Credits: 3
  • Pre-Requisites:
  • CoRequisites:

Electives: Interdisciplinary Elective
Student must pass 1 Course(s), selected in the Student Portal from available course options

Level 5

Course details

Biochemistry I
BIOL73010

Description:

In this course students will examine the structure, biochemical function, and biological role of the major macromolecules of living organisms: proteins, carbohydrates, lipids, and nucleic acids. Other topics include enzymes, water and biological buffers, biological membranes and transport, and biosignaling. Laboratory exercises include analysis of buffers, spectroscopic methods, protein isolation and purification, and analysis of enzyme function and activity.

  • Hours: 56
  • Credits: 4
  • Pre-Requisites:
  • CoRequisites:

Molecular Biology II
BIOL73020

Description:

This course applies the knowledge and skills acquired in Molecular Biology I with a focus on the principles of gene editing, genetic analysis, and protein expression. Topics include molecular genetic techniques, gene analysis, gene activity, and protein expression.

  • Hours: 70
  • Credits: 5
  • Pre-Requisites: BIOL72010
  • CoRequisites:

Co-op and Career Preparation
CEPR71050

Description: This series of modules prepares degree level students for job searching for their co-op work terms with the guidance of a Co-op Advisor. Students will examine the co-operative education policies and procedures and will learn the expectations, rules, and regulations that apply in the workplace concerning social, organizational, ethical, and safety issues while deepening their awareness of self-reflective practices. Students will critically reflect on their skills, attitudes, and expectations and evaluate available opportunities in the workplace. Successful completion of these modules is a requirement for co-op eligibility.
  • Hours: 14
  • Credits: 1
  • Pre-Requisites:
  • CoRequisites:

Instrumental Analysis Laboratory I
CHEM73000

Description:

This course will introduce instrumental chemical analysis with a focus on spectroscopy. Students will gain practical experience operating UV-Visible, Infrared, Fluorescence and Atomic Absorbance/Emission spectrometers. Topics such as detection limits and sensitivity, sample preparation and concentration range, calibration and instrumental methods will be explored.

  • Hours: 56
  • Credits: 4
  • Pre-Requisites:
  • CoRequisites:

Instrumental Analysis Theory I
CHEM73010

Description:

This course will introduce instrumental chemical analysis with a focus on spectroscopy. Students will gain practical experience operating UV-Visible, Infrared, Fluorescence and Atomic Absorbance/Emission spectrometers. Topics such as detection limits and sensitivity, sample preparation and concentration range, calibration and instrumental methods will be explored.

  • Hours: 28
  • Credits: 2
  • Pre-Requisites:
  • CoRequisites:

Principles of Quality Assurance
QUAL73000

Description:

This course introduces quality assurance and the guiding principles that represent the foundation for continuous improvement within an organization. Topics include the nature and history of quality, factors which affect quality, quality inspection and verification. Students will learn to develop Standard Operating Procedures and product specifications, with an emphasis on process control and techniques to minimize variation. Methods of detecting issues, correcting them, and developing effective Quality system tools will be explored from a theoretical and practical point of view.

  • Hours: 28
  • Credits: 2
  • Pre-Requisites:
  • CoRequisites:

Level 6

Course details

Biochemistry II
BIOL73040

Description:

This course examines the central bioenergetic pathways involved in the catabolism of carbohydrates, lipids, and amino acids, including cellular respiration and ATP synthesis. Other topics include the biosynthesis of macromolecular precursors for the synthesis of carbohydrates, lipids, amino acids, and nucleotides; and the integration and regulation of metabolism. Laboratory exercises include protein isolation and purification, spectroscopic and fluorometric methods, and cellular metabolic assays.

  • Hours: 56
  • Credits: 4
  • Pre-Requisites: BIOL73010
  • CoRequisites:

Plant Biology
BIOL73050

Description:

This course will focus on the anatomy, theory, application and function of plants and their role in the biotechnology industry. There will be a strong emphasis on plant and crop cultivation and improvement, including cross breeding and seed line production. This course will also explore the maintenance and operations of grow rooms, green houses and industrial crop development.

  • Hours: 56
  • Credits: 4
  • Pre-Requisites:
  • CoRequisites:

Instrumental Analysis Laboratory II
CHEM73020

Description:

This course will introduce instrumental chemical analysis with a focus on chromatography. Students will gain practical experience in analytical separations, and operating Gas Liquid Chromatography, High Performance Liquid Chromatography and Ion Exchange Chromatography. Topics such as detection limits and sensitivity, sample preparation and concentration range, calibration and instrumental methods will be explored.

  • Hours: 56
  • Credits: 4
  • Pre-Requisites: CHEM73000 AND CHEM73010
  • CoRequisites:

Instrumental Analysis Theory II
CHEM73030

Description:

This course will introduce instrumental chemical analysis with a focus on chromatography. Students will gain practical experience in analytical separations, and operating Gas Liquid Chromatography, High Performance Liquid Chromatography and Ion Exchange Chromatography. Topics such as detection limits and sensitivity, sample preparation and concentration range, calibration and instrumental methods will be explored.

  • Hours: 28
  • Credits: 2
  • Pre-Requisites: CHEM73000 AND CHEM73010
  • CoRequisites:

Regulatory Affairs & Biosafety
HEAL73010

Description:

This course focuses on the importance of Total Quality Management together with Good Manufacturing Practices and Good Laboratory Practices. Students will demonstrate an understanding of a quality management system based on various International Organization for Standardization series standards. A variety of government regulations and governing bodies are discussed. The importance of Quality Control and Quality Assurance, including auditing processes, are also of focus. Students will understand and interpret the Hazard Analysis and Critical Control Points system as it pertains to food safety and explore the principles of biosafety and biosecurity.

  • Hours: 28
  • Credits: 2
  • Pre-Requisites:
  • CoRequisites:

Electives: Interdisciplinary Elective
Student must pass 1 Course(s), selected in the Student Portal from available course options

Level 7

Course details

Co-op Work Term I (Bachelor Applied Biotechnology)
COOP73080

Description:

This course will provide students with college-approved work experience in environments specific to the biotechnology field. The students are able to apply knowledge and skills learned in Year II of the Bachelor of Applied Biotechnology program

  • Hours: 420
  • Credits: 14
  • Pre-Requisites:
  • CoRequisites:

Level 8

Course details

Co-op Work Term II (Bachelor Applied Biotechnology)
COOP74040

Description:

This course will provide students with college-approved work experience in environments specific to the biotechnology field. The students are able to apply knowledge and skills learned in the Bachelor of Applied Biotechnology program.

  • Hours: 420
  • Credits: 14
  • Pre-Requisites:
  • CoRequisites:

Level 9

Course details

Immunology
BIOL74000

Description:

This course investigates the molecular and cellular elements of the immune system by presenting advanced concepts and technologies in the field of humoral and cell-mediated immunity and their applications to the biological sciences. Other topics include B and T cell activation and function, antibody structure and function, immunogenicity, immunological assays, and antibody design and production. Laboratory exercises provide a working knowledge of immunological techniques and their applications to the biotechnology industry.

  • Hours: 56
  • Credits: 4
  • Pre-Requisites:
  • CoRequisites:

Cell Culture
BIOL74010

Description:

This course is designed to provide students with a theoretical understanding of the biological, chemical, and technological principles of industrial processes. Students will learn how biotechnology is used in industry to create a variety of products. Topics include chemical engineering, unit operations, materials science, biomaterials, polymers, and fermentation.

  • Hours: 28
  • Credits: 2
  • Pre-Requisites:
  • CoRequisites:

Virology
BIOL74020

Description:

This course examines the structure and diversity of viruses, virus transmission, viral replication strategies, and how viruses cause disease. Front-line viral vectors for gene therapy, viral vaccines, anti-viral drugs, and beneficial uses of viruses will be explored, along with laboratory assays and viral diagnosis assays.

  • Hours: 28
  • Credits: 2
  • Pre-Requisites:
  • CoRequisites:

Finance
FIN74040

Description:

This is an introductory course in finance for non-business students. The course will introduce the student to the theory and principles of financial accounting and managerial finance. Students will be able to apply concepts to both personal and business situations, including the preparation and use of basic financial statements. Additional topics include accounting, budgeting, business finance, and financial management.

  • Hours: 42
  • Credits: 3
  • Pre-Requisites:
  • CoRequisites:

Capstone I (Bachelor Applied Biotechnology)
RSCH74020

Description:

A capstone project that integrates the technical knowledge and skills learned in the program to design, implement and evaluate a research topic. Appropriate research, experimental design, data collection and analysis, problem solving, time and project management skills and communication are emphasized.

  • Hours: 56
  • Credits: 4
  • Pre-Requisites:
  • CoRequisites:

Level 10

Course details

Bioinformatics
BIOT74000

Description:

This course provides students with an overview of the theories and methods used in bioinformatics. Topics include bioinformatics databases, analysis of protein and DNA sequences, gene and protein structure prediction, and computer-aided modelling of biological molecules. Students will gain practical experience with bioinformatic tools and software.

  • Hours: 42
  • Credits: 3
  • Pre-Requisites:
  • CoRequisites:

Industrial Processes & Materials
BIOT74010

Description:

This course is designed to provide students with a practical and theoretical understanding of the biological, chemical and technological principles of industrial processes. Students will gain a practical understanding of how biotechnology is used in industry to create a variety of products. Topics include chemical engineering, unit operations, materials science, biomaterials, polymers, and fermentation.

  • Hours: 56
  • Credits: 4
  • Pre-Requisites:
  • CoRequisites:

Environmental Toxicology
ENVR72015

Description: Provides an introduction to the principles of toxicology, specifically: toxicokinetics (absorption, distribution, metabolism, and excretion) and toxicodynamics (acute, chronic, mutagenic, teratogenic and carcinogenic effects). Additional topic areas include inorganic and organic environmental contaminants, dose-response curves, bioassays, biomarkers, and related case studies.
  • Hours: 56
  • Credits: 4
  • Pre-Requisites:
  • CoRequisites:

Capstone II (Bachelor Applied Biotechnology)
RSCH74030

Description:

A continuation of Capstone I, this course completes the design, implementation and evaluation of a research topic. Appropriate research, experimental design, data collection and analysis, problem solving, time and project management skills and communication are emphasized.

  • Hours: 56
  • Credits: 4
  • Pre-Requisites: RSCH74020
  • CoRequisites:

Electives: Interdisciplinary Elective
Student must pass 1 Course(s), selected in the Student Portal from available course options

Program outcomes

  1. Generate, interpret and analyze data collected in the laboratory via experimentation and instrumental analysis.
  2. Perform tasks in compliance with pertinent legislation and regulations, standards and guidelines to ensure alignment with professional practice in a scientific environment.
  3. Apply professional judgments, adherence to ethical standards, and policies that foster social, environmental and economic responsibility.
  4. Apply quality control and quality assurance procedures to meet legislative and organizational standards and requirements.
  5. Perform a range of laboratory procedures relevant to the field of Biotechnology and Life Sciences through the application of scientific concepts in the fields of biology and chemistry.
  6. Conduct quantitative and qualitative analyses and tests using appropriate laboratory and industry procedures (GLP, GMP), and mathematical, statistical and computer skills.
  7. Conduct cell culture procedures under aseptic conditions for use in industrial applications, product development, or research and diagnostics.
  8. Conduct molecular biology procedures for use in industrial applications, product development, or research and diagnostics.
  9. Conduct chemical reaction and purification experiments for applications in typical industrial practice.
  10. Develop and implement procedures and methods to optimize experimental design.
  11. Analyze quantitative and qualitative research findings to synthesize and communicate relevant information for evidence informed decision making.
  12. Operate analytical instrumentation for experimental analysis and perform maintenance, calibration and troubleshooting.
  13. Work effectively in an inter-professional and diverse team using communication, leadership, teamwork and cultural awareness.
  14. Develop a strategy for ongoing personal and professional development and continuing education to enhance professional performance.