Biotechnology Technician
- Credential:
- Ontario College Diploma
- College Code:
- CONS
- School:
- Health & Life Sciences
- Program Code:
- 1164
- Accelerated Delivery:
- No
- Campus:
- DO
- Academic Year:
- 2019 / 2020
About the Program
This program provides students with the laboratory skills, technical knowledge, fundamental understanding, and employability skills for careers in Biotechnology and Life Science industries. Students will experience an integrated curriculum and applied learning environment that focuses on scenarios relevant to current innovations in the growing fields of Biotechnology and Life Sciences. The program offers independent and collaborative opportunities to develop personally and professionally, and to perform laboratory duties in compliance with all legislative guidelines. Training includes practical and technical instruction in several areas including biology, biochemistry, microbiology, analytical chemistry, cell culture, molecular biology, and computer applications. Graduates of the Biotechnology Technician program will compete in emerging professions within diverse sectors of the bio-economy including: environmental, agricultural, food, pharmaceutical and biomedical technologies, analytical chemistry, and many other exciting fields.Program Information
Length: Two-year Ontario College Diploma programDelivery Sequence: Doon (Kitchener) - September/2019 - Fall | Winter | Fall | Winter
Location: Doon (Kitchener)
Start: September
First-Year Capacity: 70
Note:
- Admission requirements for this program may be met by completing Conestoga's Pre-Health Sciences Pathway to Certificates and Diplomas.
Admission Requirements
- Ontario Secondary School Diploma (OSSD), or equivalent, or 19 years of age or older with mature student status (See Mature Student definition for details.)
- Grade 12 compulsory English, C or U, or equivalent, OR Conestoga College Preparatory Communications (COMM1270)
- Grade 12 Mathematics, C or U, or equivalent, OR Conestoga College Preparatory Mathematics (MATH1395)
- Two (2) sciences are required from the following: grade 11 or 12 Chemistry, C or U, or equivalent; grade 11 or 12 Biology, C or U, or equivalent; grade 11 or 12 Physics, C or U, or equivalent; Grade 11 or 12 Science (SNC3M or SNC4M); Conestoga College Preparatory Chemistry (SCIE1030) or Conestoga College Preparatory Biology (SCIE1010)
- For more information on preparatory programs, visit Academic Upgrading
Note re: Admission Requirements
- Applicants who wish to pursue a university degree after completing their diploma are encouraged to take Advanced Functions (MHF4U) as this is an entrance requirement for Honours Bachelor of Science programs.
Admission Procedures
- An academic strength is calculated by averaging the submitted marks of required subjects. If more than one mark is received for a required subject, the highest mark will be used in the calculation.
- Ten (10) additional marks are added to each Advanced level, OAC, U, U/C, and post-secondary course used in the calculation of academic strength.
- A sound mathematical and English background is important for success in this program and is considered during the admission selection process. Minimum cutoffs may apply.
Tuition & Fees
Tuition fee details for the 2018-2019 year are listed below. Fees for the next academic year are unavailable at this time. Books and supplies are additional.
Domestic Fees
Estimated fees based upon the previous academic year (2018 / 2019) for Biotechnology Technician - Program # 1164
| Description | Fall 2018 | Winter 2019 |
|---|---|---|
| Full-time Program Tuition | $1498.00 | $1498.00 |
| Student Priority Fee | $50.65 | $50.65 |
| Recreation/Athletics Fee | $70.50 | $70.50 |
| Graduation/Alumni Services Fee | $28.45 | $28.45 |
| Administration Fee | $25.90 | $25.90 |
| Technology Enhancement Fee | $142.75 | $142.75 |
| CSI Capital Development Fee | $72.65 | $72.65 |
| CSI Association Fee | $110.00 | $110.00 |
| CSI - Advocacy Fee | $5.75 | $5.75 |
| CSI Health Plan Fee | $295.00 | $0.00 |
| ONE Card Fee | $12.75 | $12.75 |
| CSI Legal Protection | $28.00 | $0.00 |
| Session Total | $2340.40 | $2017.40 |
| Year Total | $4357.80 |
| Description | Fall 2018 | Winter 2019 |
|---|---|---|
| Full-time Program Tuition | $1498.00 | $1498.00 |
| Student Priority Fee | $50.65 | $50.65 |
| Recreation/Athletics Fee | $70.50 | $70.50 |
| Graduation/Alumni Services Fee | $28.45 | $28.45 |
| Administration Fee | $25.90 | $25.90 |
| Technology Enhancement Fee | $142.75 | $142.75 |
| CSI Capital Development Fee | $72.65 | $72.65 |
| CSI Association Fee | $110.00 | $110.00 |
| CSI - Advocacy Fee | $5.75 | $5.75 |
| CSI Health Plan Fee | $295.00 | $0.00 |
| ONE Card Fee | $12.75 | $12.75 |
| CSI Legal Protection | $28.00 | $0.00 |
| Session Total | $2340.40 | $2017.40 |
| Year Total | $4357.80 |
International Fees
Estimated International fees based upon the previous academic year (2018 / 2019) for
Biotechnology Technician - Program # 1164
| Description | Fall 2018 | Winter 2019 |
|---|---|---|
| International Program Tuition | $6000.00 | $6000.00 |
| Student Priority Fee | $50.65 | $50.65 |
| Recreation/Athletics Fee | $70.50 | $70.50 |
| Graduation/Alumni Services Fee | $28.45 | $28.45 |
| Administration Fee | $25.90 | $25.90 |
| Technology Enhancement Fee | $142.75 | $142.75 |
| CSI Capital Development Fee | $72.65 | $72.65 |
| CSI Association Fee | $110.00 | $110.00 |
| CSI - Advocacy Fee | $5.75 | $5.75 |
| CSI Health Plan Fee | $295.00 | $0.00 |
| ISR | $375.00 | $375.00 |
| ONE Card Fee | $12.75 | $12.75 |
| CSI Legal Protection | $28.00 | $0.00 |
| CSI International Health Fee | $485.00 | $0.00 |
| Session Total | $7702.40 | $6894.40 |
| Year Total | $14596.80 |
| Description | Fall 2018 | Winter 2019 |
|---|---|---|
| International Program Tuition | $6000.00 | $6000.00 |
| Student Priority Fee | $50.65 | $50.65 |
| Recreation/Athletics Fee | $70.50 | $70.50 |
| Graduation/Alumni Services Fee | $28.45 | $28.45 |
| Administration Fee | $25.90 | $25.90 |
| Technology Enhancement Fee | $142.75 | $142.75 |
| CSI Capital Development Fee | $72.65 | $72.65 |
| CSI Association Fee | $110.00 | $110.00 |
| CSI - Advocacy Fee | $5.75 | $5.75 |
| CSI Health Plan Fee | $295.00 | $0.00 |
| ISR | $375.00 | $375.00 |
| International Health Insurance | $0.00 | $0.00 |
| International Health Fee | $0.00 | $0.00 |
| ONE Card Fee | $12.75 | $12.75 |
| CSI Legal Protection | $28.00 | $0.00 |
| CSI International Health Fee | $485.00 | $0.00 |
| Session Total | $7702.40 | $6894.40 |
| Year Total | $14596.80 |
Financial Assistance
The Ontario Student Assistance Program (OSAP) is a needs-based program designed to help Ontario students cover the cost of post-secondary education. Funded by the federal and provincial governments, OSAP is intended to promote equality of opportunity for post-secondary studies through direct financial assistance for educational costs and living expenses. These interest-free loans are intended to supplement your financial resources and those of your family. The majority of students apply for loan assistance via the OSAP website. Students can also print the application booklet through the OSAP website.For more information, please visit Financial Services/Awards.
Graduate Opportunities
Graduates may find employment as laboratory technicians, laboratory analysts, quality assurance/control technicians, and research assistants in many possible sectors including environmental, agricultural, food, pharmaceutical and biomedical research technologies, analytical chemistry and many other exciting fields.- Conestoga College and the University of Guelph have an agreement that allows Biotechnology Technician graduates to enter three different Honours Bachelor of Science Programs; Biological Sciences, Microbiology, Molecular Biology & Genetics, with advanced standing, such that they can complete the degree in 2.5 years (5 terms).
- Diploma graduates may also enter University of Guelph's Honours Bachelor of Science Program in Biochemistry with advanced standing such that they can complete the degree in 3 years (6 terms).
- Conestoga College and the University of Waterloo have an articulation agreement that allows graduates of the Biotechnology Technician program to gain advanced standing in two different Honours Bachelor of Science programs; Biomedical Sciences or Biology, such that they can complete their degree at an accelerated pace.
On average, 73% of graduates from the last three years (2015 to 2017) found employment within six months of graduation.
For more details on related occupations, job market information and career opportunities, see the Government of Canada website: https://www.jobbank.gc.ca/home
Pathways & Credit Transfer
Conestoga pathways enable students to build on their academic achievements in order to earn a degree or additional credential. Pathways are formed through agreements between Conestoga programs or partner institutions. View the transfer agreement opportunities for this program.Often applicants have earned credits from another college or university that may allow a student to be granted advanced standing or exemption. Learn more about credit transfer opportunities at Conestoga.
Prior Learning Assessment and Recognition (PLAR)
Conestoga recognizes prior learning of skills, knowledge or competencies that have been acquired through employment, formal and informal education, non-formal learning or other life experiences. Prior learning must be measurable at the required academic level and meet Conestoga standards of achievement for current courses. Challenge exams and portfolio development are the primary methods of assessment. Other methods of assessment may be available depending upon the nature of the course objectives. Successful completion of the assessment results in an official course credit that will be recorded on the student's Conestoga transcript. PLAR cannot be used by registered Conestoga students for the clearance of academic deficiencies, to improve grades or to obtain admission into a program.Learn more about PLAR.
Program Courses
| Course Code | Course Title and Description |
|---|---|
| Level 1 | |
| BIOT1025 | Current Trends in Biotechnology
Description: This course describes the current themes and techniques relevant to the constantly changing landscape of biotechnology. Topics discussed include foundational knowledge and current applications within several sectors of Biotechnology including Molecular, Microbial, Pharmaceutical, Environmental and Agricultural Biotechnologies, as well as discussing the social and ethical implications of these technologies. |
| BIOT1040 | Introduction to Microbiology
Description: This course introduces the history, scope, relevance and practical aspects of the field of microbiology. Topics include microbial structure, nutrition, growth and metabolism. Students will develop techniques in culturing, enumeration, characterization, and identification procedures that aid in distinguishing between major microbial groups. |
| BIOT1065 | Laboratory Procedures and Safety
Description: This course examines the principles of general laboratory safety including the handling of chemicals and biological materials. Discussions include proper record keeping, WHMIS regulations, the importance of following standard operating procedures (SOPs) and proper handling of hazardous materials. Students will learn proper record keeping strategies and review basic data entry and analyses including creating graphs and using functions and formulas effectively. Professional electronic communication will be emphasized. |
| CHEM1055 | Introductory Chemistry for Life Sciences
Description: This course introduces students to fundamental concepts in Chemistry by emphasizing terminology, atomic structure, classification of matter, bonding, chemical reactions, calculations using chemical equations, nomenclature, equilibrium, intermolecular forces, properties of solids, liquids, gases and solutions, acids, bases, pH, and organic chemistry. These topics will be applied in laboratory scenarios relevant to students entering the Biotechnology and Life Sciences field. |
| COMM1085 | College Reading & Writing Skills
Description: This course focuses on the reading, writing and critical thinking skills needed for academic and workplace success. Students will analyse, summarize, and discuss a variety of readings and apply the steps of planning, writing, and revising in response to written prompts. This course prepares students for post-secondary writing tasks, research, and documentation. |
| MATH1995 | Algebra for the Life Sciences
Description: This course describes important mathematical concepts with a focus on the application of these concepts to the field of Life Sciences. Topics include: algebraic equations, linear and quadratic equations, graphical representation of a variety of functions, and the study of logarithmic and exponential functions. |
| Level 2 | |
| BIOT1055 | Introductory Analytical Chemistry
Description: This course demonstrates the use of analytical laboratory techniques for applications in basic quantitative and qualitative chemical analysis with an emphasis on accuracy and precision. Students will develop confidence in basic analytical techniques and sample preparation, and gain a foundational understanding of topics such as stoichiometry, equilibrium, acids and bases, solubility, gravimetric analysis and redox chemistry. |
| BIOT1083 | Organic Chemistry
Description: This course discusses the classification of organic compounds, nomenclature using IUPAC, common and trade names of many industrial chemicals, factors affecting boiling point and solubility, the theory of extractions, preparation and reactions of alkanes, alkenes and alkyl halides, sources and uses of hydrocarbons, stereochemistry, and structure determination using IR and NMR spectroscopy. Laboratory exercises include the isolation and identification of natural products, qualitative tests for the identification of functional groups, preparation of samples for qualitative analysis by various forms of chromatography and other relevant techniques. |
| BIOT1110 | Introduction to Molecular Biology
Description: This course introduces the theory and techniques associated with Molecular Biology. Topics include the stages of cellular reproduction, chromosome theory of inheritance, the structure of DNA and RNA, DNA replication, gene expression in prokaryotes and eukaryotes, and molecular cloning. Laboratory exercises include DNA isolation, recombinant plasmid production, preparing competent bacterial cells, transformation of bacteria with plasmid DNA, and amplification of DNA using the polymerase chain reaction. |
| BIOT2115 | Quality Management Practices
Description: This course discusses the importance of Total Quality Management together with Good Manufacturing Practices (GMPs) and Good Laboratory Practices (GLPs). It demonstrates the development of a quality management system based on various International Organization for Standardization (ISO) series standards, discusses government regulations, emphasizes the importance of Quality Control and Quality Assurance, and teaches management practices appropriate for a biotechnology facility. |
|
Electives: General Education
Student must complete a minimum of 42 Hours | |
|
Electives: General Education
Student must complete a minimum of 42 Hours | |
| Level 3 | |
| BIOT1037 | Biochemistry
Description: This course discusses the structure, properties, and biological role of the four major macromolecules: proteins, carbohydrates, lipids, and nucleic acids. Particular focus is given to proteins, including practicing laboratory techniques for protein isolation and purification, and the analysis of enzyme function and activity. The central pathways involved in the biosynthesis of macromolecular precursors will be examined, including the connections between pathways within a cell. Students will explore cellular bioenergetic pathways including cellular respiration and photosynthesis. |
| BIOT1090 | Food and Agricultural Biotechnology
Description: This course examines the influence and applications of biotechnology on agriculture and food. Students will learn foundational concepts important to the role of biotechnology in improving plant and food products, and will explore applications such as crop yield enhancements, and advanced quality food production. Due to the rapidly increasing use of biotechnology strategies in the food industry, emphasis will also be placed on food safety, regulations and policy. |
| BIOT2070 | Immunology
Description: This course describes the components of the immune system as well as their functions by presenting advanced concepts and technologies in the field of humoral and cell-mediated immunity and their application to the biological sciences. Laboratory exercises provide a working knowledge of immunological techniques and their applications to the biotechnology industry. Topics include immunogenicity, B and T cell activation and function, antibody structure and function, immunological assays, and antibody design and production. |
| BIOT2090 | Plant Cell Biotechnology
Description: This course examines the field of plant biotechnology and its applications. Topics include micropropagation using a variety of tissue culture techniques, as well as the genetic modification of plants. Laboratory exercises include: the preparation and staining of plant tissue, plant transformation, and micropropagation, with emphasis on aseptic technique. |
| BIOT2120 | Life Science Research Project I
Description: This course requires students to work in groups that focus on a chosen sector of the biotechnology and life science industry. Students will explore the current work being done in this area while collaborating with an industry partner to prepare a report highlighting the work of a specific company. They will further extend their knowledge of current biotechnology research themes by preparing a literature review of published articles to describe a research topic relevant to their chosen sector. Students will develop their interpersonal and professional skills while working as a group. |
| MATH2390 | Statistics for Life Sciences
Description: This course enables students to apply the statistical skills necessary for scientific data analysis and research. Topics include: data analysis and interpretation; probability; confidence intervals; hypothesis testing; and analysis of variance. |
| Level 4 | |
| BIOT1070 | Microbiology for Biotechnology
Description: This course is designed to enable students to apply the knowledge and skills acquired in Introduction to Microbiology with a focus on advanced concepts related to eukaryotic and prokaryotic cells, microbial genetics, recombinant DNA techniques and industrial microbiology. Laboratory exercises demonstrate the procedures used in the identification of microorganisms, the evaluation of antimicrobial activity, and the growth and quantification of microbes. |
| BIOT2015 | Applied Analytical Chemistry
Description: This course develops the knowledge and skills acquired in Introductory Analytical Chemistry with theoretical and practical studies that focus on quantitative chemical analysis. Theoretical studies include an overview of chromatography and spectroscopy with a more detailed look at specific techniques and the associated instrumentation commonly used in analytical settings. Quality control and quality assurance procedures will also be discussed and applied in a laboratory setting. Students will advance their technical training in UV/VIS spectrophotometry, basic techniques of chromatography, gravimetric analysis and different types of volumetric analyses (redox, complexometric and acid-base titrations). |
| BIOT2025 | Applied Molecular Biology
Description: This course applies the knowledge and skills acquired in Introduction to Molecular Biology with a focus on the principles of genetic analysis. Topics include the isolation of RNA and DNA, restriction endonucleases, plasmid mapping, and hybridization analysis. Laboratory exercises focus on molecular cloning and recombinant DNA techniques including the production and purification of recombinant protein in a bacterial host. |
| BIOT2065 | Fermentation and Industrial Processes
Description: This course is designed to provide students with a practical and theoretical understanding of industrial processes important to the biotechnology and life science industry with a particular focus on fermentation processes and methods. Laboratory exercises include basic fermentation of sugar, production of alcohols and acids, fractional distillation, product purification, and other relevant industrial methods. |
| BIOT2100 | Professionalism and Ethics for Life Sciences
Description: This course discusses several topics for entering a career in the field of Biotechnology and Life Sciences with special focus on values required for ethical conduct in a professional setting. Students will develop skills in logical analysis, a working knowledge of moral principles and theories, and the ability to diagnose and resolve moral disagreements commonly encountered in the workplace. Students will also work to develop a professional portfolio and explore the structure and design of biotechnology industries and the opportunities within them. |
| BIOT2130 | Life Sciences Research Project II
Description: This course is a continuation of Life Science Research Project I. Using the literature review prepared in part I, students will work in teams to convert their written project into an oral and visual professional presentation. Students will focus on current advances to the growing field of biotechnology and condense their review into a relevant and impactful presentation. Presentations will be given in a research symposium forum that will include an audience of invited industry partners and program stakeholders. |
|
Electives: General Education
Student must complete a minimum of 42 Hours | |
Program Outcomes
- Develop skills and aptitude of professional practice in a laboratory environment.
- Complete all tasks in compliance with pertinent legislation and regulations, as well as Life Sciences and Biotechnology standards and guidelines.
- Develop an understanding of ethical standards, and policies that foster social, environmental and economic responsibility.
- Apply quality control and quality assurance procedures to meet legislative and organizational standards and requirements.
- Apply scientific concepts in the fields of biology, biochemistry, and chemistry to perform a range of laboratory procedures relevant to the field of Biotechnology and Life Sciences.
- Conduct quantitative and qualitative analyses and tests using appropriate laboratory and industry procedures (GLP, GMP), and mathematical, statistical and computer skills.
- Conduct standard cell culture procedures under aseptic conditions for use in industrial applications, product development, or research and diagnostics.
- Conduct routine molecular biology procedures for use in industrial applications, product development, or research and diagnostics.
- Prepare, maintain, manage, and communicate scientific data effectively by demonstrating competence in collecting, organizing and summarizing scientific information.
- Develop and present a strategic plan for ongoing personal and professional development and continuing education to enhance work performance.
Program Advisory Committees
The College appoints Program Advisory Committee members for diploma, degree, certificate and apprenticeship programs. Committees are composed of employers, practitioners and recent program graduates. College representatives (students, faculty, and administrators) are resource persons. Each committee advises the Board on the development of new programs, the monitoring of existing programs and community acceptance of programs.For a list of the current members, please visit our Program Advisory Committees.
Program Handbook
Apply Now
Domestic students should apply online at www.ontariocolleges.ca or by phone at 1-888-892-2228.ONTARIOCOLLEGES.CA
60 Corporate Court
Guelph, Ontario
Canada N1G 5J3
Detailed steps on the application process may help you to apply.
International students should apply online using the Conestoga College International Application Portal. Please note: not all programs are open to international students. Interested students should check the listing of open programs on our international students web page before applying.
Disclaimer
The College reserves the right to alter information including requirements and fees and to cancel at any time a program, course, or program major or option; to change the location and/or term in which a program or course is offered; to change the program curriculum as necessary to meet current competencies in the job market or for budgetary reasons; or to withdraw an offer of admission both prior to and after its acceptance by an applicant or student because of insufficient applications or registrations, over-acceptance of offers of admission, budgetary constraints, or for other such reasons. In the event the College exercises such a right, the College’s sole liability will be the return of monies paid by the applicant or student to the College.
Students actively registered in cohort delivered programs who take longer than the designed program length of time to complete their studies are accountable for completing any new or additional courses that may result due to changes in the program of study. Unless otherwise stated, students registered in non-cohort delivered programs must complete the program of study within seven years of being admitted to the program.
