Biotechnology Technician Fast Track

About the Program

This program provides students with relevant previous educational experience, an opportunity to complete the Biotechnology Technician diploma program in two semesters of full-time study. The Fast Track program gives students an opportunity to build on existing knowledge and experience in order to further develop their laboratory skills, technical expertise, 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 aims to give students 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.

Program Information

Length: Two-year Ontario College Diploma program (completed over 2 semesters)
Delivery Sequence: Doon (Kitchener) - September/2020 - Fall | Winter
Location: Doon (Kitchener)
Start: September
First-Year Capacity: 8

Admission Requirements

A degree in a biology- or chemistry-related discipline, or equivalent, from an accredited university or college

Note re: Admission Requirements

Applicants with documents (transcripts) from an educational institution from a country other than Canada must have their documents evaluated for equivalency at an approved provider of credential evaluation services. Applicants to this program require a Comprehensive or Course-by-Course Report. Please see How to Apply for more information.
Applicants with transcripts from institutions where the language of instruction is not English must demonstrate English language proficiency with a minimum test score on one of the following language proficiency tests or equivalent scores from another internationally recognized English language test:
- IELTS overall band of 6.5 with no band less than 6.0
- TOEFL iBT 88
- CAEL 70, no sub-test band score less than 60
- PTE Academic 58
- Conestoga English Language Test (CELT) Band 6
We offer a language program for students whose English language skills are below the standard required for admission but all other admission criteria have been met. An applicant will be eligible for admission to the graduate certificate program after completion of level 4 of the General Arts and Science - English Language Studies (ELS) program with an overall grade average of 80% and no grade less than 75%. Placement in the ELS program is determined by scores on an in-house English language test or TOEFL or IELTS.

Admission Procedures

Submit proof of admission requirements.
Applicants will be ranked based on an assessment of academic performance (grades), length of degree, level of degree, and/or degree discipline.

Program Requirements

All students must complete a minimum of three general education courses in Conestoga diploma programs. Based on the admission requirements for Biotechnology Technician Fast Track, students may have fulfilled the general education course requirements through the successful completion of a previous diploma, advanced diploma and/or degree.
Students must have taken a variety of biology and chemistry courses during their degree.

Tuition & Fees

Tuition fee details for the 2019-2020 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 (2019 / 2020) for Biotechnology Technician Fast Track - Program # 11641

Doon - Fall 2019 Level 1 & 2 (Program Start: 2019-09-03)
Description	Fall 2019	Winter 2020
Full-time Program Tuition	$1348.00	$1348.00
Recreation/Athletics Fee	$70.50	$70.50
Technology Enhancement Fee	$135.00	$135.00
Capital Development Fee	$74.83	$74.83
CSI Health Plan Fee	$295.00	$0.00
ONE Card Fee	$7.00	$7.00
CSI Legal Protection (optional)	$28.00	$0.00
CSI Advocacy Fee	$12.50	$12.50
CSI Event Fee and Campus Life (optional)	$40.00	$40.00
CSI Student Clubs and Societies (optional)	$3.50	$3.50
Locker Fee	$5.00	$5.00
Alumni Services	$5.00	$5.00
Student Spaces	$10.00	$10.00
Graduation fee	$15.00	$15.00
Academic Support Fee	$18.00	$18.00
CSI Academic Support Fee	$5.00	$5.00
Health and Wellness Fee	$20.00	$20.00
CSI Health and Wellness Fee	$10.00	$10.00
Career Services Fee	$10.00	$10.00
CSI Career Services Fee	$10.00	$10.00
Session Total	$2122.33	$1799.33
Year Total		$3921.66

International Fees

Estimated International fees based upon the previous academic year (2019 / 2020) for
Biotechnology Technician Fast Track - Program # 11641

Doon - Fall 2019 Level 1 & 2 (Program Start: 2019-09-03)
Description	Fall 2019	Winter 2020
International Program Tuition	$6250.00	$6250.00
Recreation/Athletics Fee	$70.50	$70.50
Technology Enhancement Fee	$135.00	$135.00
Capital Development Fee	$74.83	$74.83
CSI Health Plan Fee	$295.00	$0.00
ISR	$375.00	$375.00
ONE Card Fee	$7.00	$7.00
CSI Legal Protection (optional)	$28.00	$0.00
CSI International Health Fee	$500.00	$0.00
CSI Advocacy Fee	$12.50	$12.50
CSI Event Fee and Campus Life (optional)	$40.00	$40.00
CSI Student Clubs and Societies (optional)	$3.50	$3.50
Locker Fee	$5.00	$5.00
Alumni Services	$5.00	$5.00
Student Spaces	$10.00	$10.00
Graduation fee	$15.00	$15.00
Academic Support Fee	$18.00	$18.00
CSI Academic Support Fee	$5.00	$5.00
Health and Wellness Fee	$20.00	$20.00
CSI Health and Wellness Fee	$10.00	$10.00
Career Services Fee	$10.00	$10.00
CSI Career Services Fee	$10.00	$10.00
Session Total	$7899.33	$7076.33
Year Total		$14975.66

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 in emerging professions within diverse sectors of the bio-economy including environmental, agricultural, food, pharmaceutical, biomedical, analytical chemistry, and many other exciting fields.

On average, 90% of graduates from the last three years (2017 to 2019) 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.

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. 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. 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 Details (11641)
Course Code	Course Title and Description
Level 1
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. Hours: 56 Credits: 4 Pre-Requisites: BIOT1083 or CHEM1070 CoRequisites:
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. Hours: 28 Credits: 2 Pre-Requisites: CoRequisites: BIOT2090
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. Hours: 42 Credits: 3 Pre-Requisites: CoRequisites:
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. Hours: 56 Credits: 4 Pre-Requisites: CoRequisites: BIOT1090
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. Hours: 28 Credits: 2 Pre-Requisites: BIOT1020 or BIOT1025 CoRequisites:
BIOT2141	Laboratory Skills for Biotechnology Description: This course is entirely lab based and will focus on mastering several important laboratory techniques including pipetting, solution preparation, UV spectrophotometry, use of analytical glassware, cell culturing, aseptic technique, chromatography, and electrophoresis. Lab experiments will be based on relevant industry scenarios and incorporate aspects of data management, protocol development, quality control, and problem solving. Hours: 56 Credits: 4 Pre-Requisites: CoRequisites:
CON0101	Conestoga 101 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: Pre-Requisites: CoRequisites:
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. Hours: 42 Credits: 3 Pre-Requisites: CoRequisites:
Level 2
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. Hours: 56 Credits: 4 Pre-Requisites: BIOT1040 CoRequisites:
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). Hours: 56 Credits: 4 Pre-Requisites: BIOT1055 CoRequisites:
BIOT2027	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. Hours: 56 Credits: 4 Pre-Requisites: BIOT1110 or BIOT1115 CoRequisites:
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. Hours: 42 Credits: 3 Pre-Requisites: BIOT1035 or BIOT1037 CoRequisites:
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. Hours: 42 Credits: 3 Pre-Requisites: CoRequisites:
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. Hours: 28 Credits: 2 Pre-Requisites: BIOT1065 CoRequisites:
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. Hours: 28 Credits: 2 Pre-Requisites: BIOT2120 CoRequisites:

Program Outcomes

Complete all tasks in compliance with pertinent legislation and regulations, as well as biotechnology standards and guidelines.
Apply quality control and quality assurance procedures to meet organizational standards and requirements.
Apply best practices for sustainability.
Complete biotechnological applications using principles of chemistry, biology and biostatistics as well as basic principles of physics.
Use appropriate laboratory procedures to carry out quantitative and qualitative tests and analyses.
Carry out standard cell culture procedures under aseptic conditions.
Carry out molecular biology procedures.
Assist with the management of biological data to support biological scientists and researchers in capturing, organizing/summarizing and storing their data.
Prepare, maintain and communicate scientific data effectively.
Develop and present a strategic plan for ongoing personal and professional development 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

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 Ontario Colleges.ca International applicant portal. Please note that not all programs are open to international students; check the list of open programs on our International Student Programs web page before applying.

For additional program information, call the Information Centre at 519-748-5220 ext 3656.

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.