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Biotechnology 

A student is in a lab setting wearing a white lab coat and a pair of goggles. The student is holding a beaker and is looking to fill it.

Biotechnology is essential in combating hunger, disease, and pollution. Gain the hands-on skills you need to work in a laboratory setting, contributing to new discoveries and advancements in this field.

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Home / Learn / Programs List / Biotechnology 
Credential
Ontario College Diploma
Duration
Two years
Start Date(s)
January (Winter)
September (Fall)
Locations
Belleville
Open to
International Students
Domestic Students

Find your career

A career in biotechnology holds many opportunities to make an impact in government, industry, education, and medical facilities. 

  • There is a growing demand for skilled technicians, lab technologists and research assistants. 
  • It is used in developing precision medicines, engineering better crops, and in environmental decontamination to restore polluted spaces. 
  • You could work in life sciences, agriculture, food production, pharmaceuticals, and sanitation or health research. 
  • Graduates also find opportunities in regulation and enforcement, quality control and sales. 

Our grads get great jobs

  • Quality Assurance and Quality Control Lab Technician, Beau’s All Natural Brewing Company, Vankleek Hill 
  • Senior Primary Inspector, Canada Food Inspection Agency 
  • Research and Development, Royal Military College of Canada 
  • Biopharmaceutical Production Assistant, Bioniche Life Sciences Inc. 
  • Research Technologist, Environmental Health, Science and Research Bureau, Health Canada 
  • Health Researcher, Ottawa Hospital Research Institute 
  • Brewmaster/Biotechnician, Huntsville Wine and Beer 
  • Chemical Engineering Technologist, DuPont Canada Co., Kingston 

Is it for you?

People who succeed in biotechnology: 

  • May be fans of CSI: Crime Scene Investigation. 
  • Are drawn by the potential of science to make people’s lives better. 
  • Have strong skills in math and science. 

The Biotechnology program at Loyalist College is preparing me for my chosen career field by providing extensive hands-on training in advanced lab techniques and cutting-edge technologies. The curriculum is aligned with industry standards, ensuring relevant skills. Additionally, the program offers opportunities for internships and projects, giving practical experience and professional networking.

Maitri, Biotechnology

How you'll learn

Experiential learning

Study in the newly equipped Bay of Quinte Skills Centre:

  • Hands-on learning combines classroom theory and practical, lab-based instruction.
  • Work in state-of-the-art Instrumentation and Molecular Biology labs equipped with PCR and DNA sequencing technology.
  • Get experience with a wide variety of instrumentation used in genetics, microbiology, fermentation and forensics.

Certifications

Earn certifications while you study.

  • Ontario Water Wastewater Certification
  • MOE Entry Level Drinking Water Operator Certification

Expand your opportunities in Biosciences

Overlapping areas of study provide the option to fast-track your way to a second diploma in Chemical Engineering Technician or Environmental Technician in just one more year of study.

Outstanding faculty make the difference

Learn with active, involved instructors who are committed to students’ success.

Courses

BIOS1013 Cell Biology Lab

This is an introductory course focusing on the topics of cell structure and function, the flow of energy in cells, and the exchange of information in and between cells. Basic biological laboratory exercises augment theoretical material. Co-requisite: BIOS 1012

BIOS1012 Cell Biology Lecture

This is an introductory course focusing on the topics of cell structure and function, the flow of energy in cells, and the exchange of information in and between cells. Co-requisite: BIOS 1013

COMM1068 Communications

This course introduces students to essential language skills to communicate clearly, concisely and correctly in written, spoken and visual form that fulfills the purpose and meets the needs of the audiences. Students reframe information, ideas and concepts using narrative, visual and symbolic representations, which demonstrate understanding.

CHEM1019 Introduction to Applied Chemistry-Lab

The first of two introductory laboratory classes for chemistry. This course aims to provide students with the foundational laboratory skills required to safely and efficiently work in a laboratory setting. The course will examine the proper use of simple laboratory equipment, interpreting results through mathematical calculations, and making proper laboratory observations. Laboratory exercises provide students with practical knowledge of general lab safety and standard laboratory procedures.

CHEM1018 Introduction to Applied Chemistry-Lecture

The first of two, this introductory chemistry course examines atomic structure, the names of the elements and their symbols, the IUPAC and common systems of nomenclature for inorganic compounds and ions, molecular weight, mole and solution concentration calculations, chemical reactions and equations. Laboratory exercises supplement the course material to provide students with practical knowledge of general lab safety and standard laboratory procedures.

MATH1003 Mathematics for Biosciences 1

Students learn about the engineering and scientific applications involving the following areas: the SI system for dealing with exact and approximate numbers, exponents, solving equations, determinants and linear equations, curve sketching, graphing and trigonometry.

CHEM1001 Organic Chemistry 1

This course is designed as an introduction to organic chemistry, with emphasis on molecular structure of the major classes of organic molecules, physical and chemical properties, and IUPAC nomenclature. Students recognize the unique properties of organic compounds, and describe practical applications of organic chemistry to everyday life and biological systems.

BIOS1010 Sustainability

This course focuses on understanding climate and climate change, investigating the implications of climate change, the societal and environmental impacts of a changing climate, and geoengineering solutions. Students learn about sustainability as it relates to conserving water resources, food supply, and energy production.

CHEM1016 Applied Chemistry 2-Lab

This course provides practical exercises to support Applied Chemistry 2 theory. Prerequisite: CHEM 1018, CHEM 1019, MATH 1003 Co-requisite: CHEM 1015

CHEM1015 Applied Chemistry 2-Lecture

Students learn principles of acids and bases, gases, chemical equilibrium, and stoichiometry. Emphasis is placed on the chemistry as it relates to disciplines within the Biosciences. This is a companion course for Applied Chemistry 2 Lab Prerequisite: CHEM 1018, CHEM 1019, MATH 1003 Co-requisite: CHEM 1016

CHEM1013 Applied Organic Chem Techniques

This course is designed as a continuation of introductory Organic Chemistry. Students learn nomenclature, structure, and physical and chemical properties of major groups of organic compounds, and differentiate among types of chemical reactions involving organic compounds. Emphasis is placed on the practical applications of organic chemistry to the biosciences and engineering. Lab exercises complement the theoretical components of the course. Prerequisite: CHEM 1018, CHEM 1019 Co-requisite: CHEM 1017

BIOS1001 Introduction to Microbiology

This course introduces microbiological theory, specifically addressing the fundamentals of microbiology, bacterial structure and function relationships, as well as technical processes to manage microbial growth, nutrition and infection. The principal divisions of the field are discussed in this course, including their relationship to biotechnological, chemical and environmental interests.

MATH1004 Mathematics for Biosciences 2

This course focuses on engineering and scientific applications involving properties of exponents, logarithms and special graphing techniques. Microsoft Excel will be used. Prerequisite: MATH 1003

CHEM1014 Organic Chemistry 2

This course is designed as a continuation of concepts and applications learned in Organic Chemistry 1. Students i) learn IUPAC nomenclature, molecular structure, and physical and chemical properties of major groups of organic compounds, ii) apply principles of stereoisomerism to classification and nomenclature of compounds exhibiting chirality, and iii) differentiate among types of chemical reactions involving organic compounds. Emphasis is placed on the practical applications of organic chemistry to disciplines within the Biosciences. This is a companion course for Applied Organic Chemistry Techniques. Prerequisite: CHEM 1001 Co-requisite: CHEM 1013

BIOS1002 Organismal Biology & Taxonomy

The relationship between structure and function is a fundamental principle of biology. This course in organismal biology emphasizes principles of anatomy and physiology of plants and animals within the context of problems that organisms must solve, including sensory perception and response to the environment, acquisition of oxygen and nutrients, excretion of wastes, movement, and reproduction. Prerequisite: BIOS 1012, BIOS 1013

BIOS1007 Technical Communications in Biosciences

This course is designed to: 1) raise awareness and interest regarding the place of science in everyday life, by exploring current local and global topics affecting life on Earth, and science's place in bringing these issues to our awareness; 2) develop sound critical thinking skills through exposure to the scientific method and experimental design; 3) apply transferable skills fundamental to scientific research and communication, and 4) learn of career opportunities in science through exposure to careers of current biosciences professors and local industry leaders.

GNED1100 Becoming a Global Changemaker

This Loyalist College graduate attributes course will help shape your perspectives, broaden your understanding of important issues affecting our societies today, and equip you with invaluable knowledge and skills that will inform your ability to influence your community in a meaningful and impactful way. By exploring topics such as cultural competency, Indigenous education, entrepreneurship, sustainability, health and wellness, and ecological literacy, you'll be equipped with a powerful toolkit that extends far beyond the classroom.

CHEM2010 Analytical Chemistry

This course provides an introduction to basic theory and calculations associated with quantitative chemical analysis. Prerequisite: CHEM 1015, CHEM 1016, MATH 1004

CHEM2009 Analytical Techniques

This course provides an introduction to some of the basic techniques and calculations associated with quantitative chemical analysis. Prerequisite: CHEM 1015, CHEM 1016, MATH 1004

MATH2002 Data Analysis 1

This course focuses on measures of central tendency, measures of variation, frequency distributions, linear regression and the normal distribution. Microsoft Excel is used to generate statistical reports and graphs. Prerequisite: MATH 1004

BIOS2009 Forensics

This course provides an overview of the nature and scope of forensic science, the theory and practice of applying principles of chemistry, biology and genetics to forensic science, and the ethical and legal considerations pertaining to the discipline. Prerequisite: BIOS 1012, BIOS 1013, CHEM 1015, CHEM 1016, MATH 1003

BIOS2003 Genetics

This one-semester course in genetics is designed to introduce students to the fundamental principles of modern genetics: mechanisms and modes of inheritance, DNA and RNA (structure, function, and synthesis), the genetic code, population genetics, evolution and select applications of genetic principles to biotechnology and medicine. Prerequisite: BIOS 1012, BIOS 1013, MATH 1003

CHEM2006 Instrumentation 1-Lab

The labs performed in this course support the theory studied in CHEM 2001, Chemical Instrumentation 1. Prerequisite: CHEM 1015, CHEM 1016, MATH 1004

CHEM2001 Instrumentation 1-Lecture

This course stresses the basic concepts and techniques of chromatography (thin layer, column, gas, liquid and ion) and spectrophotometry i.e. ultraviolet (UV), Visible (Vis), Infra-red (IR), Flame and Furnace Atomic Absorption (AA), conductivity, and specific ion electrodes i.e. fluoride. Prerequisite: CHEM 1015, CHEM 1016, MATH 1004

BIOS2000 Microbiology

This applied biology course provides an introduction to microbiological theory and skills: specifically addressing microscopy, staining methods, cultivation of microorganisms, control of microbial growth, enumeration, water sanitary analysis and industrial application. Prerequisite: BIOS 1001

GNED General Education Elective

General Education Courses

BIOS2007 Biotechnology

Biotechnology is an introductory course focusing on applications of biotechnology in microbial, animal and plant genetics, biomedical sciences, genome projects, conservation genetics and other selected topics. Prerequisite: BIOS 1007, BIOS 2003, MATH 1004

BIOS2001 Fermentation

This course covers the fundamentals of fermentation technology and bioprocessing. Subject material includes batch and continuous fermentation, production of biomass, bioconversions, and the use of immobilized cells and recovery of by-products. Prerequisite: BIOS 2000, MATH 1004

WKPL2089 Industry Research &Career Prep

This course will provide students with exposure to a broad scope of tools that can be used to achieve their career objectives. Scenarios are used to develop research techniques to identify job opportunities in a variety of related fields in private, research, contract, and government institutions reinforced with workshops and written assignments to create resumes and cover letters and practice job interviewing competency.

CHEM2002 Instrumentation 2

This course reviews some of the basic concepts and techniques of chromatography (thin layer, column, gas, liquid and ion), spectroscopy (ultraviolet-UV, Visible, Flame and Furnace Atomic Absorption). Fluorescence and Infra-red spectroscopy are introduced. A variety of sample preparation techniques are carried out as various unknowns are analysed in the labs. Prerequisite: CHEM 2001, CHEM 2006

BIOS3002 Nutraceuticals

This course presents the effects of natural products on human health. Topics include plant colours, flavours, and fibres, fatty acids, dairy products, enhancing the effect of neutraceuticals through processing techniques and an introduction to the development of neutraceutical products. Prerequisite: CHEM 1001, CHEM 1013, CHEM 1014

BIOS2004 Pharmacology

Students study the basics of pharmacology and prepare to work in the field of pharmaceutical manufacturing and research, label and regulatory requirements or clinical studies. Prerequisite: BIOS 1002

GNED General Education Elective

General Education Courses

*Courses subject to change.

A student is observing lab equipment in a lab and classroom setting. Fourteen green graphic circles are in the lower lefthand corner of the image.

Admission requirements

Required academic preparation 

  • OSSD/OSSGD or equivalent with courses at the general, advanced, (C), (U) or (M) level, AND
  • Grade 12 English (C) level or equivalent

OR

Recommended academic preparation 

  • Grade 12 Mathematics, Chemistry and Physics at the (C), (U) or general level
  • Grade 11 or 12 Biology at the (C), (U) or general level
  • Applicants with a related degree or diploma may be considered for advanced standing or direct entry into year two

Prior learning assessment and recognition (PLAR) 

Do you have work experience or other types of non-credentialed learning? Through Loyalist’s PLAR program, applicants and current students may be eligible to receive academic credit for relevant educational, work and life experiences. 

International students  

Learn more about admission requirements for international applicants and how to apply.

Costs

Approximate costs (2024 – 25) 

  • Domestic Tuition: $2,722.08 
  • Full-Time Ancillary Fees:* $1,367 
  • Total: $4,089.08
  • Additional costs, such as supplies, travel and parking, may be incurred during workplace visits, etc.   

*Fees related to programs that are less than or greater than two semesters will be adjusted accordingly. Fees are subject to change. Please visit the Tuition and fees page for a list of the many services, activities and items included within the ancillary fees, and the related policies. 

Paying for college 

At Loyalist College, we believe that cost should never be a barrier to your success. We’re here to help you navigate the costs of college and connect you with a variety of financial aid programs, resources and donor-supported awards. Explore paying for college.   

Approximate costs (2024 – 25) 

  • International Tuition: $15,000 
  • Full-Time Ancillary Fees:* $1,367 
  • Mandatory Health Insurance: $659 
  • Total: $17,026
  • Additional costs, such as supplies, travel and parking, may be incurred during workplace visits, etc.   

*Fees related to programs that are less than or greater than two semesters will be adjusted accordingly. Fees are subject to change. Please visit the Tuition and fees page for a list of the many services, activities and items included within the ancillary fees, and the related policies. 

Paying for college 

At Loyalist College, we believe that cost should never be a barrier to your success. We’re here to help you navigate the costs of college and connect you with a variety of financial aid programs, resources and donor-supported awards. Explore paying for college.   

A student is in a lab setting wearing a white lab coat and a pair of goggles. Fourteen blue graphic circles are in the lower lefthand corner of the image.

Further study

What’s next? 

Fast-track to a second diploma with just one additional year of study in: 

Pathways and university transfer 

What’s next? Build on the knowledge and skills you learned at Loyalist by continuing your academic journey. Return to Loyalist to complete a second diploma or a post-graduate program in as little as a year, or receive credit recognition for your Loyalist studies when pursuing a degree at a university. Explore pathway opportunities.  

Study Abroad 

Explore opportunities to continue your studies in Ireland.

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