Biotechnology

Program Overview

Centennial College's Biotechnology program equips students with the knowledge and skills to work as laboratory technicians in the food, pharmaceutical, and cosmetic industries, particularly in quality control and quality assurance. The program emphasizes problem-solving and research skills through project-based learning and provides practical experience in industrial microbiology, chemistry, and biochemistry. Graduates may pursue careers as laboratory technicians or advance to specialized roles in biotechnology with further education.

Program Outline

Degree Overview:

Overview:

Centennial College's Biotechnology program prepares students for careers as laboratory technicians in the food, pharmaceutical, and cosmetic industries, particularly in quality control and quality assurance.

Objectives:

Upon completion of the program, students will be equipped with the knowledge and skills to:

• Isolate, enumerate, and identify microorganisms from various samples (water, soil, air, the body, food, and pharmaceutical and cosmetic products)
• Prepare specimens for staining and become proficient in light microscopy
• Handle materials aseptically
• Calibrate and use various instruments (pH meters, UV-Vis spectrophotometers, centrifuges)
• Prepare microbiological media and reagents and culture pathogenic microbes
• Design and perform microbiology experiments
• Use microorganisms to assay pharmaceutical products

Program Description:

The Biotechnology program features a project-based approach, emphasizing problem-solving and research skills through independently designed microbiology projects. Students will gain practical experience in industrial microbiology, chemistry (analytical), organic chemistry, and biochemistry.

Structure:

The program spans two years/four semesters. Students may choose to complete the program in two years as a biotechnician or continue into a third year to study specialized topics such as advanced biotechnology, microbial genetics, or systematic microbiology.

Careers:

Graduates of the Biotechnology program may pursue careers as laboratory technicians in the food, pharmaceutical, and cosmetic industries. They may also work in quality control and quality assurance roles. With further education, they may pursue advanced roles in biotechnology, microbial genetics, or systematic microbiology.

Opportunities:

• Employment as a laboratory technician in the food, pharmaceutical, or cosmetic industries
• Advancement to supervisory or managerial roles
• Opportunities for research and development in biotechnology
• Entrepreneurial ventures in the biotechnology sector