Animal Cell Culture, Microcredential, Part-time
Program Overview
This hands-on program provides comprehensive training in animal cell culture techniques, including cell handling, gene transfer, and cell-based assays. With a small trainee-to-instructor ratio, participants receive personalized feedback and access to specialized equipment. The program prepares individuals for careers in biotechnology, pharmaceutical research, and other fields requiring expertise in cell culture.
Program Outline
Outline:
- Week 1 (XBIO 4010):
- Introduction to animal cell culture lab and equipment operation
- Sub-culturing adherent and suspension cells
- Cell counting and viability determination
- Thaw and cryo-preservation of cell stocks
- Gene transfer (transfection) experiment
- Classroom topics:
- Types of animal cells
- Growth media and supplements
- Microbial contamination prevention and detection
- Gene transfer and analysis techniques
- Week 2 (XBIO 4020):
- Continued sub-culturing of cells
- Preparation of cells in 96-well plates
- ELISA and cell proliferation assay
- Classroom topics:
- Cell-based assays
Teaching:
- Hands-on laboratory-based learning in the dedicated cell culture lab
BCIT - British Columbia Institute of Technology
Overview:
BCIT is a public post-secondary institution in British Columbia, Canada, offering practical, flexible, and applied education. It distinguishes itself from traditional colleges and universities by focusing on hands-on learning with instructors who have direct experience in their fields.
Services Offered:
BCIT provides a wide range of services to its students, including:
Academic & Learning Services:
Academic advising, tutoring, writing support, and library resources.Campus Amenities:
Cafeterias, fitness facilities, student lounges, and other amenities.Financial Aid & Awards:
Scholarships, bursaries, and other financial assistance programs.Health & Wellness:
Counseling, health services, and wellness programs.Safety & Security:
Campus security services and safety protocols.Student Life & Housing:
Student clubs, events, and housing options.Technology:
Access to computer labs, software, and online learning platforms.Workplace & Career Opportunities:
Career counseling, job placement services, and internship opportunities.Indigenous Initiatives:
Support services and programs for Indigenous students.International Students:
Support services and programs for international students.Student Association:
Student-run organization representing student interests.Student Life and Campus Experience:
BCIT offers a vibrant campus life with opportunities for students to engage in various activities, including:
Clubs and Organizations:
Joining clubs and organizations related to their interests.Events:
Attending campus events, workshops, and social gatherings.Volunteering:
Contributing to the community through volunteer opportunities.Mentorship:
Connecting with mentors and peers for guidance and support.Key Reasons to Study There:
Practical, Hands-on Learning:
Focus on applied learning with industry-relevant skills.Experienced Instructors:
Instructors with direct experience in their fields.Flexible Learning Options:
Full-time, part-time, and online programs.Strong Industry Connections:
Close ties with industry partners for internships and job opportunities.Career-Focused Programs:
Programs designed to prepare students for specific careers.Vibrant Campus Community:
Opportunities for student engagement and social interaction.Academic Programs:
BCIT offers a wide range of academic programs across various disciplines, including:
Applied & Natural Sciences:
Business, media, computing, and IT.Engineering:
Various engineering disciplines.Health Sciences:
Healthcare and medical programs.Trades & Apprenticeships:
Skilled trades and apprenticeship programs.Flexible Learning:
Online and part-time programs.Microcredentials:
Short-term, specialized programs for skill development.Other:
BCIT is committed to sustainability and social responsibility, with initiatives focused on environmental protection and community engagement. The institution also acknowledges the unceded traditional territories of the Coast Salish Nations.
Entry Requirements:
This microcredential is targeted to individuals pursuing a career in the life sciences with a strong academic background in one or more of the following disciplines: biological sciences, health sciences, microbiology, molecular biology, biochemistry, immunology, neurobiology, physiology, and pharmacology.
- This hands-on skills training is intended to complement a theoretical background in animal cell biology. Therefore, those interested in enrolling in this microcredential must have already successfully completed a Cell Biology course equivalent to a second year undergraduate level.
- Equivalent Cell Biology courses:
- Equivalent Cell Biology courses: Camosun College - BIOL 231 Capilano University - BIOL 214 Kwantlen Polytechnic University - BIOL 2321 Langara College - BIOL 2415 Okanagan College - BIOL 211 Simon Fraser University - MBB 231 Thompson Rivers University - BIO 2130 Trinity Western University - BIO 233 University of British Columbia - BIOL 200 University of Fraser Valley - BIOL 201 University of Northern British Columbia - BIOL 311 University of Victoria - BIOL 225 Vancouver Island University - BIO 2100 You are a suitable candidate if you fall into one of the following categories: A recent Bachelor of Science in Life Sciences graduate within the past five years. Currently enrolled in a Bachelor of Science in Life Sciences program and completed third year or above. A recent Associate or Diploma in Life Sciences graduate within the past five years. Currently enrolled in the second year or above of an Associate or Diploma in Life Sciences program. Currently working in a life sciences laboratory and interested in adding animal cell culture to your skill set. Recently worked in a life sciences laboratory (in the past five years) and would like to add or refresh animal cell culture skills for re-entry into the job market. Individuals who currently work (or have previously worked) in non-life sciences laboratories may also be considered but must successfully complete a second-year Animal Cell Biology course (see the eligible courses above) prior to enrolling in this microcredential.
