Bachelor of Applied Biotechnology (Honours)

Program Overview

The Bachelor of Applied Biotechnology (Honours) program equips students with the knowledge and skills to work in laboratory and research settings in the biotechnology field. The program emphasizes hands-on experience, critical thinking, and communication skills, preparing graduates for careers in pharmaceuticals, agriculture, environmental science, and more. With two co-op work terms and strong industry connections, students gain practical experience and networking opportunities. Graduates are well-prepared for professional licensure and certification, ensuring a high employment rate in the growing biotechnology industry.

Program Outline

Degree Overview:

Objectives:

• The Bachelor of Applied Biotechnology (Honours) program prepares students for careers in the growing field of biotechnology.
• The program aims to provide students with the knowledge and skills necessary to work in a variety of laboratory and research settings.
• It emphasizes hands-on experience and the development of critical thinking, problem-solving, and communication skills.

Description:

• The Bachelor of Applied Biotechnology (Honours) is a four-year degree program that includes two four-month co-op work terms.
• The program emphasizes a combination of theoretical and practical knowledge in various areas of biotechnology, including:
• Biochemistry
• Microbiology
• Molecular biology
• Genetics
• Organic chemistry
• Analytical chemistry
• Instrumental chemistry
• Molecular analysis
• Regulatory affairs
• Bioinformatics
• The program aims to equip students with the necessary skills to:
• Perform laboratory techniques and analysis.
• Use a variety of instrumentation currently used in various fields.
• Develop critical thinking and problem-solving skills.
• Enhance professional communication and leadership skills.
• Work successfully in a team environment.

Outline:

Content and Structure:

• The program is delivered through a combination of lectures, labs, seminars, and group projects.
• The curriculum focuses on both theoretical and practical aspects of biotechnology.
• Students learn through a variety of learning activities, including:
• Hands-on laboratory experiments
• Case studies
• Field trips
• Guest lectures
• Problem-solving exercises

Course Schedule and Modules:

• Year 1:
• Cell Biology
• Introduction to Microbiology
• Introduction to Chemistry
• Mathematics for Biotechnology
• Introduction to Biotechnology
• Communications
• Year 2:
• Biochemistry 1
• Microbiology 2
• Genetics
• Molecular Biology
• Organic Chemistry 1
• Statistics
• Research Methods
• Co-op Work Term 1
• Year 3:
• Biochemistry 2
• Immunology
• Instrumental Analysis
• Cell Culture & Tissue Engineering
• Bioinformatics
• Organic Chemistry 2
• Environmental Biotechnology
• Co-op Work term 2
• Year 4:
• Capstone Project
• Regulatory Affairs
• Biopharmaceutical Production
• Business Fundamentals
• Industrial Biotechnology
• Ethics in Biotechnology
• Advanced Topics in Biotechnology
• Electives

Module Descriptions:

• Cell Biology: The structure and function of cells.
• Introduction to Chemistry: The fundamental principles of chemistry.
• Mathematics for Biotechnology: Mathematical applications in biotechnology.
• Introduction to Biotechnology: Basics of biotechnology and its applications.
• Communications: Skills in effective communication.
• Biochemistry 1: The chemistry of living organisms.
• Microbiology 2: Advanced concepts in microbiology.
• Genetics: The study of heredity and variation.
• Molecular Biology: The structure and function of genetic material.
• Organic Chemistry 1: The study of carbon-containing compounds.
• Statistics: Data analysis and interpretation.
• Research Methods: Principles of scientific research.
• Biochemistry 2: Further studies in biochemical processes.
• Immunology: The immune system and its response to foreign substances.
• Instrumental Analysis: Techniques for analyzing materials.
• Cell Culture & Tissue Engineering: Growing cells and tissues in a laboratory setting.
• Bioinformatics: Applications of computer science in biology.
• Organic Chemistry 2: More in-depth study of organic compounds.
• Environmental Biotechnology: Using biotechnology to address environmental challenges.
• Capstone Project: An independent research project.
• Regulatory Affairs: Regulations governing biotechnology products.
• Biopharmaceutical Production: Manufacturing biopharmaceutical products.
• Business Fundamentals: Principles of business management.
• Industrial Biotechnology: Applications of biotechnology in industry.
• Ethics in Biotechnology: Ethical considerations in biotechnology research and development.
• Advanced Topics in Biotechnology: Current advancements and discoveries in biotechnology.
• Electives: Students can choose from a variety of electives to personalize their learning experience.

Assessment:

• Assessment methods include:
• Exams
• Lab reports
• Assignments
• Presentations
• Projects
• Assessment criteria vary depending on the specific course and assessment method.
• Generally, the criteria focus on evaluating:
• Knowledge and understanding of course material
• Ability to apply knowledge to practical problems
• Critical thinking and problem-solving skills
• Communication and presentation skills
• Teamwork and collaboration skills

Teaching:

• The program employs a variety of teaching methods:
• Lectures
• Labs
• Seminars
• Group projects
• Guest lectures
• Problem-solving exercises
• The faculty includes experienced professors with expertise in various areas of biotechnology.
• The program also incorporates guest lectures from industry professionals to provide students with real-world insights.

Careers:

• Graduates of the Bachelor of Applied Biotechnology (Honours) program can pursue careers in various sectors, including:
• Pharmaceuticals
• Agriculture
• Food science
• Environmental science
• Forensics
• Cannabis production and quality
• Research and development
• They can hold positions as:
• Research scientists
• Laboratory technicians
• Quality control analysts
• Product development specialists
• Regulatory affairs specialists
• Entrepreneurs

Other:

• The program is designed to provide students with a solid foundation in biotechnology while also allowing them to explore their specific interests through elective courses and co-op work terms.
• The program has strong industry connections, which provide students with opportunities for networking and potential employment.
• The program emphasizes hands-on experience, ensuring that graduates are prepared to enter the workforce with practical skills.
• The program prepares students for professional licensure and certification opportunities.
• Graduates have a high employment rate and are well-prepared for successful careers in the biotechnology industry.