Biotechnology - Advanced

What’s it really like to complete an experiment in a college science lab? For a group of Grade 12 students who spent a day in Fleming College’s Biotechnology labs, the answer involved extracting their own DNA, learning advanced laboratory techniques, and experiencing first-hand what post-secondary science education can look like.

The Grade 12 Lab Day gave students the opportunity to step into a biotechnology work environment and spend the day exploring the exciting world of DNA, genotyping (analyzing DNA to identify genetic variations), and applied science. Designed for students with an interest in biology, chemistry, and biotechnology, the experience combined hands-on learning with exposure to potential careers.

A Hands-On Biotechnology Experience

During the Lab Day, students completed a full DNA extraction using their own cheek cells. With guidance from Biotechnology faculty and lab staff, students followed professional laboratory protocols while using real scientific equipment, materials, and techniques.

After extracting their DNA, students learned how scientists quantify and qualify DNA samples before moving into the next stage. For many students, this was their first opportunity to learn in a post-secondary lab setting, and it left a strong impression.

One student shared:
"I learned what it felt like to be in a college lab. Getting a glimpse into the feel of post-secondary was very cool for me.”

Other students reflected on the practical skills they developed throughout the workshop:
"I learned how different lab equipment worked, how to use the gels, and was able to practice my pipette skills/precision."

"Being in a lab environment helped me gain confidence in doing pipetting."

(Note: Pipetting is the process of measuring, transferring, or dispensing small volumes of liquid using a lab tool called a pipette.)

Through opportunities like this, Fleming helps students connect classroom science concepts to real-world applications and build their confidence while giving high school teachers a unique experiential learning opportunity for their classes.

Students Gain an Understanding of the Science Behind DNA

A major focus of the day at Fleming was introducing students to genotyping, DNA fingerprinting, and DNA analysis, important tools used across many areas of modern science and biotechnology.

Genotyping allows scientists to determine which alleles (genes) are present at a specific location, or locus, in DNA. Since each person inherits one allele from each parent, this process can help create a DNA fingerprint.

DNA fingerprinting plays an important role in many fields, including forensic science, medical research, environmental monitoring, and food safety testing. Students learned that DNA analysis is not limited to humans either. Animal and plant DNA are also studied for purposes such as species identification, wildlife conservation, and border inspection services.

For students considering careers in biotechnology?or?conservation biology, seeing these concepts applied in a real science lab helped demonstrate how broad and impactful the field can be.

A Glimpse into Science Studies at Fleming College

Beyond the science itself, the Grade 12 Lab Day was designed to help students experience what life can feel like in Fleming’s Biotechnology – Advanced program.

Throughout the day, students completed worksheets, practiced lab techniques, and learned how a college laboratory operates. The goal was not only to teach biotechnology concepts, but also to help students imagine themselves in a future post-secondary setting.

For parents and educators, experiences like this can be incredibly valuable. Spending time at Fleming College’s Sutherland Campus allows students to explore their interests early and start thinking about possible academic and career pathways.

Lab Days like this can help students discover what areas of science excite them most while also introducing them to the expectations and opportunities of post-secondary education.

Students Consider Careers in Biotechnology

The biotechnology industry continues to grow across sectors including healthcare, environmental science, food production, pharmaceuticals, and forensic science, making it an exciting field for students passionate about discovery and innovation.

Grade 12 Lab Day provided students with an opportunity to explore and learn about a wide range of exciting and evolving careers as graduates of the Biotechnology – Advanced program. Many of those opportunities are listed on Fleming’s??Biotechnology – Advanced? program page.

High schools interested in booking a Grade 11 or Grade 12 Lab Day experience, in the areas of Biology, Chemistry, or DNA, can contact Fleming College’s ?Biotechnology – Advanced Program Coordinator at btfcoordinator@flemingcollege.ca.??

Students interested in learning more about the?Biotechnology – Advanced?program?can reach out to our?Student Recruitment?team via?e-mail.?

Watch a replay of our Webinar Wednesday video for an in-depth look into the Biotechnology - Advanced program.

Last week, we hosted a Webinar Wednesday session shining a spotlight on our Biotechnology – Advanced program. If you couldn’t join us virtually, don’t worry. Below are the highlights from the session, along with the full recording below to watch at your convenience.  

Fleming College’s Biotechnology program, within the School of Health and Community Services, is known for its intensive lab training, industry-focused curriculum, and strong emphasis on real world application. Prospective students joined Nick from Student Recruitment, Sol from Fleming’s International team, and Amanda Rochon, Program Coordinator for the program, to learn more about what to expect.  

Why Biotechnology at Fleming?  

The Biotechnology program at Fleming is designed to prepare students for real lab environments from day one. With a strong mix of foundational science, extensive hands-on lab training, and a dedicated field placement semester, students build the technical skills and professional confidence employers are looking for. Graduates leave with significant lab experience, industry exposure, and a flexible skill set that can lead to opportunities across biotech, research, quality control, analytical testing, and related science sectors. 

For students who already hold a science-based diploma or degree, a Fast Track option is also available. Qualified applicants can enter directly into semester 3, completing the advanced lab focused semesters and the placement in a shorter timeframe. This pathway allows students to strengthen their hands on experience and add an industry placement to their academic background. 

Three Key Takeaways 

1. A fast, hands-on program with real lab time  

The Biotechnology program is structured to build confidence step-by-step. In semesters 1 and 2, students focus on foundational courses such as biology, chemistry, math, physics, scientific communication, and introductory DNA applications. These early semesters are designed to strengthen core knowledge while introducing essential lab techniques and tools. 

As students move into semesters 3 and 4, the program becomes more specialized and intensive. Courses expand into molecular biology, microbiology, biochemistry, pharmacology and toxicology, analytical chemistry, lab automation, and quality control and assurance. DNA courses run throughout the program, allowing students to continuously build and refine their skills. This layered structure ensures students feel prepared as they move into more advanced and applied lab work. 

2. Students gain nearly 500 hours of hands-on lab training 

A major highlight of the webinar was the emphasis on time spent in the lab. Over the first four semesters, students complete close to 500 hours of hands-on lab experience. Training begins with foundational skills such as pipetting, calculations, and safe lab practices, then progresses into complex applications like DNA extraction, quantification, profiling, microbiological analysis, and instrumentation. 

Students work with industry relevant tools and techniques, including liquid handling automation, database systems, analytical instruments, and quality control procedures. By the final semester, students are completing advanced DNA projects and competency-based assessments that mirror real workplace expectations. This high volume of lab time helps graduates enter placement and employment with strong technical confidence.  

3. A full semester placement with strong career flexibility

Semester 5 is entirely dedicated to a field placement of up to 600 hours. Students work in industry, research, healthcare, environmental, or quality control settings, gaining meaningful experience and professional connections. The placement process is student driven, allowing learners to explore opportunities based on their interests and geographic preferences, with faculty support throughout. 

The program also includes professional practice preparation, such as resume development, interview practice, and workplace readiness training. Graduates pursue careers across a wide range of sectors including research institutes, diagnostic labs, fertility clinics, environmental testing facilities, and forensic settings. Some continue into university degree pathways or medical lab technology programs, while others secure employment directly through their placement experience. 

CHECK OUT THE FULL WEBINAR:  

HAVE QUESTIONS OR WANT TO LEARN MORE?  

If this session sparked your interest or you are considering a future in biotechnology, we would love to connect with you. Our Student Recruitment team and program representatives are here to answer questions, help you explore admission pathways, or guide you toward the right next step. Be sure to check out our upcoming Webinar Wednesday sessions online. We’re hosting new topics in the months ahead and it’s a great way to learn more about programs that excite you. 

CAN’T?MAKE A LIVE WEBINAR WEDNESDAY EVENT?? 

No problem! We’ll save video recordings on Fleming’s official YouTube channel. And?don’t?worry, Program Coordinators are always available to answer your questions!??? 

For more information about Webinar Wednesdays, please contact Student Recruitment.?