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Updated: 2024-03-28 16:16:07

Biotechnology - Advanced

Formerly named: Biotechnology Technologist - Forensics

The Biotechnology - Advanced program prepares students with current knowledge and skills needed for lab-related work in areas such as health, research, microbiology, DNA, and QA/QC, with the inclusion of a semester-long placement opportunity to further develop and grow the transferable skills needed in today's lab-based workplace.

Program Information

Start Date

September 03, 2024

Domestic Availability

Accepting Applications

International Availability

Closed

Program Code

BTF

Delivery

Hybrid, Placement

Credential

Ontario College Advanced Diploma

Program Contact

BTF Coordinator

Program Contact

Domestic Tuition

$2520.03 per semester*

International Tuition

$9670.56 per semester*

Apply Now

Canadian Students

View Curriculum

January 06, 2025

Domestic Availability

Accepting Applications

International Availability

Closed

Program Code

BTF

Delivery

Hybrid, Placement

Credential

Ontario College Advanced Diploma

Program Contact

BTF Coordinator

Program Contact

Domestic Tuition

$2520.03 per semester*

International Tuition

$9670.56 per semester*

*Domestic tuition amounts shown are from the 2024-2025 academic year and are subject to change.

*International tuition amounts shown are from the 2024-2025 academic year and are subject to change.

Apply Now

Canadian Students

View Curriculum

With a career in the field of biotechnology, students have diverse employment opportunities in a variety of areas including research, quality assurance and control, medical or health-related fields, DNA extraction and analysis. Laboratory related occupations are among the fastest growing occupations in the economy. With a unique combination of courses, our biotechnology program graduates are in demand across a variety of fields. This advanced diploma program would traditionally take six semesters to complete. However, the program has been designed in an accelerated, compressed format, to provide six semesters of course work over five semesters.

Courses taking place in Semesters 1-4 in the program integrate theory and practice opportunities in labs and experiential learning. This prepares students for their final, fifth semester, where they must complete their placement (this can occur from May-August, September-December, or January-April). Resulting graduates will be critical thinkers with problem-solving abilities, strong interpersonal, teamwork and communication skills and a solid, hands-on skillset in a lab setting.

This cross-disciplinary program combines elements from the life sciences, quality control and assurance through ISO17025 regulations, data management, forensic science, automation, and professional skills. This gives graduates the benefit of having multiple, job-ready skills that employers are seeking. The program has been developed in response to identified industry needs and a skills shortage in this field. Today's lab environment requires technicians with skills in information technology, data management and data analysis. The college has programs, courses and faculty who specialize in these areas, as well as state-of-the-art technology to support the use of applied technology in laboratory environments. Students will benefit from Fleming's growing faculty expertise in this field. As well, Fleming College is a founding partner in the Greater Peterborough Innovation Cluster. This strategic alliance between local private and public sector partners was created to advance local research of DNA and forensic science and develop economic growth opportunities, new technology businesses and jobs for the Peterborough region.

A 600-hour placement will immerse students in the work culture of a lab environment, give them the opportunity to seek experience in an area of specialization, and promote networking and awareness of the industry and job potential. Students will work with their faculty in selecting a placement that will be right for them.

To succeed in this occupation, students need the following characteristics:

  • Problem-solving, troubleshooting, creativity.
  • Perseverance, time management, and organization.
  • Life-long learner to maintain currency in an ever-changing field.

In addition, students should enjoy synthesizing information, finding innovative solutions to problems, and working with equipment and instruments at tasks which require precision. Students will likely work in a team environment, so good interpersonal and communication skills are essential.

Program graduates will be qualified to work in various biotechnology related settings (i.e. private versus public), in a variety of roles. Examples include but are not limited to:

  • Research technician/technologist (in areas such as cancer, disease, environmental, etc.)
  • Microbiology testing (food, water, pharmaceuticals, cosmetics).
  • Quality assurance/quality control (food, pharmaceutical, manufacturing).
  • Forensic labs.
  • Hospital and clinical settings.
  • Pharmaceutical companies.
  • Government agencies such as the Canadian Food Inspection Agency, Canadian, Centre for Forensic Science, and Public Health.
  • Municipal wastewater and drinking water treatment facilities.
  • Pathogen and toxicology testing (plant and animals).
  • Wildlife management and restoration (environmental DNA).
  • Cannabis labs.
  • COVID19 testing and medical related fields (may require additional qualifications).
  • Chemical analysis and instrumentation.
  • Nuclear power generation

If you are 19 years of age or older before classes start, and you do not possess an OSSD, you can write the Canadian Adult Achievement Test to assess your eligibility for admission. Additional testing or academic upgrading may be necessary to meet specific course requirements for this program. All applicants will be required to achieve course credit in the mandatory sciences, through Secondary School, Academic Upgrading or College preparatory programs.

Semester 1 Semester 2 Semester 3 Semester 4
Textbook Cost $1,414.00 $996.00
Kit Cost
Field Placement expenses Semester 5 - Placement (FLPL97) - Travel and or parking costs - varies depending on placement location
Uniforms/program shirts
Professional Exam Cost
NARS Cost
Portfolio Builders

  • Perform laboratory duties independently and in compliance with pertinent legislation and regulations, as well as biotechnology standards and guidelines.
  • Collaborate in implementing and evaluating quality control and quality assurance procedures to meet organizational standards and requirements.
  • Select and implement best practices for sustainability.
  • Complete complex biotechnological applications using advanced principles of chemistry, biology and biostatistics as well as basic principles of physics.
  • Co-ordinate, implement and validate laboratory procedures to carry out quantitative and qualitative tests and analyses.
  • Co-ordinate, implement and validate standard cell culture procedures under aseptic conditions.
  • Co-ordinate, implement and validate molecular biology procedures.
  • Manage biological data to support biological scientists and researchers in capturing, organizing/summarizing and storing their data.
  • Prepare, analyze, interpret, maintain and communicate scientific data effectively.
  • Develop and present a strategic plan for ongoing personal and professional development to enhance work performance.
  • Apply basic business principles to biotechnology practices.

Students applying to Biotechnology - Advanced must meet the following requirements:

  • OSSD including Gr 12 C English, Gr 12 C Math and any two Gr 11 or 12 C Sciences

If students are looking to purchase a computer, a Windows-based computer (hardware and software that runs Microsoft Windows - but not a Chromebook) is what should be purchased for the BTF program.

Transfer Agreements

You may be able to use credits obtained at Fleming College to continue your postsecondary education in pursuit of a degree. The articulation and credit transfer agreements with our partner institutions are summarized here.

Bachelor of Health Administration (General)
Requirement
  • Completion of the program.
Transfer Credit
  • 36 out of a 90 credit degree.
  • Refer to the articulation statement for further details.

To apply please see the Apply Alberta website.

For more information

Visit the Athabasca University website for further articulation and program information.

See the official articulation agreement.

Bachelor of Science
Requirement
  • Completion of the program.
Transfer Credit
  • 60 out of a 120 credit degree.
  • Refer to the articulation statement for further details.

To apply please see the Apply Alberta website.

For more information

Visit the Athabasca University website for further articulation and program information.

See the official articulation agreement.

Bachelor of Science in Applied Mathematics
Requirement
  • Completion of the program.
Transfer Credit
  • 30 out of a 120 credit degree.
  • Refer to the articulation statement for further details.

To apply please see the Apply Alberta website.

For more information

Visit the Athabasca University website for further articulation and program information.

See the official articulation agreement.

Bachelor of Science in Computing and Information Systems
Requirement
  • Completion of the program.
Transfer Credit
  • 30 out of a 120 credit degree.
  • Refer to the articulation statement for further details.

To apply please see the Apply Alberta website.

For more information

Visit the Athabasca University website for further articulation and program information.

See the official articulation agreement.

Bachelor of Science in Human Science
Requirement
  • Completion of the program.
Transfer Credit
  • 30 out of a 120 credit degree.
  • Refer to the articulation statement for further details.

To apply please see the Apply Alberta website.

For more information

Visit the Athabasca University website for further articulation and program information.

See the official articulation agreement.

Bachelor of Science in Applied Life Science
Requirement
  • Minimum 75% cumulative program average.
Transfer Credit
  • 10 out of a 20 credit degree.
  • Refer to ONTransfer.ca for further details.

To apply please see the Ontario Universities' Application Centre (OUAC) website.

For more information

Visit the Lakehead University website for further articulation and program information.

Visit the ONTransfer.ca website for agreement information.

Bachelor of Allied Health Science
Requirement
  • Minimum mid-70% cumulative program average.
  • Completion of the Ontario Tech Allied Health Sciences Bridge.
Transfer Credit
  • 57 out of a 120 credit degree.
  • Refer to ONTransfer.ca for further details.

To apply please see the Ontario Universities' Application Centre (OUAC) website.

For more information

Visit the Ontario Tech University website for further articulation and program information.

Visit the ONTransfer.ca website for agreement information.

See the official articulation agreement.

Bachelor of Arts in Educational Studies and Digital Technology
Requirement
  • Minimum mid-70% cumulative program average.
Transfer Credit
  • 60 out of a 120 credit degree.
  • Refer to ONTransfer.ca for further details.

To apply please see the Ontario Universities' Application Centre (OUAC) website.

For more information

Visit the Ontario Tech University website for further articulation and program information.

Visit the ONTransfer.ca website for agreement information.

Bachelor of Commerce
Requirement
  • Minimum mid-70% cumulative program average.
  • Completion of the Ontario Tech Commerce Bridge.
Transfer Credit
  • 45 out of a 120 credit degree.
  • Refer to ONTransfer.ca for further details.

To apply please see the Ontario Universities' Application Centre (OUAC) website.

For more information

Visit the Ontario Tech University website for further articulation and program information.

Visit the ONTransfer.ca website for agreement information.

See the official articulation agreement.

Bachelor of Health Science in Medical Laboratory Science
Requirement
  • Minimum 77% cumulative program average.
  • Present a comprehensive human anatomy and physiology course at the college or university level.
  • Completion of the Ontario Tech Medical Laboratory Bridge.
Transfer Credit
  • 39 out of a 120 credit degree.
  • Refer to ONTransfer.ca for further details.

To apply please see the Ontario Universities' Application Centre (OUAC) website.

For more information

Visit the Ontario Tech University website for further articulation and program information.

Visit the ONTransfer.ca website for agreement information.

See the official articulation agreement.

Bachelor of Interdisciplinary Studies
Requirement
  • Minimum 70% cumulative program average.
Transfer Credit
  • Entry into 5th semester standing in an 8-semester program.

To apply please see the Ontario Universities' Application Centre (OUAC) website.

For more information

Visit the Seneca College website for further articulation and program information.

Visit the ONTransfer.ca website for agreement information.

See the official articulation agreement.

Bachelor of Arts
Requirement
  • Minimum 75% cumulative program average.
Transfer Credit
  • 7 out of a 20 credit degree.
  • Refer to ONTransfer.ca for further details.

To apply please see the Ontario Universities' Application Centre (OUAC) website.

For more information

Visit the Trent University website for further articulation and program information.

Visit the ONTransfer.ca website for agreement information.

See the official articulation agreement.

Bachelor of Science
Requirement
  • Minimum 75% cumulative program average.
Transfer Credit
  • 7 out of a 20 credit degree.
  • Refer to ONTransfer.ca for further details.

To apply please see the Ontario Universities' Application Centre (OUAC) website.

For more information

Visit the Trent University website for further articulation and program information.

Visit the ONTransfer.ca website for agreement information.

See the official articulation agreement.

Bachelor of Science in Biology
Requirement
  • Minimum 75% cumulative program average.
Transfer Credit
  • 7 out of a 20-credit degree.
  • Refer to ONTransfer.ca for further details.

To apply please see the Ontario Universities' Application Centre (OUAC) website.

For more information

Visit the Trent University website for further articulation and program information.

Visit the ONTransfer.ca website for agreement information.

See the official articulation agreement.

Bachelor of Science in Forensic Science
Requirement
  • Minimum 75% cumulative program average.
Transfer Credit
  • 7 out of a 20 credit degree.
  • Refer to ONTransfer.ca for further details.

To apply please see the Ontario Universities' Application Centre (OUAC) website.

For more information

Visit the Trent University website for further articulation and program information.

Visit the ONTransfer.ca website for agreement information.

See the official articulation agreement.

Bachelor of Science in Biochemistry
Requirement
  • Minimum 75% cumulative program average.
  • A passing grade in all courses required for completion of the diploma.
  • Completion of MHF4U (Grade 12 University Advanced Function) or equivalent.
Transfer Credit
  • 7.5 out of a 21.5 credit degree.
  • Refer to ONTransfer.ca for further details.

To apply please see the Ontario Universities' Application Centre (OUAC) website.

For more information

Visit the University of Guelph website for further articulation and program information.

Visit the ONTransfer.ca website for agreement information.

Bachelor of Science in Biological Science
Requirement
  • Minimum 75% cumulative program average.
  • A passing grade in all courses required for completion of the diploma.
  • Completion of MHF4U (Grade 12 University Advanced Function) or equivalent.
Transfer Credit
  • 7.5 out of a 20 credit degree.
  • Refer to ONTransfer.ca for further details.

To apply please see the Ontario Universities' Application Centre (OUAC) website.

For more information

Visit the University of Guelph website for further articulation and program information.

Visit the ONTransfer.ca website for agreement information.

Bachelor of Science in Microbiology
Requirement
  • Minimum 75% cumulative program average.
  • A passing grade in all courses required for completion of the diploma.
  • Completion of MHF4U (Grade 12 University Advanced Function) or equivalent.
Transfer Credit
  • 7.5 out of a 20 credit degree.
  • Refer to ONTransfer.ca for further details.

To apply please see the Ontario Universities' Application Centre (OUAC) website.

For more information

Visit the University of Guelph website for further articulation and program information.

Visit the ONTransfer.ca website for agreement information.

Bachelor of Science in Molecular Biology & Genetics
Requirement
  • Minimum 75% cumulative program average.
  • A passing grade in all courses required for completion of the diploma.
  • Completion of MHF4U (Grade 12 University Advanced Function) or equivalent.
Transfer Credit
  • 7.5 out of a 20 credit degree.
  • Refer to ONTransfer.ca for further details.

To apply please see the Ontario Universities' Application Centre (OUAC) website.

For more information

Visit the University of Guelph website for further articulation and program information.

Visit the ONTransfer.ca website for agreement information.

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