Honours Bachelor of Applied Technology - Biotechnology BIO

Holland Code: I (Investigative)

What academic skills do I need to be successful in the program?

This list does not replace the admission requirements you must have for admission to the program. Please see website for details.

Math & Science Advanced math skills required (high school courses in functions or calculus). Must have grade 12 university level science preparation in biology and chemistry. See details of the sciences courses taken over the course of this program.

Arts & Literacy Applicants should be able to communicate effectively in English (oral presentations and written reports).

Technology Basic computer skills required (Microsoft Office, email, Internet). Heavy use of student portal system, students need to check email and posts daily.

What personal qualities should someone interested in this career have?

• Have a passion for science, investigation and experimental design
• Curiosity and imagination
• Detail oriented
• An aptitude for science and rational thinking
• Enjoy synthesizing information and finding innovative solutions to problems
• Enjoy working with equipment and instruments at tasks that require precision
• Critical analysis coupled with logical, timely decision making skills
• Ability to work independently and with others
• Time management
• Organizational skills

Useful background experience for this program would be

A passion for science and laboratory work, have been a participant in science fairs.

What kind of work could I do when I graduate?

Graduates of this program may go into the fields of

Research and product development, laboratory management, quality control, chemical analysis and microbiology analysis in food industry, fermentation chemistry, environmental remediation, alternate energy source development, pharmaceutical production and sales, downstream processing of waste products, risk assessment and management, intellectual property manager, or technical writing.

Typical working conditions for this kind of work:

• Work in classrooms and laboratories
• Often work evenings and weekends to complete laboratory experiments and other types of research
• Must observe safety precautions in laboratories

Places you may find yourself employed include …

Government and university research laboratories, biotechnology company research and development laboratories, pharmaceutical companies, agricultural support services and product manufacturers, food assessment laboratories, or hospitals.

Tasks a graduate may do in the workplace

• Perform chemical analysis
• Data collection and data management
• Prepare scientific reports and peer-reviewed papers
• Design, production, marketing, testing, quality control, estimating, surveying, inspection, diagnostic evaluation, supervision, management, technical sales and teaching
• Evaluates assignments, determines procedures and implements solutions, schedules work to meet objectives, participates in short- and long-range planning, and may become involved in developing and promoting conceptual change
• May assume managerial or administrative responsibility for a wide range of technical endeavours

Helpful links for further research into this Fanshawe College program and career opportunity

Websites with good information for further research on the careers associated with this program

• BIOTECanada
• BioTalent Canada
• Ontario Bioscience
• Chemical Institute of Canada (CIC)
• Fanshawe’s library has prepared a subject guide for current students in this program. You may find the links and information provided very useful in learning more about this career.

Opportunities for further development or education

• Graduates may wish to pursue post graduate certifications, teacher’s college, or Masters level programs.

Last Modified: January 11, 2024