Program Overview

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Honours Bachelor of Science – Biotechnology (BBTA)

Overview

In this four-year degree program, you will prepare for work as a biological technologist, research and development associate, microbiology quality control technologist, and more. The program combines in-depth theoretical knowledge and practical application to prepare you for success in a laboratory environment. You will also learn how to design and implement the latest experimental techniques and use tools required in several fields of biotechnology, including molecular genetics, immunology, virology, and pharmaceuticals.

Program Details

• Campus: Seneca@York
• Delivery: Hybrid
• Duration: 8 Semesters (4 Years)
• Credential: Honours Bachelor Degree
• School: School of Biological Sciences & Applied Chemistry

About the Program

Through this program, you will have the opportunity to gain industry experience through two industry-focused capstone projects designed to mirror the research, methodology, and commercialization process in industry. Using the latest equipment, you will have the opportunity to work with your peers, faculty, and potentially with industry collaborators to develop your unique capstone experience.

You will also incorporate bioinformatics, computer applications, and statistics. In the lab environment, you will manage biotechnological data and develop intricate knowledge of quality control and assurance procedures suitable to industrial and research biotechnological applications.

This full-time program will be delivered at the Seneca @York Campus and features small class sizes and will be offered in a flexible, hybrid format from semester three onward, allowing students to experience both a hands-on, in-class learning approach, as well as a virtual learning environment. In addition, students must complete a mandatory, work-integrated learning placement. Students also have the option to sign up for an optional four-month work term. In the final year of the program, students will apply practical and theoretical concepts to design a large-scale, industry-based capstone project.

Skills

Throughout this program, you will develop the following skills:

• Applying the scientific method
• Gaining experience with state-of-the-art techniques and equipment
• Documentation skills
• Managing/processing biotechnological data
• Knowledge of quality control and quality assurance procedures
• Technical communications

Work Experience

Mandatory Degree Work Term

A work experience that includes at least one term in a formal work environment. The work term(s) may be a paid or unpaid position that is completed between two academic semesters and requires a minimum of 420 hours of work. Students must be in good standing and meet all identified requirements prior to participating in the work experience. The successful completion of the work term(s) is required for graduation. Eligibility for participation does not guarantee that a work position will be secured. Additional fees are required for the mandatory degree work term regardless of success in securing a work position.

Program Availability

• Canadian Applicants
• International Applicants

Start in	Location	Availability
Sept. 2025	Seneca@York	Open
Jan. 2026	Seneca@York	Not available

Availability is subject to change, and a seat is not guaranteed.

Career Options

Graduates of the program can explore the following career options:

• Bacteriological Technician
• Biological Laboratory Technologist
• Botanical Technician
• Food Bacteriological Technician
• Environmental Monitoring Microbiologist
• Microbiology Quality Control Technologist
• Quality Control Technician
• Research and Development Associate
• Biotechnology Research Technician

Affiliations/Associations

• Canadian Society of Microbiologists (CSM)
• Chemical Institute of Canada (CIC)

The Seneca Polytechnic Difference

This is where university meets college. Where theory meets practice. Where ambition meets flexibility.

Advanced Placement

Graduates of a diploma program may be eligible to complete this degree faster through one of our pathway options.

Renewable Scholarships

You may qualify for a renewable scholarship and receive up to $1,000 per year when you study in any degree program.

Microbiology Labs

You will gain hands-on, practical experience in our state-of-the-art microbiology labs, preparing you for your in-demand career.

Experiential Learning

Graduate career-ready and world-ready. This program has a mandatory work term to help you hone essential skills for the workplace.