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Honours Bachelor of Science – Biotechnology (BBTA)

Starts in January, September

PGWP-eligible Program

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

About the Program

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.  

Through this program, you will have the opportunity to gain industry experience through two industry focussed 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. 

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Read more about the program

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 

  • gain 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

Start in Location Availability
Sept. 2025 Seneca@York  Open
Jan. 2026 Seneca@York  Open

Please note that availability is subject to change and a seat is not guaranteed.

Start in Location Availability
Sept. 2025 Seneca@York  Open
Jan. 2026 Seneca@York  Open

Please note that availability is subject to change and a seat is not guaranteed.

This program meets Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) eligibility requirements.

Program and Course Delivery

This program is offered in Seneca's hybrid delivery format. Some coursework is online and some must be completed in person. Students will need to come on campus to complete in-person learning requirements.

Learn more: Seneca’s program delivery options and how courses in this program will be delivered each term.

Your Career

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

Advanced Placement

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

Renewable Scholarships

Renewable Scholarships

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

Global Learning and Engagement Opportunity

Global Learning

As a student in this program, you have the chance to explore global learning opportunities through Global Learning and Engagement.

Experiental Learning

Experiential Learning

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

Student Experiences

Graduate Career-Ready

Take the next step in your academic journey at Seneca. Join thousands of graduates who are making a difference here and around the world.

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