A Bachelors in Biotechnology in Canada is an excellent choice for students who want to pursue a career in biotechnology. According to the Times Higher Education Ranking 2023, 11 Canadian colleges are among the top 250 universities worldwide. In Canada, Bachelor in Biotechnology programs duration is 4-5 years. Some Canadian universities also offer a Bachelors in Biotechnology with a co-op option, allowing students to get hands-on training (internship/work experience) during the course. This program has an average tuition fee between 30,000 -55,000 CAD per year. A successful career in the biotech industry can be facilitated by earning a biotechnology bachelor’s degree from one of Canada’s best universities.
Based on talent.com The average yearly wage for professionals in the biotechnology sector in Canada is $63,141, or $32.38 per hour. The usual beginning salary for entry-level occupations is $48,794 per year, while the highest-paid employees may make up to $104,812 per year.
National Research predicts that by 2024, there will be a skills shortage across all sectors of Canada’s bioeconomy and it projects that an extra 65,000 workers will be required by 2029. This shortage of professionals will help the students of leading Canadian universities with more job opportunities.
Canada is one of the most sought education destinations by international students Because it includes some of the most popular student cities and a handful of low-cost universities. The option of working part-time while studying in Canada is also available for international students. This can bring down living expenses while giving students useful job experience.
Overview: Bachelors in Biotechnology in Canada
| Program Level | Undergraduate |
| Duration of Program | 4-5 years |
| Popular Programs Offered | Bsc Biotechnology, BSc Biotechnology/Chartered Professional Accountancy, Biotechnology SSP(BTEC) |
| Annual Fee | 30,000- 55,000 CAD |
| Entrance Exams | nil |
Why Study Bachelors in Biotechnology in Canada?
Thriving Biotech Sector
A large number of biotech businesses operate in Canada, which has a thriving biotech sector. This comprises businesses that are focused on the production, distribution, and manufacture of biotech goods and services.
Large-Scale Investments in the Biotech Sector
According to the Canadian Venture Capital and Private Equity Association, throughout the first nine months of 2020, firms in the biotech and life sciences sector raised more than $1 billion in venture financing, putting the sector on track to break its 2019 record of $1.085 billion.
Students studying biotechnology may have greater options as a result of these significant investments in the biotech and life sciences sector, including more financing for research projects and internships as well as prospective career prospects in the expanding industry.
Global Market Access
The strategic position of Canada makes it simple to reach markets across the world, including those in the US, Europe, and Asia. Because of this, it’s a great place for biotech businesses trying to grow and enter new markets.
Being in a nation with access to such a wide variety of worldwide markets gives biotechnology students plenty of possibilities. Students can learn about and participate in all elements of the biotech sector and maybe pursue foreign career pathways after graduation.
Supportive Government Programs
The Canadian government offers a variety of financial incentives, tax credits, grants, and financing initiatives for biotech businesses. This enables the commercialization of cutting-edge biotech goods and services and aids the industry’s growth and development.
The federal government of Canada has started a variety of programs to aid biotech firms, such as the Strategic Innovation Fund, which offers money to assist in the creation of novel goods and technology.
Favorable Regulatory Environment
Students studying biotechnology in Canada may benefit from the favorable regulatory environment for biotech businesses that are managed by Health Canada.
Students can learn important information about the regulatory environment of the sector by studying and comprehending the regulatory framework and procedures for the creation, testing, and approval of biotech products. They can use this to prepare for employment in the biotech sector, where they will have to manage challenging regulatory regulations to sell innovative goods.
Co-op Opportunities
Students can gain paid job experience in their subject of study while pursuing a degree through co-op options. Co-op opportunities can benefit students majoring in biotechnology by allowing them to obtain practical experience, make relationships with businesspeople, and improve their employability after graduation. These opportunities can help students make wise decisions about their futures and offer insightful information about prospective career pathways.
Top Universities Offering Bachelors in Biotechnology in Canada
|
Name of University |
QS World University Ranking for Biological Sciences 2023 | Times Higher Education Ranking 2023 |
|---|---|---|
|
University of Toronto |
26 |
18 |
|
University of Waterloo |
251-300 |
201-250 |
|
University of Ottawa |
251-300 |
137 |
|
Queen’s University |
251-300 |
251-300 |
|
York University |
– |
401-500 |
| Carleton University | – | 601-800 |
University of Toronto
The University of Toronto is a well-known institution with a research-oriented concentration that is located in the country’s largest metropolis. Since its foundation in 1827, it has consistently been ranked among the top 50 institutions in the world. The University of Toronto attracts intelligent people from all over the world because of its outstanding teachers, rigorous academic programs, and varied student body.
A solid program in molecular biology and biotechnology is provided by the University of Toronto. It covers a wide variety of subjects, including genetics, microbiology, cell biology, biochemistry, and biostatistics. The curriculum aims to provide students with a strong foundation in the sciences as well as useful abilities in laboratory work and research. This program also provides a co-op option.
| Name of Program | Duration | Tuition Fee/Year in CAD | Application Deadline |
|---|---|---|---|
| Honors Bachelor of Science Molecular Biology and Biotechnology | 4 years | 60,510 | – |
Admission Requirements Honors Bachelor of Science Molecular Biology and Biotechnology
- Advanced Functions, Biology, Calculus & Vectors, Chemistry, and English are requirements for admission.
- Approximate Grade Requirements: Mid-70s ( Non-Co-op) / High 70s (Co-op)
- Academic Transcripts
- CV
- English Language Proficiency: IELTS minimum overall band 6.5 without any band less than 6 OR
- Canadian Academic English Language (CAEL), including CAEL online: A minimum overall score of 70, with no part below 60
Scholarship
Almost $1.49 million worth of scholarships and prizes are available to UTSC students thanks to the generosity of the University and several contributors. Below is a list of some of the scholarships.
| Name Of Scholarship | Description | Amount in CAD |
| University of Toronto Scarborough Dean’s List | If you’re enrolling in a full-time first-year degree program at a university or college for the first time, entrance scholarships may be available to you. | Up to 2,000 |
| President’s Scholarship of Distinction | Awarded to recognize your academic achievements | Up to 6,000 |
| U of T Mississauga Guaranteed Entrance Scholarship | All domestic and foreign applicants accepted to U of T Mississauga’s campus are eligible for one of three categories of entry scholarships with beginning averages of 90.0%. | Up to 12,000 |
University of Waterloo
The University of Waterloo has generated a large number of entrepreneurs and inventors and is renowned for its prowess in engineering, mathematics, and computer science. Waterloo is one of the top 175 institutions in the world, according to the QS World University Rankings 2023 and the Times Higher Education World University Rankings 2023. The University of Waterloo is one of the best places to study artificial intelligence in Canada.
The University of Waterloo’s Biotechnology/Chartered Professional Accountancy (CPA) program is a special curriculum that integrates two different subjects of study. Students in this program receive a solid foundation in accounting concepts and procedures in addition to learning about the use of biological systems and creatures in numerous businesses. Graduates are well-prepared to enter the workforce in industries including biotechnology, accountancy, and others where their broad skill sets are highly desired.
| Name of Program | Duration | Tuition Fee/Year in CAD | Application Deadline |
|---|---|---|---|
| Biotechnology/Chartered Professional Accountancy | 4 years | 47,000 | – |
Admission Requirements Biotechnology/Chartered Professional Accountancy
- A minimum final grade of 80% is required for the following subjects in Standard 12: Mathematics, English, Physics, Chemistry, or two of those subjects
- Overall Score Mid 80 range.
- English Language Proficiency: TOEFL iBT 90 overall (25 writing, 25 speaking) OR
- IELTS Academic 6.5 overall (6.5 writing, 6.0 reading,6.0 listening, 6.5 speakings)
- CV
- Academic Transcripts
Scholarships
International students at the University of Waterloo can apply for some scholarships. Some of the scholarships are listed here
| Name Of Scholarship | Description | Amount in CAD |
| Entrance scholarships | The Dean’s List will be made up of students with a cumulative grade point average (CGPA) of at least 3.5 from their most recent academic year and at least 1.5 credits from the previous Fall, Winter, and Summer sessions. | Varies |
| International Student’s Entrance Scholarship | Offered to foreign students who have been accepted into the first year of a full-time undergraduate degree program(90% admission average). | 10,000 |
| Vincent Bladen In-Course Scholarships | Two first-year, second-year, and third-year scholarships are given out in Professor Vincent Bladen’s honor to students who have excelled in the classroom. | Varies |
Queen’s University
Located in Kingston, Ontario, Canada, Queen’s University is a public institution with a focus on research. It was established in 1841 and has a solid reputation for academic competence, research production, and the quality of its student body. Business, engineering, health sciences, social sciences, and humanities are just a few of the many undergraduate and graduate programs offered at Queen’s. Queen’s University is one of the best places to study Master in Human Resource Management in Canada
The applied research sector is a fast-developing area of study that is the emphasis of Queen’s University’s Biotechnology (BTEC) degree program. The curriculum makes use of knowledge from other areas on campus, including Chemical Engineering, to give students a well-rounded education. Students benefit from a broader grasp of biotechnology and its uses thanks to this interdisciplinary approach.
| Name of Program | Duration | Tuition Fee/Year in CAD | Application Deadline |
| Biotechnology SSP(BTEC) | 4 years | 55,567 | – |
Admission Requirements Biotechnology SSP
- English, Mathematics, and two of Biology, Chemistry, or Physics at the Standard XII Level with Excellent Marks
- Academic Transcripts
- English Language Proficiency: IELTS Score of 6.5 on Academic Module with no band below 6.0 OR
- iBT (Internet Based TOEFL)/88 Overall: 24 Writing, 22 Speaking, 22 Reading, 20 Listening
- CV
Scholarships
International students at Queen’s University can apply for a number of scholarships. Some of them are listed below.
| Name Of Scholarship | Description | Amount in CAD |
| Summer Work Experience Program | Career Services operates the Summer Work Experience Program (SWEP), a unique Queen’s program that helps faculty members create challenging and rewarding summer jobs. | Varies |
| Work Study Program | The Work Study Program offers students needing financial assistance the chance to work part-time in sectors relevant to biology. It is operated jointly by Career Services and Student Awards. | – |
York University
York University is a public research institution. It was founded in 1959 and has since grown to be one of Canada’s biggest institutions. Undergraduate and graduate programs are offered at York in a variety of subjects, including business, law, education, health, the humanities, and social sciences. It is renowned for its steadfast dedication to social justice, environmental sustainability, and neighborhood involvement.
You will study molecular and cell biology, genetics, chemistry, and biochemistry in York’s four-year honors biotechnology program in addition to economics, ethics, management, accounting, and finance. Students in their fourth year take an intense thesis course that gives them hands-on practice with independent research and lab procedures.
| Name of Program | Duration | Tuition Fee/Year in CAD | Application Deadline |
| BSc Biotechnology | 4 years | 33,791 | – |
Admission Requirements: BSc Biotechnology
- Highest level Biology
- Highest level Chemistry
- Highest level Mathematics
- Academic Transcripts
- CV
- English Language Proficiency: TOEFL iBT Overall 88 OR
- IELTS Academic overall 6.5
Scholarships
International students at York University can apply for a number of scholarships, some of which are listed here
| Name of Scholarship | Description | Amount in CAD |
| President’s International Scholarship of Excellence | International high school candidates who exhibit academic brilliance, dedication to volunteer work and extracurricular activities, and leadership abilities will be given the President’s International Scholarship of Excellence. | 25,000 |
| Tentanda Via Award | Undergraduate students who have shown perseverance in overcoming substantial personal obstacles in their pursuit of a university education are given the Tentanda Via Prize. | 30,000 |
| Faculty of Science Entrance Scholarships | Awarded to students joining the faculty of science | Up to 2,000 |
Carleton University
Ottawa, Canada’s Carleton University is a public research institution. It was established in 1942 and currently offers graduate and undergraduate programs in a range of academic fields. Strong programs in media, public affairs, engineering, and business are offered at Carleton. The university is close to several cultural sites and has contemporary amenities.
The Biotechnology program at Carleton University is unique. Also, you can obtain real-world experience by working at one of the several Ottawa-area businesses or government organizations that are engaged in developing biotechnological remedies for current issues.
| Name of Program | Duration | Tuition Fee/Year in CAD | Application Deadline |
| BSc Biotechnology | 4 years | 30,400 | April 1 |
Admission Requirements BSc Biotechnology
- High school Graduation
- Math
- Two Science courses (Calculus strongly recommended)
- Academic Transcripts
- CV
- English Language Proficiency: TOEFL iBT 86 (22 in writing and speaking, 20 in reading and listening) OR
- IELTS Academic Overall 6.5 (min 6.0 each band)
Scholarships
International students at Carleton University can apply for a number of scholarships. Some are listed here
| Name Of Scholarship | Description | Amount in CAD |
| Entrance Scholarships | Given once upon admission to York for the first time. Some admission scholarships are given out automatically, while others require a separate application. | Varies |
| Undergraduate Student Bursary | International students with financial needs may apply for the Undergraduate Student Bursary. | Varies |
Career Opportunities in Canada After Bachelors in Biotechnology With Salaries
A strong foundation in the study of biological things and their functions is provided by a biotechnology bachelor’s degree. After their bachelor’s degree, students can go for a master’s in biotechnology in Canada. Graduates have a wide range of professional options in biotech, healthcare, and research. The following is a list of five possible careers in Canada.
| Job Title | Job Description | Average Annual Salary in CAD* |
| Medical Laboratory Technologist | Medical laboratory technologists conduct a range of laboratory procedures and tests to identify, track, and treat illnesses. They are employed at healthcare facilities such as clinics, hospitals, and research facilities. They are in charge of carrying out tests on patient samples, evaluating information, and deciphering outcomes. | 69,216 |
| Bioprocessing Technician | In the biotech sector, where they produce biological medications and therapies, bioprocessing technicians are employed. They are tasked with ensuring that biological goods are manufactured in accordance with regulatory requirements when they are employed at manufacturing facilities. They could also work on creating new technologies and manufacturing techniques. | 67,533 |
| Pharmaceutical Sales Representatives | Medical personnel, such as doctors and pharmacists, are targeted by pharmaceutical sales agents for the promotion and sales of prescription medications. They are in charge of cultivating connections with medical experts, disseminating information about new products, and outlining the advantages of their firms’ goods. They work for pharmaceutical corporations. | 60,000 |
| Genetic Counselor | Genetic counselors assist individuals in understanding and managing genetic problems in healthcare settings. They are in charge of deciphering the findings of genetic tests, educating patients and their families, offering support, and assisting patients in making decisions regarding genetic testing and available treatments. They could work at medical facilities like clinics, hospitals, or research facilities. | 78,219 |
*Based on the research conducted by Talent.com
Students can also pursue their MS biotechnology in Germany or other popular destinations like the USA, UK, etc. These countries are home to some of the top biotechnology universities in the world.
Conclusion
Finally, earning a Bachelor of Science in Biotechnology in Canada can lead to intriguing employment options in biotechnology, healthcare, and research. Excellent programs are offered by top Canadian institutions that provide students with a solid foundation in the study of living things and their processes. Students from various backgrounds may pursue this degree and be ready for a fulfilling career in a booming industry with the help of excellent program options and fully funded scholarships.
When picking the right university to study Biotechnology in Canada, you need to be thorough with your research and look at all the possible options. Gyanberry can help you apply to a university that is most suitable for you considering various factors such as entry requirements, affordability, career opportunities, and application deadlines. Book an appointment with us to know more.
