BSc Biotechnology in Canada: A Quick Guide

rom stem cells to modified crops, education in the biotechnology domain can prove rewarding. A BSc in Biotechnology in Canada is apt to initiate a socially-impactful career.

Notably, the modules in such programs include subjects revolving around physics, biology, mathematics, chemistry, and technology. Therefore, seeking education in this domain can open many opportunities.

Studying BSc Biotechnology in Canadian universities can also facilitate a research-centric career. Hence, the broad scope of this program is a testament to its growing popularity. 

Start Your Study Abroad Journey with upGrad Abroad

 

Why Pursue BSc in Biotechnology in Canada?

Canada is an exciting study-abroad destination for international students. The following practical reasons make this country worth exploring for studying BSc Biotechnology.

Ample Research Opportunities:

Students studying biotechnology in Canadian universities receive adequate funding and chances to indulge in research. This aspect can lead to an innovative breakthrough, thereby bolstering the resume.

In addition, the faculty’s encouragement makes the research process fluid. So, a BSc Biotechnology in Canada admission decision can prove path-breaking. 

Diverse Student Population

Canada is home to students belonging to various ethnicities and regions. This diversity helps the fruitful exchange of ideas. Moreover, the connection of biotechnology with agriculture enables students to learn from different individuals.

This way, the education scope of BSc Biotechnology in Canada becomes wider.

International Recognition

A bachelor’s course in Canadian universities is recognized in most countries. For this purpose, it becomes crucial to choose top-notch educational institutes.

Notably, global recognition allows for a comprehensive career scope, making the course more useful in the long term.

Access To Helpful Scholarships

Studying BSc Biotechnology in Canada is not always an expensive venture. Students can apply for suitable funds and grants depending on the university.

This way, international undergraduate education can be economical and beneficial simultaneously.

BSc Biotechnology in Canada Eligibility

BSc is an undergraduate course. So, the eligibility revolves around the intermediate college education. However, as an international student, one must note other vital aspects:

• Completion of junior college education (Minimum XIIth grade)
• Mandatory subjects are English, Mathematics, Biology, and Chemistry
• Minimum C grade as per university criteria
• Valid visa and student passport
• English language proficiency scores

To establish proficiency in English, students can provide a passing score in any one exam among IELTS, PTE, CAEL, and TOEFL.

It is vital to note that the linguistic eligibility scores will vary according to BSc Biotechnology in Canadian universities.

How To Apply for BSc Biotechnology in Canada?

Shortlisting the BSc Biotechnology course in Canadian universities is the first step before applying.

Next, students must thoroughly read the required documents on the official university website. Each institute has a different application portal. Generally, applicants need to keep the following records ready:

• Marksheets and school leaving certificates
• Linguistic proficiency scorecard
• Statement of Purpose (if required)
• Letters of recommendation (if required)
• Resume (if required)

To study BSc Biotechnology in Canada, one must only upload all the mandatory documents on the desired university’s portal.

Top Universities in Canada to Study BSc Biotechnology

The BSc Biotechnology in Canada admission requires students to know the top universities. Consequently, it is possible to complete the admission process with a clear and swift approach.

This table shortlists the best Canadian institutes to pursue an undergraduate education in biotechnology.

Table: Top BSc Biotechnology in Canada Universities

University	Subject Rankings (QS 2022)	Tuition Fees	Specialization	Duration
University of Toronto	#16 (Biological Sciences)	CAD 59,320	Honors Bachelor of Science (Biotechnology)	4 years
University of British Columbia	#31 (Biological Sciences)	CAD 55,840	Honors Biotechnology	4 years
McGill University	#39 (Biological Sciences)	CAD 55,390	BSc Biotechnology	4 years
University of Western Ontario	# 251 – 300 (Biological Sciences)	CAD 35,000	Honors Biological Science	4 years
University of Guelph	#301 – 350 (Biological Sciences)	CAD 54,650	BSc Biotechnology	4 years

Specializations

Being an undergraduate course, the BSc in Biotechnology Canada program offers fundamental domain knowledge. So, unlike master’s or Ph.D. levels, this course does not focus on a core subdomain specialization.

Still, students receive in-depth knowledge of the following modules:

• Biostatics
• Biological Chemistry
• DNA typing
• Microbiology
• Physiology
• Macromolecule

Some Canadian universities mention Biomedical Sciences as a single comprehensive program. So, applicants need to analyze the curriculum to check the inclusion of biotechnology.

Scope of BSc Biotechnology in Canada

The application of biotechnology is immense across the globe. Areas like stem cells, tissue culture, bioscience, and the environment require apt professionals.

After pursuing a BSc in Biotechnology, students can land job opportunities in such sectors. In addition, individuals interested in research can pursue a master’s degree to carry the academic momentum.

Professionals interested in lab research can also opt for a Ph.D. in any desired subdomain. Overall, this course can open exciting opportunities for any student.

Academic Cycle: Intakes and Deadlines (General)

Pursuing undergraduate studies in Canada is a good option due to the multiple intake opportunities. Similarly, studying BSc Biotechnology in Canada can be a possibility in the following cycles:

• Fall admissions: Around September
• Winter admissions: January intake
• Summer admissions: April or May intake

The most popular BSc Biotechnology in Canada admission choice is the Fall intake. Notably, most reputed universities allocate an October deadline for the final submission of the documents.

Study & Settle in Canada – Know where to start!

Cost of Attendance

Canada’s tuition and living expenses vary according to location and university. Still, international students can surmise the study cost for undergraduate courses to hover up to CAD 30,000 per year.

This fee also changes as per the type of bachelor’s course. Also, scholarship grants can decrease this cost considerably.

Cost of Living

Similar to the attendance cost, living expenses in Canada are subjective. Factors like accommodation, location, lifestyle, and funding options influence this expense.

Generally, students should at least have CAD 10,000 in addition to their study costs. On-campus accommodation can prove economical in some cases.

Top Recruiters for Biotechnology 

After completing the BSc Biotechnology course, fresh undergraduates can land jobs in the following reputed companies:

• AbCellera
• BioVectra Inc.
• STEMCELL Technologies
• Medicago
• Notch Therapeutics

In addition, Canada also has dedicated organizations like BioTalent Canada that help connect professionals with suitable firms. Finally, a university’s relevant job placement body can help students land appropriate professional opportunities.

Individuals interested in research can also work in public facilities or government-funded labs. 

Career Prospects for BSc Biotechnology Pass Outs

Here are some prominent job profiles, along with their average salaries, that one can initiate after completing the BSc Biotechnology course.

Table: BSc Biotechnology in Canada Job Prospects

Profile	Salary (Annual)
Microbiologist	CAD 51,900
Biotechnology Research Scientist	CAD 70,300
Epidemiologist	CAD 72,900
Biochemist	CAD 57,600
Biomedical Engineer	CAD 65,000

Important Articles for Studying in Canada
Where to Study in Canada	Canadian Visa Status	Student Accommodation in Canada
Colleges in Toronto for PG Diploma	Diploma in Psychology in Canada	PG Diplomas in Project Management in Canada
PG Diploma in Biotechnology in Canada	Masters in Management Information System in Canada