Post Graduate Diploma Courses in Biotechnology in Canada

Updated on 26 September, 2024

Rakhee Talukdar

Rakhee Talukdar

Global Education Expert

Canada is emerging as a prominent hub for biotechnology research and innovation, with its world-class institutions and a thriving biotech industry. Postgraduate diploma courses in biotechnology are an excellent way for aspiring scientists, researchers, and professionals to gain specialized knowledge and hands-on experience in this dynamic field. According to the Biotechnology Innovation Organization (BIO), Canada's biotech industry employs over 30,000 people and has an annual economic impact of approximately CAD9 billion. This article will explore the various postgraduate diploma courses in biotechnology offered in Canada. 

Reason to Study Diploma in Biotechnology in Canada

Studying for a diploma in biotechnology courses in Canada offers several compelling advantages:

  1. Gain a Recognized Canadian Credential: While some colleges offering postgraduate diplomas in biotechnology may not be widely recognized, obtaining an advanced diploma in biotechnology from a Canadian institution provides you with a credential that Canadian employers readily understand and value. This recognition can significantly enhance your job prospects in Canada.
  2. Job Opportunities: International students in Canada have the opportunity to work both on and off campus for up to 20 hours per week during their studies. Moreover, those who graduate from a designated learning institute can apply for a post-graduation work permit, further extending their career opportunities within the country.
  3. Student-Friendly and Cultural Diversity: Canada is renowned for its welcoming and inclusive environment, making it an ideal destination for international students. As a student in Canada, you enjoy the same rights and protections as Canadian residents, ensuring a safe and supportive atmosphere for your studies. Canada's rich cultural diversity also offers a unique opportunity to experience different perspectives and traditions.
  4. Advance in Your Current Field: Postgraduate diploma programs in biotechnology in Canada are designed to provide students with specialized knowledge and practical skills. These programs allow international students to build upon the foundational education they received in their previous college or university studies, enabling them to further advance in their chosen field through both theoretical and hands-on learning experiences.

Top PG Diploma Courses in Canada for Biotechnology 

Given below are the list of the popular universities and the courses they offer for the PG diploma in Biotechnology 

Name of the Institution Course Name Fees (in CAD) Duration Intakes Admission Requirements
Algonquin College Biotechnology-Advanced (Co-Op and Non-Co-Op Version) $46,435.60 3 years Fall and Winter
  1. OSSD (Ontario Secondary School Diploma) or equivalent
  2. ACE Certificate or GED certificate or mature student status as alternatives
  3. Grade 12 English and Mathematics with 60% and 65% (or higher) respectively)
  4. Biology Grade 11/12 with 65% or more
  5. Chemistry Grade 11/12 with 65% or more
  6. English language proficiency 
Centennial College Biotechnology-Advanced (Fast-Track) (Optional Co-Op) $16,377 2 years September, January, May 
  1. Degree or three-year college diploma
  2. English language proficiency and skills assessment 
Georgian College Biotechnology- Health Ontario College Diploma Program $9,036.08 2 years Fall and Summer
  1. OSSD or equivalent
  2. Grade 12 English and Mathematics
  3. Grade 11/12 Biology
  4. Grade 12 Chemistry 
Concordia University Biotechnology and Genomics (GrDip) N/A 1 year September, January, May
  1. B. Sc from an accredited institution with 15 credits
  2. Minimum GPA of 3.0
  3. English language proficiency
Durham College Biotechnology-Advanced (Fast-Track) $8,956.68 (Year 1) + $7,823.94 (Year 2)  Two semesters September
  1. OSSD or Mature student status 
  2. Grade 12 English and Mathematics
  3. Grade 11/12 Biology 
  4. English language proficiency and other course-related requirements 

Eligibility

Eligibility criteria vary across educational institutions. The common guidelines include the following: 

  1. OSSD or equivalent. 
  2. Some institutions may require bachelor’s degrees or diplomas
  3. Grade 12 English and Mathematics in most cases
  4. Other Grade 11/12 subjects, including Biology and Chemistry in some cases
  5. Proof of English language proficiency 

Duration of the programs

The average duration for these courses is around 1-3 years. 

Application cycle/Academic cycle/Intakes

The intakes are mostly in September, January, and May. 

Fee

The average fees are CAD 9,000-46,000 for these types of programs. 

Job Prospects

There are several employment opportunities in fields like biotechnology research, laboratories, medical devices, pharmaceuticals, food and beverages, agriculture, and more. Some leading employers in the country include the following: 

  1. Apotex Inc. 
  2. Mill Street Brewery
  3. Griffith Laboratories
  4. Kisko Products
  5. bioMerieux
  6. Campbell Soup Company
  7. Maxxam Analytics
  8. Hermann Laue Spice Company
  9. Cosmetics Laboratories Inc. 

Some of the career positions include microbiologists, microbiology analysts, research technologists, quality control technologists, quality assurance analysts, and associate scientists. There are plenty of options at government and ministry agencies and laboratories, along with educational institutions, natural health products brands, environmental companies, quality control laboratories, fermentation units, and more. 

FAQs

Is a diploma in biotechnology worth it in Canada?

A diploma in biotechnology is worth it in Canada. Canada offers an attractive salary in this field, while there are plenty of opportunities at government and private laboratories and other entities. 


 

What is the scope of a diploma in biotechnology?

There is a vast scope in the biotechnology field. Some of the biggest employment opportunities in the field include medical scientists, forensic science technicians, environmental biotechnologists, microbiologists, medical scientists, geneticists, molecular biotechnologists, R&D scientists, and more. 


 

Is biotechnology in demand in Canada?

Biotechnology is a rapidly-growing educational field in the Canadian market. It fuses technology, science, and engineering. The bio-economy in the country is expected to need thousands of skilled professionals over the next few years, particularly across the agriculture and medicine industries.


 

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Rakhee Talukdar

Global Education Expert

Rakhee Talukdar is an edtech expert with five years of experience in the education technology sector, focusing on K-12 and higher education systems in various countries, including Canada, USA, Finland, France, and Germany. Her background includes founding a startup and working with early-stage educational ventures, giving her a nuanced understanding of the challenges and opportunities within these educational landscapes. Additionally, Rakhee specializes in helping students craft compelling Statements of Purpose (SOPs) for studying abroad, leveraging her insights into different education systems to guide students in articulating their academic and professional goals effectively. Her comprehensive knowledge and strategic approach make her a valuable resource for students navigating their educational journeys and financial planning.

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