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Ministry-approved title: Biotechnology - Advanced
This two-semester program provides students with existing academic credentials, hands-on experience and theoretical knowledge to prepare them for the biotechnology field. Biotechnology touches a broad range of industries including health, environmental, textiles, mining, chemical and materials manufacturing, energy, cannabis, food processing, and agriculture. In this program, students will:
Durham College isn't just about academics; it's about people coming together, making it not just a great institution, but a genuinely supportive environment. For anyone considering DC, I can honestly say it's a place where you'll find more than just education - you'll find a community that understands and supports you.
I'd like to give a shoutout to Bruce Trieselmann. He is the fountain of knowledge -- he just knows so much and you can tell he's so passionate about what he teaches. You'll never fail to not get an answer from all the questions you ask.
To be considered for the fast-track (credit transfer) pathway a specific educational background is required as follows:
International applicants should contact the International Admissions office for information about the application requirements.
Durham College (DC) offers pre-admission assessment testing to mature domestic applicants to meet admission requirements in English and/or math. Domestic applicants that are 19 years of age or older as of the start date of their program, and who do not have the required program credit(s) i.e., Grade 12 English and/or Grade 12 math are eligible to take an admissions assessment test.
Learn more about how to book Pre-Admission Assessment Testing here.
DC also offers Academic Upgrading. Courses are FREE and designed to help you meet the admissions requirements for this program. Available to individuals 18+, these courses are offered on-campus at DC. Boost your qualifications with:
Learn more about Academic Upgrading and connect with our team to get started.
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905.721.3000
Please contact the international office.
DC’s well-equipped biotechnology, microbiology and chemical analysis facilities provide students with hands-on experience using industry-standard methods and analytical instrumentation.
Throughout the program, students will learn the theory of and perform experiments involving the isolation and manipulation of DNA, the purification and characterization of proteins, and the growth, maintenance, and management of tissue cultures and microorganisms. Additionally, students gain experience and knowledge in key chemistry techniques, including extensive analytical instrumentation experience.
In the final semester, students combine their knowledge to use biological organisms to manufacture a chemical product used in an industrial process. Graduates leave with scientific theory and skills combined with a clear understanding of regulatory affairs and the ethical implications of the biotechnology industry and its influence on society.
The courses listed below are for incoming students. If you are a current student, please refer to your program of study for the year you began your program. Your program of study can be found on MyDC.
Courses, course descriptions and delivery formats are subject to change.
In person
Students will come to campus to complete in-person learning requirements. Detailed schedules, with course-specific delivery information, will be available after registration. Courses, course descriptions and delivery formats are subject to change.
Your learning experience will be complemented with an 80-hour field placement where you will use your skills and gain valuable industry experience through a supervised work placement.
Laura Benninger is the coordinator for the Chemical Engineering Technology and Chemical Laboratory Technician programs. She teaches Analytical Techniques, Organic Chemistry 1 and 2, Fundamentals of Analytical and Organic Chemistry and Principles of Analytical Chemistry. Laura holds a Master of Science degree in Applied Bioscience from Ontario Tech. Prior to working at Durham College, Laura was a laboratory manager.
Christine Hand holds degrees in Chemistry from the University of Toronto (BSc) and the University of Waterloo (PhD). Before teaching at Durham College, Christine was a Postdoctoral Researcher at the National Research Council and a Field Chemistry Specialist supporting analytical instrumentation clients in Ontario and Western Canada.
Dimitri Stathopoulos holds a Master of Science in Environmental and Life Sciences from Trent University and is a Durham College alumnus. Before teaching at Durham College, Dimitri worked in quality assurance/quality control in the food industry and as a chemist in aerospace and industrial water treatment.
Bruce Trieselmann holds a Doctor of Philosophy in Molecular Biology and Genetics from the University of Guelph, and a Master of Business Administration from the University of Toronto. Prior to working at Durham College, Bruce was a Postdoctoral Researcher at the National Institutes of Health, and a Program Manager and Finance Manager at Ontario Genomics Institute.
A240, Gordon Willey Building, Oshawa
Our state-of-the-art Analytical Instrumentation Laboratory houses chromatography and spectroscopy instruments where students gain independent, hands-on experience by preparing samples and standards, operating the equipment themselves, and analyzing the resultant data.
Location: I210, Gordon Wiley Building, Oshawa
In our Biotechnology Laboratory, students process and analyze cell cultures, DNA, and proteins and utilize micro-organisms to make products such as wine and vinegar.
Location: A206, Gordon Wiley Building, Oshawa
Our Containment Level 2 Microbiology Lab provides students with opportunities to learn and practice the skills required to culture, manipulate and identify microorganisms relevant to the food pharmaceutical, biotechnology, and environmental sectors. Our lab adheres to Canadian biosafety regulations and industry best practices, ensuring students develop the technical and safety competencies required for careers in these sectors.
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