The study of biotechnology involves different branches of science, such as biology, physics, chemistry, science, technology and mathematics.
Advancement in Biotechnology, constant research and development, and huge prospects have made it one of the most sought-after courses for science and mathematics background students.
There will always be an entire scope for biotechnology for advancing human lifestyle, developing new diagnostic tests, combating diseases, creating household products, achieving efficiency in industries and much more.
The undergraduate degree in biotechnology prepares students to capitalize on their knowledge and skills in the most growing and exciting field. Some best and top biotechnology companies in the world, such as Johnson & Johnson, Pfizer, Moderna, Roche, and Novartis, have a massive demand for biotechnologists.
After completing a Bachelor of Biotechnology in Canada, students can choose their industry per their interests and specialization. There are a variety of areas, such as:
- Bio-medicine
- Quality assurance
- Environmental protection
- Agriculture and production
- Pharmaceutical development
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Why study Bachelor of Biotechnology in Canada
Biotechnology courses in Canada are known to be the best decision for interested students. For students seeking to apply for a biotechnology degree in Canada, it will indeed be a life-changing opportunity for them students.
Applying and enrolling on universities in Canada will equip students to expand their network horizon in vast arrays of industrial sectors.
Some of the best reasons to choose Canada for an undergraduate degree in Biotechnology are:
- Canada has secured a top position in biotechnology and comprises recognized laboratories, universities, research hospitals and companies.
- The four primary areas of Biotechnology in Canada are bio-energy, bio-health, agri-biotechnology, and bio-industrial technology.
- Canada has the top-ranking and leading institutions providing various courses and specializations in Biotechnology.
- Under Biotechnology, Canadian universities offer programs such as Bachelor in Biotechnology, Masters in Biotechnology and Diploma in Biotechnology.
- Biotechnology in Canada has been known to be the fastest-growing industry and a significant contributor to their innovation economy.
- Huge Job prospects in biotechnology, as research revealed that 33% of biotech companies have skills shortages in this field.
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Top Universities for Bachelor of Biotechnology in Canada
Many universities in Canada have a wide range of tuition fees, program structures, curricula, locations and more. With superior quality education, expert faculty, employment rates, updated curriculum, lifestyle, teaching methodologies, and leading-edge technology, the following universities stand among the best universities in Canada.
The table also presents Bachelor of Biotechnology fees in CAD.
Universities |
Program |
Acceptance Rate |
Tuition Fees |
University of Toronto |
Honours Bachelors of Science in Molecular Biology and Biotechnology |
43% |
$58,160 per annum |
McGill University |
Bachelor of Science (B.Sc.)- Minor in Biotechnology |
33.6% |
$49,171.80 per annum (Based on 30 credits for two terms) |
University of Calgary |
Bachelor of Science (Biological Sciences) |
15% |
$25,529.84 per annum for two terms |
University of Windsor |
B.Sc. Honours Molecular Biology and Biotechnology |
60-70% |
$ 17697.61 per term (Fall, winter, summer) |
McMaster University |
Biotechnology Co-op (B.Tech.) |
12-18% |
$41549.10 |
University of Manitoba |
B.Sc. Bachelor of Science, Honours in Biotechnology |
52% |
$19,800 per annum |
Queens University |
BSc in Biotechnology |
42% |
$39,247 per annum |
York University |
BSc in Biotechnology |
27% |
$1,049.88 per credit |
Wilfrid Laurier University - Waterloo Campus |
Bachelor (Biotechnology) |
89% |
$29,253 – $35,123 for two terms |
Duration of Bachelor of Biotechnology - How many years does it take to get a Bachelor of Biotechnology in Canada?
Canadian Universities offer diplomas, bachelor's, and master’s degrees in biotechnology. The diploma in biotechnology generally takes 2-3 years to complete.
The subjects or courses may vary depending on the depth of learning methodology, duration of work placements or internships, and several specialization courses. The bachelor's or Honors degree in biotechnology takes 4-5 years to complete the program.
Admission Process and University requirement for Biotechnology in Canada
When applying for a Bachelor of Biotechnology in Canada, international students must maintain and fulfil specific requirements, which are highlighted in the following points.
- Must have an academic history of English, mathematics, chemistry and biology at the high school or intermediate level.
- Must possess a B grade in all of those core subjects.
- Academic Transcripts from the previous institution
- Language proficiency tests, such as IELTS and TOEFL
- 2-3 letters of recommendation
- A clear statement of purpose
- An updated resume.
- English version of native-language Transcripts.
- Evaluation of transcripts by an accredited agency.
To enrol in the Bachelor of Biotechnology, students must check their admission eligibility from the following table. In the case of students with no prior academic history in science and mathematics, students need to complete foundation courses for biotechnology.
Requirements |
Eligibility |
Admission Requirements for Biotechnology in Canada |
1. IELTS/TOEFL or any other proof of English Proficiency. Minimum scores: TOEFL: 83, 560 IELTS: 6.5 Overall CAEL: 70 PTE: 56 2. A minimum of 70% in the intermediate or +2 level. 3. ACT/SAT NOT REQUIRED |
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Scholarships for Bachelor of Biotechnology in Canada
Numerous internal and external scholarship opportunities exist for international students applying for undergraduate degrees in Canada.
To increase your chances of getting a high amount of scholarships in Canada, students should have the following:
- Excellent academic history
- Community involvement
- Leadership activities
- Special achievements
- Proof and demonstration of financial need.
College/University |
Scholarship |
Details |
University of Toronto |
Scholarships and Grants |
Based on merit, financial need, community engagement, leadership and athletic performance |
McGill University |
McGill’s Entrance Scholarship Program. |
Valued between $3,000 and $12,000 |
University of Calgary |
The University of Calgary International Entrance Scholarship |
Valued up to $15,000 (Renewable) |
University of Windsor |
University of Windsor Open Entrance Scholarship; UWindsor Skills Competition Scholarships |
Depending upon previous academic history, Based on skill competition and challenges |
McMaster University |
Entrance Scholarship; In-Course Awards |
Based on academic merit and earned merit (community involvement, leadership, etc.) ; Based on GPA criteria |
University of Manitoba |
International Undergraduate Student Entrance Scholarships |
Based on previous academic grades, valued up to $3000. |
Queens University |
Principal's Scholarship; Excellence Scholarship; International Admission Scholarship |
Total Value: $4,000; $1,500 ; $9,000 |
York University |
York Entrance Scholarships and awards; International Students scholarship |
$1000-$2000; $5000-$10,000 |
Wilfrid Laurier University - Waterloo Campus |
Entrance Scholarship |
Valued between $1000-$4000 |
What do we study in Biotechnology?
A biotech degree can help students research advanced therapies such as gene therapy, bio-medicines, stem cells and more. Not just the underlying sciences but students get to understand various social, ethical, business, and legal issues in biotechnology.
Students can choose their subject of interest from the following courses and specializations in Biotechnology.
- Genetics
- Biosecurity
- Advances in Medical and Plant Biochemistry
- Infection and Immunology
- Biochemistry and Nutrition
- Biology, Society and Ethics
- Bioinformatics and Biological Modelling
- Advanced Mathematical Bioinformatics
Bachelor of Biotechnology in Canada: Scope and jobs
Biotechnology students can significantly impact the human lifespan and enhance the quality of life by developing processes and products to combat diseases, producing higher crop yields, and using biofuels to decrease greenhouse gas emissions.
According to ca.talent.com, the average salary in biotechnology for entry-level positions starts at $47,336 to $62,618 per annum. Some careers that can be lucrative for biotechnology graduates and their average salary in Canada are presented below.
Positions |
Average Salary (Per annum) |
Chemical Engineer |
$80,000 |
Biomedical engineers |
$70,159 |
Medical scientists |
$274,000 |
Process Development Scientists |
$90,000 |
Biochemists |
$120,140 |
Microbiologists |
$110,000 |
Medical coder |
$48,731 |
Environmental Scientist/Specialist |
$80,301 |
Agriculture and Food Scientist |
$79,443 |
Biological Technician |
$49,785 |
Clinical Laboratory Technologist |
$67,506 |
Being a diverse industry, the salaries of biotechnologists vary depending on education level, years of experience, company, and area of interest.
As mentioned earlier, due to skill shortages in biotechnology, studying biotechnology in Canada can be a good career choice with enormous advantages and numerous opportunities. After securing these positions, international students can also apply for permanent residency.