Program description
Biotechnology is the application of the principles of chemistry, biochemistry and microbiology to the development of new technologies. Both Microbiology and Chemistry share in the teaching and administration of the program, The Honours and cooperative work-study (co-op) programs provide experience in government, private sector and research laboratories.
Program options
Degree options
B.Sc. Bachelor of Science, Honours in Biotechnology – 4 years
B.Sc. Bachelor of Science, Honours in Biotechnology (Co-op) – 5 years
B.Sc. Bachelor of Science, Major in Biotechnology – 4 years
B.Sc. Bachelor of Science, Major in Biotechnology (Co-op) – 5 years
Interesting courses and unique opportunities
Interesting courses
- Industrial Bioprocesses
- Biological Energy Transduction
- Drug Design and Drug Discovery
Research opportunities
Research opportunities are available in the department during the summer or as part of an Honours program.
Co-op options
Cooperative-work study options for Major and Honours Programs
Professional opportunities
- Research
- Public health
- Industrial microbiology or chemistry: producing antibiotics, vaccines, bioethanol, enzymes and antibodies
- Basic research
- Graduate studies
Admission requirements & prerequisites
Direct entry option
- Manitoba high school graduation, with five full credits at the Grade 12 level, in courses designated S, G or U.
- A minimum 85% average over the following, with no less than 60% in each course:
- English 40S
- Pre-Calculus Mathematics 40S (recommended) or Applied Mathematics 40S and
- One of: Biology 40S; Chemistry 40S; Computer Science 40S; or Physics 40S
This entry option is open to high school students or high school graduates who have not completed any university or college courses. Specific program requirements will vary; details of these requirements are available on each program’s application page.
Advanced entry option
24 credit hours in U1 (or an approved bachelors program)
This entry option is open to students who have completed a minimum of 24 credit hours of university level study. Specific program requirements will vary; details of these requirements are available on each program’s application page.
High school prerequisites
High school prerequisites: Depending on major, may include Biology 40S, Chemistry 40S, Physics 40S, Pre-Calculus Math or Applied Math 40S
Many programs will require or recommend specific high school courses over and above their admission requirements. These high school prerequisites are not always required to enter the program, but they must be completed to enrol in certain university courses within it. If a student does not have a particular prerequisite when they enter the program, they may complete an equivalent upgrading course at university that will satisfy the prerequisite requirement.
More details on admission requirements, application dates and the application process are available on the Faculty of Science apply for admission page.
What is unique about this program at the U of M?
Students have the opportunity to combine two fascinating areas of life sciences with a real world application and impact. They also have an opportunity to work with excellent faculty members from two departments, all who have externally-funded research programs, including three with national research chairs. Students will experience hands-on research opportunities, strong links to other programs in Science and other faculties, preparation for graduate programs and excellent undergraduate laboratories.
A growing area of treatment for cancer and other potentially deadly disorders is biopharmaceuticals, which provide patients with the disease-killing antibodies they aren't producing but which they require to fight disease. These drugs, made of therapeutic human monoclonal antibodies (known as Mabs), are so in demand that their global sales jumped from $300 million in 1997 to $25 billion in 2007.
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