| Location | Email Address | Program Website |
|---|---|---|
| 1 University Boulevard, Markham, ON | biot-mkm@yorku.ca | yorku.ca/gradstudies/biotech-diploma/ |
The Graduate Diploma in Biotechnology is a stand-alone, direct-entry 8-month graduate diploma designed for students who hold a Bachelor of Science degree in Biology, Biological Sciences, Biotechnology, Life Science, or related discipline, and have little/no work experience in Biotechnology. The degree will provide students with theoretical and practical training in Biotechnology to enhance their competitiveness and employability in Biotechnology related sectors.
In particular, the program will:
- Develop a solid understanding in the latest biotechnology theories, discoveries, and laboratory techniques.
- Build knowledge in pharmaceuticals, standard operating procedures, packaging and labeling, good manufacturing practices, and clinical research.
- Build knowledge in scientific data analysis, writing and communication and biotechnology ethical practices.
- Develop the ability to work effectively with others and to communicate scientific and concepts to a variety of target audiences.
- Develop understanding of the evolving ethical obligations and responsibilities in running Biotechnology organizations.
Admission Requirements
The minimum admission requirements are as follows:
- An undergraduate degree in any area of biology, biological science, biochemistry, chemistry, life sciences or related field from a recognized post-secondary institution with a B+ average in the last two years (or equivalent) of academic work. Undergraduate degrees must include at least one course in statistics at the second-year level or above, as well as three courses in molecular biology, cell biology, biochemistry, genetics or equivalent at the second-year level or above.
- Work experience is not required, but internships or prior work experience is encouraged.
- Alternate admission requirement: Graduates with other Science degrees or 3-year degrees may be admitted as well with at least one year of post-graduation work experience in a sector relevant to the program.
- Proof of English language proficiency if prior studies were not completed in English: a minimum TOEFL score of 577 (paper-based), or 90-91 (internet-based); and a minimum IELTS score of 7 (Academic Module).
- Two letters of recommendation. Letters can be from previous professors, employers, or other persons with whom the applicant has had interactions and who can attest to their professional and/or academic qualifications. It is recommended that one of these letters should be from a professor if you graduated in the last 3 years.
- A supplementary application form with a statement of interest providing evidence of commitment to advanced work in the biotechnology sector. The statement should include a discussion of the applicant's background, interests, skills, and career goals.
- and an up-to-date résumé or CV.
Students are expected to remain in good academic standing as per Faculty of Graduate Studies (FGS) guidelines to remain in the program. FGS guidelines on academic standing are available at: yorku.ca/gradstudies/students/current-students/regulations/graduate-courses-and-grading/.
Diploma Requirements
The Graduate Diploma in Biotechnology is a full-time, course-based graduate diploma program comprised of 15 academic credits, delivered through 5 required 3.0-credit courses. Coursework emphasizes both theoretical foundations and practical applications in biotechnology, including laboratory methodologies and industry-relevant skills. The program requires students to complete all 15 credits in good standing in accordance with the Faculty of Graduate Studies’ minimum grade requirements.
At this point, part-time completion is not being offered, and the full-time format will take 2 semesters over a period of 8 months.
Students enrolled in the graduate diploma will complete the same course requirements as students in the Graduate Program in Biotechnology Management program, as the five diploma courses also constitute one component of the 36-credit Graduate Program in Biotechnology Management curriculum. All courses are delivered in an integrated classroom environment shared with Graduate Program in Biotechnology Management students.