Overview
Biotechnology is a stream under the Biology program. Biotechnology is the application of science and engineering in the innovative use of living organisms to create new products that improve the quality of our food, our health, and our environment. Applications of this science include the diagnosis and treatment of disease, genetically modifying agricultural crops, and production of vitamins, pharmaceuticals, and other economically important products.
York’s Biotechnology program prepares you for a career in this exciting, steadily growing field. This program teaches not only the underlying science but also exposes you to relevant social, legal, ethical, and business issues. In this four-year honours program, you will study molecular and cell biology, genetics, chemistry, and biochemistry as well as economics, ethics, management, accounting, and finance. Fourth-year students complete an intensive thesis course that provides first-hand experience in independent research and laboratory techniques.
Specialized Honours Program in Biotechnology (120 credits, normally over four years)
A focused Honours degree specializing in Biotechnology and its applications.
For a full description of possible degree paths, please reference the Academic Calendar
Example First-Year Courses
Below are some courses you may take in your first year. Please note that this is only an example, your actual course schedule may be different.
- Biology I - Cells, Molecular Biology and Genetics
- Biology II - Evolution, Ecology, Biodiversity and Conservation
- Chemical Structure
- Chemical Dynamics
- Mathematics I and II for the Biological and Health Sciences
- Introduction to Computing for Data Analysis and Visualization
- Introduction to Business and Society (or other approved Non-Science courses)
Careers
A degree from the Faculty of Science opens the door to many different pathways and opportunities. York Science offers an ideal learning environment to achieve your highest potential. Our programs are known for academic excellence, with professors who are committed to your success.
The Co-op and Career Centre at York offers support services to students looking to engage in experiential learning and career preparation, including co-op and internship workshops, resume help, interview prep, and much more.
Career Paths
- Government Positions – Research and Development, Regulation
- Industry – Research and Development, Clinical Research, Quality Control, Regulatory Affairs Marketing and Sales, Direction and Development
- Biostatistician/Biostatistical Analyst
- Clinical Research
- Forensics Agriculture (GM foods)
- Graduate Studies/Academic Career
- Education – elementary, high school, college, university
- Health Sciences – clinical research, biomedical research, lab management, genetic counsellor, diagnostic
- Professional schools – Medicine, Dentistry, Pharmacy, Law, Business