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Biotechnology and Genomics (GrDip)

Graduate Diploma (GrDip)

Offered by:
Department of BiologyFaculty of Arts & Science

Program overview

The Graduate Diploma in Biotechnology and Genomics will give you a solid foundation in the theories, methods and applications of genomics, molecular genetics, protein biochemistry and bioinformatics. You’ll acquire an in-depth understanding of functional genomics, microbial biotechnology, and protein production for the pharmaceutical, agri-food and forestry industries. You will also learn about the development of genomic methods for industrial and environmental applications. The program emphasizes hands-on experience and training with state-of-the-art genomic and biotechnology research equipment. Thanks to small class sizes and our research component you will be prepared to enter the biotechnology and pharmaceutical industries or to pursue further graduate studies.

Program details

Admission Requirements

  • BSc degree from an accredited university with at least 15 credits in courses at the 200 or 300 level in the following subjects: genetics, cell biology, molecular biology, biochemistry, and 3 credits of laboratory in one or more of these subjects.
  • Minimum undergraduate GPA of 3.00 (on a scale with a maximum of 4.30).
  • Proficiency in English. Applicants whose primary language is not English must demonstrate that their knowledge of English is sufficient to pursue graduate studies in their chosen field. Please refer to the English language proficiency page for further information on requirements and exemptions.

Degree Requirements

Fully-qualified candidates are required to complete a minimum of 30 credits.

Please see the Biology Courses page for course descriptions.

Biotechnology and Genomics Graduate Diploma (30 credits)

21

credits of Core Courses:

  BIOL 510 Bioinformatics (3.00)
  BIOL 511 Genome Structure (3.00)
  BIOL 512 Functional Genomics (3.00)
  BIOL 515 Biotechnology and Genomics Laboratory (3.00)
  BIOL 516 Project in Biotechnology and Genomics (6.00)
  BIOL 529 Values and Biotechnology (3.00)

9

credits of Elective Courses:

  BIOL 521 Industrial and Environmental Biotechnology (3.00)
  BIOL 523 Agriculture and Agri-Food Biotechnology (3.00)
  BIOL 524 High-throughput Instrumentation (3.00)
  BIOL 525 Biological Computing and Synthetic Biology (3.00)
  CHEM 678 Protein Engineering and Design (3.00)

Your completed application will include:

  • Application form and Fee
  • Curriculum Vitae (CV)
  • Three Letters of Reference and assessment form sent from institutional email accounts
  • Statement of purpose: this should outline your background, experience, goals, and why you would like to enter the program. Clearly indicate how you meet the admission requirements either through course work or practical experience. Course syllabi can be uploaded to support your claims.
  • Transcripts for all post-secondary institutions attended
  • Proof of Canadian citizenship (if applicable)
  • Applicants whose primary language is not English, are required to submit official language test scores, unless exempted.

Please apply online. Read the how-to guide for application procedures. In some cases, interviews may be required to allow the committee an additional assessment of the applicant.

Note that there is no funding available for this program through Concordia University.

 

  DEGREE
 
FALL
(September)
WINTER
(January)
SUMMER
(May/June)
Biotechnology and Genomics Diploma Feb. 1 n/a n/a

This program is designed to be completed in as short as two semesters, full time. Students can opt to register part time, and complete the program within four years.

You’ll benefit from access to a greenhouse, animal holding facilities, epifluorescent and confocal microscopes, darkrooms, instrument rooms with centrifuges, spectrophotometers, basic biochemical instrumentation, a sterile transfer laboratory, cold rooms, environment controlled rooms and radioisotope laboratories.

Concordia is home to the Centre for Structural and Functional Genomics, the Centre for Biological Applications of Mass Spectrometry and the Centre for Microscopy at Concordia (CMAC).

Our graduates are doing important, rewarding work in graduate studies at numerous Canadian universities, industry and government labs. 

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