Centennial College's Biotechnology college program has, more than once, held Centennial College President's Academic Program Recognition Award for outstanding student satisfaction. Additionally, the Canadian Technology Accreditation Board accredits it and, in the Technician category, the Ontario Association of Certified Engineering Technicians and Technologists recognizes it as meeting all the academic requirements for certification. These accreditations enhance program quality and provide mobility, as graduates may apply for certification through the Ontario Association of Certified Engineering Technicians and Technologists (OACETT) to use the Certified Technician professional designation.

The offering's focus is on industrial microbiology as well as chemistry (analytical), organic and biochemistry, which will allow graduates to apply for positions as bench technicians (in quality control and quality assurance) in the food, pharmaceutical and cosmetic industries.

In modern and equipped laboratories, students master isolating, enumerating and identifying microorganisms from a wide range of samples; prepare specimens for staining; become an expert light-microscopist; learn appropriate safety procedures and more. This is conducted through a project approach, with independently designed microbiology projects that enhance students' problem-solving and research skills.

Once they complete two years of biotechnology technician courses, Centennial College students may graduate or continue into a third year of specialized topics such as advanced biotechnology and microbial genetics or systematic microbiology. Should they choose this option, students graduate with an advanced diploma. In addition to their college credential, students of this offering also obtain training in Occupational Health and Safety, WHMIS, GMP and HACCP.

SOURCE Centennial College