Program Overview

Bioscience technologists use applied science to research problems and develop solutions to some of life's many important questions, ranging from food safety to new medicines.

Saskatchewan Polytechnic's BioScience Technology program is a two-year diploma program that emphasizes a hands-on style of learning. Your classroom time includes theory, practical exercises and labs. A four-week practicum gives you on-the-ground experience working in a laboratory, so at the end of your program you're ready for the workplace.

The program is designed to give you a strong foundation in both scientific principles and analytic practices. The emphasis is on developing your lab skills to prepare you for work in the biosciences, biomedical research and applied research fields.

You'll develop the skills you need to:

  • analyse DNA, RNA and protein samples
  • follow good laboratory practices (GLP) guidelines
  • handle and prepare laboratory chemicals
  • organize and supervise laboratory activities
  • record, process and report data
  • use analytical instruments
  • work with plants and animals in a research setting
  • work with microorganisms

Did You Know?

Technology Accreditation Canada (TAC) accredits the program at the Technologist level.

TAC is a bold, world class accreditation organization, delivering accreditation services for the engineering technology and applied science profession in Canada.

After two years of suitable industrial experience, Saskatchewan Polytechnic graduates are eligible to apply for membership with the Saskatchewan Applied Science Technologists and Technicians (SASTT).

You can also use your diploma as a stepping stone to a university degree - receive up to two years' university transfer credits to continue your post-secondary education in biosciences.

How Does it Fit?

Working in the biosciences involves detail-oriented and meticulous laboratory work. It also requires an open mind, an aptitude for problem solving and the ability to think on your feet. Bioscience technologists are members of multidisciplinary teams, so communication, interpersonal and team-building skills are an asset.

The BioScience Technology program works with industry partners to grow the bioscience industry in Saskatchewan. Saskatoon is host to over 30 biotechnology related companies and has great community, provincial and federal support. Sask Polytech students are hired by many of these local companies.

Ladder into a Degree

Turn your BioScience Technology diploma into a university degree in just two years. Saskatchewan Polytechnic has a transfer agreement with the University of Saskatchewan. You can also transfer into programs at Athabasca University (Alberta), Memorial University (Newfoundland) and Royal Roads University (B.C.).

Diploma graduates are also eligible to take the Bachelor of Applied Management degree at Saskatchewan Polytechnic with only two years of additional study. Remote classes and part-time options are available.

Learning Environment

  • 24 students are accepted each year. Find out more about books and supplies.
  • Students will experience laboratory work, lectures and a practicum work term.
  • Class hours are 25 to 27 hours per week. Students can expect to complete 30-40 hours of homework each week outside of class time.
  • There is a capstone group project that requires coordination.
  • Students are involved in their practicum selection and location

Career and Salary Information

Your Career

The biosciences are an exciting and rapidly expanding field with plenty of job opportunities. Saskatchewan Polytechnic's BioScience Technology program trains highly qualified lab technologists to work in the agricultural biosciences, biomedicine, bioproduct and environment sectors of the Saskatchewan biosciences industry.

Saskatchewan Polytechnic BioScience Technology grads are working for agriculture bioscience companies, private research and development laboratories, university research labs, provincial and federal laboratories, food manufacturing companies (quality analysis of dairy, meat and brewery products, etc.) and bioscience equipment and supply companies.

Agriculture Biosciences

Graduates employed in this sector are involved in research and development of agricultural crops such as wheat, canola and specialty crops. The work focuses on plant breeding, molecular biology and plant tissue culture. Other aspects may include testing of plant and animal samples using instrumentation, working with animals in the area of animal disease, testing for microbial or contaminants in animals or animal products, feed analysis and cell culture.

Biomedicine

Graduates employed in this sector are involved in research into diseases such as Alzheimer's and types of cancer. Work includes microbiology, molecular biology, cell culture, and may include instrumentation. Other aspects of research may involve working with animals or animal products.

Bioproducts

Graduates employed in this sector are involved in processing and production of bioproducts such as specialty oils, proteins and foods. The work includes aspects of quality control and quality assurance. It involves testing food and other products for quality, and may include standard tests for microbial contamination and other impurities. This may require basic microbial techniques or the use of analytical instruments.

Environment

Graduates employed in this sector conduct analysis of environmental samples and environmental remediation. The work includes aspects of microbiology, chemistry, molecular biology and analytical instrumentation. It involves testing environmental samples from the mining, chemical and oil and gas industries, as well as development of new techniques or solutions for environmental remediation.

Potential Careers

Sample Job TitleNOC Classification1Earning Potential2
Laboratory ManagerArchitecture and Science Managers (0212)$65,000 - $145,100
Quality Assurance TechnologistBiological Technologists and Technicians (2221)$40,900 - $69,400
Research TechnologistBiological Technologists and Technicians (2221)$40,900 - $69,400

Length and Start Date

Start Date(s): September
Length: 76 weeks

Locations

  • Saskatoon

Admissions

Admission Requirements

  • Grade 12 with a minimum of 65% in each of the following subjects: Chemistry 30, Biology 30 and Pre-Calculus 30*
  • A combined average of 65% is required in English Language Arts A30 and English Language Arts B30
  • English Language Requirement

Note

  • Accepted applicants may be required to provide evidence of a Criminal Record Check prior to entering the practicum component of the program. At the discretion of the practicum agency, you may be declined access to a clinical or work placement based on the contents of the Criminal Record Check. The cost of the Criminal Record Check is your responsibility.
  • To comply with safety regulations, students who wear contact lenses must have a pair of prescription glasses to wear in the labs.


*Previous Saskatchewan mathematics requirement also accepted:

  • Minimum of 65% in Math B30

Alternative Admission

Applicants who do not possess the academic qualifications for a program may be admitted if evidence of probable success can be established through an alternative admission assessment. Applicants are automatically considered for alternative admission. However, some specific admission requirements may still need to be met.



ACCUPLACER©

Refer to the ACCUPLACER© cut scores for this program below, and review additional details concerning Alternative Admission using Accuplacer.

  • 250 Arithmetic
  • 256 Quantitative Reasoning, Algebra, and Statistics
  • 256 Reading
  • 250 Writing
  • 4 Writeplacer

Post-secondary

Some programs allow applicants to meet the admission grade level requirement using 15 approved post-secondary credits. Review additional information.

If the program applied to has specific course requirements, they may be met through alternative post-secondary courses. Review already approved courses that may be used for admission purposes for your programs.

Admission Method

First Qualified/First Admitted

The First Qualified/First Admitted (FQFA) process is used for the majority of Saskatchewan Polytechnic programs. When we determine that you meet the program's admission requirements, you will be offered admission based on the date you fully qualify for the program. The earlier you provide the appropriate documents and information that qualify you for admission to the next intake, the earlier you might begin your studies. Your application, once qualified, is always considered for the next intake. 

Applicants to programs with multiple intakes in an academic year remain in the application pool until the last intake for that academic year has begun. Programs using the FQFA process receive applications year round and maintain an application pool for each academic year. Qualified applicants who are not offered a seat must reapply for the next academic year. 

Sponsored programs or programs targeted to specific groups do not accept applications year round or maintain an application pool.

See Admission Processes for more information about this method of admission.

Tuition and Fees

Estimates are based on current rates and are subject to change. Amounts for a program may vary by campus. Totals shown here include all mandatory fees as well as approximate cost for books and supplies. Visit the Tuition and Fees web page for a complete breakdown of tuition and fees for this program.

 

2022/23 Academic Year

Year 1 - $8,470
Year 2 - $7,710

International Students

View tuition rates for international students.

Courses

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Year 1 - Semester 1

Code
Name/Description
Credits
 
ANAT 183
Vertebrate Anatomy and Physiology
3
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You will study the structure and function of the vertebrate body. You will examine animal cell and tissue types, and organ systems (including the gross anatomical features and function of organs of the integumentary, skeletal, muscular, nervous, digestive, respiratory, circulatory, endocrine and reproductive systems). You will also be introduced to the classification of animals and the characteristics of the vertebrates.
Credit Units: 3
Course Hours: 45.0
Corequisites(s): ANAT 184
Potential Learning Method(s): Lecture/Theory, Online
ANAT 184
Vertebrate Anatomy and Physiology Lab
3
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You will use the cat as a model of vertebrate anatomy and physiology relating structure to function. You will examine animal cell and tissue types, and organ systems (including the gross anatomical features and function of organs of the integumentary, skeletal, muscular, nervous, digestive, respiratory, circulatory, endocrine and reproductive systems). You will also be introduced to classifying animals and the characteristics of the vertebrates.
Credit Units: 3
Course Hours: 45.0
Corequisites(s): ANAT 183
Potential Learning Method(s): Lab/Practical
ANIM 182
Care and Management of Laboratory Animals
2
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You will study animal production, animal diets, research protocols and care and management. Laboratory experiences will allow you to practice handling, injections and sample collection in small laboratory species.
Credit Units: 2
Course Hours: 30.0
Potential Learning Method(s): Lecture/Lab
BOTA 183
Botany
3
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You will examine anatomy and function in plants, with emphasis on the angiosperms. The course content includes: plant cells and tissues, development of the primary and secondary plant body, flowering and reproduction, and fruit and seed development. You will also distinguish the characteristics of algae, bryophytes, seedless vascular plants, and gymnosperms.
Credit Units: 3
Course Hours: 45.0
Corequisites(s): BOTA 184
Potential Learning Method(s): Lecture/Theory, Online
BOTA 184
Botany Lab
3
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You will analyze plant structure and diversity, with emphasis on microscopic analysis. You will examine plant cells and tissues, primary and secondary plant growth, flowers, fruits, and seeds. You will also distinguish the characteristics of algae, bryophytes, seedless vascular plants, conifers, and crops.
Credit Units: 3
Course Hours: 45.0
Corequisites(s): BOTA 183
Potential Learning Method(s): Lab/Practical
CHEM 171
General Chemistry
4
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You will receive a firm foundation in chemical concepts and principles and the role that chemistry plays in the bioscience field.
Credit Units: 4
Course Hours: 60.0
Corequisites(s): CHEM 172, MATH 178, SAFE 180
Potential Learning Method(s): Lecture/Theory, Online
CHEM 172
General Chemistry Lab
4
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Your laboratory experiments will be designed to enhance the concepts taught and provide application of these principles, as well as introduce you to laboratory techniques and safety in the lab.
Credit Units: 4
Course Hours: 60.0
Corequisites(s): CHEM 171, MATH 178, SAFE 180
Potential Learning Method(s): Lab/Practical
MATH 178
Mathematics 1
2
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You will review the fundamental concepts of algebra. Your studies will focus on equations of various types, systems of linear equations, variation, properties of exponents and logarithms, logarithmic and exponential equations and graphing. Biological and chemical applications will be used whenever possible.
Credit Units: 2
Course Hours: 30.0
Potential Learning Method(s): Lecture/Theory, Prior Learning
SAFE 180
Laboratory Safety
1
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You will discuss topics related to safe working practices and procedures in the bioscience laboratory. Many of these topics are related to government regulations and industrial laboratory guidelines.
Credit Units: 1
Course Hours: 15.0
Potential Learning Method(s): Lecture/Theory, Online
Total semester credits: 25

Year 1 - Semester 2

Code
Name/Description
Credits
 
CHEM 173
Analytical Chemistry
3
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Your studies will focus on an intensive survey of the basic methods and chemistry of manual analytical techniques.
Credit Units: 3
Course Hours: 45.0
Prerequisites(s): CHEM 171, CHEM 172, MATH 178
Corequisites(s):
Potential Learning Method(s): Lecture/Theory, Online
CHEM 174
Analytical Chemistry Lab
3
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You will develop quality laboratory practices and their relevance to the field of bioscience. Your laboratory work will focus on the skills required in titrations and gravimetric analysis.
Credit Units: 3
Course Hours: 45.0
Prerequisites(s): CHEM 171, CHEM 172, MATH 178
Corequisites(s):
Potential Learning Method(s): Lab/Practical
CHEM 287
Organic Chemistry
4
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You will be introduced to the chemical and physical properties of organic compounds and their uses in the bioscience field. You will study functional groups, nomenclature, simple reactions, stereochemistry, and bonding. You will study the properties, structures, reactions, and industrial uses of important classes of organic compounds. You will use laboratory techniques to extract and characterize organic compounds.
Credit Units: 4
Course Hours: 60.0
Prerequisites(s): CHEM 171, CHEM 172
Potential Learning Method(s): Lecture/Lab, Prior Learning
MATH 278
Mathematics 2
2
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You will review the fundamental concepts of trigonometry and be introduced to elementary topics in calculus, including limits and derivatives. Biological and chemical applications will be used whenever possible.
Credit Units: 2
Course Hours: 30.0
Prerequisites(s): MATH 178
Potential Learning Method(s): Lecture/Theory
PYSL 180
Plant Physiology
3
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You will examine plant function and interactions with the environment. You will analyze plant tissue and cellular function with respect to plant growth regulators, mineral nutrition, water, and environmental factors. You will also examine plant metabolism including cellular respiration and photosynthesis reactions.
Credit Units: 3
Course Hours: 45.0
Prerequisites(s): BOTA 183
Corequisites(s): PYSL 181
Potential Learning Method(s): Lecture/Theory, Online
PYSL 181
Plant Physiology Lab
3
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You will examine the effects of plant growth regulators, gravity, light, and mineral deficiency on plants. You will conduct experiments demonstrating the processes of osmosis, respiration, and photosynthesis. You will also manage plants in growth chambers.
Credit Units: 3
Course Hours: 45.0
Prerequisites(s): BOTA 184
Corequisites(s): PYSL 180
Potential Learning Method(s): Lab/Practical
QC 179
Quality Assurance and Control
4
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You will examine the need for and application of quality management as it applies to the bioscience field. Your studies will focus on quality practices in basic research and development, non-clinical safety testing, manufacturing, and food safety. You will also consider ethics and professional conduct.
Credit Units: 4
Course Hours: 60.0
Prerequisites(s): SAFE 180
Potential Learning Method(s): Lecture/Theory, Online
STAT 181
Introductory Statistics and Computer Applications 1
3
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You will be introduced to elementary probability, random variables and their distributions, frequency distributions, measures of location, variability and position, sampling theory, and several basic statistical methods that apply to bioscience and chemical technology problems. This introduction will also include using spreadsheets to assist in learning the statistical concepts.
Credit Units: 3
Course Hours: 45.0
Prerequisites(s): MATH 178(concurrent)
Potential Learning Method(s): Lecture/Lab, Prior Learning
Total semester credits: 25

Year 1 - Semester 3

Code
Name/Description
Credits
 
BIOC 281
Biochemistry
4
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You will be introduced to biological compounds including carbohydrates, lipids, proteins and nucleic acids. You will compare the structure of each group and relate it to biological function. You will be introduced to analytical and biochemical techniques used in the biosciences.
Credit Units: 4
Course Hours: 60.0
Prerequisites(s): CHEM 287
Potential Learning Method(s): Lecture/Lab
GENE 181
Genetics
4
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You will be introduced to transmission, cellular, population and molecular genetics. You will explore Mendelian principles, modes of inheritance, cell division, chromosomes, population dynamics, genes, the genetic code of nucleic acids, gene expression and recombinant Deoxyribonucleic Acid (DNA) technology.
Credit Units: 4
Course Hours: 60.0
Potential Learning Method(s): Lecture/Lab
STAT 286
Statistics and Computer Applications 2
3
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You will utilize statistical concepts including confidence intervals, hypothesis testing, regression and correlation analysis, and categorical data analysis. Advanced topics of analysis of variance and non-parametric tests will also be studied. You will utilize statistical programs and spreadsheets in the study of statistical applications.
Credit Units: 3
Course Hours: 45.0
Prerequisites(s): STAT 181, MATH 278
Potential Learning Method(s): Lecture/Theory, Online
TCOM 102
Workplace Communication
3
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You will examine the employability skills required in the workplace. You will discuss the communication process, and practice effective interpersonal communication techniques and conflict resolution. You will use workplace writing and job search skills.
Credit Units: 3
Course Hours: 45.0
Equivalent Course(s): COM 160, COMM 191, JOBS 190, JOBS 288, JOBS 290, TCOM 102CE, TCOM 120, TCOM 140, TMGT 180
Potential Learning Method(s): Learn Linc, Lecture/Theory, Online, Prior Learning
Total semester credits: 14

Year 2 - Semester 4

Code
Name/Description
Credits
 
GENE 285
Molecular Biology 1
2
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You will study deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA) synthesis methods, transcription and translation in eukaryotes and prokaryotes. You will examine bacterial transcription and regulation of gene expression. You will examine cloning strategies using phage, bacteria and yeast. You will also examine molecular biology techniques and applications of synthetic biology.
Credit Units: 2
Course Hours: 30.0
Prerequisites(s): BIOC 281, GENE 181, MICR 282(concurrent), MICR 283(concurrent)
Corequisites(s): GENE 286
Potential Learning Method(s): Lecture/Theory, Online
GENE 286
Molecular Biology 1 Lab
4
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You will isolate, purify, and analyze deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA) using molecular biology techniques. As part of a research project you will construct recombinant DNA to be used for synthetic biology applications. You will also use bioinformatics to analyze DNA sequences.
Credit Units: 4
Course Hours: 60.0
Prerequisites(s): BIOC 281, GENE 181, MICR 282(concurrent), MICR 283(concurrent)
Corequisites(s): GENE 285
Potential Learning Method(s): Lab/Practical
HSTC 183
Histotechniques
3
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You will receive an overview of the principles of microtechniques (including preparing plant and animal tissues for the production of permanent slides). You will learn proper use, care and handling of tissue processing equipment, microtomes and related slide preparation equipment. You will receive training in the preparation and use of tissue fixatives and stains, embedding, mounting and storing of paraffin sections. You will perform tissue sectioning, staining, and production of permanent slides. Special techniques including plastic embedding, histochemical staining, fluorescent staining and in situ hybridization will also be introduced.
Credit Units: 3
Course Hours: 45.0
Prerequisites(s): ANAT 183, ANAT 184, BOTA 183, BOTA 184
Potential Learning Method(s): Lecture/Lab
LABT 182
Laboratory Preparation Techniques 1
2
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You will learn to perform functions normally expected of a laboratory technician by preparing material for first and second year laboratories; including chemical solutions, stains, reagents and various types of culture media. You will be introduced to the operation and care of laboratory equipment, inventory procedures and ordering supplies along with general housekeeping duties required in a laboratory.
Credit Units: 2
Course Hours: 30.0
Prerequisites(s): MICR 282(concurrent), MICR 283(concurrent)
Corequisites(s):
Potential Learning Method(s): Lab/Practical
LABT 288
Analytical Instrumentation 1
3
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You will be introduced to spectrophotometry and electroanalysis as used in the bioscience field. You will study the chemical background, construction of and mode of operation of these instruments.
Credit Units: 3
Course Hours: 45.0
Prerequisites(s): CHEM 173, CHEM 174, STAT 181, BIOC 281
Corequisites(s): LABT 289
Potential Learning Method(s): Lecture/Theory, Online
LABT 289
Analytical Instrumentation 1 Lab
3
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You will apply basic maintenance and operating techniques for using ion-selective electrodes and spectrophotometers. You will use analytical instruments to analyze samples and interpret analytic data. You will prepare analytical solutions and use statistics to evaluate data.
Credit Units: 3
Course Hours: 45.0
Prerequisites(s): CHEM 173, CHEM 174, STAT 181, BIOC 281
Corequisites(s): LABT 288
Potential Learning Method(s): Lab/Practical, Online
LABT 290
Plant Tissue Culture Lab
2
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You will examine plant tissue culture techniques. You will perform sterilization techniques, prepare plant tissue culture media, and produce plant cultures.
Credit Units: 2
Course Hours: 30.0
Prerequisites(s): PYSL 180, PYSL 181, MICR 282(concurrent), MICR 283(concurrent)
Potential Learning Method(s): Lab/Practical
LABT 291
Animal Cell Culture Lab
2
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You will prepare animal cell culture media and materials. You will learn the safe handling and disposal of cell culture materials. You will learn to maintain and subculture cell lines, prepare a primary cell culture and perform cell transfection.
Credit Units: 2
Course Hours: 30.0
Prerequisites(s): ANAT 183, ANAT 184, MICR 282(concurrent), MICR 283(concurrent)
Potential Learning Method(s): Lab/Practical
MICR 282
General Microbiology 1
3
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You will be introduced to the diversity of microbiology as an area of bioscience and its unique approaches. You will study the characteristics of microbes including their anatomy, nutrition, growth, and control. Relevant content concerning methods, techniques and equipment such as microscopes will also be covered.
Credit Units: 3
Course Hours: 45.0
Prerequisites(s): ANAT 183, ANAT 184, LABT 182(concurrent)
Corequisites(s): MICR 283
Potential Learning Method(s): Lecture/Theory, Online
MICR 283
General Microbiology 1 Lab
3
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You will be introduced to standard methods and techniques used in the culture, examination and identification of microbes including molecular techniques. You will study the characteristics of growth and control of microorganisms through application of laboratory methods for cultivation of bacteria. Your laboratory experience will focus on techniques for safely handling, isolating and identifying bacteria.
Credit Units: 3
Course Hours: 45.0
Prerequisites(s): ANAT 183, ANAT 184, LABT 182(concurrent)
Corequisites(s): MICR 282
Potential Learning Method(s): Lab/Practical
Total semester credits: 27

Year 2 - Semester 5

Code
Name/Description
Credits
 
COMM 289
Communications 2
3
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You will study technical writing and oral presentation skills for the technologist. You will practice research methods, report writing, and oral presentation skills appropriate to the profession.
Credit Units: 3
Course Hours: 45.0
Prerequisites(s): COMM 191 or TCOM 102
Potential Learning Method(s): Lecture/Theory, Online
GENE 287
Molecular Biology 2
2
Show course details
You will study ribonucleic acid (RNA) biochemistry, transcription and its regulation, and RNA Splicing. You will study translation, and protein folding and cellular localization. You will examine regulatory RNA mechanisms of gene expression. You will examine methods in molecular biology and genetic engineering including PCR based techniques, CRISPR genome editing, DNA sequencing and molecular markers.
Credit Units: 2
Course Hours: 30.0
Prerequisites(s): GENE 285, GENE 286
Corequisites(s): GENE 288
Potential Learning Method(s): Lecture/Theory, Online
GENE 288
Molecular Biology 2 Lab
4
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You will use molecular biology techniques to separate, isolate and purify RNA and proteins. You will use PCR based techniques to examine and analyze RNA. You will also purify, and analyze proteins using chromatography, SDS-PAGE, and blotting techniques. You will examine genome content using molecular markers Real time PCR and DNA sequencing. You will use CRISPR technology to engineer a bacterial genome.
Credit Units: 4
Course Hours: 60.0
Prerequisites(s): GENE 285, GENE 286
Corequisites(s): GENE 287
Potential Learning Method(s): Lab/Practical
IMMU 179
Immunology
4
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You will receive an introduction to hematology and study innate and adaptive immunity and how they interact in health and disease. You will perform blood cell enumeration and differentiation and basic immunologic laboratory techniques and discuss their medical applications.
Credit Units: 4
Course Hours: 60.0
Prerequisites(s): ANAT 183, ANAT 184
Potential Learning Method(s): Lecture/Theory, Online
LABT 283
Laboratory Preparation Techniques 2
3
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You will continue applying information and developing skills learned in Laboratory Preparation Techniques 1 (LABT 182). You will prepare materials for first and second year laboratories and apply quality control and assurance to the documentation of laboratory activities. You will demonstrate basic supervisory and leadership skills, operate and maintain laboratory equipment, assist with inventory and perform general laboratory duties.
Credit Units: 3
Course Hours: 45.0
Prerequisites(s): LABT 182, MICR 282, MICR 283, MICR 284(concurrent), MICR 285(concurrent)
Corequisites(s):
Potential Learning Method(s): Lab/Practical
LABT 292
Analytical Instrumentation 2
3
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You will study gas chromatography (GC), liquid chromatography (LC), and capillary electrophoresis (CE). You will be introduced to the principles of analytical separation using these instruments and the unique features of having a mass spectrometer (MS) detector. You will examine the applications of the instruments to the field of biotechnology.
Credit Units: 3
Course Hours: 45.0
Prerequisites(s): LABT 288, LABT 289
Corequisites(s): LABT 293
Potential Learning Method(s): Lecture/Theory, Online
LABT 293
Analytical Instrumentation 2 Lab
3
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You will build on the knowledge learned in Analytical Instrumentation 1. You will evaluate, select, and test instrumentation and equipment appropriate to the chemical analysis.
Credit Units: 3
Course Hours: 45.0
Prerequisites(s): LABT 288, LABT 289
Corequisites(s): LABT 292
Potential Learning Method(s): Lab/Practical, Online
MICR 284
Applied Microbiology
3
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You will study the application of microbiology in bioscience related areas including the environment, food production and preservation, and industrial settings. You will examine several ecosystems and the roles of microbes within them. You will learn about establishing and maintaining culture collections and be introduced to the role of microbes in plant pathology.
Credit Units: 3
Course Hours: 45.0
Prerequisites(s): MICR 282, MICR 283, LABT 182, LABT 283(concurrent)
Corequisites(s): MICR 285
Potential Learning Method(s): Lecture/Theory, Online
MICR 285
Applied Microbiology Lab
3
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You will learn how to examine various environmental samples for microbes and be introduced to bioreactor usage. Your laboratory studies will focus on the techniques of sample analysis and include accurate recording, tabulating and analyzing laboratory data to evaluate sample quality.
Credit Units: 3
Course Hours: 45.0
Prerequisites(s): MICR 282, MICR 283, LABT 182, LABT 283(concurrent)
Corequisites(s): MICR 284
Potential Learning Method(s): Lab/Practical
Total semester credits: 28

Year 2 - Semester 6

Code
Name/Description
Credits
 
PRAC 285
Laboratory Practicum
8
Show course details
You will spend four weeks in a selected laboratory site applying acquired skills while participating in an ongoing or novel project. Placements may be in locations outside of Saskatoon; therefore, you may incur extra expenses. If you choose a location outside the province, you are not covered by Saskatchewan Workers’ Compensation.
Credit Units: 8
Course Hours: 120.0
Prerequisites(s): GENE 284, IMMU 280, LABT 281, LABT 282, LABT 283, MICR 281
Potential Learning Method(s): Clinical/Practicum
Total semester credits: 8
  • Basic theoretical courses complement more advanced technique-oriented courses where emphasis will be placed on your competency in laboratory skills.
  • Your practicum consists of working in a private laboratory for four weeks in May. You will not be paid and you must find your own accommodation if you are placed outside of Saskatoon.

Get Credit for What You Know

Prior Learning Assessment and Recognition

Saskatchewan Polytechnic recognizes that adults learn in many different ways. This includes acquiring knowledge and skills through life and work experience or non-formal training.

See link(s) below to get more information about PLAR.


Transfer Credit

Many Sask Polytech students benefit from transferring course credit. You may be eligible to transfer credit to Sask Polytech or to another college or university.

Graduates of this program may be eligible for block transfer of 60 credit units into the Bachelor of Science Post Diploma program or 30 credit units toward BSc (PD) with Majors in Applied Mathematics, Computing Information Systems and/or Human Science. 
Graduates of the BioScience Technology Diploma may be eligible for 36 cu in the Bachelor of Engineering Technology Chemical or Environmental studies degree programs
Graduates of this program may be eligible for block transfer into Bachelor of Technology Degree with 39 credit hours (13 courses) to be completed, including a technical project and report
Royal Roads University agrees to facilitate full block transfer of student(s) from Sask Polytech with appropriate prerequisite qualifications into BS Environmental Science, BS Environmental Practice, and BA Environmetal Practice.
Graduates of this program may be granted advanced credit standing comprised of a block transfer of 60 credit units into the College of Arts & Science, Bachelor of Science Four-year, or Honours Biology undergraduate degree program.

Student Awards

Thanks to the generosity of donors and alumni, Saskatchewan Polytechnic gives away more than $2 million in student awards during the academic year.

Saskatchewan Polytechnic offers student awards for every certificate and diploma program at every campus. Not all student awards are based on marks - some are based on financial need or things like community or volunteer involvement.

More about scholarships

Accreditation

Technology Accreditation Canada (TAC)

Technology Accreditation Canada (TAC) accredits the program at the Technologist level. TAC is a bold, world class accreditation organization, delivering accreditation services for the engineering technology and applied science profession in Canada.


Professional Registration

Technology Professionals Saskatchewan

Technology Professionals Saskatchewan is the provincial regulatory body for graduate of this Saskatchewan Polytechnic program.  As a graduate of an accredited program recognized by Technology Professionals Saskatchewan, your academic training places you on an expedited path towards obtaining professional registration as an Applied Science Technologist (A.Sc.T) or Certified Technician (C.Tech.).  For more information, visit tpsk.ca.

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