Inspired by science?
Start in September!
Creative, meticulous and evidence-based — if you're interested in the variety of skills needed to make amazing scientific discoveries, this program is for you. Prepare for a career in cancer research, environmental protection, drug discovery, vaccine research and more. You can work straight out of the program in a wide range of labs, including those associated with biomedical and health-related biotechnology, forestry, fisheries, mining, agriculture, oceanography and the environment. Or, if your goal is a bachelor of science degree, you can transfer into third year studies at a BC university.
Whatever your goal, we can help
The two-year ACBT diploma program prepares you for laboratory work in areas such as cancer research, microbial disease research, drug development, plant biotech, or environmental protection.
You will benefit from the mentorship and guidance from dedicated faculty, whether your goal is employment in a lab, further study or simply a solid foundation for another educational experience.
What to expect
Year 1
In your first year, you will take three academic terms (fall, winter and spring). Courses include a foundation in biology, chemistry, English, math and physics.
Year 2
Build on your solid fundamental understanding of modern techniques in biotechnology with two more terms to deepen your skills in chemistry, biochemistry, microbiology and immunology.
Optional Internship
After your second year, you can take an optional internship (minimum 300 hours) after completion of all the program courses. Students usually complete the work term between May and August.
Work experience
The optional internship enables you to try out potential careers. In your second year, you'll have the opportunity to carry out a major project at an external laboratory.
This leads to an enhanced diploma with greater skills and work-related experience in your field of interest.
A foundation for further study
The majority of courses in the core program have university transfer credit. If you intend to pursue degrees in chemistry, biochemistry, immunology, biotechnology or microbiology you should consider this program as the first two years of your degree. This program also fits well with a pre-medical school studies plan.
You can apply for admission, with a full block transfer of your courses, to the third year of the BSc Environmental Sciences program or BSc Environmental Management at Royal Roads University or any program within the School of Environmental Sustainability.
Other transfer options include:
