Bachelor of Science - Biotechnology at University of Prince Edward Island - Program overview

This program is currently under review and being updated. For the most up-to-date information, please contact us.

Program overview

Admission Requirements

Intakes

Last updated on 2025-03-31

Program overview

The Bachelor of Science in Biotechnology program at the University of Prince Edward Island (UPEI) is designed to provide students with a comprehensive education in biotechnology. This program combines practical and applied courses from the Bioscience Technology diploma program at Holland College with robust theoretical science courses at UPEI. Students will gain valuable experience in research, laboratory procedures, scientific ethics, and regulatory affairs. The program aims to enhance access to post-graduate opportunities, such as Master's degree programs, while equipping students with foundational science knowledge and specialized life sciences training. On-the-job training is an integral part of the curriculum, ensuring that students are well-prepared for their future careers in the field.

Program structure

The Bachelor of Science in Biotechnology program offers two distinct pathways for students:

Pathway 1 - Starting at Holland College ('2+2'): Students complete a Bioscience Technology diploma at Holland College, followed by two years at UPEI to complete the degree.
Pathway 2 - Starting at UPEI ('2+1+1'): Students begin their studies at UPEI, complete one year of science courses, then transfer to Holland College for the diploma, and return to UPEI for the final year.

The program length is four years for students who follow Pathway 2, while Pathway 1 typically takes two years at Holland College followed by two years at UPEI. Both pathways include:

Hands-on technical training through laboratory courses.
On-the-job training opportunities.
Access to specialized courses in life sciences.

Students are encouraged to consult academic advisors for guidance on course requirements and progression.

Featured Experiences

The Bachelor of Science in Biotechnology program offers several unique features and experiences that enhance the learning journey:

Co-op Opportunities: Students can gain practical experience through on-the-job training, which is integrated into the program.
Hands-on Laboratory Work: The program emphasizes practical skills through extensive lab-based courses.
Articulated Degree Pathways: Students can choose to start their education at either Holland College or UPEI, allowing for flexibility in their academic journey.
Research Experience: Students are encouraged to engage in research projects, providing them with valuable insights into the field of biotechnology.

Career Options

Graduates of the Bachelor of Science in Biotechnology program can pursue a variety of career paths in Canada, including:

Biotechnologist: Work in laboratories to develop products and processes using biological systems.
Research Scientist: Conduct experiments and analyze data to advance knowledge in biotechnology and related fields.
Quality Control Analyst: Ensure that products meet regulatory standards and quality specifications in pharmaceutical and biotechnology companies.
Regulatory Affairs Specialist: Navigate the regulatory landscape to ensure compliance for biotechnology products and processes.
Laboratory Technician: Support scientific research by performing tests and experiments in various laboratory settings.

These roles highlight the diverse opportunities available to graduates, allowing them to make significant contributions to the biotechnology sector.

DISCLAIMER: The information above is subject to change. For the latest updates, please contact LOA Portal's advisors.

Visit University of Prince Edward Island official website

Last updated on 2025-03-31

Program overview

Academic Requirements

The Academic Requirements for the Bachelor of Science in Biotechnology program at the University of Prince Edward Island are as follows:

Students must have received a Bioscience Technology diploma and achieved a minimum 70% average at Holland College or another recognized CTAB accredited technologist program that includes an OJT or co-op component.
For students starting at UPEI, they must apply to the Faculty of Science and follow the standard application procedures.
During the second year of study at UPEI, students must apply to Holland College for the Bioscience Technology diploma program by the February 1 deadline.
Current UPEI students cannot declare Biotechnology as a major. If you are a current UPEI student and wish to enter the Biotechnology program, you must submit a new application.

Transcripts may be required to be evaluated by WES in some cases.

For any clarification and support regarding the admission process, please contact LOA Portal's advisors.

Language Requirements for Undergraduate Programs

English Language Proficiency Requirements

The language of instruction at the University of Prince Edward Island is English. All academically admissible applicants, regardless of their country of origin or citizenship status, are required to demonstrate proficiency in the English language prior to undertaking studies at the University of Prince Edward Island. Proficiency may be demonstrated by:

Undergraduate programs

Three years of full-time study in English in Canada or in another country where English is a principal language (as recognized by UPEI); evidence of bilingualism (English and another language) is acceptable for those applicants educated in Canada in a language other than English; OR
Submission of an official test score at or above the acceptable minimum, such as:

Test	Arts, Science, Business, Engineering and Baccalauréate en éducation, Français Langue Seconde	Nursing, Radiography, Doctor of Veterinary Medicine & Education
IELTS (Academic)	Overall score of 6.5 with no band below 6	Overall score of 7 with 7 in writing and speaking; 6.5 in reading and listening
TOEFL paper-based test	550 with minimum TWE of 5.5	600 with minimum TWE of 6
TOEFL internet-based test	80 with minimum of 20 in each category	100 with a minimum of 25 in speaking and writing, 22 in reading and listening
TOEFL essentials	8.5 (overall) no score below 8.0	Not accepted
CAEL (including CAEL Online)	60	70
Pearson Test of English	58	66
Cambridge B2 First, C1 Advanced or C2 Proficiency	Overall score of 176 with 176 in writing and no other skill below 169	Overall score of 185 with 185 in writing and speaking; 176 in reading and listening
GTEC CBT	1176–1250	1250 and above
English 621*	70%	N/A

Applicants without English proficiency test scores, or with scores below the minimum, may be admitted conditionally (NOT available to applicants seeking admission to Nursing, Radiography, Education or Doctor of Veterinary Medicine), and will be assessed by the EAP Coordinator upon arrival. Depending upon the assessment result, students may be placed in either full-time or part-time EAP. Part-time EAP is taken in combination with up to three credit courses. Upon successful completion of EAP, with an acceptable test score as noted above, these students will be eligible to begin academic studies without conditions related to English language proficiency.

*Prince Edward Island high school course English 621 or an analogous grade 12 academic English course from another Canadian Provincial curriculum.

DISCLAIMER: The information above is subject to change. For the latest updates, please contact LOA Portal's advisors. The listed minimum requirements are a guideline and do not guarantee admission. Do not worry, we will notify you of any changes during the application process.

Not meeting the minimum language requirements?

You may still be able to apply!