Biomaterials & Chemical Laboratory Analysis - Applied Science

BCAS
City: Sarnia
Two-Year Ontario College Graduate Certificate
May Closed Jan Open
Apply Now

Overview

Working in a biomaterials chemistry lab involves exploring the desing, synthesis, and charaterization of materials that interact with living systems.

The Lambton College Biomaterials & Chemical Laboratory Analysis - Applied Science, Ontario College Graduate Certificate, two-year program provides focused, experiential education to meet the demands of the energy, advanced materials, cannabis and other natural health product industries. 

In this program, students study advanced concepts in chemistry, biochemistry, biology, physics and mathematics applied to chemical analysis and complex problem solving in a hands-on laboratory environment.

Students conduct tests and develop solutions to problems in analyses of raw materials, products, or environmental samples, synthesize organic or inorganic compounds and prepare reports and technical documentation related to chemical analyses. Within the laboratory environment, graduates implement, coordinate and evaluate quality assurance and quality control procedures, in accordance with international and industry standards and government regulations. The program prepares students to analyze natural products, energy and advanced materials for quality and contribute to research and development.

Admission Requirements

  • University degree in science, pharmacy, or engineering with appropriate preparation in Math and Chemistry

The admissions process is competitive and meeting the minimum academic requirements does not guarantee admission.

Lambton College reserves the right to alter information including admission requirements and to cancel a program or course at any time; to change the program curriculum as necessary to meet current competencies or changes in the job market; to change the pathways to third-party certification bodies; or to withdraw an offer of admission both prior to and after its acceptance by an applicant or student because of insufficient applications or registrations or over-acceptance of offers of admission. In the event Lambton College exercises such a right, Lambton College's sole liability will be the return of monies paid by the applicant or student to Lambton College.

English Language Requirements

  • IELTS of 6.5

- or -

  • TOEFL iBT 79

- or -

  • Passed Lambton Institute of English placement test

Please Note: IELTS is the only proficiency score accepted by the Study Direct Stream (SDS) program. Additional country-specific requirements may also be applicable.

Meeting the minimum English requirements does not guarantee admission. Students with higher English proficiency scores will receive priority in the admission assessment process.

Meet Samantha

Samantha works in Lambton College's research department with research students from this program. Hear about the exciting things she works on in the lab.

Costs

  • Term 1 $9,024.44
  • Term 2 $8,215.75
  • Term 3 $9,074.44
  • Term 4 $0.00
$26,314.63
Total Cost of Program

Tuition fees are estimates and are subject to change each academic year. Fees do not include books (unless specifically noted), supplies or living costs.

Lambton College reserves the right to alter information including admission requirements and to cancel at any time a program or course; to change the location and/or term in which a program or course is offered; to change the program curriculum as necessary to meet current competencies or changes in the job market; to change the pathways third-party certification bodies; or to withdraw an offer of admission both prior to and after its acceptance by an applicant or student because of insufficient applications or registrations or over-acceptance of offers of admission. In the event Lambton College exercises such a right, Lambton College’s sole liability will be the return of monies paid by the applicant or student to Lambton College.

Additional Fees

  • Calculator (Sharp EL-W516XGB Advanced WriteView)
    $40.00
  • Lab Coat
    $20.00
  • Safety Glasses
    $10.00
  • Lab Notebook
    $10.00

WIL Project Fees

Students who are not successful in securing a co-op or fail to meet the co-op requirements will need to register in CPL-5559 WIL Project.

There is an additional fee of $2,100 for each student enrolled in the WIL Project course.

Important Dates, Deadline & Late Fees

For additional information on registration dates, deadlines and late fees please refer to Registration Dates and Deadlines.

Student Fees

A student services fee is included in your tuition.

Health Insurance Coverage

Emergency medical insurance is mandatory for all international students at Lambton College. This includes students who are full-time and part-time and who are on a co-op. This insurance is provided by guard.me - a third party insurance provider.

See Insurance Costs & Details

Technology Requirements

In order to keep pace with the requirements of each and every course in your program, Lambton College requires that each student have access to a laptop while studying at our college.

Labs & Equipment

Courses

POL-1003
Canadian Politics & Government I

Through the lens of intersectionality POL 1003 examines the structure and function of government within Canada. The Constitution, federalism, the Charter of Rights and Freedoms, the electoral system and political participation are all used to frame a critical review of Canada's role in global sustainability, socio-economic interdependence, and decolonization. Regionalism, cleavages, and disadvantage are core themes further explored by learners through small group dialogue, gamification, and a critical analysis of current event topics which have included Indigenous rights; gender identity; Residential Schools; and structural racism. If you're looking to make a difference... look to POL 1003

OHS-1402
Canadian Workplace Health & Safety

In providing an overview of Canadian Labour laws, workplace rules and regulations, and Health and Safety Hazards in the workplace, students gain an understanding of the responsibilities of employers, worker's rights as well as the responsibilities of various organizations in the Canadian labour industry. Awareness and recognition of various health and safety risks arising from a variety of occupations is also covered.

COM-3013
Professional Communications

This course is designed for international students with diplomas or degrees. It focuses on polishing communications skills acquired through one's academic career and workplace experience. Through various business writing and speaking scenarios, students learn Canadian business practices and communication styles, incorporating inclusivity and diversity. Close attention is paid to proper incorporation of the intellectual property of others to ensure academic integrity. Students will practice organized and dynamic speaking and will strive for polished business documents.

CHM-4716
Analytical - Separation & Imaging Methods

This course continues the exploration of analytical technology, beginning with the topics of sampling techniques. In this unit the students will learn about strategies for how and where samples are collected, and how they are stored and prepared. In the second unit chromatography in many of its variants is explored. The mechanisms of component separation are presented along with the hardware components of a typical system and how the generated data is analyzed. Some methods for improvement of separation are covered. In the third unit, methods of microscopy are covered, from the many optical methods to electron imaging and atomic force microscopy. In the final unit, a survey of new and potential methods are examined.

CHM-4913
Quality Assurance & Control

Quality in the chemical laboratory is about the data being produced being free of error and with well defined and understood limits, consistence and uncertainty. There are national and international standards for quantifying quality. This course will understand the importance of quality in the laboratory, be familiar with the standards that control and define quality, know how to sample to ensure quality through appropriate sampling, method selection, measurement practices and documentation.

CHM-2712
Laboratory Techniqes

The student will be introduced to Canadian laboratory techniques, including good laboratory practices for analytical labs (such as appropriate lab record keeping and documentation), laboratory chemical safety (WHMIS/SDS), and lab procedures. Students will learn techniques useful in later areas of the program, such as preparing solutions, proper chemical labelling and storage, and maintaining a laboratory notebook.

CHM-1901
Chemical Laboratory Careers in Canada

In this course, students will gain exposure to a variety of career paths in chemical laboratories in diverse industries across Canada through a series of guest lecturers and/or case studies. Students will assess which opportunities are expected to experience growth and they will determine what additional requirements or skills in addition to chemical laboratory skills may be necessary for a chosen profession. Students will investigate an industry in detail to describe the roles, the education and skills required. Students will present their findings to the class.

MTH-1904
Mathematics for Technology I

This course reviews and develops concepts in algebra, trigonometry, complex numbers, and vectors with technical applications.

JSS-1001
Job Search & Success

This course provides student with skills and knowledge to help support their career search and succeed in the workplace. Students align their personal skill set and goals to guide them on their career paths. They will learn how to effectively conduct a job search, build a professional and well-tailored resume and cover letter, and develop and practice interview techniques. Students will also develop their personal brand to help support effective career networking and aid in their job search. Teamwork and collaboration in the workplace are also discussed. Self-reflection is used to inspire insight and support their professional career journey.

FOUR MONTHS

CHM-5716
Natural Health Products

Interest in the use of natural products in pharmaceutical, nutraceutical, and functional food is growing rapidly. Cannabis legalization in Canada and around the globe has seen substantial growth in the interest of natural health products. In this course, students gain scientific insights in the area of natural health products, and active components of cannabis, ginseng and kombucha. This course focuses on preparing students as skilled employees for cannabis and other natural health product/nutraceutical product manufacturing companies through the integration of scientific concepts well as hands on skills of extraction, downstream processing and refining of active constituents, and product/formulation development of such active ingredients. Students will learn the skills of scientific literature review, laboratory experimentation, sample preparation and analysis, report writing, and presentation.

CHM-5816
Reinforced Plastics

Engineered materials systems with the combined benefits of plastics and reinforcement are explored with an emphasis on natural product reinforcement; things like hemp, rice hulls and crystalline cellulose. The recycling benefits and technology are covered in general and as they pertain to these naturally sourced reinforcement materials.

CHM-5916
Petrochemical & Polymer Chemistry

The petrochemical industry from extraction to processing into energy and materials products is covered in this course. Polymer chemistry and production is explored. Polymers and energy products (for example; bio-diesel and bio-ethanol) from renewable resources is also covered.

CHEM-3716
Analytical - Physical & Spectrometry Methods

CHM-5501
Proposal Writing

A student will work with a mentor to develop a proposal for their applied research project occurring in the next term. Steps in the proposal writing process will be covered.

CHM-6119
Applied Lab Skills I

In this course the leaning objectives are met through the lens of an applied research-based question. Students will work on a research problem through implementation of procedures and techniques explored in the preceding semesters of the program. Students will be involved in selecting the appropriate techniques, calibrating, and maintaining equipment, and producing valid data for analysis.

CHM-6214
Applied Lab Analysis

In this course the learning objectives are met through the lens of an applied research-based question. Students will work to design and analyse experiments to solve and explore an identified applied research problem. Students will be responsible for evaluating the quality of the data, statistical analysis of the data, and considering if the data meets compliance of any relevant industry or government standards.

CHM-6513
Scientific Communication & Dissemination I

A student will work with a mentor to plan, communicate and manage the solution to an applied research problem. The emphasis will be on presentation skills, project update creation and tailoring scientific background information for specific audiences.

CPL-1049
Work Term (full-time)

Co-operative education provides students with the opportunity to apply classroom learning to the workplace, undertake career sampling and gain valuable work experience that may assist students in leveraging employment after graduation. For further information regarding co-op, please refer to: https://www.lambtoncollege.ca/co-ops-placements

--- OR ---
CPL-5559
WIL Project

Work Integrated Learning (WIL) Project is aimed at enriching students by connecting different program areas of study, cutting across subject-matter lines, and emphasizing unifying concepts. The focus of the WIL Project is to make connections between study and industry by engaging students in relevant and meaningful activities that are connected to and practiced within the professional workplace. WIL Project allows students to enhance and strengthen their employability prospects post-graduation by fine tuning skills and knowledge and meeting the expectations of today's employers. Students are required to attend the scheduled shifts in the WIL office, reporting to the WIL Supervisor. Weekly real-world challenges are presented in the WIL office, designed by industry professionals. In addition to the weekly assigned deliverables, students are also offered professional development sessions, and exposed to industry guest speakers, enhancing their opportunity to develop their professional network.

Co-op Eligibility & WIL Project Fee

In order to be eligible to secure an approved full-time co-op work term (CPL-1049), students must have a GPA of 2.8 or greater and complete all the co-op eligibility requirements. Failing to do so will require students to enroll in CPL-5559 WIL Project at an additional cost.

Contact

Centre for Global Engagement

LAMBTON COLLEGE SARNIA

226-313-7777

1457 London Road

Sarnia ON, N7S 6K4

After Graduation

Employment Opportunities

Using a piece of technology equipment

Graduates may find employment as chemical laboratory technologists in a range of settings including: research laboratories, government agencies, educational institutions, and technical sales. They may also work in industries such as, pharmaceuticals, biotechnology, cosmetics, cannabis, natural health products, petroleum, mining, water and wastewater, solid waste, environmental protection, energy, and food science.

More Information

Student Responsibilities

  • Course and program delivery schedules are proposed and subject to change for each intake.
  • Students are required to bring their own laptop with wireless capability.
  • Students are advised to bring an official copy of their most recent police clearance, driver's license, and vaccination record from their home country.
An international student smiling at desk on campus.
Set yourself up for success!

Post-Graduate Employment

International students who successfully complete their programs of study at Lambton College may be eligible to apply for a Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) Program. This program allows students to gain valuable Canadian work experience.

A work permit under the PGWP may be issued for the length of the study program, up to a maximum of three years. A post-graduation work permit cannot be valid for longer than the student's study program, and the study program must be a minimum of eight months in length. The length and approval of the PGWP is determined solely by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC).

Students must meet the eligibility requirements to apply for a post-graduation work permit.

Visit the PGWP Website

Immigration Regulations & Changes

Immigration regulations are legislated by the Federal Government of Canada and are subject to change at any time without notice. Students are responsible for ensuring that they are in compliance with all Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada regulations at all times during their studies and while in Canada. Lambton College staff are not authorized to provide advice or guidance on immigration-related matters. Prospective applicants and current students should consult the Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada website or call the IRCC Call Centre at 1-888-242-2100 to answer or clarify any immigration-related questions or information.

Technology Requirements

It is recommended that students purchase a laptop with a Windows operating system.

Internet Speed Requirements

For best performance for students learning remotely, an internet connection with a minimum of 40 Mbps download and 10 Mbps upload speed is recommended in order to effectively use video conferencing and remote lecture delivery software as well as, other online resources remotely. Due to the large area over which students may be dispersed, we are unable to recommend a specific provider, so you will need to inquire around your area to find one that best suits your needs.

Minimum Laptop Requirements

In order to access the internet and virtually-delivered software and courseware, student laptops should include the following at a minimum. By meeting the following specifications, students will be equipped to access software and courseware on their laptop through the internet:

  • Intel i5 8th Gen Processor or equivalent
  • 16 GB of RAM (with a minimum of 8 GB)
  • 100 GB HDD or more
  • HD Graphics
  • Webcam with a microphone
  • Wireless 802.11n/ac 5ghz capable
  • Windows Operating System (Windows 11)

Software

To ensure students are getting the most our of their classroom experience, some software will be required.

Lambton College has made this software easily accessible online. Students can leverage our Microsoft Office 365 software packages and services. In addition, much of the software you require for your courses will be available on demand for use on any device - on or off campus.