Bachelor of Science in Biotechnology/Chartered Professional Accountancy (Co-op)

Application Fees : CAD$ 304.25

Undergraduate Entry Requirements:

1. Academic Achievement: International students applying for undergraduate programs at the University of Waterloo are expected to have a minimum academic achievement of 80% or above in their secondary school studies.  

2. English Language Proficiency: The accepted English language tests and their minimum score requirements are as follows:

   • IELTS: Overall score of 6.5 with no band less than 6.5 in writing, 6.0 in reading, 6.0 in listening, and 6.5 in speaking.
   • TOEFL: Minimum score of 90 on the Internet-based Test (iBT).
   • PTE: Minimum score of 63.
   • DET (Duolingo English Test): Minimum score of 120.

It is important to note that meeting the minimum entry requirements does not guarantee admission to the University of Waterloo. The university receives a large number of applications and admission decisions are based on a holistic assessment of various factors, including academic performance, test scores, personal statements, and letters of recommendation.

The University of Waterloo offers several scholarships and financial aid options to support international students in their academic journey. These scholarships recognize academic excellence, leadership potential, and contributions to the community. 

1. International Master's Award of Excellence: This scholarship is available to international students entering a research-based master's program. It provides funding of up to $2,500 per term for a maximum of five terms.

2. Ontario Graduate Scholarship (OGS): The OGS is a merit-based scholarship available to domestic and international students pursuing a graduate degree at the University of Waterloo. The scholarship provides funding of up to $15,000 per year for a maximum of two or three years, depending on the program.

3. President's Scholarship of Distinction: This prestigious scholarship is awarded to top international students entering an undergraduate program at the University of Waterloo. The scholarship covers full tuition for up to four years of study.

4. International Student Entrance Scholarships: These scholarships are available to high-achieving international students applying for undergraduate programs. The value of the scholarships varies and is renewable for up to four years, based on academic performance.

5. Faculty-specific Scholarships: Various faculties at the University of Waterloo offer scholarships specifically for international students. These scholarships are based on academic achievement, leadership potential, and involvement in extracurricular activities within the respective faculty.

6. Donor-funded Scholarships: The university receives generous contributions from donors, which are used to establish scholarships for international students. These scholarships may have specific eligibility criteria and application processes.

It is important to note that the availability, eligibility criteria, and application deadlines for scholarships may vary. To apply for scholarships, international students are typically required to submit an application for admission to the university. Some scholarships may have additional application requirements, such as essays or reference letters. It is important to carefully review the scholarship information and follow the application instructions provided.

Graduates of the Bachelor of Science in Biotechnology/Chartered Professional Accountancy (CPA) program at the University of Waterloo are equipped with a unique skill set that prepares them for diverse career opportunities in both the biotechnology and accounting sectors. The Bachelor of Science in Biotechnology/Chartered Professional Accountancy (Co-op) program at the University of Waterloo provides graduates with a diverse range of career options in the biotechnology and accounting fields. With their interdisciplinary skills, practical experience, and professional accreditation, graduates are well-positioned to thrive in dynamic industries and make meaningful contributions to scientific innovation, financial management, and business growth.

1. Biotechnology Industry: With a solid foundation in biotechnology principles and laboratory techniques, graduates can pursue roles in various sectors of the biotechnology industry. They may work in biopharmaceutical companies, biotechnology firms, medical device manufacturers, or agricultural biotechnology companies, where they contribute to research and development, quality assurance, regulatory affairs, product management, or technical sales.

2. Accounting and Finance: Graduates who pursue CPA accreditation can embark on rewarding careers in accounting, finance, and business advisory services. They may work in public accounting firms, including the Big Four, mid-sized firms, or specialized accounting practices, where they provide audit, tax, assurance, and advisory services to clients across industries. Graduates may also work in corporate finance departments, government agencies, or financial institutions, where they analyze financial data, prepare financial statements, manage budgets, or provide financial planning and analysis.

3. Biotechnology Consulting: Some graduates may choose to work as consultants in the biotechnology industry, providing strategic advice, regulatory compliance guidance, or market analysis to biotechnology companies, investors, or government agencies. Consultants may specialize in areas such as technology transfer, intellectual property management, regulatory affairs, or business development, helping biotechnology firms navigate complex challenges and capitalize on emerging opportunities.

4. Entrepreneurship and Startups: With their interdisciplinary background and entrepreneurial mindset, graduates may choose to launch their ventures or join startup companies in the biotechnology sector. They may be involved in developing innovative biotechnology products, launching biotech startups, securing funding, and commercializing research discoveries. Entrepreneurial graduates may also explore opportunities in venture capital, angel investing, or technology transfer offices, where they evaluate investment opportunities and support early-stage biotechnology ventures.

5. Research and Development: Graduates interested in scientific research may pursue careers in academic institutions, research laboratories, or government agencies, where they contribute to cutting-edge research projects in biotechnology, bioinformatics, genomics, or synthetic biology. They may work as research assistants, laboratory technicians, or research scientists, conducting experiments, analyzing data, and contributing to scientific publications and patents.

6. Regulatory Affairs and Compliance: With their knowledge of biotechnology regulations and quality assurance practices, graduates may work in regulatory affairs departments of biotechnology companies, ensuring compliance with local and international regulations governing the development, manufacturing, and marketing of biotechnology products. They may liaise with regulatory authorities, prepare regulatory submissions, and monitor changes in regulations affecting the biotechnology industry.

7. Further Education: Graduates may choose to pursue advanced degrees, such as Master of Science (MSc) or Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) in biotechnology, biochemistry, molecular biology, or related fields, to deepen their expertise and pursue academic or research-oriented careers. Advanced degrees may open up opportunities for leadership roles in academia, research institutions, or specialized biotechnology companies.