Practicum / Internship

The emphasis of an MBT practicum is on commercial application of life sciences. Whether carried out in the university or industrial setting, it differs from basic research in its multidisciplinary approach and commercial focus. The practicum can cover the entire range of activities associated with the product development pipeline: It can take place in the early stages of innovation in the area of patent filing, technology transfer or in the final stages of product sales and marketing. It can be laboratory based in research and development, validation, process development, quality control or business oriented. Generally, students are paid for their work during the internship. The MBT program has a matching fund program in place to help finance the student practicum.

Course Descriptive :

Medical Science 678 H(1-3): Practicum in Biomedical Technology

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Two x half credit course over both Spring and Summer semesters, or Fall or Winter semesters The Practicum is carried out after completion of all other course requirements. It counts as a full course (2 x ½ credits) and has a minimum duration of 10 weeks, but longer periods are possible. We consider the Practicum one of the most important experiences for the students allowing them to “get their feet wet” and further develop their professional networks. It gives the students the opportunity to apply the principles and methods of investigation learned during the Master of Biomedical Technology program. The practicum is considered a course, thus tuition and fees will apply.

Practicum Examples :

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Generally, there are six divisions for industry careers. However, these divisions are not exhaustive, but act as a guideline.

• Research & Development: Discovery Research, Bioinformatics, Animal Sciences
• Operations: Process/product development
• Quality: Quality control, Assurance validation
• Clinical Research: Regulatory Affairs, Drug Information, Medical Affairs
• Finance & Administration: Information System, Legal Affairs, Intellectual Property
• Business Development: Marketing, Sales

The components for a successful practicum and job search are covered during the Careers in Biotechnology course (MDSC 673). By the time the students are ready to look for a practicum they have researched and defined their preferred sector, they have developed an effective resume and cover letter and know how to conduct an interview; they have researched potential employers and know how to network.
The practicum search is a combination of student-led initiatives and established connections between the MBT program and local companies and institutes. The practicum search takes place in consultation with the Practicum consultant; it is tailored to the individual’s interest and most importantly student driven. We strongly believe that providing the students with skills and support to find their own practicum is far more beneficial than the placement style employed by most of the undergraduate co-op programs. The Practicum Coordinator is responsible for ensuring the practicum project also meets academic criteria sufficient for the degree. Interested in offering a practicum placement for an MBT? Please, contact us. Or check our industry relations page.