How uOttawa partnered with CASTL to strengthen biomanufacturing education

Since 2024, the University of Ottawa has partnered with CASTL and OHRI’s Biotherapeutics Manufacturing Centre to deliver a three-credit graduate course as part of uOttawa’s Microprogram in Biomanufacturing. The course brings industry-informed biomanufacturing training into the classroom through expert instruction, applied learning, guest speakers, and specialized lab and facility visits.

The challenge

Many life sciences students enter academic programs with strong scientific foundations but limited exposure to biomanufacturing operations, industry processes, and career pathways.

Before taking the course, most students reported low familiarity with the biopharmaceutical manufacturing industry and associated processes.

The solution

CASTL supported the course with applied, expert-led instruction on core biomanufacturing topics, including GMP, contamination control, processing, facility design, quality systems, regulatory requirements, and product development. Applied activities, guest speakers, expert perspectives, and access to specialized lab and facility environments helped students connect classroom learning with real-world industry practice.

The impact

• Across three cohorts, students gave the course an average rating of 4.9 out of 5.
• After completing the course, all respondents reported some level of interest in careers in biopharmaceutical manufacturing or biological and advanced therapeutics.
• Students also reported gaining practical knowledge and confidence in technical, quality, regulatory, and professional skill areas directly aligned with industry needs.

Partner with CASTL to bring biomanufacturing training to your students.

Whether you are developing a new course, strengthening an existing program, building a microcredential, or expanding experiential learning opportunities, partnering with CASTL can help bring industry-informed biomanufacturing training to your students.