Our Bachelor of Arts (BA) in Biology program is intended for those who want to have a role in communicating biology and biological concepts to others.
This program will prepare you for careers such as law, education/teaching, public policy or science journalism.
This is a flexible program that you can combine with other subject areas through minors, options or even as a dual major with another BA program.
We also offer a Bachelor of Science (BSc) in Biology, which provides a firm foundation not only in Biology, but also in Chemistry and Math. The BSc program is ideal for those looking to move on to graduate work in Biology or to professional postgraduate programs in environmental or health sciences.
RESEARCH AREAS OF FOCUS
In this program, you’ll study molecular processes and cell structures, signalling mechanisms, metabolic pathways, patterns of inheritance, physiological responses, life histories, biodiversity and conservation and strategies for survival across the three domains of life.
As a senior undergraduate student, you’ll have the opportunity to become part of ongoing research programs at the cutting edge of our discipline.
Some examples of recent student research include:
"Effects of water-borne pollutants on the health of fish"
"Mechanisms of biofilm formation by bacteria"
"Evolution of mating behaviour in fruit flies"
"Interactions of plants with soil microbial communities"
"Structure and function of proteins"
"Effects of climate change on northern ecosystems"
Program Highlights
- It's easy to work with faculty mentors on a wide range of projects that will stimulate your curiosity and develop your creativity.
- Augment your knowledge through teamwork and problem solving in our diverse lab-based courses or in field studies that emphasize the function of organisms in their environments.
- Internal and external funding makes it easy for students to work with faculty mentors on a wide range of projects.
- You’ll gain hands-on experience that will show you biology is not only about technical skills, but also about attitude, passion and critical thinking.
Sample Courses
- Cell and Molecular Biology
- Microbial Ecology
- Animal Form and Function
- Field Studies
- Plants and People
- Anatomy and Physiology
- Conservation Biology
Design Your Degree
These are a few popular academic opportunities which allow you to dive deeper into your major area of study or broaden your knowledge:
- Research Specialization
- Sustainability Option
- Management Option
- Environmental Science Option
- Chemistry Minor
- Environmental Studies Minor
- Geography Minor
- Psychology Minor
SAMPLE CAREER OPTIONS
- bioinformatics specialist
- biotechnologist
- conservation biologist
- crop biologist
- dentist
- dietician/nutritionist
- environmental consultant
- environmental policy advisor
- fisheries biologist
- food safety inspector
- genetic counsellor
- laboratory technician
- land-use planner
- medical professional
- microbiologist
- naturopath
- pharmacist
- physiotherapist
- public health professional
- quality assurance manager
- research associate
- science journalist
- science librarian
- teacher/professor
- technical sales representative
- technical writer
- toxicologist
- veterinarian