Biology

The Bachelor of Science in Biology at the University of Ottawa offers students an comprehensive education in the fundamental principles of living organisms, encompassing areas such as genetics, ecology, microbiology, zoology, and botany. This program is designed to provide students with a strong foundation in biological sciences through a combination of theoretical coursework and practical laboratory experiences. Students will explore the diversity of life forms, their biological functions, evolutionary processes, and the interactions between organisms and their environments. The curriculum emphasizes critical thinking, scientific inquiry, and research skills, preparing graduates for careers in health, research, environmental management, education, and biotechnology. The program also offers specialized courses in areas such as molecular biology, physiology, biodiversity, and conservation, allowing students to tailor their education according to their interests and career aspirations. Through participation in research projects, internships, and fieldwork, students gain valuable hands-on experience that enhances their understanding of biological concepts and prepares them for graduate studies or professional work. The University of Ottawa’s Biology program is supported by modern laboratories, research facilities, and a diverse faculty with expertise in various biological disciplines. Students are encouraged to engage in collaborative projects, attend seminars, and contribute to research initiatives, fostering a vibrant academic community. Overall, this program aims to develop knowledgeable, skilled, and responsible scientists who can contribute to solving biological challenges and advancing knowledge in the field. Upon graduation, students will be equipped with the critical skills necessary for careers in research, healthcare, environmental protection, education, and industry, or to pursue further studies in graduate or professional programs.

• TOPICS IN BIOTECHNOLOGY
• ADVANCED FIELD ECOLOGY
• ADVANCED BIOCHEMISTRY 
• ADVANCES IN APPLIED BIOCHEMISTRY
• ADVANCED NEUROETHOLOGY
• BIOINFORMATICS
• BIOPHYSICAL TECHNIQUES
• ADVANCES IN PROTEIN ENGINEERING
• METHODS IN MOLECULAR GENETICS
• BIOLOGICAL SCIENCE IN PRACTICE
• BIOSTATISTICS I 
• MODELLING FOR BIOLOGISTS
• LABORATORY TECHNIQUES IN MOLECULAR GENETICS
• ADVANCED EVOLUTIONARY BIOLOGY
• ADVANCED EVOLUTIONARY ECOLOGY 
• PRINCIPLES AND METHODS OF BIOLOGICAL SYSTEMATICS
• ADVANCES IN AQUATIC SCIENCES
• BIOSTATISTICS II
• ADVANCES IN CONSERVATION BIOLOGY
• EVOLUTIONARY GENETICS
• MSc SEMINAR
• SPECIAL TOPICS IN NEUROSCIENCE
• ADVANCED SEMINAR IN NEUROSCIENCE
• TECHNIQUES IN NEUROSCIENCE
• SPECIAL TOPICS IN BIOLOGY
• SELECTED TOPICS IN BIOLOGY III
• ADVANCES IN APPLIED ECOLOGY
• ADVANCED TOPICS IN DEVELOPMENT
• ADVANCED MOLECULAR BIOLOGY
• ADVANCES IN PLANT MOLECULAR BIOLOGY
• ADVANCED CELL BIOLOGY I
• ADVANCED CELL BIOLOGY II 
• DIRECTED STUDIES IN BIOLOGY
• ADVANCED INSECT BIOLOGY
• ADVANCED ENDOCRINOLOGY
• ECOLOGY SEMINAR
• EVOLUTIONARY BIOINFORMATICS
• TOPICS IN EVOLUTIONARY GENETICS
• ADVANCED MICROSCOPY
• ADVANCED TOPICS IN ECOLOGY
• ADVANCED PLANT BIOLOGY
• ADVANCED ANIMAL PHYSIOLOGY
• ADVANCED BEHAVIOURAL ECOLOGY

Requirements

• B in an honours Bachelors degree in Cellular and Molecular Biology/Physiology and Biochemistry/Ecology, Behaviour and Systematics specialization
• Application Fee:$100.00 ($CDN non-refundable)
• 2 Recommendation letter(s)
• Transcript
• Proof of proficiency in your program's language of instruction, in the case of applicants whose first language is neither English nor French
  Language proficiency test scores equivalencies:TOEFL 550 / IELTS Overall 6.5 - Individual 5.0 (Paper-based), TOEFL 79-80 / IELTS Overall 6.5 - Individual 5.0 (Internet-based)
• Resume
• A letter of intent outlining your career goals and proposed research area.
• We recommend that you contact potential thesis supervisors early. To register, you need to be accepted by a thesis supervisor.
• International students must show proof of funding in the form of a supervisor stipend and a combination of scholarships and/or in-trust accounts.

Want to improve your English level for admission?

Prepare for the program requirements with English Online by the British Council.

• ✔️ Flexible study schedule
• ✔️ Experienced teachers
• ✔️ Certificate upon completion

📘 Recommended for students with an IELTS level of 6.0 or below.

Enroll in the course

Scholarships

• Full/Partial FGPS Scholarship
• Ontario Graduate Scholarships (OGS)

The Bachelor of Science in Biology at the University of Ottawa offers students a comprehensive understanding of the fundamental principles of living organisms, from molecular biology to ecology. The program focuses on developing both theoretical knowledge and practical skills through laboratory work, research projects, and field studies. Students have the opportunity to explore various branches of biology, including genetics, microbiology, zoology, botany, and evolutionary biology. The curriculum is designed to prepare graduates for careers in research, healthcare, environmental management, education, and biotechnology. In addition to core courses, students can choose specialized electives to tailor their studies to their interests and career aspirations. The program emphasizes critical thinking, scientific methodology, and effective communication skills, equipping students to analyze complex biological issues and contribute to scientific advancement. Students enrolled in the program benefit from state-of-the-art laboratory facilities, research opportunities with faculty members, and participation in internships or co-op placements. The University of Ottawa's strong ties with government agencies, research institutes, and industry partners provide ample opportunities for experiential learning and professional development. Graduates of the Biology program are well-prepared to pursue further education in graduate or professional schools or to enter the workforce in various sectors related to biological sciences. Throughout the course of study, students also acquire transferable skills in data analysis, problem-solving, teamwork, and scientific writing, which are highly valued across many employment sectors. The program encourages interdisciplinary approaches, integrating concepts from chemistry, physics, and environmental sciences to give students a holistic understanding of biological systems. With a diverse student body and a vibrant academic community, the University of Ottawa offers an enriching environment for students passionate about understanding life sciences and contributing to advances in biological research and application.