Biology and Physics

The Bachelor of Science in Biology at Carleton University offers students a comprehensive and versatile education in the fundamental principles of life sciences. This program is designed to provide a solid foundation in biology, covering a wide range of topics such as genetics, ecology, evolution, cell biology, and physiology. Students will have the opportunity to explore both theoretical concepts and practical skills through lectures, laboratory work, and research projects. The curriculum emphasizes critical thinking, research techniques, and data analysis, preparing graduates for careers in health sciences, environmental management, biotechnology, research, or further academic study. Alongside core courses, students can choose electives aligned with their particular interests, including marine biology, microbiology, zoology, botany, and molecular biology. The program encourages active engagement in research activities and offers access to state-of-the-art laboratories and research facilities. Additionally, students are supported in developing communication and teamwork skills essential for scientific careers. Collaborative projects, seminars, and internships allow students to gain real-world experience and build professional networks. The Bachelor of Science in Biology at Carleton University is ideal for students passionate about understanding living organisms and biological processes, and who wish to contribute to advancements in science and health. Graduates will be well-equipped to pursue graduate studies or enter the workforce in various biological and environmental fields, or to engage in ongoing learning in a rapidly evolving scientific landscape. The program's flexible structure and multidisciplinary approach ensure that students receive a well-rounded education tailored to contemporary scientific challenges.

Program Description:

The Bachelor of Science (BSc) in Biology at Carleton University offers a comprehensive and engaging curriculum designed to prepare students for diverse careers in biological sciences, research, healthcare, education, and environmental management. The program provides a solid foundation in fundamental biological principles, including ecology, genetics, molecular biology, cell biology, physiology, and evolution. Students will have the opportunity to explore specialized areas such as microbiology, botany, zoology, and biotechnology through a range of advanced courses, laboratories, and fieldwork experiences.

Throughout the program, students are encouraged to develop critical thinking, analytical skills, and scientific communication abilities essential for success in both academic and professional settings. The curriculum emphasizes hands-on laboratory work and research projects that foster practical skills and an understanding of modern techniques used in biological research. Students can participate in various research opportunities, including faculty-led projects and internships, to gain real-world experience and enhance their understanding of biological systems.

In addition to coursework, the program promotes an interdisciplinary approach, integrating topics such as environmental science, health sciences, and bioinformatics, to prepare students for the complex challenges facing the modern world. The program also focuses on fostering sustainable practices and ethical considerations within biological research and applications.

Graduates of the Biology program at Carleton University are well-equipped for graduate studies, professional careers in healthcare, conservation, biotechnology, education, and science communication. The program’s dedicated faculty are committed to providing personalized mentorship and support to help students achieve their academic and career goals. Combining rigorous academic training with practical experience, the BSc in Biology at Carleton University offers an exceptional education for students passionate about understanding the biological world and making a positive impact on society.

Program Requirements:

The Bachelor of Science in Biology at Carleton University requires students to complete a minimum of 20.0 credits to graduate, including a combination of core courses, electives, and research components. Freshmen typically begin with foundational courses in biology such as BIOL 1001 (Introductory Biology I) and BIOL 1002 (Introductory Biology II), which cover principles of cell biology, genetics, evolution, and ecology. To deepen their understanding, students must also take courses in chemistry (CHEM 1001 and CHEM 1002) and mathematics (e.g., MATH 1006) as prerequisites for advanced biological studies.

Throughout the program, students are encouraged to participate in laboratory work, fieldwork, and research projects to develop practical skills and apply theoretical knowledge. Intermediate courses include BIOL 2001 (Cell and Molecular Biology) and BIOL 2002 (Ecology and Evolution). Upper-year courses offer specialization options such as microbiology, neurobiology, environmental biology, and physiology. Students are advised to complete at least one or two courses in each of these areas to ensure a comprehensive understanding of the biological sciences.

The program also emphasizes critical thinking, scientific communication, and ethical considerations in research. To culminate their studies, students are required to complete a senior research project or thesis under faculty supervision, involving data collection, analysis, and presentation. Additionally, students must achieve a minimum cumulative average as specified by the university’s academic regulations, typically around 60%, to maintain good academic standing.

For additional experiential learning, students are encouraged to engage in co-op internships or volunteer opportunities related to biology. These experiential programs facilitate professional development and enhance employability upon graduation. Students are also advised to meet with academic advisors regularly to plan their course sequence and ensure all program requirements are met. International students may have additional language proficiency requirements, such as a minimum TOEFL or IELTS score, as specified by the university.

Overall, the program aims to equip graduates with a solid foundation in biological sciences, research skills, and practical experience, preparing them for careers in research, healthcare, environmental management, education, or for further graduate studies.

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

The Biology and Physics undergraduate programs at Carleton University primarily offer students a comprehensive education in their respective fields, catering to both Canadian and international students. Funding options available to students pursuing these degrees include a combination of government financial aid, scholarships, bursaries, and work-study opportunities. Canadian citizens and permanent residents may be eligible for federal and provincial student aid programs such as the Canadian Student Loans Program and Ontario Student Assistance Program (OSAP), which provide low-interest loans and grants based on financial need.

In addition, Carleton University offers a range of institutional scholarships and awards to support outstanding students. These include entrance scholarships awarded based on academic achievement at the time of admission, as well as in-course scholarships for students maintaining high academic standards throughout their studies. Many of these awards are renewable yearly, contingent upon students meeting specific academic criteria.

International students are encouraged to explore external scholarship opportunities provided by their home governments, international organizations, or private foundations that support international education. Carleton University also participates in scholarship programs for international students, such as the International Scholarships for Incoming Students, which recognize academic excellence and potential.

Work opportunities are available on campus for students in the form of part-time jobs, research assistantships, and teaching assistantships, which not only provide valuable practical experience but also help offset living expenses. Students are advised to consult the university’s Financial Aid and Awards Office for detailed information on application procedures, deadlines, and eligibility criteria.

Moreover, students enrolled in Biology and Physics programs can benefit from co-operative education (co-op) options, which integrate work placements into the curriculum, enabling students to gain paid professional experience and additional funding. Prospective and current students are encouraged to engage with academic advisors and the university’s financial aid office to plan their financing strategies effectively, ensuring that financial considerations do not hinder their educational goals.

The Bachelor of Science in Biology at Carleton University offers students a comprehensive education in the fundamental and applied aspects of biological sciences. This program is designed to provide a strong foundation in areas such as cellular biology, genetics, ecology, evolution, and physiology, preparing graduates for diverse careers in research, healthcare, environmental management, and education. The curriculum incorporates both theoretical coursework and hands-on laboratory experience, enabling students to develop critical thinking, analytical skills, and practical competencies. Students have opportunities to participate in research projects, fieldwork, and internships, fostering experiential learning and professional development. The program also emphasizes the importance of scientific communication and interdisciplinary collaboration. Core courses are complemented by electives that allow students to specialize in areas such as molecular biology, botany, zoology, or environmental science. The faculty members are active researchers, and students benefit from their expertise and mentorship. The program aims to equip graduates with the knowledge and skills necessary to pursue graduate studies or enter the workforce in various sectors, including healthcare, biotechnology, conservation, and education. With access to state-of-the-art laboratories and research facilities, students are encouraged to engage in innovative projects and contribute to advancing biological sciences. The Bachelor of Science in Biology at Carleton University is suitable for students passionate about understanding living organisms and their interactions with the environment, fostering a commitment to scientific inquiry and societal impact.