Biology (BSc)

Explore life’s common principles and processes, as well as its vast diversity, at the many levels of biological organization. A Bachelor of Science (BSc) in Biology provides you with foundations in biology, chemistry and math to prepare you for graduate work in biology or professional postgraduate programs in biology and the health sciences. You can choose a concentration or double major in Biology and Chemistry, Biology and Psychology or Biology and Mathematics from day one.

Apply Your Learning

Make the most out of your university career by taking advantage of all that Laurier has to offer you. Volunteer work, campus clubs, leadership programs, studying abroad, work experience – there are so many ways you can extend your classroom experience into the real world.

Here are just a few examples of the experiences you’ll get in the Biology program:

  • Participate in hands-on lab sessions, field trips, tutorials and seminars as part of your coursework.
  • Choose to complete one or more field courses as part of your program; approximately 30 are offered each year through the Ontario Universities’ Program in Field Biology.
  • Get hired as a research assistant to and participate in research with faculty in the lab and/or the field.
  • Build a capstone experience through an honours thesis or directed studies based on research by a faculty mentor.
  • Learn state-of-the-science technical and analytical methods in the lab and field - approximately half of the courses we offer include labs that explore these!
  • Be hired as an instructional assistant to work in a teaching lab, or as a work-study student, in your third and/or fourth year.

Check out the Biology Experience Guide.

 

2022 graduates who secured employment or went on to postgraduate studies

 

Laurier ranks in the top 6 percent of universities worldwide*

 

students who gained hands-on learning experiences at Laurier in 2022

*Center for World University Rankings (CWUR)

Admissions

Format: full time or part time      Duration: four years     Start: September (fall term) January (winter term)    OUAC code: UE

Program Details

About the BSc in Biology

Our Bachelor of Science (BSc) in Biology program provides a firm foundation not only in Biology, but also in Chemistry and Math. You also have the option to do a Concentration in Cell and Molecular Biology, Microbiology and Genetics, Ecology, Evolution and Biodiversity, or Anatomy and Physiology. The BSc program is ideal for those looking to move on to graduate work in any area of Biology or to professional postgraduate programs in environmental or health sciences, such as veterinary, dentistry, pharmacy, optometry, and medical school, among others.

Courses combine theoretical fundamentals with hands-on practical experiences, allowing you to strengthen your proficiency in essential experimental design, technical, interpretation, reasoning and communication skills. Senior students can become involved in ongoing research programs at the cutting edge of our discipline.

We also offer a Bachelor of Arts (BA) in Biology program, which is intended for those who want to have a role in communicating biology and biological concepts to others in careers such as law, education/teaching, public policy or science journalism.

Research Areas of Focus

You'll study molecular processes and cell structures, metabolic pathways, patterns of inheritance, physiological responses, life histories, strategies for survival, growth and reproduction, as well as biodiversity, ecology and conservation, across all 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 the 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"

Your Path to Medical School

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Get one step closer to your medical school dreams at Laurier!

Our pathway agreement with American University of the Caribbean School of Medicine (AUC) means you’re automatically granted an admissions interview to the AUC School of Medicine if you meet all academic requirements. Upon graduation, you’ll have the opportunity to write exams to practice medicine in Canada, the UK or the United States.

Program Options and Courses

Concentrations

Beginning in third year, students who are not in a double-major program (i.e. students who do not combine this program with another BSc program) can choose to specialize in one of three concentrations:

  • Cell, Molecular and Microbial Biology and Genetics
  • Ecology, Evolution and Biodiversity
  • Anatomy and Physiology

Minor in Chemistry

As part of the BSc in Biology, you will automatically receive a minor in Chemistry, gaining a solid theoretical foundation through the study of matter and the way materials act and react while mastering experimental techniques as part of your labs.

Options and Minors

In addition to your concentration and minor these are a few popular academic opportunities which allow you to dive deeper into your major area of study or broaden your knowledge.

  • Community Health Minor
  • Psychology Minor
  • Sustainability Option
  • Research Specialization

Check out other options to enhance your degree.

First-Year Courses

  • Biological Diversity and Evolution
  • Calculus I for the Natural Sciences
  • Fundamentals of Chemistry I
  • Fundamentals of Chemistry II
  • Introductory Calculus for the Natural Sciences
  • Mechanics for the Life Sciences
  • Practical Skills for Biologists
  • Unifying Life Processes
  • 1.0 elective credits

Sample Upper-Year Courses

  • Life on Earth: Microbes
  • Molecular Cell Biology
  • Global Biogeography & Conservation Biology
  • Animals: Form & Function
  • Introductory Biochemistry
  • Environmental Stress Biology of Plants
  • Statistical Methods for Life and Health Science

Similar Programs

Combine your biology degree to create your own double major:

Co-op

Co-op is a way to integrate what you are learning in the classroom with practical experience in your field of study. Build your resume, earn money, develop your network, and graduate with work experience.

You can apply for admission to co-op in your first year and may be eligible for an admission interview early in your second year. As a student in this program, you will be eligible to complete paid work terms lasting 12 to 16 weeks.

Interested? Learn more about co-op.

Tuition and Scholarships

Getting a university education is an investment in your future.

At Laurier, we take financial health seriously by providing a wide variety of funding opportunities for you throughout your degree, such as scholarships and bursaries, and by equipping you with the skills to manage your finances effectively in the years to come.

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"The journey was incredible and gave me a breadth of knowledge, skills and experience that is invaluable! This program has allowed for many doors to open to me within the pharmaceutical and healthcare industry."

Emily Tran, Biology graduate

Your Career Awaits

It’s not only about the journey; it’s about the destination. Let us help you get to where you’re going.

Here are just some examples of our graduates' destinations. What’s yours?

Sample Career Options

Note: Additional training and education may be required.

  • bioinformatics specialist
  • biotechnologist
  • conservation biologist
  • government scientist
  • laboratory technician
  • microbiologist
  • pharmacist
  • technical writer
  • toxicologist

Explore more careers.

Support After Graduation

Alumni for life means that you have access to Career and Employment Support offered at Laurier for your entire career.

Waterloo Campus

The Waterloo campus is tucked into about one city block, so you’re steps away from your classes, food and your new favourite study spot.

There are many ways to tour our Waterloo campus, whether that's on a guided tour with one of our Laurier student ambassadors, on your own using virtual reality, or even on-demand through one of our pre-recorded tours. See our campus spaces and start to picture yourself at Laurier.

"I fell in love with the Laurier campus. School did not feel like a chore because it was my second home. From studying in the concourse or atrium to hanging out on Alumni Field during down time I always felt comfortable. The experience helped define who I am today. It’s a safe place to learn and grow. Laurier will forever be rooted in me and I am proud of where I went to school."

Steven Siman, Biology graduate

Interested in More Info?

Email chooselaurier@wlu.ca, call 548.889.8888 or see all contact information.