Biology (BSc)

Delve into 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.

Program Details

Degree Highlights

Your future professors work hard to make sure your academic experience is current, complete and designed to open doors in your career. Here are a few things you can count on:

  • Comprehensive Curriculum: Study molecular processes, cell structures, metabolic pathways, inheritance patterns, physiological responses, and more. Explore biodiversity, ecology, and conservation across all life domains.
  • Career-Ready Courses: The BSc program prepares you for graduate studies in Biology or professional programs in environmental and health sciences, including veterinary, dentistry, pharmacy, optometry, and medical schools.
  • Flexible Concentrations: Choose from concentrations in Cell and Molecular Biology, Microbiology and Genetics, Ecology, Evolution and Biodiversity, or Anatomy and Physiology.

Top Experiences

Here are just a few of our students’ favourite ways to apply their learning throughout their degree (check out the Experience Guide for even more!):

  • Co-op: You can apply to co-op at the end of first year, and complete three four-month work terms over the course of your four-year degree. 
  • Global Learning Experience: Immerse yourself in a two-week field experience through the Ontario Universities Program in Field Biology. Approximately 30 courses are offered each year, based in Ontario, Canada's north, New Brunswick, Newfoundland, British Columbia, Africa and the Caribbean.
  • Honours Thesis Option: Complete a capstone experience through an honours thesis or directed studies, working closely with a faculty member who will mentor you through the research process.

Courses, Options and Pathways

Courses

Program Options

Admissions

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

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.

Your Co-op Experience

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.

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98%employment rate for co‑op students – 2023 / 2024

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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.

 

Laurier is among the top 6 percent in the Global 2000 World University Ranking

 

Laurier students engaged in hands-on learning in 2023

 

Laurier graduates employed or in post-graduate studies in 2023

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.

Chat with Current Students

Want to know what it’s really like to be in this program? U Community is our Discord server where future Golden Hawks like you can connect with current students to get their first-hand stories and tips on living and learning at Laurier.

Connect with Us

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


You Belong Here

Think this program might be the perfect fit for you and your future?