Biological Science
Why Study Biological Science at U of G?
Discover the wonders of life, from molecules to ecosystems, with a Biological Science major at the University of Guelph, home to Canada's largest faculty of dedicated biologists.
Take advantage of our cutting-edge research and teaching facilities and the opportunity to learn directly from researchers working to address some of the biggest challenges facing us today. Tailor your studies to suit your interests and career aspirations with courses in health and nutrition, animals and the environment, and molecular and cellular biology.
Preparation For Diverse Career Paths
The skills gained in our Biological Science degree will prepare you for a diverse set of career pathways, including in health care, connecting your interests to your goals for work or further studies.
Gain Flexible, Hands-on Experience
Study in the lab or the field with internationally renowned researchers. Pursue an international exchange and/or add a minor in the arts, social sciences, sciences, or business to diversify your experiences and skills.
Complete a B.Sc. Honours Degree in 3 Years
By taking a full courseload in fall, winter and summer semesters, Biological Science students can complete a full Honours Bachelor of Science degree in eight straight semesters, or three years. See a sample course schedule.
To see all courses offered in the Biological Science program, visit our Academic Calendar.
Events and Webinars Available Now
Future Ready Week
Canadian high school students are invited to connect with Admission Services through several virtual events between January 7 and 15! Register today to learn more about campus, scholarships, tuition, housing and more!
International Virtual Open House
Prospective international students and their families are invited to join us on Saturday, January 18 for our International Virtual Open House where they can learn more about our programs, and campus life and hear from current students!
- Top 5 Comprehensive University
- in Canada (Macleans 2024)
- Top 150 in the World
- for Life Sciences (Times Higher Education 2024)
- Top 20% in the World
- for Biological Sciences (QS Top Universities 2024)
- Top 20 University
- in Canada (QS Top Universities 2024)
Careers in Biological Science
The breadth of courses offered at the University of Guelph provides Biological Science students with a unique opportunity to discover what fields of biology truly connect with their interests and professional goals. Our graduates are sought after for their skills and excel at problem-solving, critical thinking, communication and teamwork. They land careers in academia, human and animal medicine, government, and for-profit and not-for-profit industries.
Here are just a few careers our graduates have successfully pursued:
- Conservation biologist
- Dentist
- Health Product Research and Development
- Medical sales
- Optometrist
- Physician
- Professor
- Public health
- Veterinarian
Choose Your Path, Choose Your Future
With the flexibility of the Biological Science major, you can tailor your electives for your future career or further education or follow one of the interdisciplinary focal areas below to prepare for a diversity of careers.
Healthcare Professional Foundation
Interested in a future career in medicine or health care? With a wide range of courses to choose from, you'll have the knowledge and training needed to apply to professional schools, including medical school.
Future careers:
- Medicine
- Nursing
- Pharmacy
- Dentistry
- Veterinary medicine
Healthcare Leadership and Innovation
Health care needs strategic leaders with a strong background in science who can make informed, evidence-based decisions to shape the future. Choose from courses in public health and epidemiology; exercise and rehabilitation; health and disease; and nutrition and lifestyle medicine.
Future careers:
- Health Policy
- Public Health Education
- Clinical Healthcare
- Health Communications
Sustainable Ecosystems Biology
With foundational knowledge in integrative biology, ecology and environmental sciences, graduates are prepared to address the complex environmental challenges faced today, including habitat loss and biodiversity collapse, through research, conservation and sustainable management practices.
Future careers:
- Natural Resource Management
- Environmental Consultancy
- Conservation Ecology
- Environmental Education
Molecular and Cellular Biotechnology
With an entrepreneurial mindset and a deep understanding of the molecular and cellular underpinnings of life, you’ll be equipped to develop innovative solutions to global challenges, such as disease and pollution, in the rapidly evolving biotechnology field.
Future careers:
- Biotechnology and Bioinformatics
- Regulatory Affairs and Policy Analysis
- Product Research and Development
- Knowledge Translation
Hear From Biological Science Students and Graduates
Choosing the Biological Science program at the University of Guelph was the best decision I made for myself. It provides me with a flexible course plan to explore all my interests and grow into a well-rounded professional. The support from the Biological Science community has always been immense - and as the president of the Biological Science Student Association and a Cluster Leader in a Biology cluster, I can't wait to give back to future Bio Sci students!
Hi everyone! My name is Arielle, and I’m from Trinidad and Tobago. As an incoming international student, I wanted to be able to explore the various fields and career paths that U of G offers. The BIOS program was the best choice; with all my required courses ending mid-second year, I could choose my courses for future semesters. This allowed me to take courses in multiple program streams, including pharmacology, evolution, genetics, chemistry, etc. Using this, I could trial which areas were a good fit for me.
Discover More Options
Students considering Biological Science may also be interested in Animal Biology, Biochemistry, Bio-Medical Science, Ecology, Environmental Sciences, Microbiology, Neuroscience, Wildlife Biology and Conservation, or other majors.
Admission Requirements
Explore admission requirements for Canadian, international, transfer, and mature students. Start your journey today!
Scholarships & Bursaries
We offer a wide range of financial aid programs to assist with funding your education at the University of Guelph.
Tour Our Campus
Through virtual tours, presentations, webinars and in-person tours, get familiar with the University of Guelph campus.
Have Questions?
Learn more about how to connect, discover, and engage with programs, facilities and life at the University of Guelph.