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Marine and Freshwater Biology
Why Marine and Freshwater Biology?
Marine and Freshwater Biology capitalizes on Guelph's recognized excellence in aquatic research. In this major, you will build upon core courses in ecology, evolution, genetics, physiology and zoology as you study freshwater and marine environments and work with aquatic organisms in the field and the lab.
To see all courses offered in this degree, visit our 2024-2025 Academic Calendar.
Conduct Research on Ocean and Lake Sustainability
Study freshwater and marine environments and the aquatic organisms that call them home from both biological and physical science perspectives, with a focus on sustainable management and conservation.
Access the Hagen Aqualab
Take advantage of the University of Guelph’s state-of-the-art aquatic research facility, the Hagen Aqualab, which houses a wide variety of flora and fauna from arctic, temperate or tropical climes in simulated marine, brackish or freshwater habitats.
Gain Technical Skills
Learn hands-on skills from global leaders in aquatic research in both on-campus research facilities and through field courses in arctic, tropical and temperate regions. Exchange programs are also available in collaboration with universities around the world.
Gain Valuable Experience Through Co-op
The Marine and Freshwater Biology co-op is a five-year program that includes five paid work terms. Apply what you’ve learned in the classroom to the real world, with hands-on work experiences available in private, non-profit, and governmental organizations. Benefits of co-op include:
- Relevant work experience
- Up to two years of work experience
- Earning while learning
- Career exploration
- Professional networking
Students can apply for the co-op program directly from high school or later for in-course admission.
What Can You Do with a Degree in Marine and Freshwater Biology?
Marine and Freshwater Biology prepares students for post-graduate work in the aquatic sciences, and provides a sound scientific background for students wishing to pursue careers in biology, management and conservation, aquaculture, biotechnology, education, and research, either in public or private sectors.
Here are a few careers our graduates have successfully pursued:
- Aquatic Biologist
- Aquatic Ecologist
- Aquatic Science Technician
- Aquatic Veterinarian
- Environmental Technician
- Fisheries Technician
- Freshwater Turtle Field Coordinator
- Genomics Lab Supervisor
- Marine Biologist
- Marine Ecosystems Scientist
- Oceans Biologist
- Research Assistant
- Species at Risk Biologist
- Teacher
- Watershed Management Specialist
Hear From Marine and Freshwater Biology Students and Graduates
Discover More Options
Students considering studying Marine and Freshwater Biology may also be interested in Animal Biology, Ecology, Wildlife Biology and Conservation, Zoology, 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.
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