Biology (BSc)
Biology in the 21st century is among the most diverse and exciting of the sciences. Many of the challenges we face as a society, from climate change to the development of novel health therapies, involve biological solutions. As a Carleton Biology student, you will gain broad experience through core science courses and options that suit your individual interests and needs.Laboratory, independent research and field course opportunities
Many of our courses feature instructional laboratories and extensive opportunities for hands-on work. As a result, our graduates are recognized for their excellence in laboratory and field skills.
All Honours students have the opportunity to develop research projects, working alongside a faculty advisor. You will graduate with both a defined area of expertise and valuable experience.
At Carleton, field and laboratory experiences are an integral part of our Biology courses. In addition, you will be able to choose optional, intensive field courses where you live on location.
The biology department is well-equipped with the latest technology, including a mass spectrometer; fluorescence and light microscopes; cell, tissue and bacterial culture facilities; a wide range of molecular biology equipment; sophisticated electronic sensors for physiological and behavioural studies; and computer laboratories. The Nesbitt Biology Building, which serves as the central hub of the Biology program, houses controlled-environment rooms and growth chambers as well as extensive greenhouses. The National Wildlife Research Centre laboratories are also situated nearby on Carleton’s campus.
The Bachelor of Science (BSc) Honours program in Biology includes a flexible co-operative education (co-op) option. Students can gain at least 12 months of practical work experience in settings such as government laboratories, Environment Canada, biotechnology companies and museums in the Ottawa area.
The Ottawa area is home to numerous environmental and biotechnology companies. Several government departments based in Ottawa are involved with the research that leads to environmental legislation and regulations, and Ottawa is home to one of the nation’s significant clusters of companies conducting research in medical, agricultural and environmental biotechnology. Collaborations with these organizations, as well as with the National Capital Commission, national museums and the National Research Council Canada, provide an unparalleled background for your study in Biology.
At Carleton, most Biology programs are offered as a Bachelor of Science (BSc) program, though we do offer a Bachelor of Arts (BA) in Biology and a Bachelor of Humanities (BHum) in Humanities and Biology.
Our science programs concentrate on courses in biology and other sciences, while allowing for a limited number of optional courses in the arts and social sciences. The four-year Honours program is strongly recommended if you are planning to continue studies at the graduate level, and is particularly appropriate for entry into professional programs in medicine, pharmacy, physiotherapy, veterinary sciences or teaching or for careers in biology. Choosing an Honours concentration allows you to structure your program according to your particular interests, but students may still pursue a Bachelor of Science (Honours) in Biology without concentrations.
The Major program is similar to the Honours program in that it requires the completion of 20 credits, but it involves fewer laboratory-based classes and does not require the completion of an Honours Thesis research project.
First-year Bachelor of Science students are encouraged to enrol in our unique seminar course, (NSCI 1000), which is designed specifically to introduce you to the latest scientific issues and help you develop the kind of communication, analytical thinking and research skills you will need for your science studies and your career. If you choose this elective, you will attend several special lectures given by prominent Canadian researchers, as well as small group seminars led by a professor who acts as both your mentor and teacher.
Carleton Biology graduates are well prepared for direct entry into careers in the life sciences. Many of our students go on to careers as biological consultants, wildlife and resource managers, and teachers. Some work as research technologists in a wide range of government and industrial research laboratories.
Graduates of any of our Honours programs are well qualified to go on to graduate studies. If you think that you may wish to pursue an advanced degree, you are encouraged to investigate graduate programs early in order to ensure that your program is suited to meet the relevant graduate-level requirements.
A Biology degree provides a strong foundation for many professional programs, including medicine, dentistry, teaching and veterinary sciences.
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