Why study Biology at Dal?

Learn about life and all living organisms

When studying Biology at Dalhousie, you’ll study the physical and biological processes that affect the life and death of genes, cells, individuals, populations, species and entire ecosystems. Depending on your interests you may learn how to identify indigenous flowering plants or venture out on the ocean to study minke and humpback whales. You’ll look at the simplest forms of plants and animals, as well as the highly complex.

If you thrive in a smaller campus environment, consider doing the first year in the Truro Start Program. This program gives you the opportunity to join a small cohort with dedicated resources and support to build a strong foundation in your chosen field before transitioning into your second and final years in Halifax.

Degree overview

Undergraduate Degree: Bachelor of Science (BSc) or Bachelor of Arts (BA)
Faculty: Faculty of Science
Department: Department of Biology
Campus: Studley Campus, Halifax, Agricultural Campus, Truro
Program Length: 4 years
Program Start: September & January



What will I learn?

Dalhousie offers the largest selection of biology-focused courses in the Atlantic region. You'll discover in-depth topics such as cell biology, evolution, environmental ecology, conservation biology, parasitology, behavioural biology, animal physiology and much more. You’ll also learn valuable skills in writing, oral presentation, computer literacy, research methods, and problem solving.  

Sample courses:

  • Evolution
  • Conservation Biology
  • Microbial Ecology
     

Students will also have the opportunity to complete work terms through the co-op education program. In tutorials and labs, you’ll have opportunities for hands-on exploration. And on field trips, you’ll experience Nova Scotia's biodiversity. You’ll have access to research facilities such as the Aquatron, the Thomas McCulloch Museum and the herbarium and greenhouse, where cacti, succulents, and other plants are grown for use in teaching and research.

Visit the Academic Calendar to view degree options and course details.



Careers and future study

A Biology degree from Dalhousie is a good starting point for careers in a variety of areas related to the study of life on earth. You could pursue a career as one of the following (further study may be required):

  • researcher or professor
  • zoologist
  • environmental scientist
  • terrestrial ecologist
  • genetic counsellor
     

Future study possibilities are abundant with a degree in Biology and may include graduate level programs such as a Master of Science (MSc), Master of Resource and Environmental Management (MREM) or a PhD. You’ll also have the foundation to pursue further studies in professional programs such as medicine, dentistry, physiotherapy, veterinary studies and more.



Admission requirements

Undergraduate admission requirements vary based on your previous education and your intended program of study at Dalhousie. Learn about our admissions requirements, book a campus tour, or connect with an advisor if you have questions about your eligibility for admission.

View admission requirements 



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