Biology (BSc)
Delve into the study of life and living systems, with the widest range of biology courses in Atlantic Canada.
Why choose this program?
Explore how life works, from genes to entire ecosystems, while gaining hands-on research experience, fieldwork options, and the skills to launch a career in science, health, or environmental fields.
Choose from one of the widest selections of biology courses in Atlantic Canada and tailor your studies to your interests, while building real-world experience through research, co-op, and fieldwork that prepares you for diverse science and health careers.
Careers
A Biology degree from Dalhousie is a great starting point for careers in a variety of areas related to the study of life on earth. This program offers you the opportunity to discover and pursue specific interests and apply classroom knowledge through research and work experience.
What you will learn
Discover the diversity of biology through a mix of foundational and specialized courses. From genetics to ecology, you’ll have the opportunity to explore topics that match your interests and career goals. Visit our Biology Degree Planner to see your options.
Sample courses
Writing for the Sciences
Principles of Biology
Concepts in Chemistry: Structure and Reactivity
Life Science Calculus & Statistics
Animal Diversity
Cell Biology
Evolution
Agroforestry
Parasitology
Field Studies of Marine Mammals
Principles of Indigenous Medicine
Environmental Impact Assessment
Cultural Evolution
Gain experience outside the classroom
You will have access to research facilities such as the Aquatron and the Greenhouse. Get first-hand experience working alongside leading researchers in the field, honing research methods skills like gathering live samples and collecting and assessing data. Additional learning opportunities include:
Customize your degree
The following Biology program options are offered by Dalhousie University’s Faculty of Science. Connect with an academic advisor after you start your studies to explore options such as:
Bachelor of Science with Major in Biology
Bachelor of Science with Double Major Biology
Minor in Biology
Concentrated Honours Bachelor of Science in Biology
Combined Honours Bachelor of Science in Biology
Co-op option with any major, double major, or honours degree
Add a minor to your BSc in Biology to expand your skill set and perspective with a second discipline, allowing you to study everything you’re passionate about at Dal.
Visit the Academic Calendar to browse the minors you can take with this degree.
Complete a certificate alongside your regular degree requirements and graduate with additional skills in specialized areas. Options include:
Animal Behaviour
Aquaculture and the Environment
Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA)
Genetics
Geographic Information Science (GIS)
Science Leadership and Communication
Browse the Department of Biology’s certificates to learn more.
As a Science Co-op student, you’ll undertake three work terms interspersed with your academic study terms. Science Co-op degree programs allow you to apply your growing knowledge directly while providing paid career-related experience helping to offset academic costs while arming you with the information you need to make educated career choices.
The Dalhousie Integrated Science Program (DISP) is a unique, immersive first-year option for motivated students looking to complete their first year of a science degree. You’ll work effectively in teams, explore connections across scientific disciplines, and complete a hands-on research project while building critical skills in data analysis, tech, and scientific communication.
Dalhousie offers the largest selection of biology-focused courses in the Atlantic region. In addition to a wide variety of topics in biology, you will learn valuable skills in writing, oral presentation, data analysis, research methods, and problem-solving.
Admission requirements
Minimum admission requirements
To be considered for admission to this program, you must meet minimum academic criteria:
- Completion of secondary school (Grade 12)
- Achievement of the minimum average for your program of choice.
- Completion of Grade 12 English (or equivalent course).
Admission to many Dalhousie programs is competitive. This means that meeting minimum requirements does not guarantee admission.
Program-specific admission requirements
To enter the Bachelor of Science program in your first year, you must meet the following high school course requirements:
Minimum overall average: 75%
Academic English 12
Pre-calculus Math 12
Three additional academic subjects
Note: All Bachelor of Science students enter the Faculty of Science as undeclared majors. This gives you the freedom to explore your scientific interests during your first year.
You will officially declare your Biology major, minor, or specialized options at the end of your first year using your first-year science and math prerequisites.
Need Pre-Calculus, Chemistry, Physics, or another admission requirement? Our online, self-paced UPrep courses can help you earn the prerequisite you need, upgrade your marks, and build confidence before starting your degree at Dal. Explore UPrep courses.
