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.

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Top Comprehensive University: in Canada (Maclean’s 2025)
Top 150 in the World: for Life Sciences (Times Higher Education 2025)
Top 20% in the World: for Biological Sciences (QS World University Rankings by Subject 2025)
Top 6 in Canada for Life Sciences: Top 4 for Life Sciences Teaching (THE 2025)

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

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 Biological Science 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.

Arielle Ramnath, Alumni
MSc Student, Biological Science Graduate (BSc '24)

I chose U of G for its high rankings in biological sciences and the beautiful campus. The community here has been so supportive and I have no doubt that I made the right decision.I love the biological sciences major because of its flexibility. The program allows you to browse different categories within biology, and figure out what truly inspires you. I have gained hands-on experience through fieldwork and data analysis, and have learned how to share that learning through research papers and public speaking.

Jade Muller, Alumni
Biological Science Graduate (BSc '23)

In 2018, I embarked on an enriching journey at U of G, drawn by its reputation in Biological Science. Over 3 years, I acquired robust foundational knowledge through core classes while honing practical research skills in Dr. Bailey’s Neuroscience Laboratory. My experience with Student Wellness also equipped me with invaluable interpersonal and crisis support skills. To this day, these experiences continue to support my future career as a physician. However, one of the most magical aspects of Guelph is its community. Small gestures like the cafeteria staff greeting you by name, familiar faces in lecture halls and a community that genuinely values student well-being make Guelph special.

Tony Nguyen, Alumni
Medical Student, Biological Science Graduate (BSc '21)

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 Biological Science students!

Krish Tangri, Undergraduate Student
Biological Science (BSc '26)

My degree in Biological Science provided me the flexibility to explore various interests within a wide range of disciplines. I developed a strong foundation in science while having the versatility to choose courses which allowed me to obtain prerequisites for further education, and prepared me well for a career in health care. I recommend this program to anyone looking for a comprehensive yet customizable science degree that provides endless opportunities.

Laura Gilchrist, Alumni
Registered Respiratory Therapist, Biological Science Graduate (BSc '13)

Close-up portrait of Ashley smiling, dressed in a short sleeve and wearing a vest, with plants in the background.

I love the Biological Science program for its flexibility, as I've been able to gain experience in all areas of biology, from aquatic ecology to human neuromuscular physiology. The course flexibility has also allowed me to easily add a minor program and fit an on-campus work-study position at the Centre for Biodiversity Genomics (CBG) into my schedule.

Ashley Parkhill, Undergraduate Student
Biological Science (BSc '25)
Hear more about Ashley's work-study experience at CBG

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 Biological Science 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.

Arielle Ramnath, Alumni
MSc Student, Biological Science Graduate (BSc '24)

I chose U of G for its high rankings in biological sciences and the beautiful campus. The community here has been so supportive and I have no doubt that I made the right decision.I love the biological sciences major because of its flexibility. The program allows you to browse different categories within biology, and figure out what truly inspires you. I have gained hands-on experience through fieldwork and data analysis, and have learned how to share that learning through research papers and public speaking.

Jade Muller, Alumni
Biological Science Graduate (BSc '23)

In 2018, I embarked on an enriching journey at U of G, drawn by its reputation in Biological Science. Over 3 years, I acquired robust foundational knowledge through core classes while honing practical research skills in Dr. Bailey’s Neuroscience Laboratory. My experience with Student Wellness also equipped me with invaluable interpersonal and crisis support skills. To this day, these experiences continue to support my future career as a physician. However, one of the most magical aspects of Guelph is its community. Small gestures like the cafeteria staff greeting you by name, familiar faces in lecture halls and a community that genuinely values student well-being make Guelph special.

Tony Nguyen, Alumni
Medical Student, Biological Science Graduate (BSc '21)

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 Biological Science students!

Krish Tangri, Undergraduate Student
Biological Science (BSc '26)

My degree in Biological Science provided me the flexibility to explore various interests within a wide range of disciplines. I developed a strong foundation in science while having the versatility to choose courses which allowed me to obtain prerequisites for further education, and prepared me well for a career in health care. I recommend this program to anyone looking for a comprehensive yet customizable science degree that provides endless opportunities.

Laura Gilchrist, Alumni
Registered Respiratory Therapist, Biological Science Graduate (BSc '13)

I love the Biological Science program for its flexibility, as I've been able to gain experience in all areas of biology, from aquatic ecology to human neuromuscular physiology. The course flexibility has also allowed me to easily add a minor program and fit an on-campus work-study position at the Centre for Biodiversity Genomics (CBG) into my schedule.

Ashley Parkhill, Undergraduate Student
Biological Science (BSc '25)
Hear more about Ashley's work-study experience at CBG

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 Biological Science 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.

Arielle Ramnath, Alumni
MSc Student, Biological Science Graduate (BSc '24)

I chose U of G for its high rankings in biological sciences and the beautiful campus. The community here has been so supportive and I have no doubt that I made the right decision.I love the biological sciences major because of its flexibility. The program allows you to browse different categories within biology, and figure out what truly inspires you. I have gained hands-on experience through fieldwork and data analysis, and have learned how to share that learning through research papers and public speaking.

Jade Muller, Alumni
Biological Science Graduate (BSc '23)