BSc Biology Honours

Acadia's Biology program focuses on hands-on, experiential learning through state-of-the-art teaching labs and extensive field experience. Students conduct experiments and dissections in five high-tech biology labs with good microscopes, molecular biology lab equipment, and statistical software. Field-based labs function in local ecosystems—tidal flats, forests, wetlands, and aquatic environments—throughout the year, including winter.

Experiential highlights are:

• In-person laboratories are a core element—students engage in hands‑on experiments and practical analysis across foundational and upper-level Biology courses.
• Field-based coursework leverages Acadia’s location in the Annapolis Valley—which includes tidal flats, wetlands, forests, farms—and access to university-run field stations (e.g. Richardson Field Station, Beaubassin Station, Brier Island), providing direct exposure to diverse ecosystems.
• Independent research opportunities are available: students undertake research for program credit or serve as interns in faculty labs. The department encourages critical thinking and meaningful scientific contributions.
• A structured Co‑operative Education (Co‑op) option in Biology provides accredited integration of academic study with paid, discipline-related work terms—typically 3 four-month placements or a 12–16 month internship. Co‑op applications open at the start of Year 2 (or Year 3), include professional development, and merit academic credit.

Graduates of Acadia University’s 3-year BSc Biology program are highly employable, moving into roles such as laboratory technician, environmental consultant, science teacher, research assistant, and positions in environmental management, conservation, and industry. Many alumni also pursue further studies in medicine, veterinary medicine, dentistry, public health, or graduate research.

Here’s how Acadia specifically supports your future:

• Career Services: Acadia’s Biology program provides career guidance and connects students with opportunities in research, healthcare, government, and industry. Faculty mentorship and small class sizes (labs capped at 24) ensure personalised support and networking.

• Experiential Learning: The program emphasises hands-on experience through laboratory work, field studies, and access to diverse local ecosystems (tidal flats, wetlands, forests). Students use advanced equipment, conduct experiments, and can participate in undergraduate research on campus or through the Co-op program.

• Employment Stats & Salary: While specific Acadia data isn’t published, Canadian biology grads typically start between $45,000–$55,000 CAD per year, with higher earnings as you gain experience or further credentials.

• Industry Partnerships: Students engage in research projects with local organisations, field stations, and the K.C. Irving Environmental Science Centre—a nationally recognised hub for environmental research and innovation.

• Accreditation: The BSc Biology is fully recognised in Canada and internationally, and prepares you for graduate and professional programs.

• Graduate Outcomes: Acadia biology grads develop strong critical thinking, scientific communication, and research skills. About 34% of Honours grads pursue non-doctoral postgraduate degrees (mostly MSc or BEd), and 51% go on to doctoral programs (PhD, MD, DDS, DVM, etc.).

Further Academic Progression: After your BSc Biology at Acadia, you can pursue a Master’s (MSc) in Biology or related fields at Acadia or other universities, or enter professional programs in medicine, dentistry, veterinary medicine, pharmacy, education, or environmental science, supported by Acadia’s strong research environment and faculty mentorship.