BSc Hons Biology

Program-Based Learning:

• The BSc Biology program (3‑year or 4‑year Honours) emphasises hands-on learning, including small class sizes and close mentorship from professors in the School of Life Sciences & the Environment.
• Experiential learning elements include honours thesis, co‑op or internship options, and paid research positions at the undergraduate level.

Research & Labs

• Students often work as research assistants during summer or as part of Undergraduate Student Research Awards (USRA)—funded opportunities to carry out research projects, often leading to publication.

• Much of the training occurs in lab sessions, with every student stepping into actual scientific workflows—designing, executing experiments, analyzing data, and presenting findings.

Co‑op, Internships & Career Integration

• The Co‑operative Education (co‑op) option provides paid work terms integrated into the degree, facilitated by Algoma’s Experiential Learning Hub (CARIEE).

• Academic internships offer credit-bearing placements in real work settings with community or industry partners.

Honours Thesis & Capstone

• In the Honours pathway, fourth-year students complete a thesis project under faculty supervision—developing deeper scientific inquiry skills and enhancing prospects for graduate studies or careers.

Graduates of Algoma University’s Bachelor of Science (Honours) in Biology are exceptionally well-prepared for scientific careers and further study. Alumni move into roles such as zoologist, environmental scientist, biology teacher, laboratory technician, and research assistant, with a median starting salary of $45,000 per year. Many also pursue medicine, pharmacy, optometry, dentistry, veterinary medicine, or graduate research, reflecting the program’s strong track record for professional and graduate school admissions.

Here’s how Algoma supports your future:

• Hands-On Experience: Nearly all courses include weekly labs, and students can work with professors on research from first year, with 15–20 students hired each summer for paid research and many more participating through work-study or volunteering.

• Honours Thesis: In fourth year, you’ll complete an honours thesis, designing and executing your own research project under faculty supervision, often presenting at conferences or publishing as an undergraduate—a rare opportunity in Canada.

• Internships & Industry Partnerships: Two internship courses let you gain experience with external companies, research institutes, or government organisations, including the Great Lakes Forestry Centre and Ontario Forest Research Institute.

• Career Services: Algoma’s small class sizes mean close mentorship, personalised academic guidance, and strong faculty support for career planning and graduate/professional school applications.

• Accreditation & Outcomes: The BSc (Hons) Biology is fully recognised in Canada and internationally. Graduates report high satisfaction, strong research and presentation skills, and a well-rounded education that supports entry into competitive fields.

Further Academic Progression: After your Honours BSc in Biology, you can pursue Algoma’s own Master of Science in Biology (thesis-based, with guaranteed funding), or apply to MSc/PhD programs at other top universities. The program is also an excellent pathway to medicine, dentistry, pharmacy, optometry, physiotherapy, veterinary medicine, and other health or science professional schools.