BSc Biology

Brandon University Biology students gain hands-on experience in advanced research and teaching facilities. You’ll work in the Environmental Science Laboratories (ESL), equipped with an Olympus fluorescence microscopy suite, state-of-the-art analytical instruments for soil and plant tissue analysis, and a Conviron™ growth chamber.

The Mycology Research Laboratory is a Level II Containment facility with tools like the Applied Biosystems 3100 Genetic Analyser, PCR thermocyclers, and a Labconco freeze-drier for molecular systematics and microfungi research. The Functional Genomics Laboratory supports gene expression and genotyping studies, with a Rotor-Gene 6000 and a certified biological safety cabinet for in vitro cell culture.

Experiential highlights include:

• The Herbarium: For plant identification and taxonomy

• Zebrafish breeding colony and research aquaria

• Field equipment: For limnology, grassland, forest ecology, and environmental sampling

• Aquatic fieldwork: Using boats and local water ecosystems

• Field research sites: Brandon Hills Wildlife Management Area, Spruce Woods Provincial Park, Riding Mountain National Park

• Research partnerships: Churchill Northern Studies Centre and Brandon Research Station (Agriculture & Agri-Foods Canada)

• Shared research equipment: Including Nikon Eclipse E400 Fluorescent Microscope, Forma Incubator Shaker, and Syngene GeneGenius Gel Documentation System

Graduates of Brandon University’s B.Sc. in Biology (4 Years On Campus) program are highly employable, moving into roles such as research biologist, laboratory technician, clinical/medical scientist, conservation biologist, wildlife biologist, environmental consultant, agriculture specialist, optometrist, dentist, physician, science educator, and health sciences professional. Many alumni also pursue graduate studies (MSc) or professional programs in medicine, dentistry, veterinary medicine, pharmacy, and related health fields.

Here’s how Brandon University specifically supports your future:

• Career Services & Experiential Learning: Small class sizes foster close mentorship; students engage in undergraduate research as early as first year; Honours students complete a thesis; faculty offer workshops and outreach through the Office of Rural and Northern Health to support MCAT and professional school preparation.

• Employment Stats & Salary: Biology graduates in Canada typically start between $45,000–$55,000 CAD; Brandon alumni are frequently accepted into professional and graduate programs across Canada and internationally.

• Industry Partnerships & Research: Faculty-led undergraduate research in biology and biomedical streams; interdisciplinary collaborations with Environmental Science and MELS; students complete fieldwork and research placements in agriculture, health sciences, and conservation.

• Accreditation: The B.Sc. Biology is fully recognised in Canada and internationally, fulfilling prerequisites for medicine, dentistry, pharmacy, veterinary medicine, and education.

• Graduate Outcomes: Students gain strong foundations in biodiversity, genetics, cell biology, ecology, physiology, and research methodologies; alumni report high satisfaction with mentorship, curriculum, and research preparation.

Further Academic Progression: After your B.Sc. Biology at Brandon, you can pursue a Master’s (MSc) in Biology or enter professional degrees in medicine, dentistry, pharmacy, veterinary medicine, or education, supported by Brandon’s strong research culture and alumni success.