BA Biology

Students gain hands-on experience through lab work, field courses, and research projects using Carleton's cutting-edge facilities and equipment. The department encourages close faculty-student interaction, as well as paid research internships, summer research experiences, and access to high-end imaging and computing facilities.

Experiential learning opportunities include:

• Research laboratories in the Nesbitt Biology Building and the Carleton Technology and Training Centre

• Access to state-of-the-art equipment: Zeiss Axiophot microscopes, gel documentation systems, ultracentrifuges, and Biorad Imaging systems

• Plant growth chambers, insect rearing facilities, and walk-in cold and temperature-controlled rooms

• Access to the Nano Imaging Facility with state-of-the-art electron microscopes

• Undergraduate research internships: Laura Thomas Summer Research Internship, I-CUREUS, Dean's Summer Research Internship, NSERC USRA

• Field courses for hands-on ecological and biological research

• Collaborative group research projects and directed research studies

• Large computing centres and the use of the High Performance Computing Virtual Laboratory

Graduates of Carleton University’s 3-year BA in Biology are well-prepared for a wide range of careers, with many moving directly into roles such as environmental consultant, science writer, policy analyst, research assistant, and educator. Others find opportunities in fields like health, bioethics, wildlife management, and science policy. This versatility is rooted in the program’s unique blend of biology with arts, social sciences, and humanities.

Here’s how Carleton supports your career and academic success:

• Career Services: Carleton Career Services offers personalised advising, résumé workshops, job fairs, and the “CareerLink” job portal, helping you explore options and build your professional profile.

• Employment Stats & Salaries: Carleton biology grads are successful in industry, government, and academia. Entry-level biologists typically earn $35,000–$55,000 CAD per year, with experienced professionals in private industry earning up to $80,000+ and senior roles reaching $100,000+.

• Capital Advantage & Industry Partnerships: Located in Ottawa, Carleton connects students with government agencies, biotech firms, environmental organisations, and national museums for research, internships, and networking. Collaborations with the National Research Council and local environmental/biotech companies enhance real-world learning.

• Accreditation: The BA Biology is fully recognised in Canada and internationally, providing long-term value and flexibility for graduate or professional studies.

• Graduate Outcomes: Students gain research experience through courses like Foundations of Biology I (BIOL 1103) and Plant Biochemistry and Physiology (BIOL 3205), and can tailor their studies to interests in policy, writing, or interdisciplinary science.

Further Academic Progression: After your BA in Biology, you can pursue graduate programs such as Carleton’s MSc in Biology (with specialisations in Biochemistry, Bioinformatics, Chemical and Environmental Toxicology, or Data Science). The degree also prepares you for professional programs in education, law, public health, or interdisciplinary graduate studies, supported by Carleton’s strong academic reputation and Ottawa’s research-rich environment.