BSc Biology

Hands-on laboratory experiences, field courses, and research projects utilising the sophisticated facilities and equipment of Carleton are shared by students as a way of acquiring practical skills. The department encourages close contact with faculty members and offers opportunities in paid research internships, summer research awards, and high-technology imaging and computing facilities.

Experiential learning opportunities include:

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

• Sophisticated equipment access: Zeiss Axiophot microscopes, gel documentation systems, ultracentrifuges, and Biorad Imaging systems

• Plant growth chambers, insectariums, 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 field research

• Group projects and directed research tasks

• High-end computing facilities and access to the High Performance Computing Virtual Laboratory

Graduates of Carleton University’s 3-year BSc Biology program enjoy strong career prospects, with 89.6% employed within six months and 95.8% within two years of graduation. Typical job roles include laboratory technologist, environmental consultant, research assistant, biotechnologist, and science educator, with many alumni also pursuing medicine, dentistry, graduate research, or roles in government and industry.

Here’s how Carleton specifically supports your career and future:

• Career Services: Carleton Career Services provides one-on-one advising, résumé workshops, job fairs, and access to the “CareerLink” job portal, plus specialised support for science students.

• Co-op Program: Biology students can participate in the Co-op program, gaining at least 12 months of paid, practical work experience with employers such as Environment Canada, government labs, biotech companies, and museums.

• Industry Partnerships: The Department of Biology collaborates with local, provincial, and federal agencies, hospitals, biotech and pharmaceutical companies, and environmental organisations, offering research placements and networking opportunities.

• Accreditation: The BSc Biology is fully recognised in Canada and internationally, providing a strong foundation for graduate and professional programs.

• Graduate Outcomes: Students gain hands-on lab and field experience, critical thinking, and research skills, making them highly competitive for jobs and further study.

Further Academic Progression: After your BSc Biology, you can pursue an MSc or PhD in Biology at Carleton or other top universities, with research areas in molecular biology, ecology, biochemistry, and more. The degree also prepares you for professional programs in medicine, dentistry, pharmacy, law, or education, supported by Carleton’s strong academic and research environment.