BSc / BA Biology

Dalhousie Biology emphasises experiential learning through research, fieldwork, and industry partnerships. Students benefit from leading-edge laboratories, marine and terrestrial field stations, and a vibrant research environment. The Co-op program allows alternating academic terms with work terms related to your chosen career, compensated, and the SEASIDE summer courses offer hands-on teaching in species identification and ecological fieldwork. Experiential learning opportunities include:

• Independent research courses (BIOL 4806/4807/4809) and Honours thesis projects

• SEASIDE summer marine and terrestrial field courses

• Co-op program with three paid work terms in academic, government, or industry settings

• Skill-based training and experiential learning courses outside the classroom

• Special Topics courses for unique research interests

• Use of research labs, marine stations, and field sites throughout Atlantic Canada

• Group projects and scientific communication workshops

• Potential for summer and part-time research assistantships

• Work with graduate students and faculty on leading-edge research

• Industry internships and applied research partnerships

• Participation in conservation and outreach programs

Progression & Future Opportunities:
Dalhousie University’s four-year on-campus bachelor’s programs set graduates up for strong career outcomes, with about 85% employed or pursuing further education within six months of graduation. Typical job roles include research scientist, healthcare technologist, environmental consultant, and business analyst, depending on your chosen field of study.

Here’s how Dalhousie helps you succeed:

• Career services: Career Services at the Bissett Student Success Centre offers personalised career advising, résumé reviews, job-search workshops, and access to the myCareer portal for job postings and employer networking.

• Graduate outcomes: Dalhousie graduates are highly regarded, ranking in the global top 200 for employability, and many report starting salaries above $50,000 CAD.

• Industry connections: The university’s Office of Commercialisation and Industry Engagement connects students with industry partners for research, internships, and innovation projects, especially in Halifax’s booming tech, health, and ocean sectors.

• Accreditation: Many programs are accredited by national and international professional bodies, ensuring your degree is recognised and valued long-term.

• Practical experience: Graduates gain practical experience through co-op, internships, and research placements, leading to high employment rates and strong professional skills.

Further Academic Progression: After your bachelor’s degree at Dalhousie, you can continue to master’s or doctoral programs in your field, or pursue professional degrees such as medicine, law, or business, supported by Dalhousie’s strong academic reputation and research environment.