McMaster's Honours Biology – Physiology BSc is a four-year research-intensive program with the goal of exploring how organisms function from molecules to entire animals. The program is ideal for students interested in mammalian and comparative physiology, integrating core biology with advanced study of nutrition, growth, respiration, and adaptation to environmental stress.
Curriculum structure:
Year 1: You will build a broad scientific foundation in courses like Biodiversity, Evolution and Humanity (BIOLOGY 1M03), Cellular and Molecular Biology (BIOLOGY 1A03), Calculus for the Life Sciences I (MATH 1LS3), Introductory Chemistry I & II (CHEM 1A03 & 1AA3), Introductory Physics (PHYSICS 1A03), and electives. Labs and tutorials reinforce critical lab and analytical techniques.
Year 2: Core courses include Integrative Physiology of Animals (BIOLOGY 2A03), Cell Biology (BIOLOGY 2B03), and Plant Biodiversity and Biotechnology (BIOLOGY 2D03). Other courses in genetics, biochemistry, and statistics complement your understanding of physiological phenomena and experimental design.
Year 3: Tailored courses in physiology and honour-level labs are emphasised, such as Experimental Design in Biology and Animal Physiology. Electives allow you to learn comparative physiology, neurobiology, or environmental adaptation, with extensive hands-on laboratory and field experience.
Year 4: The fourth year is spent on upper-level courses and independent study. You may follow up with a thesis or research project in physiology, seminars, and capstone courses that integrate knowledge from molecular, cellular, and systems physiology.
Focus areas: Mammalian physiology, integrative physiology, molecular biology, cell biology, biochemistry, animal physiology, neurobiology, environmental adaptation, laboratory research, data analysis
Learning outcomes: Experimental design, laboratory practice, critical thinking, scientific communication, data analysis, research skills, teamwork, ethical sensitivity, fieldwork, professional preparedness
Reputation (employability rankings): Ranked #151–200 globally for Biological Sciences (QS Subject Rankings); McMaster is one of Canada's top 3 research universities
Hands-on skills are learned by students through discovery laboratories, research-based projects, and field courses in cutting-edge facilities. Research is integrated directly into the classroom, and professors are working researchers in physiology. Experiential learning features include:
Access to Cell Biology, Chemistry & Chemical Biology, and Living Systems Laboratories
Dedicated physiology labs for animal and molecular studies
Centralised DNA synthesis, automated DNA sequencing, electron microscopy, and NMR spectroscopy facilities
Research placements and independent study projects with faculty mentors
Group projects, scientific communication workshops, and poster presentations
Fieldwork and laboratory courses in animal and environmental physiology
Applied Placement and Research Practicum courses for academic credit
Science Career and Cooperative Education (SCCE) office supports internships and career planning
Utilisation of advanced digital tools and data analysis software
Graduates of McMaster’s Honours Biology – Physiology BSc program are highly valued for their expertise in how organisms function, from molecules to whole animals. Most alumni move into roles such as research scientist, laboratory technologist, clinical research coordinator, or regulatory affairs specialist, with many finding opportunities in healthcare, biotechnology, environmental consulting, and academic research.
Career support: The Science Career and Cooperative Education (SCCE) office offers personalised career advising, résumé and interview support, job fairs, and access to internships, co-op placements, and research practicums, helping you build hands-on experience and a professional network.
Employment outcomes: McMaster biology graduates report strong employment outcomes, with starting salaries for related programs averaging $65,000–$70,000.
Industry engagement: The department’s research-intensive focus and partnerships with healthcare, pharmaceutical, and biotech sectors provide direct links to employers and the latest industry practices.
Accreditation and recognition: The Honours Biology – Physiology program is internationally recognised and accredited, ensuring your degree has long-term value and global mobility.
Graduate competencies: Graduates develop advanced lab, analytical, and research skills, making them highly competitive for both employment and further study.
Further Academic Progression: After your Honours Biology – Physiology BSc, you can pursue a master’s or PhD at McMaster or other top institutions in fields like physiology, molecular biology, or biomedical sciences. The program also prepares you for professional degrees in medicine, dentistry, pharmacy, or education, and is recognised for entry into graduate and professional programs worldwide.
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