BSc Honours Biology Research Specialisation

As a Biology student at McMaster, you'll gain practical experience in some of Canada's most advanced research facilities. The Research Core Facilities give you access to leading-edge technology and specialised labs used by top scientists. You’ll be learning from actual samples and data using:

• The Axenic-Gnotobiotic Facility for controlled studies involving germ-free and gnotobiotic organisms

• The Centre for Advanced Light Microscopy (CALM) with state-of-the-art imaging for molecular and cell biology

• The Canadian Centre for Electron Microscopy (CCEM) for high-resolution imaging of biological structures

• The Centre for Microbial Chemical Biology (CMCB) for high-end microbial and chemical biology research

• The McMaster Regional Centre for Mass Spectrometry for high-precision molecular and chemical analysis

• Dedicated Animal Facilities for in vivo experimentation and behaviour studies

• The Engineering Research Machine Shop for custom equipment and experimental rigs

• Flow Cytometry services for cell sorting and biomarker analysis

• The John Mayberry Histology Facility for tissue preparation and microscopic analysis

• The Nuclear Magnetic Resonance (NMR) Facility for metabolomics and structural biology

• The McMaster Genomics Facility for high-throughput DNA and RNA sequencing

• The Biointerfaces Institute for biology, chemistry, and engineering interface research on an interdisciplinary scale

McMaster University’s BSc Honours Biology Research Specialisation program introduces students to a research-intensive curriculum designed for those aiming to pursue careers in science, health, or education. Graduates are highly employable, moving into roles such as research biologist, laboratory scientist, field biologist, environmental consultant, science educator, and health sciences professional. Many alumni also pursue further studies in medicine, dentistry, pharmacy, veterinary medicine, or graduate research, supported by the program’s strong research and laboratory focus.

Here’s how McMaster supports your future:

• Career Services & Experiential Learning: The program emphasises hands-on research and advanced laboratory training, allowing students to tailor their course selection to their own research interests. Students complete additional laboratory and research courses compared to the core Biology program, including opportunities for field biology and independent research projects. The Office of Undergraduate Research and the Science Career and Cooperative Education (SCCE) office provide resources for co-op placements, research practicums, and internships in both academic and industry settings. Students gain experience in state-of-the-art facilities such as the Cell Biology Laboratory, Living Systems Laboratory, and Greenhouse and Plant Growth Chambers.

• Employment Stats & Salary: While McMaster does not publish specific program employment rates, biology graduates in Ontario typically start between $45,000–$55,000 CAD per year, with higher earnings as you gain experience or further credentials. The research specialisation and advanced lab skills make graduates highly competitive for research, biotech, and health-related positions.

• Industry Partnerships & Research: Students can participate in impactful research in areas such as antimicrobial resistance, greenhouse management, and soil microbiomes. The program’s connections to local hospitals, research institutes, environmental agencies, and biotech companies provide opportunities for internships, co-op placements, and collaborative research projects. Undergraduate research is strongly encouraged, with many students presenting at conferences or contributing to publications.

• Accreditation: The BSc Honours Biology Research Specialisation is fully recognised in Canada and internationally, and fulfils prerequisites for graduate and professional programs (medicine, dentistry, pharmacy, veterinary medicine, education).

• Graduate Outcomes: Students develop strong analytical, research, and scientific communication skills through advanced coursework, lab-based classes, and independent research. The program’s structure allows for specialisation in areas of interest, preparing graduates for both immediate employment and advanced study.

Further Academic Progression: After your BSc Honours Biology Research Specialisation at McMaster, you can pursue a Master’s (MSc) or PhD in Biology or related disciplines at McMaster or other universities. The program also prepares you for professional degrees in medicine, dentistry, pharmacy, veterinary medicine, or education, supported by McMaster’s robust research environment, faculty mentorship, and extensive industry and academic partnerships.