BSc Honours Life Sciences Co-op

You’ll participate in two paid, eight-month co-op work terms in life sciences-related placements, gaining real-world experience in research labs, healthcare, industry, or community organisations. Throughout your degree, you’ll have access to McMaster’s state-of-the-art facilities, including:

• Cell Biology Laboratory for cellular and molecular experiments

• Chemistry & Chemical Biology Laboratory for chemical and biochemical analysis

• Rock & Mineral Analysis Laboratory for earth and environmental investigations

• Living Systems Laboratory for integrative and systems biology

• Crystal Growth Facility for advanced crystallography and advanced materials

• Greenhouse and Plant Growth Chambers for studies of plant biology and environmental biology

• Psychology LiveLab Facility for cognitive and behavioural neuroscience research

• Facilities for Fish Holding and Recombinant DNA Studies in support of developmental and genetic projects

• Centralised Facilities for DNA synthesis, automated DNA sequencing, electron microscopy, and NMR spectroscopy

You’ll also benefit from applied placement and research practicum courses, professional development workshops, and career support from the Science Career and Cooperative Education (SCCE) office.

McMaster University’s BSc Honours Life Sciences Co-op program introduces students to a multidisciplinary science education with integrated work experience. Graduates are highly employable, moving into roles such as research scientist, laboratory technologist, clinical research associate, healthcare analyst, science educator, and positions in biotechnology, pharmaceuticals, public health, and environmental sectors. Many alumni also pursue further studies in medicine, dentistry, pharmacy, graduate research (MSc), or health professions.

Here’s how McMaster supports your future:

• Career Services & Experiential Learning: The Honours Life Sciences Co-op program is a five-year degree that includes two mandatory eight-month paid work terms in life sciences-related placements, such as research labs, hospitals, biotech companies, or government agencies. The Science Career and Cooperative Education (SCCE) office provides career advising, résumé and interview workshops, job fairs, and networking events, and supports students in finding and securing relevant co-op positions. Students also benefit from experiential education through applied placement courses, research practicums, and undergraduate science internships, gaining real-world, academically relevant experience in research, healthcare, or professional settings.

• Employment Stats & Salary: While McMaster does not publish program-specific employment rates, life sciences graduates in Ontario typically start between $45,000–$60,000 CAD per year, with higher earnings for those who pursue graduate studies or specialised roles in healthcare, research, or biotechnology. The co-op experience makes graduates especially competitive for positions in academic, clinical, and industry settings.

• Industry Partnerships & Research: The program collaborates with hospitals, research institutes, biotech companies, and government agencies, providing opportunities for internships, research placements, and networking. Students participate in advanced laboratory and course work covering areas such as biochemistry, cell biology, genomics, developmental biology, neurobiology, psychology, ecology, and earth sciences. Co-op placements offer exposure to real-world scientific problems and professional networks, and students may present their work at conferences or contribute to scientific publications.

• Accreditation: The BSc Honours Life Sciences Co-op is fully recognised in Canada and internationally, and fulfils prerequisites for graduate and professional programs (medicine, dentistry, pharmacy, education).

• Graduate Outcomes: Students develop advanced laboratory, analytical, and scientific communication skills through coursework and co-op terms. The curriculum is designed to provide a multidisciplinary foundation in the life sciences, preparing graduates for roles in research, healthcare, education, and industry, as well as for advanced study and professional certification.

Further Academic Progression: After your BSc Honours Life Sciences Co-op at McMaster, you can pursue a Master’s (MSc) in life sciences, molecular biology, genetics, or related fields at McMaster or other universities. The program also prepares you for professional degrees in medicine, dentistry, pharmacy, or education, supported by McMaster’s strong research environment, faculty mentorship, and extensive industry partnerships.