BSc Life Sciences

Experiential Learning
You’ll gain hands-on experience through labs, fieldwork, and research in McMaster’s state-of-the-art facilities. Life Sciences students have access to:

• 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 Laboratory for crystallography and novel materials

• Greenhouse and Plant Growth Chambers for plant and environmental biology research

• Psychology LiveLab Facility for behavioural and cognitive neuroscience research

• Fish Holding and Recombinant DNA Research Facilities for genetics and developmental biology research

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

You may also take applied placement courses, research practicums, and undergraduate science internships, gaining real-world, academically integrative experience in community, research, or professional settings.

McMaster University’s BSc Life Sciences (3 Years On Campus) program introduces students to a flexible and multidisciplinary science education grounded in biology, chemistry, psychology, and environmental science. Graduates are highly employable, moving into roles such as laboratory technologist, research assistant, science educator, clinical research associate, and positions in biotechnology, pharmaceuticals, public health, and environmental sectors. Many alumni also use this program as a foundation for further studies in graduate research, health sciences, or professional programs.

Here’s how McMaster supports your future:

• Career Services & Experiential Learning: The Science Career and Cooperative Education (SCCE) office provides career advising, résumé workshops, job fairs, and networking events. Life Sciences students can participate in experiential education through applied placement courses, research practicums, and undergraduate science internships, gaining real-world, academically relevant experience in research, community, or professional settings. Students have access to state-of-the-art labs and facilities, including the Cell Biology Laboratory, Chemistry & Chemical Biology Laboratory, Living Systems Laboratory, Greenhouse and Plant Growth Chambers, Psychology LiveLab Facility, and advanced centralised facilities for DNA synthesis, sequencing, and electron microscopy.

• Industry Partnerships & Research: The Life Sciences program at McMaster is multidisciplinary, integrating biochemistry, cell biology, genomics, developmental biology, neurobiology, psychology, ecology, and earth sciences. Students experience hands-on lab work and interactive lectures from the first year onward, and can participate in faculty-led research projects using advanced equipment and facilities. Opportunities exist for placements and collaboration with industry, government, and community partners, providing valuable professional networks and practical skills.

• Accreditation: The BSc Life Sciences is fully recognised in Canada and internationally, and can serve as a pathway to graduate and professional programs in science, health, and education.

• Graduate Outcomes: Students develop strong analytical, laboratory, and scientific communication skills through a curriculum that covers biodiversity, cellular and molecular biology, chemistry, physics, psychology, and environmental science. The flexible structure allows students to explore a range of scientific disciplines and tailor their upper-year courses to their interests and career goals.

Further Academic Progression: After your BSc Life Sciences at McMaster, you can pursue a Master’s (MSc) in life sciences or related fields, or enter professional programs in health sciences, education, or research, supported by McMaster’s strong academic reputation and extensive research opportunities.