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The BS in Biology at Queen’s University is a four-year, research-focused program that explores life from molecules to ecosystems. With a flexible curriculum, you’ll study molecular biology, genetics, ecology, evolution, and physiology, gaining both theoretical knowledge and practical skills essential for modern biological sciences.
Curriculum structure:
Year 1: You begin with Fundamentals of Biology: Molecular and Cell Biology (BIOL 102) and Fundamentals of Biology: Organisms to Ecosystems (BIOL 103), spanning biochemistry, genetics, cell biology, metabolism, and organismal diversity and adaptation. Laboratories and tutorials introduce experimental methods and scientific analysis.
Year 2: Modules like Evolutionary Genetics (BIOL 206) and Scientific Methods in Biology (BIOL 212) are covered. You'll study hypothesis testing, experimental design, and data analysis, with hands-on laboratory modules spanning cells, organisms, populations, and ecosystems. Elective modules in genetics, ecology, and physiology allow specialisation.
Year 3: You'll take upper-level courses such as Cell Biology (BIOL 330) and Analytical Genomics (BIOL 331), and specialised electives in areas such as ecology, molecular biology, and biochemistry. Laboratory and field courses are stressed, and research assistantships and summer fellowships are available.
Year 4: The final year features seminar-style courses, independent research projects, and advanced labs like Techniques in Molecular Biology (BIOL 404) and Bioremediation (BIOL 409). You’ll engage in reading primary literature, experimental enquiry, and scientific communication, preparing for graduate study or professional work.
Focus areas: Molecular biology, genetics, cell biology, ecology, evolution, physiology, biochemistry, genomics, environmental biology, field research
Learning outcomes: Experimental design, lab technique, data analysis, scientific communication, critical thinking, teamwork, research capability, fieldwork, problem-solving, professional readiness
Professional alignment (accreditation): NA
Reputation (employability rankings): Queen's Biology graduates are highly regarded throughout Canada and internationally for research and employability; the department is known for its friendly atmosphere and very good graduate outcomes.
Queen's Biology students learn by doing through laboratory work, field courses, and research projects. The program offers access to the Biosciences Complex, Queen's University Biological Station (QUBS), Phytotron, Biology HTS-Core Facility, and cutting-edge microscopy laboratories. Students have opportunities to take part in the Queen's Summer Work Experience Program, Undergraduate Student Summer Research Fellowships (USSRF), and volunteer research assistantships, gaining technical and analytical skills by working with faculty members and graduate students. Experiential learning opportunities include:
Laboratory courses in molecular biology, genomics, and ecology
Field courses and research at QUBS, one of Canada's premier field stations
Paid summer research assistantships (USRA, USSRF)
Volunteer and work-study opportunities in research labs
Access to the Phytotron for climate-controlled plant research
Use of state-of-the-art imaging and microscopy facilities
Group projects, poster presentations, and scientific communication workshops
Project-based learning in biochemistry, genetics, and environmental science
Opportunities for independent honours thesis research
International field course opportunities
Queen’s University’s BSc in Biology opens doors to a wide range of exciting careers—most graduates quickly move into roles such as research scientist, laboratory technologist, environmental consultant, or clinical research coordinator. The program’s strong research and experiential focus means you’ll be ready for work in healthcare, biotech, government, conservation, and beyond.
Career support: Access to Career Services for personalised advising, résumé help, job fairs, and the Queen’s Undergraduate Internship Program (QUIP), which offers 12–16 months of paid, career-related work experience.
Research and experience: Summer research awards, work-study, and volunteering opportunities to build hands-on skills and an impressive résumé.
Industry links: Strong partnerships with industry and research organisations, plus the Queen’s Partnerships and Innovation office, connect you to employers and real-world projects.
Global recognition and outcomes: The degree is internationally recognised, with Queen’s graduates earning a median salary of $155,000 and top earners exceeding $329,000 per year.
Graduate success: Most alumni secure jobs or graduate school placements soon after graduation, reflecting Queen’s high employment and graduation rates.
Further Academic Progression: After your BS in Biology, you can pursue a research-based MSc at Queen’s, with a combined BScH/MSc option for high-achieving students. The program also prepares you for professional degrees in medicine, dentistry, pharmacy, or education, and is recognised for graduate study worldwide.
10th & 12th-grade transcripts / predicted gradesEnglish test results: IELTS 6.5 (no band below 6.0), TOEFL iBT 88Strong background in Mathematics, Biology and any Science subjectA Levels: Biology and Mathematics required, plus five GCSEs including English and MathematicsInternational Baccalaureate: HL Biology and Mathematics recommendedHighlight research experience, science competitions, or unique extracurricularsSubmit a link to your resume, science portfolio, or any relevant projects or YouTube channels (optional) Apply online via the Ontario Universities’ Application Centre (OUAC)BiologistResearch ScientistEnvironmental ConsultantLaboratory TechnicianConservation OfficerGeneticistScience Policy AdvisorBiomedical ScientistPharmaceutical AnalystQuality Control Specialist
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