Enter OTP
The BS in Biology and Psychology at Queen’s University is a four-year, research-focused program that fuses core elements from both disciplines. You’ll explore the biological basis of behaviour, brain function, cognition, and evolution, with flexibility for upper-year specialisation and independent research. This cross-disciplinary plan is ideal for students interested in how biology and psychology intersect in understanding both human and animal life.
Curriculum structure:
Year 1: You’ll take foundational courses including Fundamentals of Biology: Molecular and Cell Biology (BIOL 102), Fundamentals of Biology: Organisms to Ecosystems (BIOL 103), General Chemistry (CHEM 112), and Principles of Psychology (PSYC 100). Labs and tutorials introduce you to experimental techniques, scientific analysis, and core concepts in both biology and psychology.
Year 2: Courses include Evolutionary Genetics (BIOL 206), Scientific Methods in Biology (BIOL 212), and Introductory Biochemistry. In psychology, you’ll study research methods (PSYC 202), statistics (PSYC 203), and foundational topics in brain, behaviour, and cognition. Labs and fieldwork are emphasised, with options for ecology, genetics, and physiology electives.
Year 3: You’ll choose from advanced courses such as Cell Biology (BIOL 330), Analytical Genomics (BIOL 331), and upper-level psychology electives in areas like cognitive neuroscience, behavioural science, and psychometrics. Independent study and research opportunities are available, along with specialised labs in molecular biology, animal behaviour, and neurobiology.
Year 4: The final year features seminar-style courses, independent research projects, and advanced electives in both biology and psychology. You’ll have the opportunity to conduct your research, participate in group projects, and engage in scientific communication, preparing you for graduate study or professional careers.
Focus areas: Neurobiology, genetics, animal behaviour, cognition, molecular biology, evolution, ecology, psychometrics, scientific communication, research methods
Learning outcomes: Experimental design, laboratory skills, data analysis, interdisciplinary research, scientific communication, critical thinking, teamwork, fieldwork, problem-solving, professional readiness
Reputation (employability rankings): Queen’s University is ranked #251–300 globally for Biological Sciences (QS Subject Rankings) and is highly regarded for research and graduate employability.
Students gain practical skills through hands-on labs, fieldwork, and research projects in both biology and psychology. The program offers access to the Queen’s University Biological Station (QUBS) for field research, state-of-the-art labs for molecular biology and neuroscience, and opportunities for summer research fellowships and volunteer assistantships. Experiential learning highlights include:
Laboratory courses in molecular biology, genetics, and neuroscience
Field courses and research at QUBS, one of Canada’s premier field stations
Paid summer research assistantships and volunteer research opportunities
Access to advanced imaging, microscopy, and psychometric testing facilities
Group projects, poster presentations, and scientific communication workshops
Project-based learning in animal behaviour, cognition, and ecology
Opportunities for independent honours thesis research
Participation in psychology research studies and lab-based projects
Use of digital tools for data analysis and modelling
Interdisciplinary seminars and workshops bridging biology and psychology
Graduates of Queen’s University’s BS in Biology and Psychology are uniquely equipped for careers that bridge life sciences and human behaviour. Typical roles include clinical research coordinator, neuroscientist, genetic counsellor, and psychological researcher, with many alumni also finding opportunities in healthcare, biotechnology, education, and mental health services.
Career support: Access to Career Services for personalised advising, résumé support, job fairs, and the Queen’s Undergraduate Internship Program (QUIP), providing up to 16 months of paid, career-related work experience.
Experiential learning: Biology and Psychology students benefit from research-intensive coursework, independent study options, and hands-on lab experience, building practical skills for both science and health careers.
Industry and research partnerships: Strong partnerships with industry, hospitals, and research organisations connect you directly to employers and real-world projects.
Reputation and recognition: The degree is internationally recognised and ranked among the top science programs in Canada, ensuring long-term value and global mobility.
Graduate outcomes: Most graduates 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 and Psychology, you can pursue a master’s or PhD in neuroscience, psychology, genetics, or biomedical sciences at Queen’s or other leading institutions. The program also prepares you for professional degrees in medicine, dentistry, occupational therapy, or counselling, and is recognised for entry into graduate and professional programs 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 Mathematics.International Baccalaureate: HL Biology and Mathematics recommended.Highlight research experience, science competitions, or unique extracurricularsSubmit a link to your resume, science or psychology portfolio, or any relevant projects or YouTube channels (optional)Apply online via the Ontario Universities’ Application Centre (OUAC)BiologistNeuroscientistClinical Research AssociateGenetic CounsellorBehavioural ScientistScience Policy AdvisorEnvironmental ConsultantLaboratory ManagerPharmaceutical AnalystHealth Educator
Embark on your educational journey with confidence! Our team of admission experts is here to guide you through the process. Book a free session now to receive personalized advice, assistance with applications, and insights into your dream school. Whether you're applying to college, graduate school, or specialized programs, we're here to help you succeed.
Queens University
