The Toronto Metropolitan University (formerly Ryerson University) BSc in Biology is a four-year, on-campus degree that offers an integrated study of living organisms, from molecules and cells to ecosystems and bioinformatics. The program is designed for students interested in research, biotechnology, health sciences, or environmental biology, with specialisation opportunities in such fields as Bioinformatics, Biophysics, or Environmental Biology, and the possibility of a Management Sciences specialisation.
Curricular structure:
Year 1: Build a multi-disciplinary foundation in science from courses such as BLG143/144 (Biology I & II), CHY103/113 (General Chemistry I & II), PCS120/130 (Physics I & II), MTH131 (Calculus I), and SCI180 (Orientation to Science). Introduction to Programming (CPS109 or CPS118) and a communications course support analytical and technical development.
Year 2: Deepen your studies with foundation courses like BLG230 (Genetics), BLG307 (Cell Biology), BLG311 (Microbiology), BCH261 (Biochemistry I), and MTH231 (Statistics). Start selecting lower-level and open electives to tailor your academic path.
Year 3: Focus on advanced topics such as BLG315 (Animal Physiology), BLG316 (Plant Physiology), BLG400 (Evolution), BCH361 (Biochemistry II), and BLG567 (Ecology). Specialise in streams like Bioinformatics, Biophysics, or Environmental Biology through electives.
Year 4: Pursue independent research and specialisation. Complete an Honours Thesis (BLG888 or BCH880) or a research project. Engage in advanced electives, capstone experiences, and communications coursework, with optional co-op and industry-driven research placements.
Focus areas: Bioinformatics, biophysics, environmental biology, genetics, molecular biology, biotechnology, management sciences
Learning outcomes: Scientific research and analysis, laboratory and field skills, data analysis, critical thinking, scientific communication, interdisciplinary teamwork
Reputation (employability rankings): High graduate employability rate; known for strong industry connections and research opportunities in Toronto's Discovery District.
Students gain experiential, hands-on abilities through varied practicum experiences that include laboratory classes, paid co-op work placement, and industry research projects. The program has exposure to leading-edge research equipment at the MaRS Discovery District, including culture rooms for cell cultures, radioisotope labs, high-grade microscopy, and NMR spectrometry.
Experiential learning opportunities include:
Genetics, microbiology, molecular biology, and biochemistry laboratory classes
Paid co-op program (optional, by application after the first year) for real-world work experience
Access to cutting-edge research facilities at MaRS, including CL2 biocontainment space
External placement opportunities in industry, government, or research institutes
Independent thesis research with faculty guidance
Group projects and interdisciplinary team projects
Attendance at scientific seminars and professional networking events
Assistance for conference presentations and publication of student research
Graduates of Toronto Metropolitan University’s (formerly Ryerson) BSc in Biology are highly employable, with 80–85% working in a field related to their studies within two years. Typical roles include research scientist, laboratory technologist, environmental consultant, clinical research coordinator, and biotechnologist, as well as positions in healthcare, government, and education.
Here’s how TMU supports your future:
Career Services: Science-focused career advising, job search workshops, and résumé support are available through the Faculty of Science’s Career Education Specialist and the Career & Co-op Centre. You’ll have access to professional networking events, annual STEM career fairs, and career services for up to five years after graduation.
Co-op & Research: The optional co-op program lets you complete up to 20 months of paid, full-time work experience, building your network and skills before graduation. You can also undertake industry-oriented research, external placements, and an independent thesis project.
Industry Partnerships: TMU’s location in downtown Toronto connects you to over 1,300 life science companies, major hospitals, and MaRS Discovery District, offering unparalleled access to internships, research, and job opportunities.
Accreditation: The BSc Biology is fully accredited and recognised by Accreditation Canada’s EQual program, ensuring long-term value and professional mobility.
Graduate Outcomes & Salary: Biology graduates in Toronto earn an average of $81,751 per year, with most finding work or entering graduate/professional programs within six months to two years.
Further Academic Progression: After your BSc Biology, you can pursue a Master’s or PhD in Molecular Science at TMU, or interdisciplinary graduate programs in Environmental Applied Science and Management. The degree also prepares you for professional programs in medicine, dentistry, pharmacy, or education, supported by TMU’s strong research environment and industry connections.
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