BSc Major Biology

Program Structure & Hands‑On Learning

TRU’s Bachelor of Science in Biology (Major or Honours) is described as involving extensive laboratory and field experiences, delivered both through required courses and supplementary opportunities.

First-year biology courses (e.g., BIOL 0500, 0620, 1040) include mandatory lab components and, in some ecology courses, field trips to reinforce learning beyond lectures.

Experiential Learning Opportunities (via CEL)

TRU’s Career & Experiential Learning (CEL) department (“Experience More” program) provides a wide range of practical learning formats:

• Internships, capstone projects, and undergraduate research (Honours or general projects)

• Field schools, regional and international, for immersive learning abroad or in BC

• Service-learning (e.g., SRCL 1000)—community-based academic projects for senior students

• Co-operative Education (co‑op): paid, faculty-linked work terms alternating with academic semesters. Admission to Biology co‑op is competitive and based on GPA, course completion, and application materials

Additional initiatives include:

• Volunteering or remote micro‑projects through Experience More, up to ~3 hrs/week over 10–12 weeks, non‑credit but recognized with digital badges.

• Support for conference participation, student publications, and research dissemination experiences.

Graduates of Thompson Rivers University’s BS Major in Biology program enjoy excellent career outcomes—90% are employed full-time within a few months of graduation, and 81% work in jobs directly related to their degree. Alumni move into roles such as laboratory technician, biologist, wildlife biologist, medical genetics specialist, environmental consultant, educator, and positions in healthcare, biotechnology, conservation, and land management. Many also pursue further studies in medicine, veterinary medicine, pharmacy, dentistry, optometry, and graduate research.

Here’s how Thompson Rivers University supports your career launch:

• Career Services: TRU’s Career Services offers one-on-one advising, résumé support, job search workshops, employer networking, and a career resource library. You’ll have access to career development seminars, job application resources, and a dedicated career management course for science students.

• Employment Stats & Salary: 90% of undergraduates are employed within months of graduation, with a median annual salary of about USD 60,274 (approx. CAD 81,000). Satisfaction rates are high, with 93% of students reporting positive placement experiences.

• Industry Partnerships: TRU’s strong ties to employers such as Interior Health Authority, BC Public Service, and research institutes provide students with internships, co-op placements, and networking opportunities.

• Accreditation & Flexibility: The BSc Biology is fully recognised in Canada and internationally, and the program’s flexible curriculum allows you to tailor your studies and gain extensive field and laboratory experience.

• Graduate Outcomes: Many students complete research projects in their third and fourth years, and the optional co-op program provides paid, hands-on work experience in relevant industries.

Further Academic Progression: After your BS Major in Biology, you can pursue an Honours degree with advanced research, or continue to MSc or PhD programs in biology or related fields at TRU or other universities. The degree also fulfils prerequisites for professional programs in medicine, veterinary medicine, dentistry, pharmacy, and more, supported by TRU’s strong academic reputation and research opportunities.