BSc Biology

UFV's Biology program features extensive experiential learning via faculty-led research, student organisations, and international opportunities. Students can be involved in independent research projects, served by comparative genomics, environmental studies, and cell biology-most often ending with presentations or thesis work. Application to highly competitive programs like the London International Youth Science Forum is also supported, with costs offered for top students to travel abroad to science meetings.

Experiential highlights include:

• Volunteer research experience under faculty guidance: (e.g., gene annotation, microplastic analysis, viral susceptibility of salmonid cell lines)

• Honours research seminars and guided studies: (BIO 409, BIO 499)

• Opportunity to present: At conferences or at UFV events

• Student clubs: Like the Biology and Chemistry Student Association, the Health and Medicine Club, and others

• International scientific forums and science leadership opportunities

• Science clubs at the campus: To enable collaboration, networking, as well as the UFV Student Union Society

• Faculty mentorship and support: Through research and academic careers

Graduates of the University of the Fraser Valley’s BS Biology (4 Years, Optional Co-op) program are highly employable, moving into roles such as research biologist, laboratory technologist, environmental consultant, conservation biologist, microbiologist, and science educator. Many alumni also pursue further studies in medicine, dentistry, veterinary medicine, pharmacy, or graduate research, supported by the program’s strong academic and practical foundation.

Here’s how UFV specifically supports your future:

• Career Services & Co-op Program: The optional co-op placement provides paid, hands-on work experience in your field of study, allowing you to build your résumé and professional network before graduation. Co-op students often secure placements with local companies, government agencies, environmental organisations, and research labs, gaining real-world skills that make them more competitive for employment after graduation.

• Employment Stats & Salary: Biology graduates in BC typically start between $45,000–$55,000 CAD per year, with higher earnings as you gain experience or further credentials. The Conference Board of BC reports low unemployment and rising wages for natural sciences graduates.

• Industry Partnerships: UFV Biology partners with local employers in land management, environmental protection, fish and wildlife services, food and drug sectors, health agencies, and agriculture, providing opportunities for internships, fieldwork, and networking.

• Accreditation: The BSc Biology is fully recognised in Canada and internationally, and fulfils prerequisites for graduate and professional programs (medicine, dentistry, pharmacy, veterinary medicine, education).

• Graduate Outcomes: Students gain extensive lab and field experience—the program is noted as one of the most lab-intensive in BC—and can customise their degree with concentrations in Pre-medicine/Pre-veterinary, Cellular, Molecular & Genetics, or Ecology & Biology of Organisms. Opportunities include field trips, study tours, directed studies, and independent research with faculty mentorship, preparing graduates for both employment and further academic study.

Further Academic Progression: After your BS Biology at UFV, you can pursue a Master’s in Biology or related fields, or enter professional programs in medicine, dentistry, pharmacy, veterinary medicine, or education, supported by UFV’s strong research environment and faculty mentorship.