BSc Biology

Hands-on Biology Coursework & Field Learning

• The BSc Biology degree is rooted in lab- and field-intensive coursework. Students gain practical experience through on‑campus labs and field-based learning, often using the surrounding northern forest environment as a natural classroom. Many courses leverage local ecosystems for applied learning.

• The program highlights focus areas such as Field Biology, Applied Ecology, Zoology, Botany & Mycology, Cell Biology & Genetics—with emphasis on northern ecosystems and climate adaptation.

 Faculty-Supervised & Undergraduate Research

• UNBC is one of British Columbia’s research-intensive universities. Students frequently participate in faculty-led research projects, often starting in their first year. Opportunities include undergraduate research experience, paid roles, and an Honours option for research-focused study.

Field Schools & Study Abroad

• Field schools are available in multiple programs, including Biology. These immersive experiences extend from local (e.g. Aleza Lake or John Prince Research Forest) to international field courses, connecting academic learning with real-world environments.

Co‑operative Education (Co‑op)

• The Biology program offers an optional Co‑operative Education stream. Students can complete up to four paid work terms, alternating study with career-related placements. Eligibility typically requires completion of 60 credits and a GPA above 2.75. Co‑op adds a designation to the degree upon graduation.

Graduates of the University of Northern British Columbia’s (UNBC) BSc in Biology are highly employable, especially in fields related to northern and temperate ecosystems. Typical roles include wildlife biologist, laboratory technician, environmental consultant, biochemist, and research scientist, with many alumni also pursuing medicine, dentistry, veterinary medicine, or graduate research.

Here’s how UNBC supports your career and academic success:

• Hands-on Learning: The program emphasises practical experience through labs, fieldwork, and field schools at sites like Aleza Lake Research Forest and Quesnel River Research Centre, focusing on northern flora and fauna and adaptations to northern environments.

• Specialisations: Students can tailor their degree with options in Applied Ecology, Ecology and Evolution, Zoology, Botany and Mycology, or Cell Biology and Genetics.

• Industry & Research Partnerships: Strong ties to local research forests, government, and environmental agencies provide opportunities for internships, research placements, and networking.

• Accreditation: The BSc Biology is fully accredited with the BC College of Applied Biology, allowing graduates to become Registered Professional Biologists—a key credential for many biology careers in BC.

• Employment Outcomes: UNBC biology grads report high satisfaction and strong employment rates, with 86% working or in further study within months of graduation. Many secure jobs require a university education, and the degree is recognised for its practical skill development and relevance to northern and environmental careers.

• Tuition & Duration: The program is four years full-time, with annual tuition for international students around CAD $24,000–$26,700.

Further Academic Progression: After your BSc, you can pursue MSc studies in biology or related fields at UNBC or other universities, or enter professional programs in medicine, dentistry, veterinary medicine, or education. The program’s strong research and field experience foundation makes grads highly competitive for advanced study and professional school applications.