BSc Biology

At the University of Northern British Columbia, the BSc in Biology is all about learning by doing, especially in the unique context of northern ecosystems. You’ll dive into everything from molecular biology to ecology, gaining hands-on experience through labs, fieldwork, and research projects that use the natural environment of northern BC as your living classroom.

Here’s how you’ll build real-world skills and experience as a UNBC Biology student:

• Extensive laboratory courses in molecular biology, physiology, and ecology, using modern lab equipment and scientific techniques.

• Fieldwork opportunities that immerse you in northern and temperate ecosystems, studying plants and animals in both natural and disturbed environments.

• Access to specialised research facilities and laboratories within the College of Science and Management, supporting everything from genetics to environmental biology.

• Group projects and community-based research, often focused on local conservation and environmental issues.

• Internships and research assistantships, including opportunities like the Northern Spotted Owl Breeding Program, where you can participate in conservation biology, animal care, and data analysis.

• Accredited program with the BC College of Applied Biology, providing a direct pathway to becoming a Registered Professional Biologist.

• Opportunities to combine your major with a minor (e.g., Biochemistry, Geography, First Nations Studies) for a more tailored education.

• Access to UNBC’s libraries, digital resources, and experiential learning support services.

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.