BSc Environmental Biology

Ontario Tech University’s BS in Environmental Biology (5 Years On Campus) is designed for students passionate about tackling real environmental challenges while developing both scientific and leadership skills. This program blends rigorous science courses with hands-on learning, so you’ll graduate ready to make a difference in the environmental sector. Students gain practical skills through a variety of experiential learning opportunities and state-of-the-art facilities, applying classroom knowledge directly to real-world situations—preparing you for careers in conservation, environmental consulting, policy, and more.

Here’s how Ontario Tech helps you build real-world expertise in Environmental Biology:

• Direct-entry co-op option: Gain full-time, paid work experience with leading employers in the environmental sector throughout your studies, giving you a competitive edge and valuable professional connections.

• Extensive laboratory courses: Develop hands-on skills in modern labs focused on genetics, ecology, and environmental analysis.

• Fieldwork and applied research: Study ecosystems in both natural and human-impacted environments, collecting and analyzing real data as part of your coursework.

• Opportunities for group projects: Collaborate with classmates on research and environmental problem-solving, mirroring the teamwork found in professional settings.

• Access to digital tools and scientific software: Utilise platforms for data analysis, environmental modelling, and laboratory reporting.

• Embedded management training (optional Science and Management stream): Build expertise in finance, operations, project management, and marketing to prepare for leadership roles in the environmental field.

• Partnerships with employers in Durham Region and beyond: Connect with industry experts and gain exposure to current practices and technologies through co-op placements and networking events.

• University libraries and digital resources: Support your research with access to specialised databases, journals, and study spaces.

Further Academic Progression: After completing your BS in Environmental Biology at Ontario Tech, you’ll be well-positioned to pursue graduate studies or professional degrees in environmental science, policy, or management, supported by strong academic and industry connections.

Ontario Tech University’s BS in Environmental Biology (5 Years On Campus) equips students with the scientific expertise and real-world experience to launch successful careers in environmental science. Graduates are highly employable, moving into roles such as conservation biologist, environmental consultant, policy advisor, field ecologist, laboratory analyst, and science educator. Many alumni also pursue advanced studies or leadership positions in government, industry, and non-profit organizations focused on environmental issues.

Here’s how Ontario Tech specifically supports your future:

• Career Services & Experiential Learning: The program features a direct-entry co-op option, allowing you to apply for full-time, paid work placements with leading employers in the environmental sector directly through your OUAC application. Co-op terms are embedded throughout your studies, providing practical experience, professional connections, and a competitive salary. Research shows that co-op graduates secure jobs faster, have higher starting salaries, and graduate with less debt.

• Industry Partnerships & Research: Ontario Tech has developed strong partnerships with top employers in Durham Region and beyond, including business, industry, and government organizations. These partnerships give you access to co-op placements, internships, and real-world projects in conservation, environmental consulting, compliance/regulation, policy development, and natural resource management. You’ll also gain hands-on skills through extensive laboratory courses and fieldwork in genetics, ecology, and environmental analysis. The university’s commitment to experiential learning ensures you connect with experts and gain exposure to current practices and technologies in the field.

• Science and Management Option: If you are interested in leadership or managerial roles, you can apply for the five-year Bachelor of Science and Management (Honours) program. This combines your science training with foundational courses in business, finance, operations, project management, and marketing, making you especially competitive for management positions in the environmental sector.

• Accreditation: The co-op option satisfies the guidelines of the Canadian Association for Co-operative Education, ensuring high standards for work-integrated learning. The degree is fully recognized in Canada and internationally, and fulfills prerequisites for graduate and professional programs.

• Graduate Outcomes: Students graduate with strong analytical, laboratory, fieldwork, and scientific communication skills. The curriculum covers natural sciences, genetics, ecology, environmental analysis, and management (if selected), preparing you for a wide range of careers and further study.

Further Academic Progression: After your BS in Environmental Biology at Ontario Tech, you can pursue graduate studies or enter professional roles in conservation, consulting, policy, or management, supported by the program’s rigorous training, hands-on experience, and extensive employer network.