BSc Biology

You’ll gain practical, hands-on experience in anatomy, physiology, and pharmacology through laboratory courses and research projects. The University of Saskatchewan offers access to world-class research infrastructure and interdisciplinary health sciences spaces.

Experiential learning opportunities include:

• Canadian Light Source (CLS): Synchrotron-assisted molecular and structural analysis in biomedical research

• Saskatchewan Centre for Cyclotron Sciences (SCCS): Nuclear imaging and therapy research in living specimens

• VIDO-InterVac: One of North America's largest vaccine and infectious disease research institutes, enabling human and animal pathogen studies

• PRISM Centre: Proteomics research in macromolecular structure and interactions

• C-BIRD: Advanced biologic imaging and research development

• Core Mass Spectrometry and Protein Characterization Facilities: For molecular and biochemical analysis

• Imaging Centre: Advanced imaging for cell biology and anatomy

• Bioinformatics and Computational Epidemiology Labs: For data-driven biomedical research

• Health Sciences Facility: Interdisciplinary, integrated space for research and education

• Undergraduate Research Support: Project and funding opportunities, skill development workshops, and faculty mentoring for independent work

Graduates of the University of Saskatchewan’s BSc Biology program are highly employable, with the majority securing positions within six months of graduation. Typical job roles include environmental biologist, laboratory technologist, wildlife biologist, and research assistant. Many alumni also pursue professional programs such as medicine (USask College of Medicine), veterinary medicine (Western College of Veterinary Medicine), dentistry, or pharmacy.

• Hands-on experience: Biology students can participate in the Undergraduate Student Research Assistantship (USRA) program, gaining paid summer research experience in labs such as the Department of Biology’s aquatic ecology, plant genetics, or microbiology labs. Field courses include BIOL 228 (Field Ecology) and BIOL 475 (Field Techniques in Ecology).

• Career Services: The USask Career Services office offers the “CareerLink” platform for job postings, on-campus recruitment, and career fairs. They provide one-on-one career coaching, résumé and cover letter review, and workshops tailored for science students.

• Industry and research partnerships: The Department of Biology collaborates with organisations like the Meewasin Valley Authority, Saskatchewan Ministry of Agriculture, and the Canadian Wildlife Service, offering students internships, volunteer placements, and networking opportunities.

• Accreditation: The BSc Biology is recognised by the Canadian Society of Biology and meets prerequisites for entry into professional programs at USask and other Canadian universities.

• Graduate outcomes: According to the USask Graduate Outcomes Survey, 87% of science graduates are employed or in further study within six months. Many biology grads enter graduate programs or professional schools, reflecting the program’s strong academic foundation.

Further Academic Progression: After your BSc Biology, you can apply for the MSc in Biology at USask, with research areas including environmental toxicology, molecular genetics, plant science, and animal physiology. USask’s College of Graduate and Postdoctoral Studies offers funding and mentorship for thesis-based research. The BSc Biology also fulfils prerequisites for the USask College of Medicine, Western College of Veterinary Medicine, and the College of Pharmacy and Nutrition, making it an excellent pathway to professional health programs.