BSc Major Biology Science

UTSC's Biology Major program offers a solid experiential learning environment, translating classroom theory into practice through a variety of opportunities. Students may engage in internships, co-op placements, community-based work, and organisation-partnered research and gain valuable work experience and professional skills. Support for these experiences is provided through designated staff and facilities on campus, enabling placement of students into alignment with academic and career goals.

Hands-on learning is supplemented by access to the advanced biological sciences facilities of UTSC. Students learn and conduct research in state-of-the-art labs, including the central vivarium for animal studies, aquatic facilities, the Plant Growth Facility, and highly specialised labs for molecular, cellular, and behavioral studies. Laboratory and field methods support and training are provided by technical staff and facility managers, allowing students to gain hands-on experience in laboratory and field methods.

Experiential highlights include:

• Internships, co-operative work assignments, and community research projects

• Lab classes using high-technology equipment: In cell, molecular, and ecological biology

• Vivarium, aquatic, and plant growth facilities research experience

• Scientific presentations, multimedia science communication, and group projects

• Technical education and advice: By trained personnel

• Participation in poster sessions, workshops, and team investigations

Graduates of the University of Toronto Scarborough’s Bachelors Major Program in Biology (Science) are highly employable, moving into roles such as research biologist, laboratory technologist, environmental consultant, science educator, and clinical research coordinator. Many alumni also pursue further studies in medicine, dentistry, pharmacy, graduate research, or specialised fields like conservation and biotechnology.

Here’s how UTSC specifically supports your future:

• Career Services: Access to UTSC’s Academic Advising & Career Centre for one-on-one advising, résumé workshops, job fairs, and the CLNx job portal. The department hosts career panels and connects students with alumni and employers in biology, conservation, and health sectors.

• Employment Stats & Salary: Biology graduates in the GTA typically start between $45,000–$55,000 CAD per year, with higher earnings as you gain experience or pursue graduate/professional credentials.

• Industry Partnerships: The program partners with organisations such as Credit Valley Conservation, Ontario Ministry of Natural Resources, and Toronto Zoo for field courses, internships, and research placements. Students can participate in summer research, fieldwork, and community-engaged projects.

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

• Graduate Outcomes: Students gain a solid foundation in biology through core courses (e.g., Cell Biology, Animal Physiology, Ecology, Evolutionary Biology), hands-on lab experience, and upper-year research projects like the Integrative Research Poster Project and Integrative Multimedia Documentary Project. Graduates develop strong analytical, research, and scientific communication skills, making them competitive for employment and further study.

Further Academic Progression: After your Biology Major, you can pursue a Master’s (MSc) or PhD in Biology or related fields at U of T or other leading universities. The program also prepares you for professional degrees in medicine, dentistry, pharmacy, optometry, and education, supported by UTSC’s strong research environment and faculty mentorship.