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The 4-Years Bachelor of Biology at Western University offers students a thorough and versatile general education in life sciences, genetics, ecology, physiology, and cell biology. The program is appropriate for students who need a general foundation in biological science and the demands of most scientific professions or post-secondary education.
Structural framework for curriculum:
Year 1: In your first year, you’ll build strong fundamentals with courses in cell biology, genetics, ecology, and general chemistry, all supported by laboratory work. These courses introduce essential scientific methods, quantitative reasoning, and written communication skills. You also complete breadth electives and foundational science requirements to satisfy degree modular formats.
Year 2: Deepens your understanding with physiology, molecular biology, and more advanced organic chemistry, paired with lab components. You can begin focusing on specific areas such as genetics, biodiversity, or behaviour. By the end of Year 2, students seeking the Honours Specialization in Biology must meet grade thresholds and complete prerequisite courses to progress.
Year 3: Brings variety and depth: students select upper-level electives in topics like neurobiology, microbial physiology, ecosystem health, or advanced molecular biotechnology. Field courses through the Ontario Universities Program in Field Biology allow immersive experiences—such as rainforest studies or ornithology abroad. This year is also a common entry point into research labs through volunteer or paid undergraduate roles.
Year 4: In fourth year, those in the Honours Specialisation undertake a senior research project (Year 4 research course) under the supervision of a faculty member. This capstone includes designing experiments, conducting data analysis, writing a thesis, and presenting at Western’s Biology Thesis Presentation Day. Students also choose advanced electives (3000/4000-level) in focused areas like synthetic biology or genomics. The Donald B. McMillan Honours Thesis Award recognises the top thesis.
Focus areas: Genetics, evolution, cell biology, physiology, ecology, biodiversity, animal behaviour, conservation, well-being of ecosystems, molecular biology
Learning outcomes: Critical thinking, scientific communication, laboratory skills, data analysis, research design, teamwork, ethical practice, fieldwork, problem-solving, professional preparedness
Reputation (employability rankings): Western's Biology program is known nationally in Canada to have a diverse curriculum and great graduate employment outcomes.
Western biology students acquire extensive hands-on experience in modern teaching laboratories and research centres, such as the Biological and Geological Sciences Building, Western Science Building, and Biotron. The undergraduate program involves discovery-based labs, group projects, and independent research, with graduating students having practical and analytical experience. Experiential learning highlights include:
Graduates of Western University’s BSc in Biology are well-prepared for diverse careers, with many moving quickly into roles such as quality control specialist, technical writer, regulatory affairs specialist, and science policy advisor. Others become scientists in research, healthcare, or biotechnology, and graduates are also equipped for positions in environmental consulting and government. Here’s how Western supports your path to success:
Here’s how Western supports your path to success:
Career services & co-op: Access to the Science Career Services office for personalised career planning, resume and interview support, job search workshops, and the Science Co-op and Internship Programs, where biology interns earn between $29,120 and $52,624 annually.
Industry collaboration: Strong industry and research partnerships, including collaborations in smart systems, biotechnology, and environmental science, providing real-world experience and networking opportunities.
Global recognition: The BSc Biology is fully accredited and meets requirements for professional designations, ensuring your degree is recognised and valued long-term.
Graduate skills: Graduates develop advanced lab, analytical, and communication skills, making them highly competitive for employment or further study.
Graduate outcomes: Alumni enjoy excellent outcomes, with many entering graduate school, professional programs (medicine, dentistry, law, business), or directly joining the workforce in science and policy roles.
Further Academic Progression: After your BSc, you can pursue a research-intensive MSc or PhD in Biology at Western, specialising in areas like ecology, molecular biology, or physiology, with guaranteed funding and world-class research opportunities. The program also prepares you for professional degrees in medicine, dentistry, veterinary medicine, law, or business, and is recognised for graduate study worldwide.
10th & 12th-grade transcripts / predicted gradesEnglish test results: IELTS 6.5 (no band below 6.0), TOEFL iBT 83A Levels: Biology and Mathematics required, plus five GCSEs including English and Mathematics.International Baccalaureate: HL Biology and Mathematics recommended.Highlight research experience, science competitions, or unique extracurricularsSubmit a link to your resume, portfolio, or any science-related projects or YouTube channels (optional)Apply via the Ontario Universities’ Application Centre (OUAC).BiologistResearch ScientistConservation OfficerQuality Control SpecialistTechnical WriterRegulatory Affairs SpecialistScience Policy AdvisorLaboratory ManagerBiomedical ResearcherEnvironmental Consultant
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