About
Agricultural Biology provides students with the ability to apply scientific principles to biotechnology, genetics, evolution and wildland ecology including but not limited to wildlife and conservation biology, toxicology and environmental conditions, and wildlife and domestic animals.
- 4 year degree
- Full or part-time program
- You can enter this program directly from high school
- You can begin this program off-campus
What you will learn
With focus on particular areas relevant to agriculture—such as biotechnology, genetics and evolution, plant pathology, plant molecular biology and wildlife ecology—you will examine situations that are relevant to Saskatchewan. Our close associations with government and private research institutions that have considerable expertise provide opportunities for you to gain practical hands-on experience through student employment programs.
A first-year schedule sample
Although there is a great deal of overlap between first year courses for most AgBio programs, it is important to consult the Course and Program Catalogue and contact an academic advisor for information about course selection prior to registration. Here's an example of what a first year in the degree program might look like:
| Course | Description |
|---|---|
Fall Term |
|
| AGRC 110 | Scientific Literacy and Communication for the Agricultural Sciences |
| AGRC 111 | Discovery in Plant and Soil Sciences |
| AREC 220 | History of Indigenous Agriculture in Canada |
| BIOL 120 | The Nature of Life |
| CHEM 112 | General Chemistry I Structure Bonding and Properties of Materials |
Winter Term |
|
| AGRC 112 | Animal Agriculture and Food Science |
| AGRC 113 | Agri Food Issues and Institutions |
| BIOL 121 | The Diversity of Life |
| CHEM 250 | Introduction to Organic Chemistry |
| GEOG 130* | Environment Health and Planning |
* These are elective courses. You'll have a large number of courses to choose between.
The Course and Program Catalogue has the complete and official listing of required classes and their descriptions for this program.
Here are just a few of the classes you might take while you complete this degree:
BMSC 240: Laboratory Techniques
Provides an introduction of basic techniques in biochemistry, cell biology and microbiology, which serve as a foundation for upper year specialization courses.
BIOL 472: Animal Behaviour
Fundamental concepts in animal behaviour. An introduction to the form, control and adaptive significance of animal behaviour.
EVSC 492: Research and Term Paper
A technical writing and communications course in which the student investigates a problem relevant to Environmental Science. The focus will be on literature research using electronic and library resources, but original data may be included. A term paper will be written under the guidance of a faculty advisor and results presented in a seminar or as a poster. Communication skills will be addressed in a series of lectures early in the course.
Career skills
You will graduate with excellent industry-endorsed scientific training and a foundation of marketable career skills. Our strong ties with industry and our reputation for producing well-rounded, quality graduates means that many businesses look here first when hiring employees.
Small class sizes
AgBio offers a setting that combines the advantages of a full-scale university with the benefits of a small, specialized program. The small class sizes in third and fourth year and supportive atmosphere allows you to get to know your instructors and fellow students, and to build a network of personal and business contacts.
Research
We are committed to finding solutions to sustainably feed a hungry and growing world. Our five departments provide a foundation for our broad array of research activities, both basic and applied. We have over a century of innovative products and practices that have transformed the world.
Opportunities to get involved
AgBio has one of the campus’s most active and spirited student bodies. There are several student clubs in the college to join to enhance your university experience.
Collaborative environment
Our faculty and researchers actively collaborate across the university, as well as nationally and internationally. We have created strong, productive partnerships with numerous governments, private enterprises, producer groups, research centres, and industry associations to develop a sophisticated network for applied science, business and policy development. Outreach, technology transfer and information sharing is an important part our research.
Graduates of degree programs in the College of AgBio are eligible for Professional Agrologist (P.Ag.) membership in the Saskatchewan Institute of Agrologists, allowing them to engage in the practise of Agrology.
Careers
With a degree in Agricultural Biology, you will be well-positioned for careers in government, non-profit organizations and the private sector including:
- technical assistants
- extension agrologists
- field and aquatic biologists
- sales representatives
The growing biotechnology industry also seeks employees with an understanding of science, agriculture and knowledge of biotechnology.
Tuition estimates
| Canadian students | International students | |
|---|---|---|
| Tuition | $8,113 | $39,267 |
| Student fees | $1,121 | $1,121 |
| Books | $1,500 | $1,500 |
| Total | $10,734 | $41,888 |
Tuition will vary depending on the type and number of classes you take in a year. This estimate reflects a typical amount you could expect to pay in your first year if you enroll in a full course load, the maximum number of courses allowed (2024-2025 Canadian dollar rates).
Student fees are used to fund specific student benefits, including health, vision and dental coverage, a bus pass, recreational programs and fitness centre access.
The cost of books and supplies varies widely depending on the courses you choose. It is recommended that you budget between $1,500-$2,500 per year.
Program options
These Bachelor of Science in Agriculture (B.S.A.) Agricultural Biology degrees are offered by the University of Saskatchewan's College of Agriculture and Bioresources:
To decide which option is the right fit, consult with an academic advisor in the college when you begin your studies.
Admission requirements and deadlines
Deadlines
Ready to apply?
Create an admissions account and start your application today. When you are ready to submit your application, you will be assessed a non-refundable application fee of $90 CAD. Effective December 2, the application fee is increasing to $120 CAD.
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