About
Biochemistry, microbiology and immunology examines the processes regulating DNA, RNA and proteins within cells and the world of viruses, bacteria and how infections occur and are combatted by the immune system. Mutations, metabolic disorders, cancer and determination of protein structure are of particular importance to humans in how we advance modern medicine. Studies of the immune system and microbial processes allow the development of protective solutions such as antibiotics and vaccines.
- Four-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
This program will help you develop a strong foundation in biomedical sciences and research skills, as well as provide you with experiential learning opportunities that will be essential to a broad spectrum of science-based careers and further education. You will learn about molecular and cellular approaches to the study of microbial physiology and pathogenesis, protein structure and function, molecular biology, microbial genetics, virology, tumour biology and cancer, immunology and immunopathogenesis.
A first-year schedule sample
This degree program is flexible and offers you the opportunity to take courses in many different subject areas. Here’s what a typical first-year schedule might look like:
| Course | Description |
|---|---|
Fall Term |
|
| CHEM 112a | General Chemistry I Structure Bonding and Properties of Materials |
| BIOL 120a | The Nature of Life |
| PHYS 115a | Physics and the Universe |
| MATH 125b | Mathematics for the Life Sciences |
| ENG 114c or INDG 107d | Literature and Composition Reading Culture or Introduction to Canadian Indigenous Studies |
Winter Term |
|
| CHEM 115a | General Chemistry II Chemical Processes |
| PHYS 117a | Physics for the Life Sciences |
| PLSC 214b | Statistical Methods |
| BMSC 200a | Biomolecules |
| PHIL 140a | Critical Thinking |
a Required or eligible course for the major.
b One of the course options to complete the Quantitative Reasoning Requirement
c One of the course options to complete the English Language Writing Requirement
d One of the course options to complete the Indigenous Learning Requirement
The Course and Program Catalogue has the complete and official listing of required classes and their descriptions for this program.
BMSC 210: Microbiology
An introduction to the structure, physiology, genetics and pathogenicity of microorganisms. Topics include the structure and composition of bacteria and viruses, bacterial growth, genetics, and regulation, the role of microorganisms in disease, and an introduction to the immune system.
MCIM 390: Experimental Microbiology and Immunology
The principles and applications of techniques used in microbiology and immunology are covered with an emphasis on problem solving by experimentation. Included are methods relating to safe handling, growth and identification of microbes and methods for studying virology and immunology.
MCIM 423: Immunopathogenesis
Considers how the activation of innate and adaptive immune mechanisms contribute to pathology. Topics include basic mechanisms of immune-cell migration and inflammation, functions of cytokines, antibody and cell-mediated hypersensitivity reactions and their role in disease processes as seen in allergies, transplantation and autoimmunity.
Opportunities
This program provides an excellent foundation of knowledge in the biomedical sciences if you are seeking subsequent admission into health science professional schools such as Medicine, Dentistry, Pharmacy and Nutrition or Veterinary Medicine.
Faculty
The Department of Biochemistry, Microbiology and Immunology has faculty members with expertise in nucleic acids, lipids, carbohydrates, enzymology, metabolism, cell biochemistry, plant biochemistry and structural biology. Their research interests encompass topics such as cancer, obesity, diabetes, infectious diseases as well as, bioethanol, nanotechnology, structural studies of proteins by NMR and X-ray crystallography, and cell cycle in plants.
The wealth of expertise in the Department of Biochemistry, Microbiology and Immunology is enriched by the affiliation of professors who are members of other colleges and departments (e.g. Chemistry and Plant Sciences), centres (e.g. Saskatchewan Cancer Centre) and research agencies (e.g. Canadian Light Source (CLS), the Vaccine and Infectious Disease Organization (VIDO), and Plant Biotechnology Institute (PBI)) located on the university campus.
Facilities
Our research laboratories are located in the newly renovated Health Sciences Building with state-of-the-art research facilities. We are home to several high-impact research centers that include the VIDO, PBI, Saskatchewan Cancer Center, Saskatchewan Structural Science Center, Agricultural and Ag-Food Canada and dozens of biotechnology firms within Innovation Place.
Location
The city of Saskatoon is the proud home of two of Canada's largest investments in science infrastructure, the CLS and the International Vaccine Center (InterVac).
Saskatoon is at the cutting edge of medical and agricultural research. Biochemistry, Microbiology and Immunology is a core discipline within all these pursuits. The concentration of these research institutions on the campus, together with our own university laboratories provide our students unique research opportunities and advantages.
Careers
Research: A variety of technical positions are available in academia (e.g. universities), industry (e.g. biotechnology and pharmaceutical companies), government laboratories (e.g. agricultural and food agencies and police forensic laboratories) and healthcare system (e.g. hospitals).
Teaching: Biochemists, microbiologists and immunologists are involved in teaching at high schools, universities and technical colleges.
Communications: Some biochemists, microbiologists and immunologists work as science writers for textbooks and prepare technical reports for industry.
Business: Biochemists, microbiologists and immunologists play an important role in the management, sales and marketing in science-based companies, such as pharmaceutical firms.
Regulatory/Law: Many biochemists, microbiologists and immunologists are employed by regulatory bodies such as the Canadian Food Inspection Agency, and the Food and Drug Administration, to develop government policies and patent law.
Tuition estimates
| Canadian students | International students | |
|---|---|---|
| Tuition | $7,919 | $38,328 |
| Student fees | $1,121 | $1,121 |
| Books | $1,500 | $1,500 |
| Total | $10,540 | $40,949 |
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 degrees are offered jointly by the University of Saskatchewan's College of Arts and Science and College of Medicine:
- Bachelor of Science (Biomedical Science) Four-year - Biochemistry, Microbiology and Immunology
- Bachelor of Science (Biomedical Science) Honours - Biochemistry, Microbiology and Immunology
You should consult with an academic advisor in the college when you begin your studies to decide if you want a four-year or honours degree.
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.
Stay connected
Do you want us to send you important reminders, information about our programs or notifications about USask events?