About
Biology is the study of all living organisms and their relationships and interactions with other living organisms. In a world where climate change, habitat loss and genome discoveries increasingly make headlines, biologists today are presented with an array of exciting challenges and opportunities.
- Three or 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
You will examine the unique interactions between various life forms such as cells, parasites, pathogens, animals, plants, insects and humans through studying different elements of biology such as genetics, cell biology, physiology, ecology, population biology, limnology, toxicology, conservation and parasitology. Biology is an excellent choice for students interested in gaining entrance to a health science program, including medicine, dentistry, nursing, and veterinary medicine.
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 |
|
| BIOL 120a | The Nature of Life |
| CHEM 112a | General Chemistry I Structure Bonding and Properties of Materials |
| MATH 125b | Mathematics for the Life Sciences |
| HIST 155c | History Matters Science and Environment |
| INDG 107d | Introduction to Canadian Indigenous Studies |
Winter Term |
|
| BIOL 121a | The Diversity of Life |
| CHEM 115a | General Chemistry II Chemical Processes |
| BMSC 200a | Introduction to Global Environmental Systems |
| ARCH 112e | The Human Journey Introduction to Archaeology and Biological Anthropology |
| PHIL 133c | Introduction to Ethics and Values |
a Required 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
e One of the course options which may be used in the Breadth Requirement
The Course and Program Catalogue has the complete and official listing of required classes and their descriptions for this program.
BIOL 224: Animal Body Systems
Will study the problems all animals overcome in order to survive and reproduce, and the different body systems that must deal with both unique and common environmental challenges.
BIOL 228: An Introduction to Ecology and Ecosystems
An introduction to ecological principles and the functioning of aquatic and terrestrial ecosystems. Community structure and dynamics, ecosystem production, populations, energy flow and material recycling will be considered.
BIOL 301: Critical Issues in Biology
Examines the essential processes and principles of current, topical biological research. The course is designed to enhance the capacity to understand biological concepts, critically evaluate scientific work, develop logical and sound opinions and improve written and oral communication skills.
Location
We are situated within walking distance of the beautiful South Saskatchewan River. You can take advantage of studying short-grass tundra, aspen parkland, boreal forest, taiga and tundra and aquatic environments by driving a short distance outside of Saskatoon.
Unique facilities
The University of Saskatchewan is one of the top research universities in the country and is home to a unique array of research infrastructure that our students are encouraged to use. These include the Canadian Light Source, Canada's national synchrotron research facility, the Toxicology Centre and one of the largest phytotron controlled plant growth facilities in the world.
Weekly seminar series
A weekly seminar series provides opportunities to hear prominent researchers from the uSask and across North America speak about their work - and also have your Biology questions answered.
Hands-on experience
You will be provided an opportunity to learn and interact with your instructors and other students in a small-group setting in all of our courses, including in your first year. We have a number of research-based courses that you can access as early as your second year, and you will gain practical experience in the lab or in the field throughout the entire Biology program.
Careers
Students graduating with a degree in biology are well suited for a wide range of careers - in education, applied or basic research in life sciences or health sciences such as medicine, dentistry, nursing and veterinary medicine.
Some other career opportunities include:
- Biologist
- Lab technician
- Forensic scientist
- Toxicologist
- Environmental services manager
- Conservationist
- Wildlife management specialist
- Research biologist
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 Bachelor of Science (B.Sc.) Biology degrees are offered by the University of Saskatchewan's College of Arts and Science:
- Bachelor of Science Four-year
- Bachelor of Science Three-year
- Bachelor of Science Honours
- Bachelor of Science Double Honours with Biochemistry
You should consult with an academic advisor in the college when you begin your studies to decide if you want a four-year, three-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.
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