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Biology

Bachelor of Science (B.Sc.) - View all program options

Learn how to get the most out of your degree and prepare for your future career.

Biology today is the study of all living organisms and their relationships and interactions with other living organisms. Different biologists study different elements of Biology: genetics, cell biology, physiology, ecology, population biology, limnology, toxicology, conservation, behaviour, parasitology, development, etc. All of these learning and career opportunities are available to students in the Department of Biology at the University of Saskatchewan. We have lectures to lay down the ground rules, laboratories to get your hands busy and field trips to get your feet wet! Additional options within your program can include courses from agriculture, commerce, environmental science, toxicology and paleobiology.

Not a USask student?

Learn more about studying biology at USask and apply for admission.

Explore your major

Learn more about some of the required major-specific courses for this degree. View the course and program catalogue or meet with an academic advisor to understand all program requirements.

Year 1 courses

The courses listed here and in the Course and Program Catalogue are not necessarily offered each year and do not represent the totality of your requirements.

BIOL 120.3 | The Nature of Life
BIOL 121.3 | The Diversity of Life
CHEM 112.3 | General Chemistry I Structure Bonding and Properties of Materials
CHEM 115.3 | General Chemistry II Chemical Processes

You choose

Academic tips

What will I learn?
  • Learn the fundamental principles underlying the science of life
  • We emphasize hands-on, laboratory-based learning experiences in all of our undergraduate courses
  • Learn analytical and critical thinking skills through writing and presenting biological topics
  • Biology is an excellent choice for students interested in gaining entrance to a health science program, including medicine, dentistry, nursing, and veterinary medicine

Gain relevant experience

Create local and global connections

Get career ready

 Featured courses

Explore your major

Learn more about some of the required major-specific courses for this degree. View the course and program catalogue or meet with an academic advisor to understand all program requirements.

Year 2 courses

The courses listed here and in the Course and Program Catalogue are not necessarily offered each year and do not represent the totality of your requirements.

BIOL 222.3 | The Living Plant
BIOL 224.3 | Animal Body Systems
BIOL 226.3 | Genes to Genomics
BIOL 228.3 | An Introduction to Ecology and Ecosystems

You choose
Year 3 courses

The courses listed here and in the Course and Program Catalogue are not necessarily offered each year and do not represent the totality of your requirements.

BIOL 301.3 | Critical Issues in Biology (Four-year degree)
BIOL 302.3 | Evolutionary Processes

You choose

Academic tips

Add to your major

Choose from a variety of options to complement your major.

Gain relevant experience

Create local and global connections

Get career ready

Student Supports

Connect with student support options to maintain your wellness and support your goals.

Explore your major

Learn more about some of the required major-specific courses for this degree. View the course and program catalogue or meet with an academic advisor to understand all program requirements.

Final year courses

The courses listed here and in the Course and Program Catalogue are not necessarily offered each year and do not represent the totality of your requirements.

You choose

Apply to graduate

Academic tips

Consider applying to a graduate program
Find a program

Gain relevant experience

Create local and global connections

Get career ready

Career readiness competencies

USask Student Competencies are the knowledge, skills, and attributes developed and leveraged to achieve success in your learning and work:

  • Engaging in our intercultural society
  • Nurturing successful relationships
  • Leveraging technology
  • Adaptive design and problem solving
  • Communicating meaningfully
  • Cultivating well-being

Possible destinations

People with a biology degree take their knowledge and skills into many different industries and occupations. Some of the career paths listed here require further education and training.

Career paths

  • Agricultural Scientist
  • Aquatic Biochemist
  • Bio-analytics Supervisor
  • Biochemist
  • Biophysicist
  • Biotechnologist
  • Cell and Molecular Biologist
  • Clinical Research Scientist
  • Contaminated Sites Specialist
  • Environmental Consultant
  • Food and Drug Inspector
  • Immunologist
  • Marine Biologist
  • Microbiologist
  • Pharmacist
  • Plant Pathology Technician
  • Project Coordinator
  • Project Manager
  • Public Heath Officer
  • Quality Assurance Technologist
  • Quality Control Analyst
  • Researcher
  • Risk Assessor
  • University Professor
  • Wildlife Biologist
  • Wildlife Manager
  • Zoologist

My time in the Biology program at the University of Saskatchewan truly prepared me for a life time of success. Not only did I gain the knowledge and skills needed to launch my career, but I also made life-long friends who shared my passion for conservation science, many of who I remain colleagues with today. My professors and lab instructors were friendly and approachable, and provided mentorship that helped me navigate my path to a professional career in Biology.

—Tom, Master of Science in Biology '24

Where do USask alumni work?

  • AbbVie
  • Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada
  • Alberta Health Services
  • BASF
  • Feedlot Health Management Services Ltd
  • Government of Alberta
  • Lakehead University
  • Saskatchewan Research Council
  • University of Alberta
  • University of Calgary
  • University of Guelph
  • University of Saskatchewan
  • Vaccine and Infectious Disease Organization (VIDO)
  • Western University

Explore Canadian salaries for various occupations using the Job Bank Career Planning Tool

"The biology program offers a comprehensive foundation of scientific knowledge applicable to various fields. Its diverse curriculum opens doors to multiple disciplines and equips students with a significant advantage, particularly in physiology, when transitioning into professional programs. The program is diverse and intellectually challenging, attracting highly competitive and talented students. Being surrounded by like-minded individuals fosters meaningful friendships with classmates who support and motivate one another to excel in their educational journey."

—Boden, Veterinary Medicine student

"Studying Biology at USask has given me the opportunity to participate in research and try my hand at a broad range of disciplines, both in the field and in the lab. I believe that the diversity of course offerings and research opportunities offered in the department of biology has opened many doors for my future as a researcher. During my time here, I have met so many peers and faculty that are so passionate about the work that they do. This has deepened my love for learning and solidified my decision to pursue a career in ecology."

—Laura, Bachelor of Science in Biology

"I chose the Biology program at USask because of my curiosity about living systems. The chance to engage in research has been invaluable, giving me real-world experience and preparing me for future studies and a career in biology. The extensive variety of courses means there’s truly something for everyone, no matter where your interests lie—from animal physiology to plant pathology or beyond. By the upper years, you've explored so many areas, making it easy to find your path in biology."

—Prerita, Bachelor of Science in Biology