Biology

Recent discoveries and new technologies are revolutionizing the biological sciences, which increasingly require integrating knowledge across the range of biological systems, from the gene to entire ecosystems.

Our programs give students both the intellectual tools and the experience they need to generate new knowledge and contribute to debates on issues as diverse as stem cell research, land management, conservation and endangered species, genetically modified organisms, and disease management and prevention.

Learning takes place through traditional classroom instruction, through innovative laboratory projects with state-of-the-art technologies, and a strong basic research program that involves intensive mentoring.

The major in biology introduces students to cell biology, genetics, evolution, ecology, and physiology (both plant and animal) and, in combination with another major or minor, opens the way to graduate studies or to a career in the life sciences.

The specialization in biology involves more in-depth study of biology's subdisciplines. Students either pursue diverse areas of interest or concentrate in one of the three options (cellular and molecular biology; physiology; or ecology, evolution and behaviour) with a compulsory independent research component designed to prepare for graduate studies.

The minor in biology is a flexible program that allows students to select a subset of biology courses.