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Program Details
Biology in the 21st century is among the most diverse and exciting of the sciences. Many of the challenges we face as a society, from climate change to the development of novel health therapies, involve biological solutions. As a Carleton Biology student, you will gain broad experience through core science courses and options that suit your individual interests and needs. You will have extensive opportunities to learn in lab-based environments.
Concentrations
You can specialize in one of five concentrations:
- Biodiversity, Natural History and Conservation Science;
- Ecology, Evolution and Behaviour;
- Health Science; Molecular and Cellular Biology; or Physiology.
We also offer a specialized program in Biology and Biotechnology, and two Combined Honours Programs: Neuroscience and Biology, and Humanities and Biology. A Bachelor of Arts in Biology is also available.
Capital Advantage
The Ottawa area is home to several environmental and biotechnology companies. Many Ottawa-based government departments are involved with the research that leads to environmental legislation and regulations.
Ottawa is also home to one of the nation’s significant clusters of companies conducting research in medical, agricultural and environmental biotechnology. Collaborations with these organizations, as well as with the National Capital Commission, national museums and National Research Council Canada, provide an unparalleled background as you study Biology at Carleton.
Work Experience
A Co-op option is available. Co-op is the opportunity to get a head start on a career. Co-op work terms allow for the development of key employability skills, exploration of career options and graduation with tangible, workplace experience.
Get started in Carleton360 to receive tailored information on our programs, student services and community.
Career Outcomes
Explore your passions, refine new skills and discover the career that’s right for you.
Our graduates are prepared for direct entry into careers across a wide range of careers.
Sample Careers
- Agriculture
- Bioethics
- Biomedicine
- Biotechnology
- Child Development
- Dentistry
- Education
- Environmental Consulting
- Environmental Sustainability
- Food Science
- Forensic Science
- Genomics
- Government
- Health
- Horticulture
- Intellectual Property
- Medicine
- Mental Health Work
- Natural Resource Management
- Pharmaceutical Industry
- Science Policy and Regulation
- Sports and Exercise
- Teaching
- Wildlife Management
Sample Courses
BIOL 1103 - Foundations of Biology I
A research-oriented course focusing on the scientific process of biological exploration at the cellular level. Topics include cell organization, metabolism, genetics, and reproduction.
BIOL 3305 - Human and Comparative Physiology
The properties of physiological systems and components of humans and other animals with an emphasis on physical and chemical bases.
Visit the Undergraduate Calendar to view a comprehensive list of course offerings for this program and discover the exciting things Carleton students are learning in the classroom!
I have been volunteering with the Science Student Success Centre (SSSC) since Fall 2021, serving as a first-year rep, a mentor, and currently as the Health Care team co-lead. The SSSC has become a second home to me on campus. The services that we provide at the Centre have a great impact on many students in the Faculty of Science. At Carleton, students are encouraged to be themselves and to embrace their differences. I love the diversity that we have at Carleton. I have gained confidence in myself as a person and as a student since I started.
