Biology (BA)

Dive into the rich diversity of life and uncover the principles and processes that unify biological systems at every level. A Bachelor of Arts (BA) in Biology not only builds a solid foundation in biological knowledge but also hones your ability to communicate complex concepts. This versatile degree opens doors to careers in law, education, teaching, and public policy, allowing you to apply your understanding of biology in these in-demand, impactful fields.

Program Details

Degree Highlights

Your future professors work hard to make sure your academic experience is current, complete and designed to open doors in your career. Here are a few things you can count on:

  • Career-Ready Courses: Prepare for careers in law, education, public policy, or science journalism with courses designed to develop your ability to communicate complex biological concepts. 
  • Comprehensive Curriculum: Study key biological topics including ecology, molecular processes, cell structures, signaling mechanisms, metabolic pathways, inheritance patterns, and biodiversity. Explore survival strategies and conservation across all life domains.
  • Flexibility: Enhance your BA Biology by combining it with other subjects through minors or dual majors. Opt for concentrations in Anatomy and Physiology, Ecology, Evolution and Biodiversity, or Cell, Molecular, and Microbial Biology, and Genetics.

Top Experiences

Here are just a few of our students’ favourite ways to apply their learning throughout their degree (check out the Experience Guide for even more!):

  • Co-op: You can apply to co-op at the end of first year, and complete three four-month work terms over the course of your four-year degree. 
  • Global Learning Experience: Immerse yourself in a two-week field experience through the Ontario Universities Program in Field Biology. Approximately 30 courses are offered each year, based in Ontario, Canada's north, New Brunswick, Newfoundland, British Columbia, Africa and the Caribbean.
  • Honours Thesis Option: Complete a capstone experience through an honours thesis or directed studies, working closely with a faculty member who will mentor you through the research process.

Courses, Options and Pathways

First-Year Core Courses

  • Biological Diversity and Evolution
  • Practical Skills for Biologists
  • Unifying Life Processes

Sample First-Year Electives

  • Introduction to Psychology
  • Foundations of Teaching
  • Human Rights and Human Diversity
  • Love and Its Myths

Sample Upper-Year Courses

  • Ecology
  • Molecular Cell Biology
  • Microbiology
  • Embryology
  • Global Biogeography and Conservation Biology
  • Plants and People
  • Science Communication

Concentrations

Choose to concentrate in Anatomy and Physiology; Ecology, Evolution and Biodiversity; or Cell, Molecular and Microbial Biology, and Genetics.

Combined Degrees

Expand your field of expertise by pairing your BA Biology major with any other BA program.

Options and Minors

In addition to your concentration these are a few popular academic opportunities which allow you to dive deeper into your major area of study or broaden your knowledge:

  • Chemistry Minor
  • Community Health Minor
  • Geography Minor
  • Psychology Minor
  • Environmental Science Option
  • Management Option
  • Sustainability Option
  • Research Specialization

Check out other options to enhance your degree.

Management Option

The Management Option is for students interested in adding management-specific education to their degree. This is a direct-entry, 4.0-credit option that includes courses covering all the core pillars of business and economics. Apply directly to Biology with Management Option on OUAC.

Medical School Pathways

We prepare you for a clinical career in Canada. Laurier students apply to med school with a competitive edge and gain preferential status with internationally accredited medical schools, including the American University of the Caribbean School of Medicine and St. George’s University.

Check out other pathways to and from Laurier.

Admissions

  • Format: full time or part time
  • Duration: four years
  • Start: September (fall term) or January (winter term)
  • OUAC code: UBA; UMJ (Biology BA with Management Option)

Your Career Awaits

It’s not only about the journey; it’s about the destination. Let us help you get to where you’re going.

Here are just some examples of our graduates' destinations. What’s yours?

Sample Career Options

Note: Additional training and education may be required.

  • bioinformatics specialist
  • biotechnologist
  • environmental consultant
  • environmental policy advisor
  • microbiologist
  • public health professional
  • quality assurance manager
  • teacher/professor

Explore more careers.

Support After Graduation

Alumni for life means that you have access to Career and Employment Support offered at Laurier for your entire career.

Your Co-op Experience

Co-op is a way to integrate what you are learning in the classroom with practical experience in your field of study. Build your resume, earn money, develop your network, and graduate with work experience.

You can apply for admission to co-op in your first year and may be eligible for an admission interview early in your second year. As a student in this program, you will be eligible to complete paid work terms lasting 12 to 16 weeks.

Interested? Learn more about co-op.

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98%employment rate for co‑op students – 2023 / 2024

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Tuition and Scholarships

Getting a university education is an investment in your future.

At Laurier, we take financial health seriously by providing a wide variety of funding opportunities for you throughout your degree, such as scholarships and bursaries, and by equipping you with the skills to manage your finances effectively in the years to come.

 

Laurier is among the top 6 percent in the Global 2000 World University Ranking

 

Laurier students engaged in hands-on learning in 2023

 

Laurier graduates employed or in post-graduate studies in 2023

Waterloo Campus

The Waterloo campus is tucked into about one city block, so you’re steps away from your classes, food and your new favourite study spot.

There are many ways to tour our Waterloo campus, whether that's on a guided tour with one of our Laurier student ambassadors, on your own using virtual reality, or even on-demand through one of our pre-recorded tours. See our campus spaces and start to picture yourself at Laurier.

Chat with Current Students

Want to know what it’s really like to be in this program? U Community is our Discord server where future Golden Hawks like you can connect with current students to get their first-hand stories and tips on living and learning at Laurier.

Connect with Us

Questions? Email chooselaurier@wlu.ca, call 548.889.8888 or see all contact information.


You Belong Here

Think this program might be the perfect fit for you and your future?