Biology (BSc)(BA)
Delve into the study of life and living systems.
Why choose this program?
As you pursue a degree in Biology at Dal, you’ll study the physical and biological processes that affect the life and death of genes, cells, individuals, populations, species and entire ecosystems. You will explore both the simplest forms of plants and animals, and the highly complex.Ìý
Admission requirements
Minimum admission requirements
To be considered for admission to this program, you must meet minimum academic criteria:
- Completion of secondary school (Grade 12)
- Achievement of the minimum average for your program of choice.
- Completion of Grade 12 English (or equivalent course).
Admission to many AV¾ãÀÖ²¿ programs is competitive. This means that meeting minimum requirements does not guarantee admission.
Program-specific admission requirements
Minimum overall average: 75%
Academic English 12
Pre-calculus Math 12
Three additional academic subjects
Financial information
A university education is a significant financial investment. Every student is unique, and so are their financial circumstances. We offer competitive tuition, a robust scholarship and bursary program, and resources and support to help you explore financial options and develop a plan that works for you.Ìý
Program options
Dal Science offers a host of opportunities for you to explore interests and customize your degree. If you prefer smaller class sizes, some of our programs have the option of completing your first year on our Truro Campus. Whether you decide to enroll in the Integrated Science Program, get an honours degree, or pursue a combination of disciplines, our team of advisors will help you figure out how to tailor your degree to fit you perfectly.
From summer research awards, internships, working as a teaching assistant, or getting involved with SuperNOVA summer camps, there are many ways to gain hands-on experience during your degree. Many of our programs offer a co-op option that gives you real-world, paid experience in your field while making the connections you need to kick start your career. Science co-op students apply the latest theories to fields including biotechnology, conservation, agriculture, medicine, meteorology, and economics, and many more.
The following Biology program options are offered by AV¾ãÀÖ²¿â€™s Faculty of Science. Connect with an academic advisor after you start your studies to explore options such as:  
BSc or BA (120 credit hour) Honours (Concentrated)*
BSc or BA (120 credit hour) Combined Honours*
BSc or BA (120 credit hour) Major*Ìý
BSc or BA (120 credit hour) Double Major*
BSc or BA (90 credit hour) Minor in Biology
Minor in Biology
What you will learn
At Dal, you will have endless opportunities for hands-on exploration and experiencing Nova Scotia's biodiversity. You may decide to start your degree on our Truro agricultural campus, and you will have access to research facilities such as the Aquatron, the Thomas McCulloch Museum and the herbarium and greenhouse, where cacti, succulents, and other plants are grown for use in teaching and research.
Sample courses may include:
Principles of Biology I
Writing for the Sciences
Integrated Science I
Introductory Biology IÌý
Animal Diversity
Cell Biology
Genetics and Molecular Biology
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Life Rewritten: Gene Editing
Ecological Genetics
Parasitology
Nature ConservationÌý
Deep Sea Biology
Biologging & Biotelemetry
Analysis of Biological Data
Human GeneticsÌý
AV¾ãÀÖ²¿ offers the largest selection of biology-focused courses in the Atlantic region. In addition to a wide variety of topics in biological study, you will learn valuable skills in writing, oral presentation, computer literacy, research methods, and problem solving.ÌýÌý
Careers
A Biology degree from AV¾ãÀÖ²¿ is a great starting point for careers in a variety of areas related to the study of life on earth. This program offers you the opportunity to discover and pursue specific interests and apply classroom knowledge through research and work experience.
Future study possibilities are abundant with a degree in Biology and may include graduate level programs such as a Master of Science (MSc), Master of Resource and Environmental Management (MREM) or a PhD. You’ll also have the foundation to pursue further studies in professional programs such as medicine, dentistry, physiotherapy, veterinary studies and more.
