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Bachelor of Science – Biology

4 Year Degree

The St. Mary’s Bachelor of Science with a major in Biology is unique in Alberta, being embedded in a liberal arts context with a strong focus on experiential learning. Our students acquire deep biological knowledge and develop transferable skills needed for tomorrow’s economy.

This program offers students opportunities not found at larger institutions. Its small class size and intimate environment increases a sense of community and allows students and faculty to get to know each other. Through the many real-world, hands-on experiences, students learn about their world and develop the skills needed to take on its challenges. Our location adjacent to Fish Creek Provincial Park, and partnerships with a variety of organizations, allows students to engage in projects which have real world impact and significance.

Graduates from our program will develop strong skills in the following aspects:

  • Knowledge of biology: knowledge and understanding of general biology, including a basic knowledge of the biological molecules, the cell, genetics, regulation, structure/function, interaction with the environment, and evolution
  • Research skills: conduct and design experiments to test hypothesis; gather evidence and analyze data using statistical methods to test predicted outcomes; learn field and laboratory technologies and techniques; inspect specimens
  • Critical thinking skills: collect, analyze and interpret data; examine and critically analyze biological problems and questions; analyze ideas and information to predict outcomes; research, analyze, and develop understanding from various scientific literature sources
  • Communication skills: research, analyze, and develop understanding from various scientific literature sources; organize, and convey a comprehensive scientific argument; communicate information on biological phenomena; write literature reviews and scientific reports
A Bachelor of Science in Biology provides a strong foundation for a diversity of careers. For some, it is an especially strong background for careers in medicine and medical research, nursing, dentistry, and other health sciences. But there are plenty of biology degree jobs that don’t involve going anywhere near a stethoscope or drawing up patient charts, including lab-based research, direct involvement in policy, or even the sale of new prescription drugs.


Below is a sample of jobs that may be relevant to this degree. Note that this is not an exhaustive list and some occupations require further education and experience.

  • Medical Editor
  • Pharmaceutical Sales Representative
  • Animal Care Attendant/Custodian
  • Public Relations Manager
  • Health Records Technician
  • Pharmaceutical Representative
  • Aquaculture Research Technician
  • Coordinator of Planning Ecology
  • Research Technologist
  • Lab Technician
  • Invasive Species Community Outreach Liaison
  • Clinical Assistant
  • Data Analyst

Apply Today!

St. Mary’s University is a dynamic, welcoming teaching and research institution. We offer fully accredited, affordable and rigorous degrees that are recognized the world over. We hope that your adventure will be an amazing one, and that you will remain connected to St. Mary’s for a lifetime.

Apply Today
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Learn more about this program

2507, 2022

Tobacco – St. Mary’s University Medicine Blog Post

By |July 25th, 2022|Categories: Academics, Indigenous Initiatives, News, Science|Comments Off on Tobacco – St. Mary’s University Medicine Blog Post

There are many species of Tobacco (Nicotiana species) all of which are native to the Americas. Tobacco has been cultivated in the Americas for several thousand years for its medicinal, ceremonial & social benefits. Unlike [...]

2007, 2022

Prairie Restoration Blog: Restoration and Native Bees

By |July 20th, 2022|Categories: News, Science, StMU Stories, Uncategorized|Comments Off on Prairie Restoration Blog: Restoration and Native Bees

Eastern pasqueflower (Pulsatilla patens), a species of native flower found in Fish Creek Provincial Park. Native species such as Eastern pasqueflower, Northern bedstraw and silky lupin are often pollinated by native bee species. [...]

1807, 2022

Itsemseemo in its Second year – St. Mary’s University Medicine Garden Blog

By |July 18th, 2022|Categories: Academics, Indigenous Initiatives, News, Science|Comments Off on Itsemseemo in its Second year – St. Mary’s University Medicine Garden Blog

  The St Mary’s University medicine garden, named Itsemseemo, a Blackfoot word meaning “Where we plant” by Elder Casey Eagle Speaker in fall 2021, was built by a group of former Biology students as [...]

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