Associate Of Science - Biology at CAPU - Capilano University - Program overview

Program overview

Admission Requirements

Intakes

Last updated on 2025-11-28

Program overview

Program Overview

Are you curious about the living world? If you want to understand how life works and open the door to diverse career opportunities in the life sciences, consider the Associate of Science Degree - Biology at Capilano University. This program explores and explains the life within and around us, investigating everything from how molecules move within cells to how ecosystems flourish in varied environments. The two-year associate's degree provides a firm foundation in the broad, exciting, and rapidly growing fields of life science.

The multidisciplinary and lab-focused curriculum emphasizes both the academic and applied skill sets you need to pursue opportunities in a range of fields including health, biotechnology, and conservation and resource management. After completing your associate's degree, you can ladder your credits into the four-year Bachelor of Science degree at CapU.

Program Structure

The Associate of Science Degree - Biology program at Capilano University is designed to be completed in two years. The program offers both full-time and part-time course loads, allowing students to choose the pace that best fits their lifestyle. Key features of the program structure include:

Multidisciplinary curriculum covering various science disciplines.
Emphasis on laboratory work to develop practical skills.
Opportunity to ladder into a Bachelor of Science degree upon completion.
Courses in chemistry, physics, calculus, and mathematics to ensure a well-rounded education.

Students will engage in a variety of learning experiences, including hands-on laboratory work, which is vital for developing the necessary skills for a career in biology. The program is structured to provide a comprehensive understanding of the scientific method, enabling students to conduct experiments, analyze data, and draw conclusions effectively.

Featured Experiences

Hands-on laboratory experience to become proficient with laboratory equipment and techniques.
Opportunities to conduct planned experiments and dissections under instructor guidance.
Exposure to a wide range of science courses beyond biology, including chemistry and physics.
Focus on developing both academic and applied skills relevant to the life sciences.

The program also emphasizes the importance of understanding the scientific method, allowing students to generate hypotheses, predict outcomes, and interpret data effectively. This comprehensive approach prepares students for various career paths in the life sciences.

Career Options

Graduates of the Associate of Science Degree - Biology program can pursue a variety of career options in Canada, including:

Biologist: Study living organisms and their interactions with the environment.
Biotechnologist: Work with biological systems to develop products and technologies.
Botanist: Specialize in plant biology, studying plant life and ecosystems.
Dietitian: Provide nutritional advice and develop dietary plans for health improvement.
Ecologist: Research ecosystems and the relationships between organisms and their environments.
Food Scientist: Analyze food products and develop new food technologies.
Geneticist: Study genes and heredity to understand genetic disorders and traits.
Researcher: Conduct scientific studies to advance knowledge in various biological fields.

These career paths highlight the diverse opportunities available to graduates, making the Associate of Science Degree - Biology a valuable stepping stone for those interested in the life sciences.

DISCLAIMER: The information above is subject to change. For the latest updates, please contact LOA Portal's advisors.

Visit CAPU - Capilano University official website

Last updated on 2025-11-28

Program overview

Academic Requirements

At Capilano University, the Academic Requirements for the Associate of Science - Biology program are designed to ensure that students are adequately prepared for their studies. Here are the key requirements:

Successful completion of B.C. secondary school (Grade 12) or equivalent, such as the B.C. Adult Dogwood Graduation Diploma or General Education Diploma.
A minimum grade point average (GPA) of 2.0 (60%) is required, calculated based on English Studies 12 or English 12 or English First Peoples 12 and two additional academic Grade 12 courses.

For international students, specific documentation is required to demonstrate eligibility. It is essential to provide the necessary information and documentation as outlined by the university. If you are a Vietnamese or Asian student, please ensure that you check for any additional requirements that may apply to your situation.

Additionally, transcripts may be required to be evaluated by WES in some cases. It is advisable to apply as soon as possible to ensure that you meet all deadlines and requirements.

For any clarifications or support regarding the application process, please feel free to contact LOA Portal's advisors who are ready to assist you.

Language Requirements

To gain admission to CapU, you must meet the University's English language requirements. If English is not your first language or you've received your education in a language other than English, you must take one of the following English language assessment tests:

TOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language)
- Required minimum marks:
  - online test (TOEFL iBT®): 83
  - paper-delivered test: 560
- Capilano University TOEFL code: 0505
Academic IELTS (International English Language Testing System)
- Required minimum mark: 6.5 overall, with no single score below 6
CAEL (Canadian Academic English Language Assessment Test)
- Required minimum mark: 70
PTE Academic (Pearson Test of English – Academic)
- Required minimum mark: 56
DET (Duolingo English Test) – Being accepted on a temporary basis.
- Required minimum mark: 125 or higher with no sub-score less than 115

Tests taken more than two years prior to the application for admission will not be considered.

Other ways to meet the English language requirement include:

Six credits of post-secondary English that transfer to Capilano University; or
English Studies 12 or English 12 or English First Peoples 12 with a final mark of C+ or higher and two years of high school in Canada, or
Completion of all provincially articulated EAP Level IV courses from another BC post-secondary institution; or
Advanced Placement English Language/Composition or English Literature/Composition with a minimum mark of 4; or
International Baccalaureate English Language A Higher Level with a minimum mark of 5; or
Language Proficiency Index Level 4 with an essay mark of at least 26; or
Capilano University EAP 100 and 101 with a minimum mark of B+ (77%) in each course; or
Four or more consecutive years of full-time education in English in Canada, or in a country where English is the principal language; or
Graduation from a recognized degree program at an accredited university where English is the primary language of instruction.

Applicants from Quebec may be required to provide proof of English language proficiency.

DISCLAIMER: The information above is subject to change. For the latest updates, please contact LOA Portal's advisors. The listed minimum requirements are a guideline and do not guarantee admission. Do not worry, we will notify you of any changes during the application process.

Not meeting the minimum language requirements?

You may still be able to apply!

Last updated on 2025-12-06

Program overview