Master of Science - Biology - Specialization in Society and Policy (Thesis) at University of Ottawa - Program overview

Program overview

Admission Requirements

Intakes

Last updated on 2025-09-04

Program overview

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Program overview

The Master of Science in Biology with a Specialization in Science, Society and Policy is a collaborative program offered by the University of Ottawa. This program is designed for students who wish to explore the intersection of science and policy, equipping them with the necessary skills to evaluate challenges in decision-making processes. The program emphasizes the importance of evidence in policy-making and how current policies influence scientific endeavors. Students will engage in research that addresses real-world issues, preparing them for impactful careers in various sectors.

Program structure

The Master of Science in Biology with a Specialization in Science, Society and Policy is structured to provide a comprehensive educational experience. The program is offered in both full-time and part-time registration status options. The expected duration of the program is 24 consecutive months for full-time students, which typically encompasses 6 full-time terms. Students will engage in a thesis-based program, allowing them to conduct in-depth research under the guidance of faculty members.

Key features of the program structure include:

Thesis requirement, where students must present and defend their research.
Collaborative specialization that integrates science and policy studies.
Access to research facilities and resources from both the University of Ottawa and Carleton University.
Opportunities for interdisciplinary collaboration and networking.

Featured Experiences

The Master of Science in Biology with a Specialization in Science, Society and Policy offers several unique experiences that enhance the learning journey of students:

Access to the Ottawa-Carleton Institute of Biology, which combines research strengths from both universities.
Collaborative program that allows students to specialize in science and innovation policy.
Research opportunities that address real-world challenges at the interface of science and policy.
Engagement with organizations working on relevant issues, providing practical experience and networking opportunities.
Interdisciplinary seminars and workshops that foster collaboration among students from various fields.

Career Options

Graduates of the Master of Science in Biology with a Specialization in Science, Society and Policy can pursue a variety of career paths in Canada. Here are some potential job options:

Policy Analyst: Evaluate and analyze policies related to science and technology, providing recommendations for improvements.
Research Scientist: Conduct research in biological sciences, focusing on the implications of scientific findings for policy-making.
Environmental Consultant: Advise organizations on environmental policies and practices, ensuring compliance with regulations.
Science Communicator: Develop and disseminate information about scientific research and its societal impacts to various audiences.
Program Manager: Oversee projects and initiatives that bridge the gap between science and policy, ensuring effective implementation and evaluation.

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

Visit University of Ottawa official website

Last updated on 2025-09-04

Program overview

Academic Requirements

Recommendation letter(s):	2 It is highly recommended that you contact your referee prior to submitting your application to confirm their email address and their availability to complete your letter of recommendation. Academic references preferred.
Transcript(s):	1 You must upload copies of all transcripts from universities you have attended by using the uoDoc application. Transcripts must cover all courses and programs at any university you have attended, including regular programs (whether completed or not), exchanges, letters of permission, online or correspondence courses, courses taken as a non-degree student or visiting students, etc. If your transcript and degree certificate are not in English or French, you must submit a copy of a certified translation. Once you've received your offer of admission, if the offer contains any conditions for submitting official documents, you will need to upload them to uoDoc. Some exceptions apply. Previous or current Ottawa students do not need to submit a transcript of their studies at the University of Ottawa. Professional programs in rehabilitation require all transcripts, including those from uOttawa.

Recommendation letter(s):

2
It is highly recommended that you contact your referee prior to submitting your application to confirm their email address and their availability to complete your letter of recommendation. Academic references preferred.

Transcript(s):

You must upload copies of all transcripts from universities you have attended by using the uoDoc application. Transcripts must cover all courses and programs at any university you have attended, including regular programs (whether completed or not), exchanges, letters of permission, online or correspondence courses, courses taken as a non-degree student or visiting students, etc. If your transcript and degree certificate are not in English or French, you must submit a copy of a certified translation.

Once you've received your offer of admission, if the offer contains any conditions for submitting official documents, you will need to upload them to uoDoc. Some exceptions apply.

Previous or current Ottawa students do not need to submit a transcript of their studies at the University of Ottawa. Professional programs in rehabilitation require all transcripts, including those from uOttawa.

Required document(s):	Resume A letter of intent outlining your career goals and proposed research area. We recommend that you contact potential thesis supervisors early. To register, you need to be accepted by a thesis supervisor. International students must show proof of funding in the form of a supervisor stipend and a combination of scholarships and/or in-trust accounts. A good knowledge of either English or French and good ability to write in English is required. Note: Most of the courses in this program are offered in English. Please note that non required admission documents will not be consulted, conserved or returned to the student. These documents will be destroyed according to our administrative procedures.

Required document(s):

Resume
A letter of intent outlining your career goals and proposed research area.
We recommend that you contact potential thesis supervisors early. To register, you need to be accepted by a thesis supervisor.
International students must show proof of funding in the form of a supervisor stipend and a combination of scholarships and/or in-trust accounts.
A good knowledge of either English or French and good ability to write in English is required.

Note: Most of the courses in this program are offered in English.

Please note that non required admission documents will not be consulted, conserved or returned to the student. These documents will be destroyed according to our administrative procedures.

For any clarification and support regarding the application process, please contact LOA Portal's advisors.

Language Requirements

TOEFL 84 (Overall); 24 (Writing); 20 (Individual)/IELTS 6.5 (Overall); 6.5 (Writing); 6 (Individual) (Internet-based)

Please check with our team for more details.

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!