Bachelor Of Science - Life Sciences - Biology at University of Waterloo - Program overview

Program overview

Admission Requirements

Intakes

Last updated on 2025-11-18

Program overview

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Program overview

Earn a Bachelor of Science in Biology from the leading school for co-op and graduate ready for careers in research, education, health professions, and more. At Waterloo, you’ll explore all aspects of life and living creatures, from cells and genes to species and diversity. With more than 80 biology courses available, you have plenty of options to dive into your Biology major right from day one. This program not only provides a broad education but also equips you with hands-on and communication skills, preparing you for a successful career in various fields.

Program structure

The Bachelor of Science in Biology program is designed to provide a comprehensive education in the biological sciences. The program length is four years, and it offers both co-op and regular study options. Here are some key features of the program structure:

Co-op Program: Students can participate in a co-op program, gaining nearly two years of paid work experience.
Hands-on Learning: The program emphasizes practical experience through lab work and field courses.
Elective Options: Students can choose electives from over 100 subject areas, allowing for customization of their degree.
Minors and Specializations: Options to add minors or specializations in areas such as Bioinformatics, Cell and Molecular Biology, and more.

Featured Experiences

The Bachelor of Science in Biology program at Waterloo offers a variety of unique experiences that enhance learning and career readiness:

Co-op Opportunities: Students can gain relevant paid work experience through the co-op program, integrating classroom learning with real-world applications.
Field Courses: Hands-on field courses allow students to study terrestrial, aquatic, or marine biology in diverse locations, including Algonquin Park and Jamaica.
Biology Undergraduate Society (BUGS): This society organizes student-professor nights, tutoring sessions, and social events, fostering a community among biology students.
Research Projects: Opportunities to engage in research projects that can enhance practical skills and knowledge in the field.

Career Options

A degree in Biology opens up a wide range of career opportunities in Canada. Here are some potential job options for graduates:

Cellular Therapy Production Manager: Oversee the production of cellular therapies in research institutions or hospitals.
Clinical Research Assistant: Assist in clinical trials and research studies, collecting and analyzing data.
Genetic Counsellor: Provide information and support to patients regarding genetic conditions and testing.
Microbiologist: Study microorganisms and their effects on humans, animals, plants, and the environment.
Environmental Consultant: Advise organizations on environmental best practices and compliance with regulations.

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

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Last updated on 2025-11-18

Program overview

Academic Requirements

For the Bachelor of Science - Life Sciences - Biology program at the University of Waterloo, the following Academic Requirements apply:

Minimum GPA: Not explicitly mentioned, but students are encouraged to maintain strong academic performance.
Transcripts may be required to be evaluated by WES in some cases.
Prerequisite courses include:

English and Mathematics with a minimum grade of 7.5 in each.

Overall average of 8.3 is required.

For international students, particularly those from Vietnam and other Asian countries, the following general requirements must be met:

Bàng Tốt Nghiệp Phố Thông Trung Học (Secondary School Graduation Certificate) is required.

Students are advised to apply as soon as possible to ensure their application is processed in a timely manner. For any clarification and support regarding the application process, please contact LOA Portal's advisors.

English Language Requirements

English is the language of instruction at the University of Waterloo. Success in our programs requires a high level of English language proficiency.

You need to provide an English language test score if:

your four most recent years of full-time education have NOT been in an English-language school system
your first language is NOT English.

Required English Language Scores

Tests that do not appear on this chart are not accepted for admission consideration.

Official test scores must be sent by the testing agency directly to Waterloo's Office of the Registrar. Emails, faxes, and student copies of test scores are not accepted for admission.

Test	Minimum Score	How to Send Test Results
Internet-based TOEFL (iBT), including Home Edition and Paper Edition	90 overall, 25 writing, 25 speaking	Waterloo's institution code is 0996 and our department code is 00. We do not accept electronic TOEFL scores for undergraduate admissions.
IELTS Academic	6.5 overall, 6.5 writing, 6.5 speaking, 6.0 reading, 6.0 listening	We accept the electronic Test Report Form (TRF). Waterloo's e-transfer institution name is University of Waterloo – Undergraduate OR University of Waterloo Admissions.
CAEL or CAEL online	70 overall, 60 per band, 70 writing, 70 speaking	You must log in to your affiliated account and select University of Waterloo as a recipient institution.
PTE Academic	63 overall, 65 writing, 65 speaking	Send your Score Report Code or Registration ID to myapplication@uwaterloo.ca.
Cambridge English test (C1 Advanced or C2 Proficiency)	180 overall, 176 writing, 176 reading, 176 speaking, 176 listening	Go to the Candidate Results Online portal, input your ID and secret number then click on "Send my result."
Duolingo English test	The minimum requirement for tests completed before July 1, 2024 is an overall score of 120, with minimum Literacy and Production scores of 110. Tests completed after July 1, 2024 require an overall of 120 with Literacy and Production scores of 125 for direct entry to a Waterloo program.	Results will not be accepted without subscores. You must log in to your affiliated account and select University of Waterloo – Undergraduate as a recipient institution.
EFAS - English for Academic Success	75% overall in 400 levels, 75% in each of academic, oral, and writing	Your scores will be sent to us automatically by the English Language Institute.

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!