Biology - MSc
As a biologist, you’ll have career options that span a wide range of professions, including laboratory and field research, environmental assessment, the health professions, education, and industry. By choosing one of our areas of specialization (no longer available after Fall 2020), such as Animal Physiology, Ecology and Environmental Biology, Microbiology, Molecular Biology and Biotechnology, or Plant Biology, you can better prepare yourself for these exciting career opportunities.
Our Biology program is versatile, allowing you to complement your Genetics, Cell Biology, Physiology, Ecology, Plant Biology, and Human Anatomy courses with studies from the arts, humanities, languages, and mathematics areas. Related labs, tutorial sessions, and field trips provide hands-on experience in a wide range of biological disciplines.
The Department of Biology offers undergraduate degrees in Bioinformatics, Biomedical Sciences (formerly Pre-Optometry/Pre-Health), Honours Biochemistry, Honours Biochemistry/Biotechnology (Regular and Co-op), Honours Environmental Sciences (Ecology Specialization) and Honours Biology (Regular and Co-op). View the degrees and programs. More information about our graduate programs is available on our graduate program site.
Intakes
- Jan
- May
- Sep
Application Processing Time in Days: 30
Minimum English Language Requirements
| English Level Description | IELTS (1.0 -9.0) | TOEFL IBT (0-120) | TOEFL CBT (0-300) | PTE (10-90) | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Expert | 9 | 120 | 297-300 | 86-90 | |
| Very Good | 8.5 | 115-119 | 280-293 | 83-86 | |
| Very Good | 8 | 110-114 | 270-280 | 79-83 | |
| Good | 7.5 | 102-109 | 253-267 | 73-79 | |
| Good | 7 | 94-101 | 240-253 | 65-73 | |
| Competent | 6.5 | 79-93 | 213-233 | 58-65 | |
| Competent | 6 | 60-78 | 170-210 | 50-58 | |
| Modest | 5.5 | 46-59 | 133-210 | 43-50 | |
| Modest | 5 | 35-45 | 107-133 | 36-43 | |
| Limited | 4 | 32-34 | 97-103 | 30-36 | |
| Extremely Limited | < 4 | < 31 | < 93 | < 30 |
Job Opportunity Potential
At the University of Waterloo, we create and promote a culture where everyone can reach their full potential. As an employee, you get support & opportunities that empower you to advance your career. Explore how You + Waterloo can bring big ideas to life, together.
The University is a welcoming workplace for those of all abilities, interests, and expertise. As part of our workforce, you can do what you do best, every day.
65% of children entering primary school today will work in jobs that don’t yet exist. While the future can’t be predicted with 100% certainty, there are some trends that indicate the kinds of skills that will be needed in the future.
Learn about industry trends, what careers in these industries might look like in the future, and university programs that will help you get there.
Careers in business
Careers in engineering
Careers in environment, sustainability, and climate change
Careers in health and helping professions
Careers in the humanities, social sciences, languages, and creative arts
Careers in math, coding, and data
Careers in science
PSW Opportunity
Eligibility for Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP):
Graduated from a designated learning institution (DLI) in Canada.
Desire to stay in Canada temporarily for work.
Important Note:
Graduating from a DLI doesn't automatically qualify you for a PGWP.
Validity of PGWP:
Depends on the length of the study program or the expiry date of your passport, whichever comes first.
Duration of PGWP Based on Study Program Length:
Less than 8 months (or 900 hours for Quebec credentials): Not eligible for PGWP.
At least 8 months (or 900 hours for Quebec credentials), but less than 2 years: PGWP may be granted for the same length as the study program (e.g., a 9-month program results in a 9-month PGWP).
2 years or more: PGWP may be valid for 3 years.
Completion of Multiple Programs:
PGWP may combine the lengths of each program if:
Each program is PGWP eligible.
Each program is at least 8 months (or 900 hours for Quebec credentials) in length.
Important Restriction:
You cannot obtain a PGWP if you already had one after completing an earlier program of study.
Admission Requirement / Eligibility Criteria
Master's program and Graduate Diploma admissions
Applying with domestic credentials:
Have at least a 75% overall standing in the last two years of a four-year Honours Bachelor's degree or equivalent
Applying with international credentials:
Have at least a 75% overall standing in a four-year Honours Bachelor's degree or equivalent
Application materials
Resume
Supplementary information form (SIF)
The SIF contains questions specific to your program, typically about why you want to enrol and your experience in that field. Review the application documents web page for more information about this requirement
If a statement or letter is required by your program, review the writing your personal statement resources for helpful tips and tricks on completion
Transcript(s)
References
Three references are required; academic or professional sources
Proof of English language proficiency, if applicable
TOEFL 90 (writing 25, speaking 25), IELTS 7.0 (writing 6.5, speaking 6.5)
- Course Type: Full Time
- Course Level: Masters/PG Degree
- Duration: 02 Year
-
Total Tuition Fee:
46176 CAD
Average Cost of Living: 22895 CAD /year
Application Fee: 100 CAD
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