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    * Minor in Biology

  Minor in Biology

      30 Units

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        Recent discoveries and new technologies are revolutionizing the biological sciences, placing increasing emphasis on integrating knowledge across all levels of organization, from molecules to ecosystems.

        Our programs give students both the intellectual tools and the hands-on experience they need to generate new knowledge and contribute to debates on issues as diverse as land management, conservation and endangered species, disease prevention and management, stem cell research and genetically modified organisms.

        Learning takes place through traditional classroom instruction, innovative laboratory projects with state-of-the-art technologies and a strong basic research program in which undergraduate students at all levels are intensively mentored in a research lab.

        The Honours program in biology provides the opportunity for in-depth study within one or more biological disciplines. Students can concentrate in a particular area by choosing one of three options—cellular and molecular biology, physiology and ecology, evolution and behaviour. This route includes a compulsory independent research project designed to prepare students for graduate studies. Alternatively, students can choose to pursue diverse interests by selecting a general course of study that will include a number of advanced courses.

        The major in biology introduces students to cell biology, genetics, evolution, ecology and physiology (both plant and animal). The major is combined with either another major or a minor and allows students to pursue diverse interests while opening the door to graduate studies or a career in the life sciences.

        The minor in biology is a flexible program that allows students to select a subset of biology courses.

        This program is offered in English and in French.

      The table below includes only discipline-specific courses. Please refer to the Academic Regulations for information on including a minor to your degree.

      Requirements for this program have been modified. Please consult the 2025-2026 calendars for the previous requirements.

      Course List
        Code                                                                                                                                Title                                          Units  
        Compulsory courses at the 1000 level                                                                                                                                             
        BIO 1131                                                                                                                            Introduction to Organismal Biology             3 Units
        BIO 1141                                                                                                                            Introduction to Cell and Molecular Biology     3 Units
        BIO 1150                                                                                                                            BioZoo: An Introduction Laboratory in Biology  3 Units
        Optional courses                                                                                                                                                                 
        3 course units from:                                                                                                                3 Units                                      
          BIO 2129                                                                                                                          Ecology                                               
          BIO 2133                                                                                                                          Genetics                                              
        3 course units from:                                                                                                                3 Units                                      
          BIO 2135                                                                                                                          Animal Form and Function                              
          BIO 2137                                                                                                                          Introduction to Plant Science                         
        9 optional course units in biology (BIO), biopharmaceutical science (BPS) or environmental science (EVS)                            9 Units                                      
        6 optional course units in biology (BIO), biopharmaceutical science (BPS) or environmental science (EVS) at the 3000 or 4000 level  6 Units                                      
        Total:                                                                                                                              30 Units                                     
        
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