Bachelor of Science (Honours) in Biology with Co-op

Brandon University

Biology at Brandon University is about much more than the scientific study of animals, plants and microbes. First year introduces the diversity of life on the planet and explains how genes and cells function. Second year courses further explore diversity and fundamental biological and ecological processes, leading to third and fourth year courses with greater specialization. Our programs have a reputation for high quality training of students who go on to earn higher degrees at prestigious universities. The BSc degree programs within which the Biological Science Stream and the Biomedical Science Stream are recognized. Students entering Biology should select one of these two streamstoward the end of their first year. The objectives of the Biological Science Stream are to provide students with a broad understanding of the major fields in Biology (e.g., biodiversity, genetics, cell biology, ecology, evolution, physiology, and phylogenetic systematics) and how these fields intersect with those in related disciplines and to prepare students for careers in agriculture, education, food protection, government, industry, research, and other fields that rely on expertise in the life sciences. The objectives of the Biomedical Science Stream are to prepare students to work in biomedical / health related research or employment sectors and for a health professional program (e.g., optometry, medicine, dentistry, pharmacy, physiotherapy, chiropractic therapy, veterinary medicine).

The Honours Thesis course allows qualified senior students to undertake independent research under the supervision of a faculty member in the Department of Biology. Successful completion of the Undergraduate Thesis course is a requirement of all students registered in the four-year Honours program in Biology. Enrolment in this course is limited to students entering their fourth year that have attained an average grade of B or better in all courses taken so far that are required to complete a major in Biology. Admission to the program is contingent on departmental approval of a research proposal and the availability of resources. Students majoring in Biology are advised to seek a supervisor by the end of their third year of study. Both regular and adjunct members of the Department of Biology may supervise the Undergraduate Thesis. Honours students are required to give an oral presentation and submit a written report of their research before the end of the second term of their fourth year.

The Co-operative Education Program builds meaningful and relevant work into your degree you get to learn and earn. With Co-op, you will gain new skills, have career-defining experiences, and develop connections that will last you a lifetime. Benefits: The Co-op Program at Brandon University provides you with the opportunity to gain relevant and meaningful work experience while you explore different career options. At the same time, you will expand your network of industry professionals and build skills suited to the ever-changing job market. Both work and academic terms are full-time and follow a formalized sequence. The total amount of co-op work experience is normally at least 30 percent of the time spent in academic study. A work term is defined as a minimum of 12 weeks and/or 420 hours full-time paid experience. The Work Experience Stream consists of one work term. The Co-op Stream consists of two or three work terms.

All full-time Brandon University students in good standing and enrolled in a degree with a declared major in one of the participating disciplines are eligible to apply for admission to the Co-operative Education Program (which includes the Work Experience Stream and the Co-op Stream). International students are eligible for work permits that are valid only for co-op employment arranged through the co-op program. Students must meet the course an