Biology (PhD)
Our PhD in biology is a research-intensive program. You’ll join a community of scientists working on vital research. As you work on your research dissertation, you’ll complete coursework and a symposium.
You’ll build connections with scientific institutes, like the Bamfield Marine Sciences Centre. Your research dissertation will be guided by your faculty supervisor. You’ll complete candidacy exams and defend your dissertation in an oral exam.
| Expected length | Project or thesis | Course-based |
|---|---|---|
| 4-5 years | Yes | No |
Quick facts
- Program options:
- Doctorate
- Study options:
- Full-time study
- Program delivery:
- On-campus
- Dynamic learning:
- Co-op optional
Outcomes
Graduates with a PhD in Biology will be able to:
- obtain in-depth academic expertise in their field of research, as well as broad knowledge of research in biology
- critically evaluate methodology and design of biological studies
- independently design and implement laboratory or field experiments
- employ advanced technical skills in laboratory, field, computing and/or statistical methods
- utilize science communication skills such as presentation and writing.
- assume leadership roles in scientific research, innovation and or teaching.
- know about the role, ethics and responsibilities of biological research
Find a supervisor
PhD students must have a faculty member who serves as their academic supervisor. When you apply:
- you must list a potential supervisor on your application
- this faculty member must agree to be your supervisor and recommend your admission
- include an email from your supervisor with your application
To find a supervisor, review the faculty contacts. When you’ve found a faculty member whose research complements your own, contact them by email.
Show me program details
Providing you accurate admission requirements, application deadlines, tuition fee estimates and scholarships depends on your situation. Tell us about yourself:
Your program details
Application deadlines
Apply by March 15 (for September entry) to be guaranteed consideration for University of Victoria Entrance Awards.
We offer entry in January, September and May. While there is no deadline for admission, applications are due at least a month before your proposed entry term.
Apply by March 15 (for September entry) to be guaranteed consideration for University of Victoria Entrance Awards.
We offer entry in January, September and May. While there is no deadline for admission, applications are due at least a month before your proposed entry term.
International students are encouraged to apply earlier due to visa processing times.
Admission requirements
Program specific requirements
You may be considered if you have an equivalent GPA of 7.0 / 9.0 or UVic first class standing in a master’s degree.
As part of your application, you must submit:
- a letter of intent outlining your research interests and background. The letter should include the name of at least one potential supervisor
- your résumé
- two reference names and their email addresses
- post-secondary transcripts
Program specific requirements
You may be considered if you have an equivalent GPA of 7.0 / 9.0 or UVic first class standing in a master’s degree.
As part of your application, you must submit:
- a letter of intent outlining your research interests and background. The letter should include the name of at least one potential supervisor
- your résumé
- two reference names and their email addresses
- post-secondary transcripts
Completion requirements
View the minimum course requirements for this program.
View the minimum course requirements for this program.
Funding & aid
Tuition & fees
Estimated minimum program cost*
* Based on an average program length. For a per term fee breakdown view the tuition fee estimator.
Estimated values determined by the tuition fee estimator shall not be binding to the University of Victoria.
Ready to apply?
You can start your online application to UVic by creating a new profile or using an existing one.
Faculties & departments
Related programs
Need help?
Contact Michelle Shen at biolgsec@uvic.ca or 250-721-7093.