Biology (MSc)
The MSc program is a full-time, research-intensive program. You’ll complete coursework and work on a research thesis. This will be original, innovative research that will evolve our understanding of biology.
You’ll defend your thesis in an oral examination. Throughout the program, you’ll build connections with scientific institutes, like the Bamfield Marine Sciences Centre.
| Expected length | Project or thesis | Course-based |
|---|---|---|
| 2 years | Yes | No |
Quick facts
- Program options:
- Master's
- Study options:
- Full-time study
- Program delivery:
- On-campus
- Dynamic learning:
- Co-op optional
Outcomes
Graduates with a MSc in Biology will be able to:
- obtain in-depth academic expertise in their field of research
- 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
- know about the role, ethics and responsibilities of biological research
Find a supervisor
All graduate students in this program 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
To find a supervisor, review the faculty contacts. When you've found a faculty member whose research complements your own, contact them by email.
C. Peter Constabel
Professor and Chair Biomedical Research and Genomics | Cell, Molecular and Developmental Biology | Forest Biology
John Dower
Professor Ecology and Evolutionary Biology | Environmental Biology | Marine Science
Julia Baum
Professor Ecology and Evolutionary Biology | Environmental Biology | Marine Science
Jürgen Ehlting
Associate Professor Biomedical Research and Genomics | Cell, Molecular and Developmental Biology | Forest Biology
Kerry Delaney
Professor Biomedical Research and Genomics | Cell, Molecular and Developmental Biology | Neuroscience | Organismal Biology and Physiology
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
We require the equivalent of a minimum B+ (6.5 G.P.A.) average over the last two years of your undergraduate 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
- a current résumé
- two reference names and their email addresses
- post-secondary transcripts
You should have background knowledge of basic biology. This knowledge should be at least equivalent to that of an undergraduate biology student.
Program specific requirements
We require the equivalent of a minimum B+ (6.5 G.P.A.) average over the last two years of your undergraduate 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
- a current résumé
- two reference names and their email addresses
- post-secondary transcripts
You should have background knowledge of basic biology. This knowledge should be at least equivalent to that of an undergraduate biology student.
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.