Biology - Master of Science (MSc)

Science Buildings

Science Teaching Complex (STC) and Quantum-Nano Centre (QNC) Buildings Located on À¶Ý®ÊÓƵ's Campus.

Do you have a passion for biology research and innovative applications of scientific knowledge?

Understand life and biological systems on a fundamental level to inspire scientific discovery that empowers humanity to transcend global challenges with the Master of Science in Biology program.

In this thesis-based program, you’ll be actively carrying out cutting-edge research under the supervision of a faculty member, while also taking courses from exceptional faculty members who are global leaders in their fields. Research fields include Biochemistry, Computational Biology, Ecology and Evolution, Microbiology, and Physiology and Cell Biology. Ìý

Design a Biology master’s degree that’s aligned with your interests and vision for your future with the option to take elective courses from other departments. With these electives you can customize your degree, helping you stand out among your peers.

Research fields

  • Biochemistry
  • Computational Biology
  • Ecology and Evolution
  • Microbiology
  • Physiology and Cell Biology

Program overview

Department/School: Biology
Faculty: Faculty of Science
Admit term(s): Fall (September - December), Winter (January - April), Spring (May - August)Ìý
Delivery mode: On-campus
Program type: Master's, Research
Length of program: 24 months (full-time)
Registration option(s): Full-time, Part-time
Study option(s): Thesis

Application deadlines

  • February 1 (for admission in September)
  • July 1 (for admission in January of the following year)
  • October 1 (for admission in May of the following year)

Key contacts

April Wettig
awettig@uwaterloo.ca

Supervisors

  • Review theÌýfinding a supervisor resources.
  • Before applying to the program, students are strongly advised to establish contact with potential supervisors. It is a good strategy to identify whether the potential supervisors that students would like to undertake research with have available positions and funding.

Admission requirements

  • A 75% overall standing in the last two years, or equivalent, in an Honours Bachelor of Science degree or equivalent.

Degree requirements

  • Review theÌýdegree requirementsÌýin the Graduate Studies Academic Calendar, including the courses that you can anticipate taking as part of completing the degree.
  • Check outÌýÌýto see recent submissions from the department ofÌýBiologyÌýgraduate students.

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 theÌýapplication documents web pageÌýfor more information about this requirement.
    • If a statement or letter is required by your program, review theÌýwriting your personal statement resourcesÌýfor helpful tips and tricks on completion.

  • Transcript(s)

  • References
    • ThreeÌýreferencesÌýare required; at least 2 academic.
  • Proof ofÌýEnglish language proficiency, if applicable
    • TOEFL 90 (writing 25, speaking 25), IELTS 7.0 (writing 6.5, speaking 6.5)

Tuition and fees