Science
Bachelor of Science – Biology
Learning Mode
Full‑time, On Campus
Duration
3–4 Years (Typically 4 years, full‑time)
Start date
September 2025 (also January and May intakes available)
Qualification
Bachelor of Science (BSc), Major in Biology
Fees
International: approx. CAD 22,200/year (~CAD 88,800 total)
Location
Surrey Campus (full program), Richmond & Langley campuses (first-year courses)
About the Course
KPU’s BSc in Biology delivers a hands-on, lab‑intensive experience designed to explore organisms across scales—from cells and genetics to ecosystems. The program emphasizes scientific methodology and prepares students for careers in research, health professions, environmental conservation, and academia. Graduates can enter professional programs or direct employment, with accreditation from the BC College of Applied Biology supporting fast-track registration pathways
Why choose Biology at KPU?
Industry connected
Gain practical skills through lab-intensive classes and engage in multi-disciplinary research alongside faculty at the Applied Genomics Centre and the Institute for Sustainable Horticulture
Global opportunities
Develop expertise in areas like gene editing and climate adaptation with relevance to international food security and environmental health. The program also supports future medical or education study paths
Professional accreditation
Accredited by the BC College of Applied Biology—graduates may qualify as Biologist-in-Training or Registered Professional Biologist (R.P.Bio) upon completion of experience requirements
Course Overview
The program emphasizes laboratory-based experiential learning across all years, with increasing complexity:
- Years 1–2: Foundations in cell and molecular biology, anatomy, physiology, chemistry, physics, and math.
- Years 3–4: Advanced courses in ecology, genetics, microbiology, plus a capstone research or directed-study project
Learning is delivered at Surrey, with some courses at Richmond and Langley, and features collaborative and research-driven experiences
Course Duration
- 4 years full-time (recommended path for most students)
- 3 years accelerated option possible for students with transfer credits
Suitable for fall, spring, or summer entry—with careful planning and prerequisite fulfilment for compressed timelines
Course Curriculum
Year 1
- BIOL 1110/1210: Introductory Biology (cells to ecosystems)
- CHEM 1110/1210, PHYS 1101/1102
- MATH 1130/1230
- ENGL 1100: Communication Skills
Year 2
- BIOL 2320/2321/2322: Diversity, Genetics, Cell Biology
- BIOL 2421: Ecology
- CHEM 2320/2420, MATH 2335
- Electives and general education credits
Years 3–4
- Advanced topics (e.g., molecular biology, conservation, environmental biology)
- Honours pathway: BIOL 4990 & 4995 (thesis project)
Hands-on labs, fieldwork, and a capstone research/thesis experience are central to the student learning journey.
Admission Requirements
- High School: BC English 12 (grade B recommended); Biology 11/12 advised but not mandatory
- Post-secondary: Completion of first-year prerequisites (BIOL, CHEM, PHYS, MATH, ENGL).
- Transfer Credits: Accepted; applicants may enter Year 2 or beyond with advisors’ guidance
- Language Proficiency: Meets KPU’s undergraduate criteria (English proficiency required).
Admission operates as competitive entry, with advising available to support course sequence planning.
Fees and Funding
Estimated Tuition (International):
~CAD 22,200/year; total roughly CAD 88,800 over four years
Support Options:
- KPU International Scholarships & Awards
- External scholarships aligned with STEM fields
- Student loans (Canadian residents), bursaries during admission
- Application fee: CAD 120
Career Opportunities
Graduates are equipped for roles such as:
- Research Technician or Laboratory Assistant
- Environmental Consultant
- Wildlife or Marine Biologist
- Biotechnologist or Pharmaceutical Technician
- Public Health Analyst
- Secondary School Science Teacher
- Continuing to graduate or professional education (e.g., medicine, veterinary, education)
Demand is strong in BC and Canada for biology-related careers, particularly in ecosystem management, biotech, and health sciences
Contact Us
Reach out for any inquiries or assistance needed.
