Carleton’s graduate programs in Biology offer you an opportunity to work closely with internationally recognized scientists in an academically enriching environment. Our programs are research-intensive and students gain hands on experience working in the laboratory and the field with state-of-the-art facilities
The Carleton Advantage
If you pursue a Master of Science (MSc) program in Biology at Carleton you will belong to the Ottawa-Carleton Institute for Biology (OCIB), one of the largest biology graduate programs in Canada. This Institute combines the resources, courses, equipment and expertise of over 70 faculty from the Departments of Biology of Carleton University and the University of Ottawa.
Ottawa is also home to several government departments and agencies that are involved in research in areas of interest to our students and research faculty. As well, over 100 companies in the Ottawa region are conducting research in medical, agricultural, and environmental biotechnology.
Program Requirements
Full-time students in our master’s program will normally complete the degree requirements in two years. Part-time students will normally complete the degree requirements in four years. The following requirements must be met in order to complete the program.
- Completion of the graduate courses specified by the admissions committee and the student’s advisory committee; these will usually be one full credit (two courses), but additional courses may be required, depending on the background and research program of the student. The passing grade for all required courses is 70% or the equivalent, and the student is not allowed a supplemental examination.
- Completion of at least two terms as a full-time student resident at one of the two universities is normally required. Programs for part-time students may be arranged.
- Presentation of one public seminar on the candidate’s thesis research.
- Completion of a thesis incorporating the results of original research carried out under the direct supervision of an approved faculty member.
- Successful oral defence of the thesis before an examination board of at least three faculty members, normally drawn from both universities.
Admissions
Information regarding admissions requirements and specializations can be found on our Admissions page.
More Information
For complete and detailed information about the Master of Science: Biology program, please consult the official Graduate Calendar.