Our MSc programs in biology are heavily weighted towards research as graduate students work closely with faculty supervisors to produce research that makes a difference in people’s lives. You can pursue an MSc in biology or also specialize in bioinformatics, chemical and environmental toxicology or data science. Faculty in the Department of Biology also have extensive experience and do cutting-edge research in the field of biochemistry.
Graduate students benefit from our membership in the Ottawa-Carleton Institute for Biology (OCIB) which is joint research-intensive collaboration with the University of Ottawa. The Institute is one of the largest centres in Canada for graduate studies and research in the biological sciences. Learn more about Ottawa-Carleton Joint Institutes.
Click here to read a story about Professor David Miller’s spruce budworm research.
Collaborative Specializations
The Master of Science in Biology program also offers collaborative specializations in:
Capital Advantage
Ottawa is home to several government departments and agencies such as Agriculture Canada, the Canadian Food Inspection Agency, Health Canada, Fisheries and Oceans Canada or Environment Canada that are involved with research and areas of concern to our students. As well, over 100 companies are conducting research in medical, agricultural and environmental biotechnology. Associations with these organizations, as well as with the National Capital Commission, national museums and the National Research Council Canada, provide an unparalleled background for study and career opportunities. The Department of Biology is well-equipped with the latest technology while the Nesbitt Biology Building houses an aquatics research facility, controlled-environment rooms and growth chambers and extensive greenhouses, as well as biochemistry resources. The National Wildlife Research Centre laboratories are also situated at Carleton.
