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Biology

What can I do with my degree in Biology?

About the program

Concordia’s Biology students study life at all levels, from cell biology and the physiology of multicellular organisms to the interactions between organisms and their environment. Through labs, lectures and tutorials, students study genes and how they control cellular and organismal function and learn about the evolution, biodiversity and ecology of organisms and their physiology and morphology. They also study the chemical and cellular basis of living systems and receive extensive training in research methodology. Concordia’s hands-on approach provides a solid foundation for a career in the life sciences or environmental sciences, or paves the way for future graduate studies.

For the latest information on programs, visit the Department of Biology

Skills developed

As a student in Biology, you will have the opportunity to develop a wide range of skills some of which are listed below. Your transferrable skills can be applied to many different jobs and situations that go beyond your field of study.

  • Analytical and quantitative abilities
  • Knowledge of biological theories 
  • Numerical computation 
  • Laboratory techniques, operate scientific equipment 
  • Field work techniques
  • Collect data precisely, organize and maintain records accurately
  • Research design and implementation
  • Computer knowledge 

  • Communicate ideas clearly by listening carefully and responding comprehensively
  • Read critically and write persuasively
  • Explain complex concepts and ideas to others effectively
  • Write scientific reports and essays
  • Interact with others and build professional relationships

  • Manage tasks and meet deadlines
  • Work under pressure
  • Influence and persuade
  • Make decisions and use sound judgement

  • Delegate
  • Manage conflict
  • Give and receive feedback
  • Lead and follow
  • Negotiate

  • Observe and interpret data
  • Analyze and evaluate conflicting information to make a good judgement or conclusion
  • Understand complex problems and identify solutions

Potential work settings

Below are examples of work settings where you can gain experience and develop your skills in your field of study. 

  • Agricultural centres 
  • Biomedical companies
  • Biotechnology industry 
  • Conservation agencies  
  • Consulting firms
  • Educational institutions
  • Environmental regulatory agencies  
  • Fitness / wellness centres
  • Genetic labs
  • Government
  • Health science / health care
  • Hospitals, laboratories 

 

  • Manufacturing firms
  • Medical Supply Companies 
  • Medical & Science Supply Companies
  • Museums
  • Non-profit organizations / NGOs
  • Nursing Homes
  • Parks, zoos, aquariums
  • Pharmaceutical companies
  • Rehabilitation centres 
  • Research centres
  • Scientific journals and magazines

 

What jobs can a Bachelor’s degree in Biology lead to?

Please note that many positions listed below may require related extra-curricular activities, volunteer or work experience.

For details on these job titles, main duties and employment requirements visit Canada’s National Occupational Classification (NOC).

  • Biological Technologist / Technologist
  • Clinical Data Analyst
  • Clinical Research Associate
  • Clinical Research Coordinator
  • Genetics Research Coordinator

  • Botanical technician
  • Food and drug inspector
  • Laboratory technician
  • Market researcher (pharmaceutical, food industry)
  • Marketing specialist / representative
  • Product safety officer
  • Project coordinator
  • Public relations consultant
  • Quality control inspector
  • Quality control technician
  • Regulatory affaires associate
  • Sales representative (pharmaceutical, food, agriculture, etc..)
  • Water quality biologist

  • Academic advisor
  • Foreign student advisor
  • Instructor
  • Alumni relations officer
  • Research assistant
  • Research lab administrator/ coordinator

  • Agricultural officer (federal, provincial)
  • Conservation biologist
  • Fish biologist
  • Hospital administrator
  • Industrial policy analyst
  • Wildlife technician/technologist

  • Medical editor
  • Medical writer

Jobs and career possibilities with a Master's and PhD in Biology

The job titles listed below are examples of careers requiring further education such as an MA or PhD degree, a second bachelor degree, a certificate or a graduate diploma and relevant work experience.

For details on these job titles, main duties and employment requirements visit Canada’s National Occupational Classification (NOC).

  • Cancer Biology, Genetics, Cell Biology, Physiology, Immunology, Microbiology, Biotechnology, Synthetic Biology, Bioinformatics, Biostatistics, Pharmacology, Epidemiology, Conservation Biology, Microbiology, Botany, Entomology, Agriculture, Fishery, Marine Biology, Forestry, Environmental Science, Veterinarian Science, Embryology, etc.
  • Dentist (D.M.D)
  • Genetic Counselor (M.Sc. Genetic Counselling)
  • High School Science teacher (MATL)
  • Medical Doctor (M.D.)
  • Medical Science Liaison (Ph.D. in health related field)
  • Nursing (MSc. Nursing)
  • Pharmaceutical industries, Health Science, Medical Devices, Food industry, Environmental Science, etc.
  • Pharmacist (Pharm. D)
  • Project Manager in different industries
  • Scientists / Technicians in various disciplines (M.Sc. or Ph.D.)
  • University / College / CEGEP Professors (Ph.D. recommended)
  • Veterinarian (D.V.M)

Start your job search

Explore career options

Explore the types of jobs for each industry and find out about required skills, education level and salary ranges in Canada:

Occupation - Government of Canada Job Bank: Find out about job prospects, wages and skills for specific job titles. You can use the job titles listed in the Career Possibilities – Bachelor degree and Career Possibilities – Beyond the bachelor degree for your search.

Field of study – Government of Canada Job Bank : Find out about employment rates, wages and the types of jobs related to a specific field of study.

Search job titles or companies - LinkedIn: Search by job title or field of study. You can also find out what type of positions individuals with the same degree as you have occupied.

Career Cruising

Explore your interests, learn about careers and find jobs on the Career Cruising website. Find the link and login information in the Student Hub's My CU Account.

Search for jobs 

Browse the websites below to find jobs available in Quebec and Canada related to your field of study. You can also search the CAPS online job bank or find employers in Canada that hire new graduates in your field.

Book an appointment 

To get help with your career exploration and goal setting, book an appointment with a career counsellor. For job search tips on finding the job you want, book an appointment with a career advisor.

To book an appointment with either professional, please call 514-848-2424 ext. 7345

*Only current Concordia students and recent alumni can access this service

Networking  and professional associations

Connect with professionals in the field and professional associations to find out what a day in your career of choice looks like. Professional associations websites also provide useful career descriptions and job hunting tips, and sometimes list job openings and potential employers. You can also attend one of our career workshopscareer fairs or career panels to get a head start.

Here are a few recommended sites:

Contact us

514-848-2424, ext. 3921 / 7345
See all SSC contacts

Locations

Sir George Williams Campus
Room H-745

Loyola Campus
Room AD-103

Office hours

Monday to Friday, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.

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