Ecology (BSc)

Learn about the amazing web of life that we are embedded in. When you study Ecology, your field of view opens to reveal the intricate relationships among all living things. As an ecologist, you will explore the connections among different organisms and their interaction with soil, air, water and radiation from the sun. This program will prepare you to conduct research on ecology and evolution, monitor and manage living resources, engage in sustainable development, be a champion for biodiversity, and protect the planet.

Our Biology Department features a computer lab and teaching labs that will introduce you to the state-of-the-art analysis tools used in ecology research. Small class sizes foster strong student-professor relationships. As an Ecology student, you'll follow the Biology core curriculum and additional courses focused on Ecology. Through labs, lectures and tutorials you'll also:

• Study population growth and the dynamics of competition, predation and parasitism
• Explore the evolution, biodiversity and ecology of organisms and study their physiology and behaviour
• Receive training in field research, molecular ecology and biostatistics
• Perform original research as an undergraduate

Concordia’s hands-on approach provides a solid foundation for a career in the sciences or paves the way for future graduate studies.

A Bachelor of Science degree takes a minimum of three or four years (90 – 120 credits) of full-time study, depending on your academic background.

Program options

• Honours in Ecology (72 credits)
• Specialization in Ecology (60 credits)

Courses

Co-op program

The Co-op program gives you the chance to complete paid work terms that last 12 to 16 weeks. Work positions are available in industry, national and provincial research institutes, health organizations and universities located throughout Canada.

Minimum cut-off averages and course requirements

• Quebec Cegep: 26 (Honours: 30)
  • Calculus 1 and Calculus 2 – Mechanics, Electricity and Magnetism and Wave, Optics and Modern Physics – General Chemistry and Chemistry of Solutions – General Biology OR Natural Science DEC OR DEC intégré en sciences, lettres et arts.
  • Additional information for Cegep applicants
• High School: B- overall, B- in math / sciences
  (Honours: B+ overall, A- in math / sciences)
  • Completed courses in the disciplines of Calculus, Biology, Chemistry and Physics.
    • One math from Pre-Calculus, Calculus, or equivalent
    • Two sciences (from Biology, Chemistry or Physics)
  • ACT or SAT is NOT required
  • Canadian curricula course requirements
  • Accepted international qualifications
• University Transfers (internal/external): C+ overall, C+ in math / sciences
  (Honours: B+ overall, B+ in math / sciences)
  • Completed courses in the disciplines of Calculus, Biology, Chemistry and Physics.
• Baccalauréat français: 12 overall, 12 in math / science
  (Honours: 14 overall, 15 in math / science)
  • Première: Spécialité mathématiques AND Spécialité physique-chimie
    Terminale: Spécialité mathématiques  (also accepted, Spécialité Physique-Chimie AND Mathématiques Complémentaires)
• International Baccalaureate (IB) diploma: 27 overall, 4 math, 4 science
  (Honours: 31 overall, 5 math, 6 science)
  • one math (Applications and Interpretations HL, Analysis and Approaches HL or Analysis and Approaches SL)
  • one science (Physics, Chemistry or Biology, either SL or HL)
  • one of the science or math courses must be competed at the HL level

Honours programs: Students applying directly to an honours program should list it as their first choice. If not admitted to honours, they will automatically be considered for the next highest program (i.e. specialization or major).

Minimum cut-off averages should be used as indicators. The cut-off data may change depending on the applicant pool. Applicants who meet the stated minimum requirements are not guaranteed admission to these programs.

Ecology undergraduates have the foundation to pursue graduate studies or establish careers in fields including:

• Environmental regulation
• Environmental consulting
• Wildlife management
• Science education