MENU
Why study biology?
Discover the science behind life and prepare for your next step — whether it’s medicine, research or environmental work.
At Mount Royal University in Calgary, pursue a Bachelor of Science — Biology and explore genetics, microbiology, ecology and more. This comprehensive program covers anatomy and physiology, cell and molecular biology and evolution. Through hands-on labs and fieldwork, you’ll develop practical research skills and can specialize in areas like anatomy and physiology or ecology. Graduates are well-equipped for careers in science, healthcare or conservation, and may qualify to join the Alberta Society of Professional Biologists.
Choose from one of three concentrations or broaden your perspective in an integrative biology degree.
Anatomy and Physiology
Build a solid understanding of human physiology, anatomy and cellular processes.
Cellular and Molecular Biology
Gain knowledge and skills related to the study of biological systems from biomolecular, genetic, cellular and systemic perspectives.
Ecology and Evolution
Explore biodiversity, how organisms interact with their surroundings and the adaptations and evolutionary processes that shape life on Earth.
Program highlights
- Choose your path: focus your studies in a concentration or take a wider view with an integrative biology degree
- Get involved in research by joining faculty-lead or course-based research projects
- Explore biology through block week field courses and access to state-of-the art lab facilities
- Explore the big questions in biology by analyzing data and apply fundamental principles to address problems
- Get ready for med school, grad school, or careers in science and conservation
Career possibilities
What jobs can I get with a biology degree?
A biology degree from MRU opens doors to a wide range of opportunities including medicine, graduate studies or science-focused careers. Potential pathways include:
* additional education, experience and/or training required
I wasn’t just one person in a sea of thousands. There were people who were willing to engage and tell me about their personal experiences at Mount Royal.
— MRU alum, Emily Kingdon
B.Sc. — Biology (Honours), 2024
Curriculum and courses
What courses will I take in biology?
Build your expertise from the ground up with a curriculum designed to support both academic excellence and professional readiness.
Explore full curriculum and coursesYear 1
|Years 2-4
Curriculum snapshot – Year 1
Experiential learning
Deepen your understanding of life through hands-on exploration in labs, fieldwork and specialized concentrations.
- Deepen your understanding of biology through hands-on exploration in labs and in the field
- Prepare for professional certification by applying to the Alberta Society of Professional Biologists after graduation
- Over half of MRU biology courses include a lab or field component
- Develop your job-ready skills with courses dedicated to lab techniques, data analysis and scientific writing
- Broaden your perspective through immersive study abroad and field school experiences
Admission requirements
When you apply to MRU, you’ll need to meet both general admission requirements and any additional criteria specific to your chosen program. Requirements can vary, so it’s important to review what’s needed for your area of interest.
Select your admission category:
High school
Post-secondary transfer
Mature student
Admission category: High school
High school applicants must submit five Grade 12 courses for admission. These five courses must include the required subjects for the program you’re applying to. These required subjects are part of Group A.
To complete your five courses, additional subjects may be used from Group A, B, or C.
More admissions info for high school applicantsWhat are the requirements for the Bachelor of Science — Biology?
- English Language Arts 30-1 - 60%
- Mathematics 30-1 - 60%
- Chemistry 30 - 60%
Applying from another province or country?
If you're applying from outside Alberta, you'll need to know which of your courses match Alberta Grade 12 courses.
Check out our provincial equivalencies chart if you're from another Canadian province or the international credentials chart if you're applying from outside Canada.
If English is not your first language, you’ll need to meet two separate English requirements to be admitted to Mount Royal:
- You’ll need to successfully complete an English course if it’s part of your program’s admission requirements
- Show that you meet Mount Royal’s English Language Proficiency (ELP) requirements
Admission deadlines
Fall 2026 intake
Early admission
Oct. 1, 2025 - Feb. 1, 2026
Ongoing admission based on program space and availability
Feb. 2, 2026 - programs closed
What is early admission?
During the early admission period, all applications are treated as though they were received at the exact same time. This means all competitively qualified applicants will be accommodated. At MRU, we actually receive most of our applications and fill many of our programs from applications submitted during early admission. It is an ideal time to apply and helps expedite the process so you hear back earlier too.
Early admission deadlines
Fall Semester:
Early admission is open from Oct. 1 to Feb 1.
Winter Semester:
Early admission is open from Oct. 1 to Nov. 1.
Costs
We know your investment in post-secondary education is a big deal. Make sure you’re on the right financial track by reviewing the costs, scholarships and financial support available.
How much does the Bachelor of Science — Biology cost?
The cost of your studies depends on a few things, like the program you choose and whether you’ll live at home or in Residence.
To get a better idea of what you might spend, try using our first-year student budget estimator. It gives a detailed breakdown of estimated costs.
You can also visit our tuition and costs page for full details on tuition and fees for a full year.
Does MRU offer scholarships or financial aid?
At Mount Royal, we want you to focus on your education, not worry about how to pay for it. There are many ways to help cover the cost of your studies.
Scholarships and bursaries
Mount Royal gives out over $5 million each year in scholarships and bursaries! These awards look at things like your grades, financial need and your involvement in school or the community.
Financial aid
There are financial aid options from the provincial and federal governments for both full-time and part-time students. These include student loans, grants and bursaries.
Other resources
You can also explore other ways to pay, like using RESPs (Registered Education Savings Plans) or CPP (Canada Pension Plan) benefits.
How do I apply for scholarships and bursaries?
To be eligible for scholarships and bursaries, you must apply for Early Admission from Oct. 1 to Feb. 1. You can apply for scholarships and bursaries from Nov. 1 to March 1.
Have questions?
Our info sessions are a great way to explore MRU programs, learn how to apply and connect with people who are here to help.
Book an info sessionConnect with the Admissions and Recruitment Office for more one-on-one support.
Contact us
Why MRU
At MRU, learning is about more than lectures and textbooks. It’s about evolving through experience. With small class sizes, supportive faculty and hands-on opportunities, students are encouraged to think critically, push boundaries and uncover what they’re capable of. MRU helps students build the skills, confidence and curiosity to shape meaningful futures in Calgary and beyond.
Discover why MRULearn about the additional supports and services we have available specifically for:
International students Indigenous studentsFaculty of Science and Technology
Mount Royal offers two bachelor's degrees in Science and Technology: The Bachelor of Computer Information Systems and the Bachelor of Science with majors in General Science, Biology, Chemistry, Computer Science, Data Science, Environmental Science and Geology.
Virtual information sessions
Select a session that suits you. Choose from general information, specific by program, drop in Q&A, or attend an Indigenous or international student session.
Sign-up