The Biology program at Cape Breton University (90 credits) offers students a dynamic learning experience enriched by faculty actively engaged in diverse fields of research, including forest ecology, plant genetics, invertebrate zoology, freshwater and marine biology, avian behavioural ecology, neuroethology, and vertebrate palaeontology. With this breadth of expertise, students gain a strong foundation for professional careers in business, conservation, education, health care, natural resources, and technology. Studying biology at CBU is uniquely connected to life on Cape Breton Island, a bio diverse region on the coast of Atlantic Canada where the natural environment constantly reminds us of our place in nature. Biology, as the science of living organisms, explores unifying themes such as cellular structure and molecular inheritance while embracing the immense diversity of life. At CBU, collaboration and collective learning are central, enabling students to investigate origins, structure, function, reproduction, growth, development, behaviour, and evolution of organisms, as well as the complex interactions between living systems and their environments.
Career Path
Graduate careers include Research Biologist (academic, government, or private labs), Ecologist (forest, marine, or freshwater systems), Geneticist (plant or animal genetics), Zoologist (invertebrate or vertebrate focus), Marine Biologist, Neuroethologist (animal behaviour and neuroscience), Natural Resource Specialist, Paleontologist (vertebrate fossils and evolutionary studies), Conservation Biologist, Environmental Consultant, Wildlife Biologist, Fisheries Biologist, Agricultural Biotechnologist, Laboratory Technician (clinical, environmental, or industrial labs), Healthcare Professional (medicine, dentistry, veterinary, pharmacy with further study), Educator (secondary or post secondary biology/related sciences), Science Communicator / Outreach Coordinator, Policy Advisor (environmental or health policy).
Post Study Work Visa availability – YES
We’ve simplified the admission process to help you get started quickly and easily. You can find all requirements for admission to Cape Breton University below;
1. WASSCE/A level Certificate
2. School Transcript
3. Passport
4. Recommendation Letter
5. Statement of Purpose
6. CV
Cape Breton University will accept, for the purposes of meeting the English proficiency requirement, evidence of English study within a 12‑year education system where English is designated as the primary and official language and the principal language of instruction. For applicants who do not yet meet the English language requirement, there are two pathways to achieve the necessary level:
Pre‑sessional English Programme; Students may successfully complete a preparatory English programme offered by the university before beginning their academic course. Recognized English Proficiency Tests; Students may submit one of the following minimum scores prior to the start of their program: IELTS: 6.5 overall band score (or equivalent), TOEFL or PTE: Score of 60, Duolingo English Test: Score of 120.
