University Transfer: Bachelor of Science - Biological Sciences

bachelor of science biological sciences
Credential
Bachelor's Degree
Duration

- 2 years at RDP
- 2 years at U of A, U of C or U of L

Location
Main Campus
The Program

RDP offers the first one or two years of study toward a degree in biological sciences at Alberta universities. Details of the University of Alberta, University of Calgary, and The University of Lethbridge programs are given below.

University Transfer Program

For the most current university program and transfer information, see the Planning Guides.

Transfer Features

The courses offered in this program can be transferred in full to most universities. The courses you select must meet the program requirements of the university chosen. You should be prepared to choose a major within the biological sciences.

A transfer student may obtain up to 2 full years credit in Biological Sciences at U of A, U of C, or U of L.  (See the Alberta Transfer Guide.)

    Admission Requirements

    Related Link: Admission requirements for specific programs will often refer to Alberta Grade 12 course groups. Visit the Admissions page for detailed group descriptions.

    1. Minimum average of 60% with no mark below 50% in:

    1. Biology 30
    2. Chemistry 30
    3. ELA 30-1
    4. Mathematics 30-1
    5. Subject from Group A, B, OR C (Physics 30 or Mathematics 31 strongly recommended)

    OR

    2. Mature Student

    You must be 19 years of age or older, out of high school for at least one full year before the program starts, and have a minimum average of 60% with no mark below 50% in:

    1. Biology 30
    2. Chemistry 30
    3. ELA 30-1
    4. Mathematics 30-1

    Note: Applicants whose first language is not English must demonstrate English language proficiency in addition to the program admission requirements.

    Graduation Requirements

    You must pass 20 term university transfer courses or a minimum of 60 credit hours, and achieve a minimum cumulative GPA of 2.00 to receive a Diploma in University Transfer Studies.

    Related Careers

    A degree in Bachelor of Science is extremely versatile, allowing students the ability to pursue many careers in almost any field. BSc Graduates will have superior skills in such things as scientific reasoning, data analysis and interpretation, hands-on laboratory skills, and research acumen. BSc graduates will be integral to advancing scientific knowledge, evolving many existing careers, and identifying new areas of work that currently do not exist. 

    Students are able to use a BSc Degree to pursue further studies in areas such as Medicine, Veterinary Studies, Dentistry, and Pharmacy, in addition to Masters and Doctoral designations in their field of Science.

    Examples of careers include, but are not limited to:

    • Careers in Biological Sciences
      • Biologist
      • Forensic Laboratory Analyst
      • Microbiologist
      • Research Scientist
      • Zoologist
    • Careers in Government & Public Service 
      • Administration & Management
      • Armed Forces
      • Community Planner
      • Conservation Officer
      • Chiropractor
      • Dentist
      • Dental Hygienist
      • Counselling
      • Law Enforcement and Corrections
      • Medical Doctor
      • Pharmacist
      • Urban Planning
      • Veterinary Doctor
    • Private Sector & Entrepreneurial 
      • Advertising
      • Consulting
      • Data Analysis
      • Laboratory Researcher
      • Industrial Relations
      • International Relations
      • Project Management
      • Research

    Note: Some of these careers will require additional study beyond an undergraduate degree.

    University of Alberta

    (Please note these credits are U of A credits.)

    Suggested Pattern Year 1

  • BIOL 217/BIOL 218 (6 credits)
  • CHEM 211 and either CHEM 212 or CHEM 351 (6 credits)
  • Arts or Science Option (3 credits)
  • ENGL 219/ENGL 220 (6 credits)
  • STAT 251 (3 credits)
  • One of MATH 202, MATH 203 or MATH 221 (6 credits)
  • Year 2

    The UofA offers three different concentrations for their Biological Sciences degree: Ecology, Evolution, and Environmental Biology, Molecular, Cellular and Developmental Biology, and Integrative Physiology. The second year schedule will depend on the concentration chosen. For more information, please contact the artscienceinfo [at] rdc [dot] ab [dot] ca (Advisors in the School of Arts and Sciences) or refer to Academic Advising Planning Guides.

    University of Calgary

    (Please note these credits are U of C credits.)

    Note: Physics 30 is recommended for this program.

    Suggested Pattern Year 1

  • BIOL 217/BIOL 218 (6 credits)
  • CHEM 211/CHEM 212 (6 credits)
  • Two non-science options (6 credits)
  • MATH 202 or MATH 203 & MATH 221 (6 credits)
  • PHYS 205 or Option/PHYS 226 or Option (6 credits)
  • Suggested Pattern Year 2

    Given the variety of Biological Sciences concentrations the UofC offers, please contact the artscienceinfo [at] rdc [dot] ab [dot] ca (Advisors in the School of Arts and Sciences) regarding the second year schedule, or refer to Academic Advising Planning Guides.

    University of Lethbridge

    Suggested Pattern Year 2

    If you plan to transfer to the UofL, please contact the artscienceinfo [at] rdc [dot] ab [dot] ca (Advisors in the School of Arts and Sciences).