Biology and Earth Sciences
University of Victoria, Canada
Bachelor of Science in Biology and Earth Sciences (Combined Major)
University of Victoria
Biology and Earth Sciences
Program Overview: Biology and Earth Sciences at UVic
The Bachelor of Science in Biology and Earth Sciences at the University of Victoria allows you to discover the relationships between life on Earth and geological, oceanic, and atmospheric processes, exploring how these forces shape our planet. This combined major bridges two complementary disciplines, giving you a comprehensive understanding of both living systems and the physical Earth.
Located on the southern tip of Vancouver Island, UVic offers an extraordinary natural laboratory for studying earth and biological sciences. You will build upon biological, chemical, and physical knowledge to gain a deep understanding of our planet and the life it sustains, with access to diverse ecosystems ranging from coastal marine environments to temperate rainforests.
Through this interdisciplinary program, you will have the opportunity to work with experts at field schools, marine laboratories, or through a co-op placement. The program prepares graduates for careers in environmental science, resource management, conservation, and further graduate study in the natural sciences.
Key Program Highlights
- Combined major integrating biology with earth and ocean sciences for a holistic understanding of natural systems
- Hands-on learning through field schools, marine laboratories, and co-op work placements
- Located on Vancouver Island with direct access to diverse coastal, marine, and terrestrial ecosystems
- Housed within UVic's Faculty of Science, which offers nearly 30 programs across a wide variety of scientific fields
Curriculum and Course Modules
The Biology and Earth Sciences combined major curriculum blends foundational courses in biology, chemistry, physics, and mathematics with specialized modules in geology, oceanography, and ecology. Students progress from core science fundamentals to advanced interdisciplinary topics, culminating in field-based and research-oriented coursework.
Introductory Biology
3.0 unitsCovers the fundamental principles of cell biology, genetics, evolution, and ecology, providing the biological foundation for the combined major.
Earth and Ocean Sciences Fundamentals
3.0 unitsIntroduces the chemical and physical properties of rocks, minerals, oceans, and the atmosphere, examining the processes that shape our planet.
General Chemistry
3.0 unitsProvides essential chemistry knowledge including atomic structure, chemical bonding, thermodynamics, and reaction kinetics relevant to biological and geological systems.
Ecology and Environmental Biology
3.0 unitsExplores the interactions between organisms and their environments, population dynamics, community ecology, and the influence of geological processes on ecosystems.
Paleobiology and Earth History
3.0 unitsExamines the evolution of life on Earth in the context of geological and atmospheric change, integrating fossil evidence with geochemical data.
Field School in Earth and Ocean Sciences
3.0 unitsOffers immersive field-based learning experiences studying geology, oceanography, and biology in natural settings across British Columbia and beyond.
Elective Options
Admission Requirements
Admission to the Biology and Earth Sciences combined major at UVic begins with entry into the Faculty of Science. You can declare Biology and Earth Sciences as your major after one year of full-time study. Prospective students should apply through Uni4Edu, which handles all applications and inquiries for this program.
Academic Requirements
- High School DiplomaCompletion of secondary education (academic stream) with strong results in sciences
- Minimum GPAMinimum GPA of 3.0 or equivalent on a 4.0 scale
- Required SubjectsBiology 12, Chemistry 11 or 12, Mathematics (Pre-Calculus 12 or equivalent), and English 12
- Transfer StudentsStudents transferring from other post-secondary institutions are also eligible to apply
- Major DeclarationStudents declare the Biology and Earth Sciences combined major after completing one year of full-time study
English Language Requirements
- IELTSMinimum overall score of 6.5 with no band below 6.0
- TOEFL iBTMinimum score of 90 with no section below 20
- PTE AcademicMinimum score of 65 with no subscore below 60
Required Documents
For personalized admission guidance, document verification, and application support, please contact Uni4Edu
Scholarships and Funding
The University of Victoria awards more than CAD 12.5 million in scholarships and awards each year, with several funding opportunities available specifically for international undergraduate students. Uni4Edu can help you identify and apply for scholarships that match your academic profile.
University of Victoria International Entrance Scholarship
CAD 5,000 or moreAwarded to academically outstanding international students entering the first year of an undergraduate degree program at UVic. This merit-based scholarship recognizes exceptional academic achievement.
Aga Khan Academy Renewable Scholarship
Up to CAD 90,000 (CAD 22,500 per year for 4 years)A renewable scholarship for international students entering UVic directly from an Aga Khan Academy. The award is distributed annually and renewable for up to four years of undergraduate study.
International Student Support Award
CAD 1,000 or moreNeed-based awards given to entering or continuing international undergraduate students who demonstrate financial need. Part-time students with a minimum of 6.0 units are also eligible to apply.
For detailed tuition fee information, please contact Uni4Edu — we will guide you through the costs and available funding options for this program.
Career Prospects
Graduates of the Biology and Earth Sciences combined major are well-prepared for careers at the intersection of environmental science, geology, and biology. The program's emphasis on fieldwork, laboratory skills, and co-op placements ensures you graduate with practical experience valued by employers across the natural sciences sector.
Potential Career Paths
Types of Employers
Rankings and Recognition
The University of Victoria is a globally recognized public research university established in 1963 in Victoria, British Columbia. UVic consistently ranks among the top universities in Canada and worldwide, with particular strengths in sustainability, environmental sciences, and research impact.
| Subject | Ranking Body | Rank |
|---|---|---|
| Earth and Marine Sciences | QS World Rankings by Subject | Top 300 |
| Environmental Sciences | QS World Rankings by Subject | Top 250 |
| Biological Sciences | QS World Rankings by Subject | Top 400 |
| Natural Sciences | QS Faculty Rankings | Top 350 |
How to Apply
Applying for this program is easy with Uni4Edu. Our team will guide you through every step of the process — from document preparation to final enrolment.
Contact Uni4Edu
Reach out to our team via email or phone. We will assess your profile and confirm your eligibility for this program.
Prepare Your Documents
Our advisors will provide you with a personalised checklist of required documents and help you prepare your application package.
Submit Your Application
Uni4Edu will submit your application on your behalf and keep you updated on its progress throughout the review period.
Receive Your Offer
Once accepted, we will help you understand your offer, arrange visa support if needed, and guide you through the enrolment process.
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