The Life Sciences Major is a cross-disciplinary program that features core courses in the fundamental biological sciences (animal, plant, microbiology, cell, and molecular) and specializations that range from concentrations in pure biology to multidisciplinary and applied life sciences. It features smaller class sizes and a great variety of laboratory and field-based courses for practical experience, culminating in internships and research projects. One of the most appealing aspects of the Major in Life Sciences (Biological and Agricultural) is its comprehensive nature. Students who enroll in the Major will receive a well-rounded education that encompasses many life sciences fields, including environmental, health, biotechnology and agricultural, any of which constitute a viable career option upon graduation. The Major has two notable components that will benefit students tremendously in future careers: scientific writing courses and extensive lab work. The former will sharpen students’ report writing skills, the latter will reinforce in a hands-on manner material learned in the classroom. Each specialization consists of 24 credits of courses (required and complementary) that provide a coherent package designed to prepare you for a future career in a given discipline. Suggested Specializations Animal Biology: Biology of large mammals and birds; Animal physiology, reproduction, genetics and biotechnology; Can lead to veterinary medicine, pharmaceutical industry or animal science research Animal Health and Disease: Animal physiology, function and disease; Understanding of disease prevention and treatment in domestic animals; Can lead to an opportunity to pursue veterinary medicine Life Sciences (Multidisciplinary): A flexible, multidisciplinary approach to the study of pure and applied life sciences Microbiology and Molecular Biotechnology: Pure and applied microbiology, molecular genetics and pathogenicity, environmental microbiology, genomics, biotechnology and bioinformatics; A strong emphasis on lab-based learning Plant Biology: Molecular, biochemical and cellular biology of plants; Management of plant diversity and beneficial plant interactions; Active learning to identify and propagate plants for multiple purposes: food, fibre, fuel and medicinal compounds Some students may also choose to do a Wildlife Biology specialization.

Career paths include: ■ Veterinary science/medicine ■ Food and fermentation industries ■ Bioscience and pharmaceutical industries ■ Agricultural biotechnology ■ Environmental sciences ■ Forensic sciences