Overview

In the Biological Sciences major, students study living organisms with emphasis placed on experiential learning through laboratories, field work, and research. The major is comprised of the Molecular/Cellular and Ecology/Diversity streams. A diversity of courses are available spanning genetics, biochemistry, cell biology, zoology, botany and ecology.  Students graduate with a broad foundation of knowledge and skills, and the ability to apply, evaluate and communicate their understanding of the life sciences as scientists, educators, leaders, and engaged citizens.

Contact Information

Department of Biological Sciences
Room 6-118, City Centre Campus
10700 - 104 Avenue
Edmonton, AB T5J 4S2
T: 780-633-3399

Arts and Science Academic Advising
Room 6-211, City Centre Campus
T: 780-497-4505
E: artsandscience@macewan.ca

Bachelor of Science

Faculty of Arts and Science
MacEwan.ca/Science

The Bachelor of Science (BSc) is a foundational general degree that provides broad and widely applicable knowledge and abilities rather than a niche specialization. This broad base equips graduates with generalist knowledge and skills that give the flexibility and agility so highly valued in a dynamic world economy. It also offers students a solid foundation to specialize in future employment or further schooling.

The degree provides a breadth of study across various Arts and Science disciplines and sets the foundation for later years. The major and minor areas of study allow students to focus and gain in-depth expertise in complementary or entirely disparate disciplines; there is a wide array of possible combinations. Finally, options enable students to explore courses outside their disciplines or even within their program, enhancing their diversity of learning. The small classes, close interaction between instructors and students, opportunities for individual study, and faculty with a strong focus on teaching are signature strengths of this program.

General Program Information

The BSc requires students to complete 120 credits of non-duplicative coursework. The BSc emphasizes breadth and depth and has been designed for exceptional flexibility and customization. Students can complete a major and a minor, a double major, or a major and two minors. Students can choose a secondary major in an Arts or Science discipline, but the primary major must be in a Science discipline.

All newly admitted students enter the BSc program as “Undeclared.”  Undeclared means a student has not yet chosen their major(s) and minor(s). Students may declare any time after being accepted to the BSc, and typically, they declare after completing a minimum of 45 credits. The declaration period for noncompetitive majors and minors is between September 1 and February 15 and between September 1 and January 15 for competitive majors and minors. The Arts and Science Academic Advising Office will send information about majors and minors via email and newsletters; please contact the Advising Office if you require further assistance with this decision.

Science Disciplines

BA/BS Disciplines

Discipline	Major	Minor	Honours
Applied Statistics	⦿	-	⦿
Biological Sciences	⦿	⦿	⦿
Chemistry	⦿	⦿	-
Computer Science	⦿	⦿	-
Earth and Planetary Sciences	-	⦿	-
Mathematics	⦿	⦿	⦿
Mathematical Sciences	⦿	-	-
Planetary Physics	-	⦿	-
Physical Sciences	⦿	-	-
Physics	-	⦿	-
Psychology	⦿	⦿	⦿
Statistics	-	⦿	-

Arts Disciplines

BA Arts/Science Disciplines

Discipline	Major	Minor
Anthropology	⦿	⦿
Classics		⦿
Creative Writing		⦿
Economics	⦿	⦿
English	⦿	⦿
Film Minor for Arts and Science		⦿
French		⦿
Gender Studies		⦿
History	⦿	⦿
Philosophy	⦿	⦿
Political Science	⦿	⦿
Sociology	⦿	⦿
Spanish		⦿

Out of Faculty Minors

Out of Faculty Minors

Discipline	Minor
Accounting Minor for Arts and Science	⦿
Arts and Cultural Management	⦿
Business Law	⦿
Business Studies	⦿
Digital Experience Design	⦿
Finance Minor for Arts and Science	⦿
Human Resources Minor for Arts and Science	⦿
Marketing Minor for Arts and Science	⦿

Pre-Qualifying Minor Requirements for MacEwan Diploma Graduates Entering the Bachelor of Science

Students who graduated with a MacEwan University diploma can enter the Bachelor of Science, assess their course work based on the Cross-Faculty Course Recognition List (refer to the Bachelor of Science Requirement tab), and use their diploma in place of a minor requirement. This process reduces the number of credits required for the degree from 120 to 102, depending on the courses completed. If accepted, these students will be required to complete only a major as the minor will be waived. To qualify for this process, students must have started their diploma no earlier than Fall 2007 and meet the high school science requirements for previous post-secondary applicants. At this time, the Travel and Office Administration diplomas are excluded from this offer. If you have questions or concerns about courses on the Cross-Faculty Course Recognition List, please contact artsandscience@macewan.ca.

Preparing for Professional Studies

Students intending to enter professional programs at other universities can take their pre-professional programs in the Faculty of Arts and Science at MacEwan University. The university offers the first and second years of several pre-professional programs, including chiropractic medicine, dental hygiene, dentistry, medical laboratory science, medicine, optometry, pharmacy, and veterinary medicine. All courses in these pre-professional programs are credit courses, and, as such, they may apply to the degrees offered by MacEwan University.

Students are advised to consult the admissions requirements for the universities and programs of their choice and to select their MacEwan University courses accordingly. Completing pre-professional courses at MacEwan University does not guarantee admission to the subsequent professional program. Each professional program requires a separate application, and entry is competitive, not automatic.

Bachelor of Science Honours 

Program of Study

Program Element	Description	Credits
Minimum Honours Requirements	Honours requirements are determined by each discipline.	63
Option Courses, Non-Compulsory Honours Courses, and/or a Minor	Students have the option of completing a minor from outside of the Honours discipline. Some disciplines may require a minor.	57
	Total Degree Credits Including Breadth	120

The minimum passing grade for a course at MacEwan University is a D unless otherwise noted next to the appropriate course in the program of study. In the Faculty of Arts and Science, students typically require a minimum grade of C- to use a course as a prerequisite. Please check course descriptions for more information.

Cross-Faculty Course Recognitions 

Cross-Faculty course recognition represents an agreement between programs within MacEwan University and consists of a number of approved courses that have the potential to be recognized within another degree. These courses are not considered transfers or equivalents as the original course will show within a student's transcript and their Academic Planning and Progress Report (APPR). How the courses listed below might be used within a student’s degree are determined by the student’s program of study. They are dependent on a number of factors including year of declaration, year of completion, and individual program requirements.

Cross-Faculty Course Recognition

Out-of-Faculty Course	Course Recognition	Course Used For
ACUP 117	ARTOP 1XX	Options; fulfills Humanities Breadth
ACUP 209	SCIOP 2XX	Options
ACUP 220, ACUP 303, and ACUP 304 (must complete all three courses)	COSL 200 (6 credits)	Options
ACUP 320	SCIOP 3XX	Options
AGAD 300	COSL 300	Options
AGAD 435	WINL 300	Options
ARTE 104	ARTOP 1XX	Options; fulfills Humanities Breadth
ARTE 214	ARTOP 2XX	Options; fulfills Humanities Breadth
ARTE 224	ARTOP 2XX	Options; fulfills Humanities Breadth
ARTE 234	ARTOP 2XX	Options; fulfills Humanities Breadth
ARTE 304	ARTOP 3XX	Options; fulfills Humanities Breadth
ARTE 314	ARTOP 3XX	Options; fulfills Humanities Breadth
ARTE 324	ARTOP 3XX	Options; fulfills Humanities Breadth
CORR 102	SOCI 1XX	Options or Sociology program requirements; fulfills Social Science Breadth
CORR 104	SOCI 1XX	Options or Sociology program requirements; fulfills Social Science Breadth
CORR 110	SOCI 225	Options or Sociology program requirements; fulfills Social Science Breadth
CORR 120	SOCI 2XX	Options or Sociology program requirements; fulfills Social Science Breadth
CORR 202	ARTOP 2XX	Options
CORR 208	ARTOP 2XX	Options
CORR 214	COSL 200	Options
CORR 218	SOCI 321	Options or Sociology program requirements; fulfills Social Science Breadth
CORR 224	COSL 200	Options
CYCW 100	PSYC 2XX	Options or Psychology program requirements; fulfills Social Science Breadth
CYCW 108 and CYCW 112	SOCI 1XX	Options or Sociology program requirements; fulfills Social Science Breadth
CYCW 114	ARTOP 1XX	Options
CYCW 201	PSYC 2XX	Options or Psychology program requirements; fulfills Social Science Breadth
CYCW 204	COSL 200	Options
CYCW 205	SOCI 2XX	Options or Sociology program requirements; fulfills Social Science Breadth
CYCW 208	SOCI 2XX	Options or Sociology program requirements; fulfills Social Science Breadth
CYCW 211	SOCI 2XX	Options or Sociology program requirements; fulfills Social Science Breadth
CYCW 302	ARTOP 3XX	Options; fulfills Social Science Breadth
CYCW 303	ARTOP 3XX	Options; fulfills Social Science Breadth
CYCW 339	ARTOP 3XX	Options; fulfills Social Science Breadth
CYCW 340	SOCI 2XX	Options or Sociology program requirements; fulfills Social Science Breadth
CYCW 350	SOCI 2XX	Options or Sociology program requirements; fulfills Social Science Breadth
CYCW 360	SOCI 3XX	Options or Sociology program requirements; fulfills Social Science Breadth
CYCW 361	SOCI 2XX	Options or Sociology program requirements; fulfills Social Science Breadth
DESN 270	ARTOP 2XX	Options; fulfills Humanities Breadth
DESN 271	ARTOP 2XX	Options; fulfills Humanities Breadth
ECCS 110	PSYC 1XX	Options or Psychology program requirements; fulfills Social Science Breadth
ECCS 115	ARTOP 1XX	Options
ECCS 160	PSYC 2XX	Options or Psychology program requirements; fulfills Social Science Breadth
ECCS 180	SOCI 2XX	Options or Sociology program requirements; fulfills Social Science breadth
ECCS 220	COSL 200	Options
ECCS 255	ARTOP 2XX	Options
ECCS 260	SOCI 2XX	Options or Psychology program requirements; fulfills Social Science Breadth
ECCS 270	COSL 200	Options
ECDV 160	ARTOP 1XX	Options
ECDV 220	COSL 200	Options
ECDV 255	ARTOP 2XX	Options
ECDV 260	SOCI 2XX	Options or Sociology program requirements; fulfills Social Science Breadth
ECDV 270	COSL 270	Options
ECDV 280	PSYC 2XX	Options or Psychology program requirements; fulfills Social Science Breadth
FNCE 301	ECON 3XX	Options or Economics program requirements; fulfills Social Science Breath
HAPR 101	SCIOP 1XX	Options
HAPR 104	ARTOP 1XX	Options
HAPR 114	WINL 200	Options
HAPR 201	ARTOP 2XX	Options
HAPR 212	WINL 200	Options
HEED 110	ARTOP 1XX	Options
HEED 120	SCIOP 1XX	Options
HLSC 104	SCIOP 1XX	Options
HLSC 105	SCIOP 1XX	Options
HLSC 120	BIOL 1XX	Options or Biological Sciences program requirements
HLSC 124	BIOL 1XX	Options or Biological Sciences program requirements
HLSC 126	BIOL 1XX	Options or Biological Sciences program requirements
HLSC 128	BIOL 2XX	Options or Biological Sciences program requirements
HLST 150	SCIOP 1XX	Options
HLST 210	ARTOP 2XX	Options
HLST 290	SCIOP 1XX	Options
INFM 101	ARTOP 1XX	Options
INFM 202	ARTOP 2XX	Options
INFM 208	ARTOP 2XX	Options
INFM 209	ARTOP 2XX	Options
INFM 210	ARTOP 2XX	Options
INFM 260	COSL 200	Options
INTA 210	ARTOP 2XX	Options; fulfills Humanities Breadth
INTA 362	ARTOP 3XX	Options
MTST 120	BIOL 1XX	Options or Biological Sciences program requirements
MTST 122	BIOL 1XX	Options or Biological Sciences program requirements
MTST 125	BIOL 1XX	Options or Biological Sciences program requirements
MTST 126	BIOL 1XX	Options or Biological Sciences program requirements
MTST 161, MTST 162, MTST 260, MTST 261, MTST 262	COSL 200	Options
MUSC 104	ARTOP 1XX	Options
MUSC 123	ARTOP 1XX	Options; fulfills Social Science Breadth
MUSC 124	ARTOP 1XX	Options; fulfills Social Science Breadth
PEDS 100	BIOL 1XX	Options or Biological Sciences program requirements
PEDS 101	BIOL 1XX	Options or Biological Sciences program requirements
PEDS 103	BIOL 2XX	Options or Biological Sciences program requirements
PEDS 109	SCIOP 1XX	Options
PEDS 200	BIOL 2XX	Options or Biological Sciences program requirements
PEDS 203	SCIOP 2XX	Options
PEDS 206	BIOL 2XX	Options or Biological Sciences program requirements
PEDS 207	BIOL 2XX	Options or Biological Sciences program requirements
PEDS 209	ARTOP 2XX	Options
PEDS 240	SCIOP 1XX	Options
PERL 104	ARTOP 1XX	Options
PERL 204	ARTOP 2XX	Options
PERL 207	ARTOP 2XX	Options
PSSC 102	ARTOP 1XX	Options
PSSC 112	ARTOP 1XX	Options
PSSC 121	SOCI 1XX	Options or Sociology program requirements; fulfills Social Science Breadth
PSSC 203	ARTOP 2XX	Options
PSSC 204	ARTOP 2XX	Options
PSSC 212	ARTOP 2XX	Options
PSSC 252	ARTOP 2XX	Options
PSSC 253	ARTOP 2XX	Options
PSSC 272	COSL 200	Options
PSSC 273	COSL 200	Options
SOWK 101	ARTOP 1XX	Options; fulfills Humanities Breadth
SOWK 111	ARTOP 1XX	Options
SOWK 112	ARTOP 1XX	Options
SOWK 203	ARTOP 2XX	Options
SOWK 204	SOCI 2XX	Options or Sociology program requirements; fulfills Social Science Breadth
TAST 101	ARTOP 1XX	Options
TAST 129 and TAST 130	COSL 200	Options
THAR 240	ARTOP 2XX	Options
THAS 101	ARTOP 1XX	Options
THAS 102	SCIOP 1XX	Options
THAS 115	ARTOP 1XX	Options
THAS 203	COSL 200	Options
THAS 210	COSL 200	Options
THAS 211	COSL 200	Options
THAS 214	COSL 200	Options
THAS 222	ARTOP 2XX	Options
THPR 205	ARTOP 2XX	Options; fulfills Humanities Breadth
THPR 206	ARTOP 2XX	Options; fulfills Humanities Breadth
THPR 214	COSL 200	Options
THPR 224	COSL 200	Options

Biological Sciences Requirements

Biological Sciences Major

Biological Sciences Honours

Biological Sciences Minor

Biological Sciences Major 

The Bachelor of Science (BSc) in Biological Sciences program requires students to complete 120 credits of non-duplicative coursework. In addition to the Biological Sciences Major, students will complete one of the following:

• one minor,
• two minors, or
• a secondary Science major

Students are required to complete option courses as well as the major(s) and minor(s). All BSc degrees require Breadth Requirements. Courses can satisfy both the breadth requirements and requirements for the major(s), minor(s), or options.

The Biological Sciences major is 42 to 60 credits with a minimum of 36 senior-level credits. Students must complete a minimum of 18 biological sciences credits at the 300- or 400-level with a minimum of six credits at the 400-level.

Students major in Biological Sciences have the option of completing the General Biological Sciences Major, the Molecular/Cellular Stream, or the Ecology and Diversity Stream.

The Biology major is a competitive major. Students must complete BIOL 107 and BIOL 108 with no grade lower than C-. Students must also have completed a minimum of one of BIOL 207 or BIOL 208 with no grade lower than C-, and be registered in the remaining course during the winter term when declarations close. A number of seats may be available to students who complete one of BIOL 207 or BIOL 208 and another 200-level biological science (BIOL, BICM, BOTN, or ZOOL) with minimum grades of C-. Students will submit their declaration by January 15. Students who apply will be ranked by their admissions GPA, which is calculated using their most recent 24 credits of university-level coursework, without breaking up a term. Applicants with the highest GPA will be admitted to the program first until no seats remain. Students will be notified of the success or denial of their application to the Biological Sciences major no later than February 1.

Note: Students majoring in Biological Sciences are required to complete CHEM 101, CHEM 102, and STAT 151. These courses can be used to fulfil the Breadth Requirements.

Bachelor of Science - Biological Sciences Major

Course List

Code	Title	Credits
Specific Major Requirements
BIOL 107	Introduction to Cell Biology	3
BIOL 108	Introduction to Evolution	3
BIOL 207	Principles of Genetics	3
BIOL 208	Principles of Ecology	3
General Biological Sciences Major Requirements
Choose 30 to 48 credits from junior- or senior-level biological sciences - BICM, BIOL, BOTN, GENE, or ZOOL. Students can also use SCIE 201 to fulfill the general major requirements.		30-48
Secondary Major or Minor(s)
Students have the option of completing a second Science major, or one or two minors. Minor courses must be completed at the senior-level.		18-60
Options
Students can complete up to 15 credits in out-of-faculty options, with no more than 3 credits in physical activity (PACT) courses.		18-60
Total Credits		120

Biological Sciences Honours

The Bachelor of Science (BSc) Biological Sciences Honours degree program requires students to complete 120 credits of non-duplicative coursework. The Biological Sciences Honours program is comprised of 63 to 84 credits. Students choose the Molecular Cellular Honours Stream or the Ecology and Diversity Honours Stream.  

Students have the option of completing a minor within the requirements of the Biological Sciences Honours program. Minors are comprised of 18 senior-level credits. 

For admittance/acceptance into Biological Sciences Honours, students must present the following:

1. Completion of a minimum of 45 university-level credits applicable to the program of study, with a GPA of 3.0 or higher
2. 24 of the 45 credits must have been completed in the last 12 months
3. A minimum of six biological sciences credits completed at the senior-level
4. A minimum GPA of 3.3 across all junior- and senior-level biological sciences courses (BICM, BIOL, BOTN, GENE, or ZOOL) 

Students accepted and enrolled in the Biological Sciences Honours program must maintain a minimum overall GPA of 3.0. As well, students must maintain a minimum GPA of 3.3 across all junior- and senior-level biological sciences courses for each 12 consecutive months following acceptance into the Honours program. Failure to maintain a 3.3 Honours GPA will result in the student's program status reverting to a BSc Biolgocial Sciences Major.

All BSc degrees require Breadth Requirements. Courses can satisfy both the breadth requirements and requirements for Honours, minor(s), or options.

Note: Biological Sciences Honours are required to complete BIOL 207, BIOL 208, CHEM 101, CHEM 102, and STAT 151 prior to applying for the Honours program. A minimum grade of B- in BIOL 399 is required to progress in the Honours program.

Bachelor of Science - Biological Sciences, Molecular and Cellular Honours Stream

Course List

Code	Title	Credits
Specific Honours Requirements
BIOL 107	Introduction to Cell Biology	3
BIOL 108	Introduction to Evolution	3
BIOL 207	Principles of Genetics	3
BIOL 208	Principles of Ecology	3
CHEM 261	Organic Chemistry I	3
BICM 200	Introductory Biochemistry	3
BIOL 321	Mechanisms of Evolution	3
BIOL 337	Biostatistics and Research Design	3
BIOL 399	Honours Proposal	3
BIOL 499A	Honours Thesis I	3
BIOL 499B	Honours Thesis II	3
Molecular and Cellular Honours Stream Requirements 1
Choose 30 credits from the following with a minimum of 6 credits at the 400-level:		30
BICM 310	Intermediary Metabolism
BICM 340	Structure and Function of Biological Molecules
BICM 450	Biochemistry of Viruses
BIOL 201	Eukaryotic Cellular Biology I
BIOL 205	Principles of Molecular Biology
BIOL 211	Introduction to Microbiology
BIOL 300	Eukaryotic Cellular Biology II
BIOL 313	Animal Developmental Biology
BIOL 315	History of Biology
BIOL 317	Biotechnology and Society
BIOL 323	Introduction to Population Genetics
BIOL 413	Current Topics in Animal Developmental Biology
BIOL 421	Techniques in Molecular and Cellular Biology
BIOL 430	Pathobiology: The Cellular Basis of Disease
BIOL 492	Field Placement
BIOL 495	Special Topics
GENE 369	Genetic Analysis of Bacteria
GENE 370	Genetic Analysis of Eukaryotes
GENE 400	Genome Organization
GENE 404	Investigations into Gene Regulation
GENE 418	Human Genetics
ZOOL 241	Animal Physiology I: Homeostasis
ZOOL 242	Animal Physiology II: Intercellular Communication
Choose up to 21 credits from junior- or senior-level biological sciences - BICM, BIOL, BOTN, GENE, or ZOOL. Students can also use SCIE 201 to fulfill the general Honours requirements.		0-21
Option Courses and/or Minor
Students can complete up to 15 credits in out-of-faculty options, with no more than 3 credits in physical activity (PACT) courses.		36-57
Total Credits		120

¹

Students can use BICM 320 and/or BICM 330 to fulfill the Molecular/Cellular Stream Requirements. 

Bachelor of Science - Biological Sciences, Ecology and Diversity Honours Stream

Course List

Code	Title	Credits
Specific Honours Requirements
BIOL 107	Introduction to Cell Biology	3
BIOL 108	Introduction to Evolution	3
BIOL 207	Principles of Genetics	3
BIOL 208	Principles of Ecology	3
CHEM 261	Organic Chemistry I	3
BICM 200	Introductory Biochemistry	3
BIOL 321	Mechanisms of Evolution	3
BIOL 337	Biostatistics and Research Design	3
BIOL 399	Honours Proposal	3
BIOL 499A	Honours Thesis I	3
BIOL 499B	Honours Thesis II	3
Ecology and Diversity Honours Stream Requirements
Choose 30 credits from the following with a minimum of 6 credits at the 400-level:		30
BIOL 310	Freshwater Ecology
BIOL 312	Terrestrial Ecology
BIOL 314	Population Ecology
BIOL 315	History of Biology
BIOL 316	Community Ecology
BIOL 323	Introduction to Population Genetics
BIOL 361	Marine Biology
BIOL 365	Tropical Rainforest Ecology
BIOL 367	Conservation Biology
BIOL 371	Animal Behaviour
BIOL 410	Techniques in Field Ecology
BIOL 414	Invasion Ecology and Management
BIOL 422	Methods in Experimental Ecology
BIOL 467	Advanced Conservation Biology
BIOL 477	Contemporary Issues in Freshwater Ecology
BIOL 492	Field Placement
BIOL 495	Special Topics
BOTN 205	Fundamentals of Plant Biology
BOTN 405	Plant Behaviour and its Applications
ZOOL 224	Vertebrate Adaptations and Evolution
ZOOL 241	Animal Physiology I: Homeostasis
ZOOL 242	Animal Physiology II: Intercellular Communication
ZOOL 250	Invertebrate Zoology
ZOOL 324	Comparative Anatomy of the Vertebrates
ZOOL 325	Entomology
ZOOL 400	Aquatic Vertebrates
ZOOL 401	Terrestrial Vertebrates
ZOOL 452	Principles of Parasitism
Choose up to 21 credits from junior- or senior-level biological sciences - BICM, BIOL, BOTN, GENE, or ZOOL. Students can also use SCIE 201 to fulfill the general Honours requirements.		0-21
Option Courses and/or a Minor
Students can complete up to 15 credits in out-of-faculty options, with no more than 3 credits in physical activity (PACT) courses.		36-57
Total Credits		120

Biological Sciences Minor

The Biological Sciences Minor requires 18 senior-level biological sciences credits (BICM, BIOL, BOTN, GENE, or ZOOL) with a minimum of six credits at the 300- or 400-level.

Note: Junior-level BIOL 107 and BIOL 108 are required. Both BIOL 207 and BIOL 208 may be taken for credit.

Course List

Code	Title	Credits
Specific Minor Requirements
BIOL 207	Principles of Genetics	3
or BIOL 208	Principles of Ecology
General Minor Requirements
Choose 15 credits from senior-level biological sciences - BICM, BIOL, BOTN, GENE, and ZOOL		15
Total Credits		18

Degree Regulations

Students are strongly encouraged to seek advice from the faculty advisors about program planning.

Academic Residency - Credit Requirements 

In addition to the academic residency requirements of the University, upon admission to the Bachelor of Science (BSc), students must complete at MacEwan University:

• A minimum of 24 credits at the senior-level in the major discipline, with 12 of those senior credits completed at the 300- or 400-level. All 400-level requirements are to be completed at MacEwan University.
• If applicable, a minimum of nine credits in a minor at the senior-level, with at least three of those credits completed at the 300- or 400-level.

Students with a previous MacEwan University credential are required to complete a minimum of 45 credits upon admission to the BSc. 

Students who hold a baccalaureate degree from another post-secondary institution must complete a minimum of 60 additional MacEwan University credits applicable to the BSc. Forty-five of these credits must be completed while the students is enrolled in the BSc. This credit requirement applies to students who began their studies at MacEwan University and completed a credential at another institution. 

Students who interrupt their program and who must apply for readmission to the program will be required to comply with any new regulations upon resumption of their studies.

Breadth Requirements 

Courses taken to fulfil the major, minor, or option requirements can also be used to satisfy breadth requirements.

Declaration of a Major and Minor 

Students are advised to declare a primary major and minor, or primary major and a secondary major, or a major and two minors by the time they have completed 45 credits. Primary majors are selected from Science disciplines and consist of 42 to 60 junior- and senior-level credits; secondary majors can be from an Science or Arts discipline. Multi-disciplinary majors consist of 60-72 junior- and senior-level credits. Except for students in an Honours program, a maximum of 60 credits may be completed from any one discipline for credit towards the degree. A major and minor cannot be in the same discipline and students may not declare more than one out-of-faculty minor. Students can re-declare their major(s) and/or minor(s) if required.

For students completing multiple majors or minors, the Faculty cannot guarantee a schedule of classes that will permit students to complete their degree in eight consecutive fall and winter semesters. Furthermore, depending on the configuration of the student's degree, meeting the requirements for the degree may require the completion of more than 120 credits for graduation. Students are strongly encouraged to consult with an academic advisor in the Faculty of Arts and Science Advising Office and a discipline advisor in their major and minor prior to this declaration. Students majoring in mathematical or physical sciences may pursue a minor but are not required to do so.

Restricted Enrolment Courses

The Faculty of Arts and Science strives to accommodate all students wishing to enrol in a given course when it is appropriate to their program: however, classes in some courses must, for academic reasons, be restricted in size. If such a course is found to be oversubscribed, priority in registration will be given to those students whose programs may require it (e.g., majors, Honours, and/or minors) and then to other students as space permits.

Graduation Grade Point Average 

As part of the Graduation Grade Point Average regulation above, Bachelor of Science students must obtain an overall GGPA of 2.0 or higher, with a minimum GPA of 2.0 on all courses credited toward the major(s) and a minimum GPA of 2.0 on all courses credited toward the minor(s).

Graduation Requirements 

Graduation requirements are governed by the date on which a student declares their major(s) and minor(s). Students who declare their major(s) and minor(s) on or before the published deadline are bound by the requirements of the current academic year. Those students who declare after this date are bound by the programs of study and degree requirements of the upcoming academic year as published in the MacEwan Academic Calendar.

Junior - and Senior-Level Courses 

Courses numbered from 100 to 199 are considered junior-level and courses numbered from 200 to 499 are considered senior-level.

Major or Minor 300- and 400- Level Requirements 

The 300- and 400-level requirements in the major or minor cannot consist solely of project, field placement, and/or individual study courses.

Maximum Independent Courses 

The maximum number of credits for independent work (project, field placement, and/or individual study courses) excluding the Honours Thesis, is 15 credits. Specific disciplines may have further restrictions.

Maximum Junior-Level Courses 

A maximum of 48 credits at the 100-level are permitted in completion of the B.Sc. degree. Additional courses at the 100-level are extra to the 120 credits required to complete the B.Sc. degree and will not be counted toward fulfilment of graduation requirements.

Minimum Science Courses 

Students are required to complete successfully a minimum of 72 total credits from Science courses.

Minimum Passing Grade 

A minimum grade of D or credit CR is required for all Science degree courses unless otherwise noted next to the appropriate course in the program of study. 

Minimum Transfer Grade for Credit 

A minimum grade of D is required on any transfer credit granted for the program. Unless otherwise stated, Arts and Science courses require a minimum grade of C- when the course is used as a prerequisite. Transfer credit decisions made by the university are final and cannot be appealed.

Out-of-Faculty Options Requirements 

Students may take a maximum of 18 credits from courses offered by a MacEwan University Faculty or School other than Arts and Science. Students completing an out-of-faculty minor or laddering students who have met the minor requirements with a MacEwan University diploma must complete their degree requirements from courses offered within the Faculty of Arts and Science or from the list of Cross-Faculty Course Recognitions in the Academic Calendar. Courses deemed as Cross-Faculty Course Recognitions are used to fulfill in-Faculty courses within the BSc and do not count as out-of-Faculty options. 

Progression of Studies 

Students are responsible for ensuring they meet the prerequisite and/or co-requisite requirements as noted on all courses that may fulfill Bachelor of Science program requirements.

Honours Regulations

Overall Requirements 

The Honours program of study consists of 63 to 84 credits as determined by the discipline. Students in the Honours program may choose to complete a minor outside of the Honours discipline. Some disciplines may require a minor.

Acceptance to Honours

For consideration of admittance/acceptance into Honours, students must present a minimum of 45 university-level credits applicable to the program of study, with a GPA of 3.0 or higher. They must complete 24 of the 45 credits in the last 12 months; however, exceptions to this rule may occur with the approval of the Honours discipline advisor. Individual departments may have additional requirements noted in their program of study.

Course Load 

Students accepted into an Honours program must complete 24-credits in each twelve consecutive months they are in the program. Exceptions to this rule may occur with the approval of the Honours discipline advisor.

Grade Point Average 

Students accepted and enrolled in the Science Honours program must maintain a minimum overall GPA of 3.0 across all courses in the degree. As well, students must maintain a minimum GPA of 3.3 across a set of courses designated by each discipline for each twelve consecutive months following acceptance into the Honours program. Failure to do so will result in the student’s program status reverting to BSc with a major in the previous Honours discipline.

Graduation Grade Point Average 

In order to graduate, students must obtain an overall GGPA of 3.0 or higher, with a minimum GPA of 3.3 on all courses credited toward the Honours program of study.

Program Learning Outcomes

Faculty of Arts and Science Degree-Level Learning Outcomes

Thinking about knowledge is at the core of University education and learning within the Faculty of Arts and Science. Students develop capacities to “think-through” - to practice wonder, reflection, and engage in thoughtful inquiry and dialogue. Thinking-through involves questioning beyond the confines of one's immediate personal, social, and disciplinary surroundings. First, knowledge is acquired and understood. Learning moves beyond acquiring information and data to a formally disciplined manner of thinking about knowledge. Next, knowledge is interrogated by asking and answering questions, distinguishing between opinion and knowledge, and developing tools to assess reasons and evidence. Finally, knowledge is synthesized as students develop coherent arguments, and link ideas together beyond what is immediately apparent. Learning is a lifelong creative process of discovery and action that happens beyond the classroom and the degree. Our graduates interact with and contribute to their community by integrating and applying the research and communication skills and ways of knowing developed through their education. Learning outcomes capture the observable knowledge, skills, and abilities graduates acquire that are the foundation of learning.

Graduates will demonstrate their ability to “think-through” by:

1. Analysing puzzles, problems, concepts, and theories.
2. Conceptualizing questions based on disciplinary knowledge.
3. Evaluating knowledge within and across disciplines in ways that acknowledge historical, cultural, and social contexts.

Graduates will demonstrate research and scholarship skills by:

4. Applying appropriate research skills and ethical principles.
5. Interpreting results appreciating the value and limits of conclusions.
6. Recognizing how research involves an ongoing process of reflection, dialogue, and reassessment.

Graduates will demonstrate diverse skills for communication by:

7. Conveying complex ideas coherently in a variety of formats.
8. Appraising information in ways that consider context and audience.
9. Interpreting the ideas and arguments of others in ways that reflect their knowledge, judgement, and comprehension.

Graduates will demonstrate durable skills necessary for learning beyond their degree by:

10. Collaborating with diverse groups.
11. Examining different perspectives and challenging biases and preconceptions.
12. Exploring the continuous impact and limitations of disciplinary knowledge and expertise.

Biological Sciences Major Learning Outcomes

1. Independently acquire and integrate biological knowledge
   • Master an understanding of biological systems in terms of:
     • evolutionary processes and outcomes;
     • the transmission, exchange, and expression of information;
     • connections between structure and function;
     • transformation and manipulation of energy and matter;
     • diversity;
     • relationships between biotic and abiotic elements at a micro and macro level.
   • Incorporate new information into an existing biological knowledge framework.
   • Locate and critically evaluate information, literature, and data.
2. Evaluate biological research
   • Assess the scientific method and its limitations.
   • Distinguish between elements of experimental design including research questions/objectives, hypotheses, methodology, data and results, and conclusions.
   • Appraise the limits of data and results in explaining biological phenomena and how to communicate these limits when formulating conclusions.
   • Describe the peer review process for academic publication.
3. Demonstrate competency in standard lab and/or field techniques
   • Perform basic lab/field skills from both streams and deploy a breadth of skills in their stream of focus.
   • Utilize data management techniques and technological tools.
4. Apply biological knowledge
   • Evaluate knowledge gaps and their relationship to biological problems.
   • Propose and apply methodology to test hypotheses, collect, analyse, and interpret data.
   • Employ disciplinary principles to develop solutions to biological problems.
5. Effectively communicate biological concepts using a variety of media
   • Produce effective written and oral communication employing a scientific vocabulary.
   • Correctly cite and reference sources.
   • Differentiate between the formats in which scientists disseminate knowledge.
   • Appraise audiences and tailor communication accordingly.
6. Engage in professional conduct
   • Work collaboratively and engage in peer review.
   • Recognize ethical challenges and the importance of scientific integrity.
   • Describe the role of biologists in society and reflect on their responsibilities and limitations as experts.

Student Plan

• The student plan provides a suggested course sequence with the minimum number of credits required for the major
• The suggested course sequence depends on course availability, the student's schedule, and the student's choice of minor(s) or secondary major
• It is highly recommended that students complete their Breadth Requirements by the end of year 2

General Biological Sciences Major

Year 1	Credits
BIOL 107	3
BIOL 108	3
CHEM 101	3
CHEM 102	3
STAT 151	3
ENGL 102	3
Breadth Requirements	12
	30
Year 2	Credits
BIOL 205	3
BIOL 207	3
BIOL 208	3
Choose 3 credits (1 course) from senior-level BICM, BIOL, BOTN, GENE, or ZOOL, or SCIE 201	3
Breadth, Option, Minor(s), or Primary or Secondary Major Requirements	18
	30
Year 3	Credits
Choose 6 credits (2 courses) from senior-level BICM, BIOL, BOTN, GENE, or ZOOL, or SCIE 201	6
Choose 6 credits (2 courses) from senior-level BICM, BIOL, BOTN, GENE, or ZOOL at the 300- or 400-level	6
Options, Minor(s), or Primary or Secondary Major Requirements	18
	30
Year 4	Credits
Choose 6 credits (2 courses) from senior-level BICM, BIOL, BOTN, GENE, or ZOOL, or SCIE 201	6
Choose 6 credits (2 courses) from senior-level BICM, BIOL, BOTN, GENE, or ZOOL at the 400-level	6
Options, Minor(s), or Primary or Secondary Major Requirements	18
	30
Total Credits 120

Biological Sciences Major, Molecular Cellular Stream

Year 1	Credits
BIOL 107	3
BIOL 108	3
CHEM 101	3
CHEM 102	3
STAT 151	3
ENGL 102	3
Breadth Requirements	12
	30
Year 2	Credits
BIOL 205	3
BIOL 207	3
BIOL 208	3
Choose 3 credits (1 course) from the following:	3
BICM 200
BIOL 201
BIOL 211
ZOOL 241
ZOOL 242
Breadth, Option, Minor(s), or Primary or Secondary Major Requirements	18
	30
Year 3	Credits
Choose 18 credits (6 courses) from the following:	18
BICM 310
BICM 340
BIOL 300
BIOL 313
BIOL 315
BIOL 317
BIOL 321
BIOL 323
BIOL 337
GENE 369
GENE 370
Options, Minor(s), or Primary or Secondary Major Requirements	12
	30
Year 4	Credits
Choose 6 credits (2 courses) from the following:	6
BICM 450
BIOL 413
BIOL 421
BIOL 430
BIOL 492
BIOL 495
BIOL 498
GENE 400
GENE 404
GENE 418
Options, Minor(s), or Primary or Secondary Major Requirements	24
	30
Total Credits 120

Biological Sciences Major, Ecology and Diversity Stream

Year 1	Credits
BIOL 107	3
BIOL 108	3
CHEM 101	3
CHEM 102	3
STAT 151	3
ENGL 102	3
Breadth Requirements	12
	30
Year 2	Credits
BIOL 207	3
BIOL 208	3
Choose 6 credits (2 courses) from the following:	6
BOTN 205
ZOOL 224
ZOOL 241
ZOOL 242
ZOOL 250
Breadth, Option, Minor(s), or Primary or Secondary Major Requirements	18
	30
Year 3	Credits
Choose 18 credits (6 courses) from the following:	18
BIOL 310
BIOL 312
BIOL 314
BIOL 316
BIOL 321
BIOL 323
BIOL 337
BIOL 361
BIOL 365
BIOL 367
BIOL 371
ZOOL 324
ZOOL 325
Options, Minor(s), or Primary or Secondary Major Requirements	12
	30
Year 4	Credits
Choose 6 credits (2 courses) from the following:	6
BIOL 410
BIOL 414
BIOL 422
BIOL 467
BIOL 477
BIOL 492
BIOL 495
BIOL 498
BOTN 405
ZOOL 400
ZOOL 401
ZOOL 452
Options, Minor(s), or Primary or Secondary Major Requirements	24
	30
Total Credits 120

Expected Course Offerings

Following is a list of expected course offerings for fall 2023 and winter 2024. We will update the list with expected courses scheduled for fall 2024 and winter 2025 in February 2023. While some might change, students can be assured that required courses will be available.

Course List

Code	Title	Credits
Fall 2023
BICM 200	Introductory Biochemistry
BICM 340	Structure and Function of Biological Molecules
BIOL 101	Current Issues in Human Biology
BIOL 102	Nutrition and the Body
BIOL 103	Humans and Their Environment
BIOL 107	Introduction to Cell Biology
BIOL 108	Introduction to Evolution
BIOL 201	Eukaryotic Cellular Biology I
BIOL 205	Principles of Molecular Biology
BIOL 207	Principles of Genetics
BIOL 208	Principles of Ecology
BIOL 310	Freshwater Ecology
BIOL 313	Animal Developmental Biology
BIOL 367	Conservation Biology
BIOL 371	Animal Behaviour
BIOL 421	Techniques in Molecular and Cellular Biology
BIOL 430	Pathobiology: The Cellular Basis of Disease
BIOL 495	Special Topics
BOTN 205	Fundamentals of Plant Biology
GENE 370	Genetic Analysis of Eukaryotes
GENE 404	Investigations into Gene Regulation
ZOOL 224	Vertebrate Adaptations and Evolution
ZOOL 241	Animal Physiology I: Homeostasis
ZOOL 325	Entomology
ZOOL 400	Aquatic Vertebrates

Course List

Code	Title	Credits
Winter 2024
BICM 200	Introductory Biochemistry
BICM 450	Biochemistry of Viruses
BIOL 101	Current Issues in Human Biology
BIOL 102	Nutrition and the Body
BIOL 103	Humans and Their Environment
BIOL 107	Introduction to Cell Biology
BIOL 108	Introduction to Evolution
BIOL 201	Eukaryotic Cellular Biology I
BIOL 205	Principles of Molecular Biology
BIOL 207	Principles of Genetics
BIOL 208	Principles of Ecology
BIOL 211	Introduction to Microbiology
BIOL 300	Eukaryotic Cellular Biology II
BIOL 314	Population Ecology
BIOL 317	Biotechnology and Society
BIOL 321	Mechanisms of Evolution
BIOL 323	Introduction to Population Genetics
BIOL 337	Biostatistics and Research Design
BIOL 361	Marine Biology
BIOL 399	Honours Proposal
BIOL 413	Current Topics in Animal Developmental Biology
BIOL 414	Invasion Ecology and Management
BOTN 405	Plant Behaviour and its Applications
GENE 369	Genetic Analysis of Bacteria
GENE 370	Genetic Analysis of Eukaryotes
GENE 400	Genome Organization
GENE 418	Human Genetics
ZOOL 242	Animal Physiology II: Intercellular Communication
ZOOL 250	Invertebrate Zoology
ZOOL 324	Comparative Anatomy of the Vertebrates
ZOOL 401	Terrestrial Vertebrates

Admission Requirements

Applicants may be admitted to one of the following:

Regular Admission

To be evaluated through the Office of the University Registrar

Applicants must have a minimum overall average of 65 percent, with no course grade lower than 50 percent, in the following high school courses:

1. ELA 30-1
2. Mathematics 30-1
3. Two of Biology 30, Chemistry 30, Mathematics 31, Physics 30, or Computing Science-Advanced Career and Technology Studies (5 credits)
4. One subject from Group A, B, C or D

Notes:

• A maximum of one Group D subject may be presented. Group D subjects used for admission must be 5-credit or any credit combination of at least 5 credits (e.g., two 3-credit subjects).

Applicants with nine to 23 university-level credits must also present a minimum Admission Grade Point Average (AGPA) of 2.0 on a 4.0 scale. Applicants with 24 or more university-level credits will be considered under Previous Post-Secondary Work.

Mature Admission

To be evaluated through the Office of the University Registrar

Applicants must be Canadian Applicants, 20 years of age or older, and have been out of full-time high school at least one year by the beginning of the intake term. Applicants must have a minimum overall average of 60 percent, with no course grade lower than 50 percent, in the following high school courses:

1. ELA 30-1
2. Mathematics 30-1
3. Two of Biology 30, Chemistry 30, Mathematics 31, Physics 30, or Computing Science-Advanced Level Career and Technology Studies (5 credits)

Applicants with nine to 23 university-level credits must also present a minimum Admission Grade Point Average (AGPA) of 2.0 on a 4.0 scale. Applicants with 24 or more university-level credits will be considered under Previous Post-Secondary Work.

Previous Post-Secondary Work 

To be evaluated through the Office of the University Registrar

Admission in this category does not imply or guarantee the transfer of any coursework and/or credential unless a block transfer agreement (internal or external) is in effect and published in the calendar by the Office of the University Registrar. In addition, transfer of coursework does not imply or guarantee that an applicant will be admitted.

Applicants must have successfully completed the following:

• A minimum of 24 university-level credits, from a recognized institution, with a minimum Admission Grade Point Average (AGPA) of 2.0 on a 4.0 scale.
• The required mathematics and science courses listed under the Regular or Mature Admission category.

Additional Admission Criteria

All applicants must meet the following:

1. English Language Proficiency

To be evaluated through the Office of the University Registrar

Applicable to All Admission Categories

All applicants must meet an acceptable level of English language proficiency. We will require official documents such as high school or post-secondary transcripts or proof of successful completion of standardized language evaluation. Full details are available in MacEwan University’s academic calendar or online at MacEwan.ca/ELP.

2. Other Admission Criteria

To be evaluated through the Office of the University Registrar

Applicable to All Admission Categories

Applicants who have been assigned two unsatisfactory academic records within the past five years will not be considered for admission or re-admission to the program until a minimum three years from the date of the assignment of the last unsatisfactory academic record. For the purpose of admission or re-admission, an unsatisfactory record is defined as a transcript with the notation ‘required to withdraw’ or equivalent.

Biological Sciences Courses

Biochemistry

Biology

Botany

Genetics

Zoology