Biological Sciences
Scholarships
Ranking
301st in the world for Natural Sciences (QS World University Rankings by Subject, 2023)
Download Brochure
Scholarships
Ranking
301st in the world for Natural Sciences (QS World University Rankings by Subject, 2023)
Download Brochure
Qualifications
Overview
Biology means the study of living things, from animals to plants to microbes. It covers a huge range of scales from molecules and cells to organisms, populations, and ecosystems.
We need to know how the living world interacts with the environment, to better understand and prepare for the future.
- Lab work to examine cell biology, biodiversity, microorganisms, and more.
- We have the most extensive network of field stations of any university in Aotearoa. You get to explore Te Waipounamu South Island to enhance your practical field skills.
- You can narrow down your interests as you progress in your studies.
- Our Biological Sciences major has been accredited by the Royal Society of Biology (RSB), the first in Aotearoa to be internationally recognised in this way. This means that when you graduate you will be equipped with well-rounded knowledge and skills, making you highly employable both within and beyond your chosen field.
Biological Sciences major
For the major in the Bachelor of Science, complete the following courses:
100-level
- BIOL111 Cellular Biology and Biochemistry
- BIOL112 Ecology, Evolution and Conservation
- BIOL113 Diversity of Life
- STAT101 Statistics 1
It is also recommended to take one Chemistry and Mathematics course in your first year. If you have not taken chemistry or mathematics with calculus to Year 13 level, you are strongly advised to take CHEM114 Foundations of Chemistry and MATH101 Methods of Mathematics.
200-level
300-level
60 points chosen from the following:
BIOL309 Experimental Design and Data Analysis for Biologists is recommended if you intend to go onto postgraduate studies in Biological Sciences.
Biological Sciences minor
For the minor in the Bachelor of Arts, Commerce, Digital Screen, Health Sciences, Science, Social and Environmental Sustainability, Sport Coaching, or Youth and Community Leadership, complete the following courses:
- 75 points in 100 to 300-level BIOL courses, with at least 45 points above 100-level
A Biological Sciences major indicates you have the ability to access, understand, analyse, investigate, and communicate complex information. You can develop further technical knowledge in areas that interest you like biosecurity, marine biology, evolutionary ecology, soil restoration, and biotechnology.
Career pathways could include:
- Forensics
- Primary industries
- Ecology
- Pharmaceutical and governmental industries.
Find out more about what you can do with a degree in Biological Sciences.
Contact us
Te Kura Pūtaiao Koiora | School of Biological Sciences
Phone +64 3 369 5200
Email biological-sciences@canterbury.ac.nz
Location
Pūtaiao Koiora building – see campus maps
Postal address
Te Kaupeka Pūtaiao | Faculty of Science
Te Whare Wānanga o Waitaha | University of Canterbury
Private Bag 4800
Christchurch 8140
New Zealand
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