Masters in Biology in Canada: Top Universities, Admissions, Fees, Scholarships, Jobs and Salaries
Masters in Biology in CanadaA master's degree in biology in Canada duration is for 1.5 and 2 years. Some of the top Universities offering this program are the University of Toronto, the University of British Columbia, McGill University, the University of Alberta, and Western University.. The eligibility criteria for the students who want to pursue this program are that they must have a bachelor's degree in biology or a related field, with a strong academic record of around 70% or higher, and proof of English proficiency, such as IELTS 6.5 or TOEFL 86+, is typically required for admission.
The annual tuition fees that every student needs to pay are around CAD 8,000 to CAD 27,000 annually for tuition. There are Various job options after completing the degree. Students can work as biotech analysts, research scientists, lab technicians, or environmental consultants. Annual salaries range from CAD 55,000 to CAD 90,000, depending on the position and level of experience. Later, some students pursue a PhD.
Master's in Biology in Canada: Quick Highlights
The table below shows some of the key highlights of a Master's in Biology in Canada
Particulars | Details |
Degrees Available | MSc (Master of Science) – Thesis-based & Course-based |
Course Duration | 1.5 to 2 years |
Type | Full-time, On-campus |
Top University |
|
Eligibility Criteria | Bachelor’s in Biology or related field with minimum 70–75% (GPA 3.0/4.0) |
Exam Accepted |
|
Course Eligibility | Relevant bachelor’s degree, English test scores, SOP, Resume, LORs |
Top Job Profiles |
|
Entrance Tests Required | GRE, TOEFL or IELTS |
Annual Tuition Fee | 8,000 CAD to 27,000 CAD |
Application Mode | Online |
Intake Sessions | September, January, some offer Summer May |
Master's in Biology in Canada: Important Dates and Events
Some of the important dates concerning admissions to the Master's in Biology in Canada are shown in the table below.
Phase | Suggested Time |
University Research | July – September 2025 |
GRE/TOEFL/IELTS | August – October 2025 |
Application Submission | October 2025 – January 2026 |
Admission Decisions | February – April 2026 |
Visa Processing | March – May 2026 |
Departure to Canada | July – August 2026 |
Master's in Biology in Canada: Visa Application Timeline
The table below represents the Visa Application Timeline for the Master's in Biology in Canada.
Events | Dates |
Application Start Date | October 2025 – January 2026 |
Application Deadline Date | February – April 2026 |
Master's in Biology in Canada: Course Fees
The table below provides the course fees for the Master's in Biology in Canada in dollars ($) and Indian rupees (₹) across the top universities.
University | Program Name | Duration | Tuition Fee (CAD) | Tuition Fee (INR) |
University of Toronto | MSc in Biology | 2 years | $28,000 – $36,000/year | ₹17,36,000 – ₹22,32,000/year |
University of British Columbia | MSc in Botany/Zoology | 2 years | $9,500 – $12,000/year | ₹5,89,000 – ₹7,44,000/year |
McGill University | MSc in Biology | 2 years | $18,000 – $21,000/year | ₹11,16,000 – ₹13,02,000/year |
University of Alberta | MSc in Biological Sciences | 2 years | $9,500 – $11,000/year | ₹5,89,000 – ₹6,82,000/year |
University of Montreal (UdeM) | MSc in Biological Sciences | 2 years | $15,000 – $17,000/year | ₹9,30,000 – ₹10,54,000/year |
McMaster University | MSc in Biology | 2 years | $17,000 – $20,000/year | ₹10,54,000 – ₹12,40,000/year |
University of Ottawa | MSc in Biology | 2 years | $15,000 – $18,000/year | ₹9,30,000 – ₹11,16,000/year |
Western University | MSc in Biology | 2 years | $14,000 – $17,000/year | ₹8,68,000 – ₹10,54,000/year |
Simon Fraser University | MSc in Biology | 2 years | $9,000 – $11,000/year | ₹5,58,000 – ₹6,82,000/year |
Queen’s University | MSc in Biology | 2 years | $15,000 – $18,000/year | ₹9,30,000 – ₹11,16,000/year |
Cost of Living in Canada
The table below provides the cost of living for Master's in Biology in Canada.
Expense Type | Cost Per Year (CAD) | Cost Per Year (₹) |
Accommodation | $10,390 | ₹6 lakhs |
Meals | $5,700 | ₹3 lakhs |
Transportation | $572 | ₹34,700 |
Mobile Phone and Internet | $1392 | ₹1.16 lakhs |
Personal Expenses | $1,320 | ₹16.65 lakhs |
Electricity | $2,280 | ₹80,100 |
Why Choose a Master’s in Biology in Canada?
- Top-Ranked Universities: Canada is a great place to study biology because it offers top universities, strong programs, and excellent research opportunities for international students.
- Wide Range of Specializations: Based on their interests and goals, students can choose fields like molecular biology, biotechnology, environmental science, ecology, bioinformatics, or microbiology in Canada.
- Globally Recognized Degree: A Master’s in Biology from Canada is widely respected, making it easier to get jobs or enter PhD programs worldwide.
- Attractive Salaries: Graduates with a Master's degree in Biology from Canada can expect to earn between CAD 55,000 and CAD 90,000 per year.
Read More: MS in Microbiology in USA
Master's in Biology in Canada: Qualification
To take admission in Master's degree in biology in Canada, students must have their Bachelor's degree in biology or a related field with at least 70%–75% marks. They also need to show their English proficiency through IELTS or TOEFL, and submit documents like a resume, SOP, and letters of recommendation.
Master's in Biology in Canada: Eligibility
The Master's in Biology in Canada provides Eligibility for students. The table below shows the eligibility criteria.
Particulars | Eligibility Criteria |
Qualification | You must have a Bachelor’s degree in Biology or a related subject like Biotechnology, Microbiology, or Life Sciences, with at least 70–75% marks or a GPA of 3.0 out of 4.0. |
English Language Proficiency |
|
Master's in Biology in Canada: Application Process
Master's in Biology in Canada involves a step-by-step application process, which is primarily merit-based, requiring academic documents and proof of English proficiency. The detailed application process for international students is provided below.
- Research & Shortlist Universities
- Check Admission Requirements
- Prepare Required Documents
- Find a Supervisor
- Apply Online
- Track Your Application
- Receive Offer Letter
- Apply for Study Permit (Visa)
Master's in Biology in Canada: SOP, LOR, and Resume
The table below shows the purpose and content to be included in SOP, LOR, and resumes for Master's in Biology in Canada.
Type of Document | Purpose | Content |
SOP (Statement of Purpose) | To show your motivation and fit for the program | Background in education, biology interest, career goals, and why Canada or university |
LORs (Letters of Recommendation) | To highlight your academic/research abilities from a third-party view | Your potential for success, strengths, academic performance, and skills |
Resume | To present your academic and professional profile | achievements, certifications, research experience, projects, lab skills, and education |
Master's in Biology in Canada: IELTS/TOEFL Tips
The following are some expert-curated tips for the IELTS and TOEFL exams for a Master's in Biology in Canada.
- Students should start preparing for their exam at least 2-3 months before the paper so that they can build their skills and practice effectively and make sure that they are well prepared and confident for the exam.
- Students should practice for reading, listening, speaking, and writing skills for a Master's in Biology in Canada.
- Students need to practice with Mock test by using sample papers so that they can track their scores Practice with mock tests by using sample papers to track their scores and identify weak areas.
- Familiarize yourself with the IELTS or TOEFL format using sample papers. This helps you understand the exam structure, timing, and types of questions you'll face.
Master's in Biology in Canada: Cutoff
The list below shows the cutoff for the Master's in Biology in Canada.
- Academic degree- Students must have their Bachelor's degree with a minimum marks between 70 and 75 percent is required by the majority of colleges and universities
- A GRE score of 290 or above is the overall score, and TOEFL score of 79 or above, and a minimum IELTS score of 6.5 are required.
Master's in Biology in Canada: Syllabus
Some common core courses and subjects in the Master's in Biology in Canada are listed below:
- Advanced Cell Biology
- Molecular Genetics
- Ecology and Environmental Biology
- Bioinformatics
- Research Methods in Biology
- Biostatistics
Master's in Biology in Canada: Electives & Specializations
The table below shows the Electives and Specializations for Masters in Biology in Canada.
Specialization | Description |
Molecular Biology | Investigate the molecular structure and function of proteins and genes. |
Microbiology & Immunology | Concentrate on viruses, microorganisms, and the immune system. |
Cell & Developmental Biology | Understand how cells grow, divide, and specialize during development. |
Ecology & Evolution | Discover how organisms change over time and interact with their surroundings. |
Genetics & Genomics | Investigate DNA, inheritance, and genome mapping. |
Plant Biology / Botany | Investigate the physiology, ecology, and structure of plants. |
Neuroscience | Focus on brain function, neural systems, and behavior. |
Environmental Biology | Examine biodiversity, conservation, and environmental impacts. |
Best Universities for the Master's in Biology in Canada: Ranking
The table below provides the ranking for the Master's in Biology in Canada.
University | QS World University Ranking |
University of Toronto | 16 |
University of British Columbia | 31 |
McGill University | 39 |
University of Alberta | 148 |
University of Montreal | 108 |
Laval University | 201-250 |
University of Calgary | 151-200 |
McMaster University | 151-200 |
University of Ottawa | 251-300 |
Western University | 301-350 |
Master's in Biology in Canada Vs. Master's in Biology in India
Some detailed comparisons of the Master's in Biology in Canada vs. India, covering duration, eligibility, fees, curriculum, and career scope:
Criteria | Canada | India |
Program Duration | 1.5 – 2 years | 2 years |
Tuition Fees | CAD 8,000 to 27,000 per year | ₹50,000 – ₹2 lakhs total |
Living Costs | ₹6 – ₹9 lakhs/year | ₹1 – ₹2 lakhs/year |
Starting Salary | CAD: $40,000–60,000) | ₹3–6 lakhs/year |
Language of Instruction | English | English and Hindi |
Master's in Biology in Canada: Scholarships
A Master's in Biology in Canada provides a scholarship to its eligible students. The table below shows the eligibility criteria for applying to the scholarship scheme.
Scholarship | Awarded by (Private/Government University) | Eligibility | Award Value |
International English Scholarship | University of Ottawa | Enrolled in a course that is taught in English and from India or the listed countries | 17,500 CAD per year |
Alberta Graduate Excellence Scholarship | University of Alberta | Registered International students in a graduate degree program | 11,000 CAD |
Ontario Graduate Scholarship | Government | Enrolled or registered in a University for a Masters | 5,000 CAD per session for 2 years |
McCall MacBain Scholarship | McGill University | Currently enrolled in a course | Cover the entire tuition fees |
John and Lena Graham Commonwealth Bursary | Dalhousie University | Resident of a Commonwealth country | Four 1,000 CAD bursaries |
Alberta Society of Professional Biologists Graduate Scholarship | University of Alberta | minimum GPA of 3.5 | 2,500 CAD per year |
Career Scope After a Master's in Biology in Canada
The list below shows the Career scopes available in Master's in Biology in Canada.
- Research Scientist, Biotechnology
- Microbiologist / Molecular Biologist
- Environmental Consultant
- Biotech Analyst / Technician
- Clinical Research Associate
Master's in Biology in Canada: Top Recruiters
The list below shows the recruiters available for Master's in Biology in Canada.
- Environment and Climate Change Canada (ECCC)
- Health Canada
- Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA)
- Apotex Inc.
- McGill Genome Centre
Master's in Biology in Canada: Salary Package
The table below shows the average salary package of companies for the Master's in Biology in Canada:
Profession | Average Salary (CAD) | Average Salary (INR) |
Research Scientist, Biotechnology | 58,843 | 35 lakhs |
Aquatic Biologist | 60,194 | 36 lakhs |
Biologist | 56,111 | 34 lakhs |
Biostatistician | 68,000 | 41 lakhs |
Environmental Scientist | 59,047 | 35 lakhs |
Research Associate | 52,439 | 31 lakhs |
Frequently Asked Questions
Ques: What is the duration of a Master’s in Biology in Canada?
Ans: The duration of Master’s in Biology in Canada is 2 years.
Ques: Is the GRE required for admission?
Ans: GRE usually isn’t required for Canadian universities, though some research-focused programs may recommend it.
Ques: What specializations are available in this program?
Ques: Common options are molecular biology, microbiology, genetics, ecology, environmental biology, and neuroscience.
Ques: Which are the top universities for this program?
Ans: Top choices for a Biology master’s in Canada: University of Toronto, McGill, UBC, University of Alberta, and McMaster University.
Ques: What is the post-study work visa duration in Canada?
Ans: After graduating, you can stay and work in Canada for up to three years with a Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP).