Biology


Introduction

Biology is the scientific study of life. At no time in history has biology been more visible and important to human life and the future of our planet. The study of biology has vast applications: in understanding one’s own body, in improving human health and natural resources, in grappling with the ethical questions that face humanity and in understanding the interdependent web of living organisms on the planet. Important discoveries and advances in the biological sciences occur weekly as scientists and their students around the world develop and use new techniques, theories, and approaches.

The University of Toronto has an enormous depth of faculty members on the St. George campus who conduct leading-edge research and teach courses in the biological sciences. Within the Faculty of Arts and Science, St. George campus, there is no single biology department; members of the Departments of Cell & Systems Biology (CSB) and Ecology & Evolutionary Biology (EEB) teach biology courses across the broad spectrum of introductory to advanced topics. Each of these departments offers its own programs and courses, and jointly offer the Biology programs. These co-sponsored Programs of Study include Biology (Specialist, Major, Minor), Bioinformatics & Computational Biology (Specialist), and Genome Biology (Major). The program in Genome Biology also includes the Department of Molecular Genetics & Microbiology as a co-sponsor, and the program in Bioinformatics & Computational Biology additionally includes the Departments of Biochemistry and Computer Science as co-sponsors.

Students should consult the Cell & Systems Biology and Ecology & Evolutionary Biology entries in this Calendar about additional courses available in the broad subject areas of bioinformatics, cell and molecular biology, conservation and environmental biology, developmental biology, ecology, evolutionary biology, genetics, physiology, and genome biology. The diverse course offerings in the Biology programs allow students to customize their educational experience to match their personal interests and career aspirations.

 

High School Prerequisites and First-Year Requirements

Because many areas of biology draw on mathematics and the physical sciences, background preparation in calculus and chemistry from high school is required for students pursuing some programs in biology and recommended for others.

Students entering their first year in the life sciences take BIO120H1 and BIO130H1. These courses are taken by students who have successfully completed Grade 12 Biology (or an equivalent course); BIO130H1 also requires students to have successfully completed Grade 12 Chemistry (or an equivalent course). These single-semester courses are a prerequisite for almost all further courses in the life sciences. It is possible for students to enrol in BIO220H1 concurrently with BIO130H1.

All co-sponsored Biology programs have unlimited enrolment and no specific admission requirements. All students who have completed at least 4.0 credits are eligible to enrol (most single-semester courses are a 0.5 credit). Program completion requires 12.0-12.5 credits of courses for a Specialist, 8.0 credits for a Major, or 4.0 credits for a Minor. To fulfill graduation degree requirements, students must complete either one Specialist, two Majors, or one Major with two Minors. Students may choose a Specialist to focus in-depth on a single subject area or may pair complementing Majors (or Minors) to customize their education and training to encompass the breadth of their interests.

 

General Biology Programs

Students in the Biology Specialist and Biology Major programs obtain a foundation in the core areas of cell and molecular biology, ecology and biodiversity, evolutionary biology, physiology and genetics; as well as in calculus, chemistry and statistics (Specialist), or chemistry (Major). These programs are flexible in allowing students many possible course pathways that are compatible with completing program requirements, encouraging students to explore the diversity of their biological interests and to obtain broad training in life sciences. In the upper years, students take advanced courses in specific biological topics, and can also include courses in the biological sciences offered by other units. In their final year, students take at least 1.0 credit (yearlong) or two 0.5 credits (Specialist) or one 0.5 credit (Major) in an advanced integrative, inquiry-based course in the biological sciences offered by the departments of Cell & Systems Biology and Ecology & Evolutionary Biology, including seminar, independent research project, and field courses. Students who wish to focus either on plant and microbial biology or on animal biology can take courses within these programs that concentrate in these subject areas. Students in these Biology Programs of Study prepare themselves for diverse life sciences career trajectories that depend on critical thinking and practical hands-on skills, including postgraduate study in biological sciences and medicine. The Biology Minor program offers students an introduction to cell and molecular biology, ecology, evolutionary biology, and physiology.

The Biology Specialist, Major and Minor programs are administered by the Department of Ecology & Evolutionary Biology, and co-sponsored by the Department of Cell & Systems Biology. Students requiring more information or advising about these programs are encouraged to visit the departmental website https://eeb.utoronto.ca/education/undergraduate/ or to contact the EEB Undergraduate Office, Earth Sciences Centre (25 Willcocks St.), Room 3055B, undergrad.eeb@utoronto.ca, 416-978-2084.

 

Biology Programs in Genomics and Informatics

Genomics, the study of the structure, function and evolution of the genome, is among the newest and most rapidly growing fields of both basic and applied science, and nearly all of the more traditional disciplines in biology and medicine are being revolutionized by genomic tools. The growing flood of data on the DNA, RNA, and protein sequences of organisms provides unprecedented opportunities to address fundamental biological questions such as the causes of disease, the genetic basis of development, the nature of gene regulation, the extent and causes of adaptive evolution, and the history of species on planet earth, including humans. Genome biology and bioinformatics are highly interdisciplinary fields, encompassing concepts and practices from such diverse fields as cell and molecular biology, evolutionary genetics, and computer science. The Bioinformatics & Computational Biology Specialist program is an interdepartmental, interdisciplinary Program of Study that balances computer-science and life-science courses. Students in the Genome Biology Major program will receive a uniquely broad training in these concepts and practices, with a key focus on conceptual training in molecular biology, bioinformatics and evolutionary genetics, and practical training in both computational and wet-lab genomics research.

Note: The Bioinformatics & Computational Biology Specialist program has deregulated fees, which are incurred after enrolment in program. Please refer to the Arts & Science Program Toolkit for more information.

The Bioinformatics & Computational Biology Specialist and Genome Biology Major programs are administered by the Department of Cell & Systems Biology, and are co-sponsored by the Departments of Ecology & Evolutionary Biology and Molecular Genetics & Microbiology. The Bioinformatics & Computational Biology Specialist additionally includes the Departments of Biochemistry and Computer Science as program co-sponsors. Students requiring more information or advising about these programs are encouraged to visit the departmental website, https://csb.utoronto.ca/, or contact the CSB Undergraduate Office, Ramsay Wright Building (25 Harbord St.), Room 424, 416-978-3477.

 

Biology Programs

General Biology Programs

Biology Specialist (Science Program) - ASSPE2364

Biology Specialist (Science Program) - ASSPE2364
Enrolment Requirements:

This is an open enrolment program. A student who has completed 4.0 credits may enrol in the program.

Completion Requirements:

The Biology Specialist, Major, and Minor programs are administered through the Department of Ecology & Evolutionary Biology. Contact: undergrad.eeb@utoronto.ca

(12.0 credits including at least 1.0 credit at the 400-level)

First Year (3.0 credits): BIO120H1; BIO130H1; ( CHM135H1, CHM136H1)/ CHM151Y1; ( MAT135H1, MAT136H1)/ MAT137Y1/​ MAT157Y1

Higher Years:

1. 2.5 credits: BIO220H1; BIO230H1/​​ BIO255H1; BIO251H1/​ EEB255H1/​ EEB263H1/​ EEB266H1/​ EEB267H1/​ EEB268H1; BIO270H1/​​ PSL300H1; BIO260H1/​​ HMB265H1

2. 0.5 credit in statistics from: EEB225H1, PSY201H1, STA220H1, STA257H1, GGR270H1, STA288H1

3. 0.5 credit from chemistry, physics or statistics: CHM220H1, CHM247H1/​ CHM249H1, PHY131H1, PHY151H1, PSY202H1, STA221H1, STA255H1, STA261H1

4. 1.5 credits at the 200+ level from: BCH; BIO; CJH332H1; CSB (excluding CSB201H1, CSB202H1); EEB (excluding EEB202H1, EEB208H1, EEB214H1, EEB215H1); EHJ352H1; ENV432H1; IMM250H1; JHE353H1, JHE355H1; MGY200H1, MGY277H1; NFS284H1; PSY397H1, PSY497H1

5. 0.5 credit at the 300+ level in plant or microbial biology from: CSB340H1, CSB350H1, CSB351Y1, CSB353H1, CSB450H1, CSB451H1, CSB452H1, CSB454H1, CSB459H1, CSB460H1, CSB475H1, EEB328H1, EEB340H1, EEB403H0, EEB403H1, EEB405H0, EEB405H1, EEB428H1, EEB440H1

6. 0.5 credit at the 300+ level in animal biology from: CJH332H1, CSB325H1, CSB327H1, CSB328H1, CSB329H1, CSB330H1, CSB331H1, CSB332H1, CSB343H1, CSB346H1, CSB348H1, CSB426H1, CSB427H1, CSB428H1, CSB429H1, CSB430H1, CSB431H1, CSB432H1, CSB435H1, CSB445H1, CSB447H1, CSB483H1; EEB322H1, EEB380H1, EEB382H1, EEB384H1, EEB386H1, EEB388H1, EEB390H1, EEB440H1, EHJ352H1
NOTE: BIO270H1 and BIO271H1 are prerequisites for 300+ level CSB courses in physiology.

7. 2.0 credits at the 300+ level (at least 1.0 credit must be from Group 1) from:
Group 1: CJH332H1; CSB; EEB; EHJ352H1; ENV432H1; JHE353H1, JHE355H1; PSY397H1, PSY497H1
Group 2: ANA; ANT333Y1, ANT338H1, ANT430H1, ANT436H1; BCH; HMB; IMM; NFS; MGY; PCL; PSL

8. 1.0 credit at the 400-level from: CSB; EEB

NOTE: Students who wish to focus on either plant or microbial biology, or animal biology should take courses in 7. and 8. that concentrate in these subject areas as listed in 5. and 6., respectively. BIO271H1/​ PSL301H1 is highly recommended for students concentrating in animal biology and is a prerequisite for 300+ level CSB courses in physiology.

Biology Major (Science Program) - ASMAJ2364

Biology Major (Science Program) - ASMAJ2364
Enrolment Requirements:

This is an open enrolment program. A student who has completed 4.0 credits may enrol in the program.

Completion Requirements:

The Biology Specialist, Major, and Minor programs are administered through the Department of Ecology & Evolutionary Biology. Contact: undergrad.eeb@utoronto.ca

(8.0 credits including at least 1.5 credits at the 300+ level and 0.5 credit at the 400 level)

First Year (2.0 credits): BIO120H1; BIO130H1; ( CHM135H1, CHM136H1)/ CHM151Y1

Higher Years:

1. 2.5 credits: BIO220H1; BIO230H1/​​ BIO255H1; BIO251H1/​ EEB255H1/​ EEB263H1/​ EEB266H1/​ EEB267H1/​ EEB268H1; BIO270H1/​​ PSL300H1; BIO260H1/​​ HMB265H1

2. 1.5 credits from: BCH; BIO; CJH332H1; CSB (excluding CSB195H1, CSB196H1, CSB197H1, CSB198H1, CSB199H1, CSB201H1, CSB202H1); EEB (excluding EEB196H1, EEB197H1, EEB198H1, EEB199H1, EEB202H1, EEB208H1, EEB214H1, EEB215H1); EHJ352H1; IMM250H1; JHE353H1, JHE355H1; MGY200H1, MGY277H1; NFS284H1; PSY397H1, PSY497H1

3. 1.5 credits at 300+ level from: ANA; ANT333Y1, ANT338H1, ANT430H1, ANT436H1; BCH; CJH332H1; CSB; EEB; EHJ352H1; ENV432H1; HMB; IMM; JHE353H1, JHE355H1; MGY; PCL; PSL; PSY397H1, PSY497H1

4. 0.5 credit at 400-level from: CSB; EEB; ENV432H1

NOTE: Students who wish to focus on either plant or microbial biology, or animal biology should take courses in 2., 3., and 4. that concentrate in these subject areas (as listed below).

CSB and EEB courses in plant or microbial biology: CSB340H1, CSB350H1, CSB351Y1, CSB353H1, CSB450H1, CSB451H1, CSB452H1, CSB454H1, CSB459H1, CSB460H1, CSB475H1; EEB268H1, EEB328H1, EEB340H1, EEB405H0, EEB405H1, EEB428H1, EEB440H1

CSB and EEB courses in animal biology: BIO271H1/​ PSL301H1; CJH332H1; CSB325H1, CSB327H1, CSB328H1, CSB329H1, CSB330H1, CSB331H1, CSB343H1, CSB346H1, CSB348H1, CSB426H1, CSB427H1, CSB428H1, CSB429H1, CSB430H1, CSB431H1, CSB432H1, CSB435H1, CSB445H1, CSB447H1, CSB483H1; EEB263H1, EEB266H1, EEB267H1, EEB322H1, EEB380H1, EEB382H1, EEB384H1, EEB386H1, EEB388H1, EEB390H1, EEB440H1; EHJ352H1. ( BIO271H1/​ PSL301H1 is highly recommended for students concentrating in animal biology and is a prerequisite for 300+ level CSB courses in physiology.)

Biology Minor (Science Program) - ASMIN2364

Biology Minor (Science Program) - ASMIN2364
Enrolment Requirements:

This is an open enrolment program. A student who has completed 4.0 credits may enrol in the program.

Completion Requirements:

The Biology Specialist, Major, and Minor programs are administered through the Department of Ecology & Evolutionary Biology. Contact: undergrad.eeb@utoronto.ca

4.0 credits

First Year (1.0 credit): BIO120H1, BIO130H1

Higher Years:

1. BIO220H1

2. BIO230H1/​​ BIO255H1

3. 0.5 credit from: BIO251H1, BIO260H1, BIO270H1, BIO271H1, EEB255H1, EEB263H1, EEB266H1, EEB267H1, EEB268H1, HMB265H1, PSL300H1, PSL301H1

4. 1.5 credits (1.0 credit must be at the 300+ level) from: BIO, CJH332H1, CSB (excluding CSB195H1, CSB196H1, CSB197H1, CSB198H1, CSB199H1, CSB201H1, CSB202H1), EEB (excluding EEB196H1, EEB197H1, EEB198H1, EEB199H1, EEB202H1, EEB208H1, EEB214H1, EEB215H1), EHJ352H1, ENV432H1, HMB265H1, JHE353H1, JHE355H1, MGY200H1, MGY277H1, PSY397H1, PSY497H1

Biology Programs in Genomics and Informatics

Bioinformatics and Computational Biology Specialist (Science Program) - ASSPE1868

Bioinformatics and Computational Biology Specialist (Science Program) - ASSPE1868

The genomic and post-genomic era brings opportunities for new insight into all aspects of biology and medicine, based on the computational analysis of very large datasets in a biological context. The Bioinformatics and Computational Biology Program is an interdepartmental, interdisciplinary Program of Study that balances computer-science and life-science courses towards that goal. As a Specialist Program it is designed to prepare students for graduate studies in the field.

The Program is formally administered by the Department of Cell and Systems Biology and co-sponsored by the Departments of Biochemistry, Computer Science, Ecology and Evolutionary Biology, and Molecular Genetics; all sponsoring Departments have clear trajectories to extend the Program into graduate studies in the respective Department.

Note: this program has deregulated fees, which are incurred after enrolment in the program. Please refer to Arts & Science Registration Instructions for more information.


Enrolment Requirements:

This is a limited enrolment program. Students must have completed 4.0 credits and meet the requirements listed below to enrol.

Variable Minimum Grade Average
A minimum grade average is needed for entry, and this minimum changes each year depending on available spaces and the number of applicants. The following courses must be completed:

To ensure that students admitted to the program will be successful, applicants with a grade average lower than 75% in these required courses will not be considered for admission. Please note that obtaining this minimum grade average does not guarantee admission to the program. While it is difficult to predict what will constitute a "competitive" grade average in a given year, based on previous years the estimate is =mid 80s.

Applications from students lacking a numerical grade in one of the specified prerequisites may be considered on the basis of their entire academic record and the availability of space in the program.

Students in this program have the option to request enrolment in the Arts & Science Internship Program (ASIP) stream. Students can apply for the ASIP stream after Year 1 (Year 2 entry) or after Year 2 (Year 3 entry, starting Fall 2024). Full details about ASIP, including student eligibility, selection and enrolment, are available in the ASIP section of the Arts & Science Academic Calendar. Please note that the majority of students enter ASIP in Fall term of Year 2. Space is more limited for Year 3 entry. Students applying for Year 3 entry must have been admitted to the Bioinformatics & Computational Biology Specialist in the Summer after Year 2.

Completion Requirements:

Specialist program:
(12.5 credits)

First or second year:
Foundational courses (5.0 credits total)
( MAT135H1, MAT136H1)/ MAT137Y1/​ MAT157Y1
( CSC108H1, CSC148H1)/ CSC110Y1
( CSC111H1/​ CSC165H1, CSC236H1)/ CSC240H1 (1)
CSC263H1/​ CSC265H1
( CHM135H1, CHM136H1)/ CHM151Y1
BIO130H1

Upper years:
Program requirements (7.5 credits total)
STA237H1/​ STA247H1/​ STA255H1/​ STA257H1
CSC207H1
CSC209H1
CSC373H1
BIO230H1/​ BIO255H1
BIO260H1/​ HMB265H1
( BCH210H1, ( BCH311H1/​ CSB349H1/​ MGY311Y1))/ BCH242Y1
BCH441H1/​ MGY441H1/​ CSB472H1
BCB330Y1
BCB410H1
BCB420H1
BCB430Y1

Students in this program have the option to complete the Arts & Science Internship Program (ASIP) stream

Notes:

BCB students are allowed to enrol in up to 2.5 CSC credits at the 300/400-level

Course substitutions are possible with written permission of the Program Director. Note that the requirements for a co-sponsoring Department’s major can normally be fulfilled with 0.5 to 3.5 additional credits. All Major programs in the co-sponsoring life science departments require BIO120H1, however, it is not formally a part of this Specialist Program's requirements.

(1) The "missing" 0.5 credit of the substitution does not have to be replaced. For details, please refer to the Computer Science Program instructions in this Calendar.

Former BCB students benefitted from taking CSB352H1, Bioinformatic Methods. They also found it to be helpful to take BCH441H1/​ MGY441H1 prior to BCB410H1 due to BCB410H1's R programming requirement.

Quantitative Biology Major (Science Program) - ASMAJ2368

Quantitative Biology Major (Science Program) - ASMAJ2368

The Quantitative Biology Major program (8.0 credits) is designed for students with a deep interest in biology who wish to gain a strong grounding in quantitative methods and their application to biological questions. More than ever, advancements in biology, from the molecular through the organismal to the ecosystem level, require quantitative thinking and skills along with a strong understanding of biological processes. Interdisciplinary research that draws from the natural sciences, mathematics, statistics and computer science, is an important aspect of modern biology. This major provides foundations in biology and quantitative approaches used to test and advance biological knowledge, and is appropriate for students who wish to pursue a career or graduate studies in a broad range of life sciences, ranging from biomedical to conservation to epidemiology.

The program is delivered through a mixture of classroom-learning and applied laboratory teaching, with an emphasis on understanding how quantitative methods inform our understanding of biology, and how they can be applied to test and develop new hypotheses. Students also have access to independent research opportunities that enhance professional skills, science communication, and the development and application of knowledge in quantitative biology.

Quantitative Biology Major students have priority enrollment in the EEB courses listed, but not in courses offered by other departments, such as STA, MAT, CSC, CSB and BCB. Students should be aware that some courses listed have prerequisites that are not listed below. For students intending to pursue graduate studies, it is strongly recommended that an independent research course such as EEB498Y1 be included as part of the Quantitative Biology major.

Enrolment Requirements:

This is a limited enrolment program. Students must have completed 4.0 credits and meet the requirements listed below to enrol.

Completed courses (with minimum grades)
The following courses with the stated minimum grades are required:

Completion Requirements:

(8.0 credits including at least 2.0 credits at the 300+ level, 0.5 of which must be at the 400 level)

First Year (2.5 credits):
BIO120H1, BIO130H1, EEB125H1/​ CSC108H1/​ CSC148H1/​ CSC110Y1, ( MAT135H1, MAT136H1)/ MAT137Y1/​ MAT157Y1

Higher Years (5.5 credits):

  1. 1.5 credits: BIO220H1, BIO230H1/​ BIO255H1, BIO260H1/​ HMB265H1
  2. 1.0 credit in introductory probability and statistics: EEB225H1, GGR270H1, PSY201H1, PSY202H1, STA220H1, STA221H1, STA237H1, STA238H1, STA247H1, STA248H1, STA255H1, STA257H1, STA261H1, STA288H1
  3. 0.5 credit in intermediate math: APM236H1, MAT221H1/​ MAT223H1, MAT224H1, MAT240H1, MAT237Y1, MAT247H1
  4. 1.0 credit from: CSB352H1, EEB319H1, EEB323H1, EEB324H1, EEB362H1, GGR337H1, GGR372H1, GGR373H1, PHY331H1
  5. 1.0 credit from: APM346H1, APM446H1, APM461H1, APM462H1, BCH441H1, CSB472H1, CSC311H1, CSC320H1, CSC336H1, CSC343H1, CSC373H1, CSC384H1, CSC401H1, CSC412H1, CSC413H1, CSC420H1, EEB313H1, EEB430H1, EEB458H1, EEB459H1, EEB460H1, EEB463H1, EEB498Y1, EEB499Y1, MAT332H1, MAT335H1, MAT344H1, MAT351Y1, MGY428H1, PHY431H1, PSY305H1, STA302H1, STA303H1, STA304H1, STA305H1, STA355H1, STA365H1, STA480H1
  6. 0.5 credit at 400 level from: BCB410H1, BCB420H1, BCH441H1, CSB435H1, CSB472H1, CSB498Y1, CSB499Y1, EEB430H1, EEB458H1, EEB459H1, EEB460H1, EEB463H1, EEB498Y1, EEB499Y1, PHY431H1, PSY474H1, STA480H1

Genome Biology Major (Science Program) - ASMAJ2655

Genome Biology Major (Science Program) - ASMAJ2655
Enrolment Requirements:

This is an open enrolment program. A student who has completed 4.0 credits may enrol in the program.

Students in this program have the option to request enrolment in the Arts & Science Internship Program (ASIP) stream. Students can apply for the ASIP stream after Year 1 (Year 2 entry) or after Year 2 (Year 3 entry, starting Fall 2024). Full details about ASIP, including student eligibility, selection and enrolment, are available in the ASIP section of the Arts & Science Academic Calendar. Please note that the majority of students enter ASIP in Fall term of Year 2. Space is more limited for Year 3 entry. Students applying for Year 3 entry must have been admitted to the Genome Biology Major in the Summer after Year 2.

Completion Requirements:

This program is a joint program of the departments of Cell & Systems Biology, Ecology & Evolutionary Biology, and Molecular Genetics. It is administered through the Department of Cell & Systems Biology.

(8.0 credits)

First year: BIO120H1, BIO130H1; ( CHM135H1, CHM136H1)/ CHM151Y1; ( MAT135H1, MAT136H1)/ MAT137Y1/​ MAT157Y1

Higher years:
1. BIO220H1, BIO230H1/​ BIO255H1; BIO260H1/​ HMB265H1; EEB225H1/​ STA220H1
2. Genomics fundamentals: BCH311H1/​ CSB349H1/​ MGY311Y1, CSB352H1; EEB323H1
3. 0.5 credit laboratory course from: CSB472H1, CSB474H1; EEB460H1
4. 1.0 credit genomics elective from: CSB330H1, CSB350H1, CSB397Y0, CSB427H1, CSB435H1, CSB450H1, CSB457H1, CSB458H1, CSB471H1, CSB473H1, CSB490H1, CSB491H1, CSB497H1/​ CSB498Y1/​ CSB499Y1; EEB362H1, EEB455H1, EEB458H1, EEB459H1, EEB462H1, EEB463H1, EEB397Y1/​ EEB497H1/​ EEB498Y1/​ EEB499Y1; EHJ352H1; MGY350H1, MGY360H1, MGY428H1, MGY470H1, MGY480Y1

NOTE: Students taking CSB397Y0, CSB490H1, CSB491H1, CSB497H1/​ CSB498Y1/​ CSB499Y1, EEB397Y1/​ EEB497H1/​ EEB498Y1/​ EEB499Y1 or MGY480Y1 are encouraged to conduct a genomics-related research project.

Students in this program have the option to complete the Arts & Science Internship Program (ASIP) stream.

Data Science in the Life Sciences

Bioinformatics and Computational Biology Specialist (Science Program) - ASSPE1868

Bioinformatics and Computational Biology Specialist (Science Program) - ASSPE1868

The genomic and post-genomic era brings opportunities for new insight into all aspects of biology and medicine, based on the computational analysis of very large datasets in a biological context. The Bioinformatics and Computational Biology Program is an interdepartmental, interdisciplinary Program of Study that balances computer-science and life-science courses towards that goal. As a Specialist Program it is designed to prepare students for graduate studies in the field.

The Program is formally administered by the Department of Cell and Systems Biology and co-sponsored by the Departments of Biochemistry, Computer Science, Ecology and Evolutionary Biology, and Molecular Genetics; all sponsoring Departments have clear trajectories to extend the Program into graduate studies in the respective Department.

Note: this program has deregulated fees, which are incurred after enrolment in the program. Please refer to Arts & Science Registration Instructions for more information.


Enrolment Requirements:

This is a limited enrolment program. Students must have completed 4.0 credits and meet the requirements listed below to enrol.

Variable Minimum Grade Average
A minimum grade average is needed for entry, and this minimum changes each year depending on available spaces and the number of applicants. The following courses must be completed:

To ensure that students admitted to the program will be successful, applicants with a grade average lower than 75% in these required courses will not be considered for admission. Please note that obtaining this minimum grade average does not guarantee admission to the program. While it is difficult to predict what will constitute a "competitive" grade average in a given year, based on previous years the estimate is =mid 80s.

Applications from students lacking a numerical grade in one of the specified prerequisites may be considered on the basis of their entire academic record and the availability of space in the program.

Students in this program have the option to request enrolment in the Arts & Science Internship Program (ASIP) stream. Students can apply for the ASIP stream after Year 1 (Year 2 entry) or after Year 2 (Year 3 entry, starting Fall 2024). Full details about ASIP, including student eligibility, selection and enrolment, are available in the ASIP section of the Arts & Science Academic Calendar. Please note that the majority of students enter ASIP in Fall term of Year 2. Space is more limited for Year 3 entry. Students applying for Year 3 entry must have been admitted to the Bioinformatics & Computational Biology Specialist in the Summer after Year 2.

Completion Requirements:

Specialist program:
(12.5 credits)

First or second year:
Foundational courses (5.0 credits total)
( MAT135H1, MAT136H1)/ MAT137Y1/​ MAT157Y1
( CSC108H1, CSC148H1)/ CSC110Y1
( CSC111H1/​ CSC165H1, CSC236H1)/ CSC240H1 (1)
CSC263H1/​ CSC265H1
( CHM135H1, CHM136H1)/ CHM151Y1
BIO130H1

Upper years:
Program requirements (7.5 credits total)
STA237H1/​ STA247H1/​ STA255H1/​ STA257H1
CSC207H1
CSC209H1
CSC373H1
BIO230H1/​ BIO255H1
BIO260H1/​ HMB265H1
( BCH210H1, ( BCH311H1/​ CSB349H1/​ MGY311Y1))/ BCH242Y1
BCH441H1/​ MGY441H1/​ CSB472H1
BCB330Y1
BCB410H1
BCB420H1
BCB430Y1

Students in this program have the option to complete the Arts & Science Internship Program (ASIP) stream

Notes:

BCB students are allowed to enrol in up to 2.5 CSC credits at the 300/400-level

Course substitutions are possible with written permission of the Program Director. Note that the requirements for a co-sponsoring Department’s major can normally be fulfilled with 0.5 to 3.5 additional credits. All Major programs in the co-sponsoring life science departments require BIO120H1, however, it is not formally a part of this Specialist Program's requirements.

(1) The "missing" 0.5 credit of the substitution does not have to be replaced. For details, please refer to the Computer Science Program instructions in this Calendar.

Former BCB students benefitted from taking CSB352H1, Bioinformatic Methods. They also found it to be helpful to take BCH441H1/​ MGY441H1 prior to BCB410H1 due to BCB410H1's R programming requirement.

Quantitative Biology Major (Science Program) - ASMAJ2368

Quantitative Biology Major (Science Program) - ASMAJ2368

The Quantitative Biology Major program (8.0 credits) is designed for students with a deep interest in biology who wish to gain a strong grounding in quantitative methods and their application to biological questions. More than ever, advancements in biology, from the molecular through the organismal to the ecosystem level, require quantitative thinking and skills along with a strong understanding of biological processes. Interdisciplinary research that draws from the natural sciences, mathematics, statistics and computer science, is an important aspect of modern biology. This major provides foundations in biology and quantitative approaches used to test and advance biological knowledge, and is appropriate for students who wish to pursue a career or graduate studies in a broad range of life sciences, ranging from biomedical to conservation to epidemiology.

The program is delivered through a mixture of classroom-learning and applied laboratory teaching, with an emphasis on understanding how quantitative methods inform our understanding of biology, and how they can be applied to test and develop new hypotheses. Students also have access to independent research opportunities that enhance professional skills, science communication, and the development and application of knowledge in quantitative biology.

Quantitative Biology Major students have priority enrollment in the EEB courses listed, but not in courses offered by other departments, such as STA, MAT, CSC, CSB and BCB. Students should be aware that some courses listed have prerequisites that are not listed below. For students intending to pursue graduate studies, it is strongly recommended that an independent research course such as EEB498Y1 be included as part of the Quantitative Biology major.

Enrolment Requirements:

This is a limited enrolment program. Students must have completed 4.0 credits and meet the requirements listed below to enrol.

Completed courses (with minimum grades)
The following courses with the stated minimum grades are required:

Completion Requirements:

(8.0 credits including at least 2.0 credits at the 300+ level, 0.5 of which must be at the 400 level)

First Year (2.5 credits):
BIO120H1, BIO130H1, EEB125H1/​ CSC108H1/​ CSC148H1/​ CSC110Y1, ( MAT135H1, MAT136H1)/ MAT137Y1/​ MAT157Y1

Higher Years (5.5 credits):

  1. 1.5 credits: BIO220H1, BIO230H1/​ BIO255H1, BIO260H1/​ HMB265H1
  2. 1.0 credit in introductory probability and statistics: EEB225H1, GGR270H1, PSY201H1, PSY202H1, STA220H1, STA221H1, STA237H1, STA238H1, STA247H1, STA248H1, STA255H1, STA257H1, STA261H1, STA288H1
  3. 0.5 credit in intermediate math: APM236H1, MAT221H1/​ MAT223H1, MAT224H1, MAT240H1, MAT237Y1, MAT247H1
  4. 1.0 credit from: CSB352H1, EEB319H1, EEB323H1, EEB324H1, EEB362H1, GGR337H1, GGR372H1, GGR373H1, PHY331H1
  5. 1.0 credit from: APM346H1, APM446H1, APM461H1, APM462H1, BCH441H1, CSB472H1, CSC311H1, CSC320H1, CSC336H1, CSC343H1, CSC373H1, CSC384H1, CSC401H1, CSC412H1, CSC413H1, CSC420H1, EEB313H1, EEB430H1, EEB458H1, EEB459H1, EEB460H1, EEB463H1, EEB498Y1, EEB499Y1, MAT332H1, MAT335H1, MAT344H1, MAT351Y1, MGY428H1, PHY431H1, PSY305H1, STA302H1, STA303H1, STA304H1, STA305H1, STA355H1, STA365H1, STA480H1
  6. 0.5 credit at 400 level from: BCB410H1, BCB420H1, BCH441H1, CSB435H1, CSB472H1, CSB498Y1, CSB499Y1, EEB430H1, EEB458H1, EEB459H1, EEB460H1, EEB463H1, EEB498Y1, EEB499Y1, PHY431H1, PSY474H1, STA480H1

Genome Biology Major (Science Program) - ASMAJ2655

Genome Biology Major (Science Program) - ASMAJ2655
Enrolment Requirements:

This is an open enrolment program. A student who has completed 4.0 credits may enrol in the program.

Students in this program have the option to request enrolment in the Arts & Science Internship Program (ASIP) stream. Students can apply for the ASIP stream after Year 1 (Year 2 entry) or after Year 2 (Year 3 entry, starting Fall 2024). Full details about ASIP, including student eligibility, selection and enrolment, are available in the ASIP section of the Arts & Science Academic Calendar. Please note that the majority of students enter ASIP in Fall term of Year 2. Space is more limited for Year 3 entry. Students applying for Year 3 entry must have been admitted to the Genome Biology Major in the Summer after Year 2.

Completion Requirements:

This program is a joint program of the departments of Cell & Systems Biology, Ecology & Evolutionary Biology, and Molecular Genetics. It is administered through the Department of Cell & Systems Biology.

(8.0 credits)

First year: BIO120H1, BIO130H1; ( CHM135H1, CHM136H1)/ CHM151Y1; ( MAT135H1, MAT136H1)/ MAT137Y1/​ MAT157Y1

Higher years:
1. BIO220H1, BIO230H1/​ BIO255H1; BIO260H1/​ HMB265H1; EEB225H1/​ STA220H1
2. Genomics fundamentals: BCH311H1/​ CSB349H1/​ MGY311Y1, CSB352H1; EEB323H1
3. 0.5 credit laboratory course from: CSB472H1, CSB474H1; EEB460H1
4. 1.0 credit genomics elective from: CSB330H1, CSB350H1, CSB397Y0, CSB427H1, CSB435H1, CSB450H1, CSB457H1, CSB458H1, CSB471H1, CSB473H1, CSB490H1, CSB491H1, CSB497H1/​ CSB498Y1/​ CSB499Y1; EEB362H1, EEB455H1, EEB458H1, EEB459H1, EEB462H1, EEB463H1, EEB397Y1/​ EEB497H1/​ EEB498Y1/​ EEB499Y1; EHJ352H1; MGY350H1, MGY360H1, MGY428H1, MGY470H1, MGY480Y1

NOTE: Students taking CSB397Y0, CSB490H1, CSB491H1, CSB497H1/​ CSB498Y1/​ CSB499Y1, EEB397Y1/​ EEB497H1/​ EEB498Y1/​ EEB499Y1 or MGY480Y1 are encouraged to conduct a genomics-related research project.

Students in this program have the option to complete the Arts & Science Internship Program (ASIP) stream.


 

Discipline-Specific Biology Programs within CSB and EEB:

In addition to the co-sponsored Biology programs, the Departments of Cell & Systems Biology and Ecology & Evolutionary Biology each administer Specialist, Major and Minor programs with particular disciplinary emphases within the biological sciences of the Faculty of Arts and Science, St. George campus. Discipline-specific Major or Minor programs may be paired with each other, with the general Biology Major or Minor programs, or with programs from other departments in accord with the University's degree requirements. Students may seek more information about programs and courses offered by CSB and EEB from their respective Calendar entries:

  • Cell & Systems Biology offers the Animal Physiology Major and Cell & Molecular Biology Major and Specialist programs
  • Ecology & Evolutionary Biology offers the Biodiversity & Conservation Biology Major, Ecology & Evolutionary Biology Major and Specialist, and Environmental Biology Major and Minor programs

 

Other Discipline-Specific Programs in the Life Sciences:

Inside and outside the Faculty of Arts and Science on the St. George campus, several departments administer Specialist, Major and Minor programs with particular disciplinary emphases within life sciences. Many of the Life Science programs are collaborative programs given by the Faculty of Arts and Science and departments in the Temerty Faculty of Medicine. Students requiring more information and course details are encouraged to visit the corresponding departmental websites and departmental Calendar entries. These additional Life Science departments and programs are listed in this Calendar:

 

Core Biology Courses

Courses with a BIO designation form core components of the biology curriculum and are taught by instructors from the Departments of Cell & Systems Biology and Ecology & Evolutionary Biology. These core courses include BIO120H1 and BIO130H1 as well as BIO220H1 and BIO230H1 that are required for most life sciences programs at the University of Toronto.

The Departments of Cell & Systems Biology and Ecology & Evolutionary Biology together also offer over 100 courses in biology from the 200-level to the 400-level, which contribute to the course requirements and electives for the co-sponsored Biology programs. Topics range from animal behaviour, biodiversity, bioinformatics, cell and molecular biology, conservation and environmental biology, developmental biology, ecology, evolutionary biology, genetics, genome biology, neurobiology, plant biology, and physiology. They include course formats as small-class seminars, bench lab practicals, field excursions, computer labs, and individualized research experiences with research professors. These courses use designations CSB or EEB, as well as some collaborative course codes administered by these departments. Students are encouraged to view the full list of courses from these departments on their respective Calendar entries:

 

Biology Courses

BIO120H1 - Adaptation and Biodiversity

Hours: 24L/15P

Principles and concepts of evolution and ecology related to origins of adaptation and biodiversity. Mechanisms and processes driving biological diversification illustrated from various perspectives using empirical and theoretical approaches. Topics include: genetic diversity, natural selection, speciation, physiological, population, and community ecology, maintenance of species diversity, conservation, species extinction, global environmental change, and invasion biology. A lab coat is required. (Lab Materials Fee: $26)

Prerequisite: Grade 12 Biology or equivalent. Students without high school Biology must consult the BIO120 Office (bio120@utoronto.ca)
Breadth Requirements: Living Things and Their Environment (4)

BIO130H1 - Molecular and Cell Biology

Hours: 36L/15P

One of the goals of modern biology is to understand how the basic building blocks of life give rise to biological form and function. This course provides students with a common lexicon to understand the key principles and concepts in molecular and cell biology, with a focus on how the building blocks of life lead to functioning cells. (Lab Materials Fee: approximately $11). Lab coat and safety glasses are required for use in laboratories; students are responsible for purchasing these items (approximate cost is $26).

Prerequisite: SBI4U and SCH4U (Grade 12 University Preparation Biology and Chemistry) or permission of department. Please contact bio130@utoronto.ca for more information.
Exclusion:
Breadth Requirements: Living Things and Their Environment (4)

BIO220H1 - From Genomes to Ecosystems in a Changing World

Hours: 24L/15P

Dynamics of genetic and ecological change in biological systems, from genomes to ecosystems. Evolutionary genetic and ecological perspectives on wide-ranging topics including disease, aging, sexual conflict, genetics of human differences, conservation, and global climate change. Applications of evolutionary, ecological, and molecular-genetic principles and processes. Responsibilities of human societies in a changing world. (Lab Materials Fee: $26).

Prerequisite: BIO120H1
Recommended Preparation: BIO130H1, BIO230H1
Breadth Requirements: Living Things and Their Environment (4)

BIO230H1 - From Genes to Organisms

Hours: 36L/15P

The genome is the "book of life," providing instructions to construct an organism. This course introduces genome biology and explores how the building blocks of life are networked into functioning organisms. We will investigate how cells perceive internal and external cues, how gene expression is shaped by this perception, and how these events give rise to tissues, organs, and whole organisms. (Lab Materials Fee: approximately $16). Lab coat and safety glasses are required for use in laboratories; students are responsible for purchasing these items (approximate cost is $26).

Prerequisite: BIO130H1, ( CHM135H1, CHM136H1)/( CHM138H1, CHM139H1)/ CHM151Y1
Exclusion: BIO255H1
Breadth Requirements: Living Things and Their Environment (4)

BIO251H1 - Form, Function and Development in Plants

Hours: 24L/12T

This course is an introduction to structure, function and ecology of vegetative and reproductive processes in plants with a focus on flowering plants and gymnosperms. Topics of study in lecture and laboratory tutorials include photosynthesis, transport processes, plant reproduction, patterns of plant growth and development, and the role of hormones in plant development.

Prerequisite: BIO120H1
Breadth Requirements: Living Things and Their Environment (4)

BIO255H1 - From Genes to Organisms with Advanced Laboratory

Hours: 36L/33P

The genome is the "book of life," providing instructions to construct an organism. This course introduces genome biology and explores how the building blocks of life are networked into functioning organisms. We will investigate how cells perceive internal and external cues, how gene expression is shaped by this perception, and how these events give rise to tissues, organs, and whole organisms. The Enhanced Laboratory provides the opportunity for greater laboratory skill development in modern investigative techniques and is intended for students interested in conducting their own laboratory research. (Lab Materials Fee: $52). Lab coat and safety glasses are required for use in laboratories; students are responsible for purchasing these items (approximate cost is $26).

Prerequisite: BIO130H1, ( CHM135H1, CHM136H1)/( CHM138H1, CHM139H1)/ CHM151Y1, cGPA 3.0
Exclusion: BIO230H1
Recommended Preparation: BCH210H1 (taken concurrently or previously)
Breadth Requirements: Living Things and Their Environment (4)

BIO260H1 - Concepts in Genetics

Hours: 48L/12T

This is a problem based course which discusses classical, molecular, developmental, and population genetics and genomics with emphasis on model organisms for genetic analysis.

Prerequisite: BIO230H1/ BIO255H1
Exclusion: HMB265H1
Breadth Requirements: Living Things and Their Environment (4)

BIO270H1 - Animal Physiology I

Hours: 24L/9P

Animal physiology is a biological sub-discipline that aims to understand, in physical and chemical terms, how animals work. This course uses examples from throughout the animal kingdom, in a comparative approach, to introduce and study homeostasis and the endocrine system. Accompanying laboratories reinforce concepts introduced in lectures and provide opportunities for students to experience firsthand the role that experimentation, data collection, interpretation of data, and communication of data plays in the nature of the scientific process. (Lab Materials Fee: approximately $11). Lab coat and safety glasses are required for use in laboratories; students are responsible for purchasing these items (approximate cost is $26).

Prerequisite: BIO130H1
Breadth Requirements: Living Things and Their Environment (4)

BIO271H1 - Animal Physiology II

Hours: 24L/9P

Animal physiology is a biological sub-discipline that aims to understand, in physical and chemical terms, how animals work. This course uses examples from throughout the animal kingdom in a comparative approach to introduce and study the nervous and cardiorespiratory systems. Accompanying laboratories reinforce concepts introduced in lectures and provide opportunities for students to experience firsthand the role that experimentation, data collection, interpretation of data, and communication of data plays in the nature of the scientific process. (Lab Materials Fee: approximately $11). Lab coat and safety glasses are required for use in laboratories; students are responsible for purchasing these items (approximate cost is $26).

Prerequisite: BIO270H1
Breadth Requirements: Living Things and Their Environment (4)

Printer-friendly Version