Life Sciences

McMaster University

Biology and Life Science: blue ink subject illustration

Paid co-op on eligible upper-year routes
Work experience
Paid co-op on eligible upper-year routes
McMaster Faculty of Science paid co-op pathways
~Mid 90s
Entering average
Published approximate guidance: Mid 90s. Guidance checked November 2026. Anticipated admission average for first-year Life Sciences Gateway. Later specialization has separate requirements.
McMaster Life Sciences Gateway: anticipated admission average

Deadlines

November 2026

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Next deadlineThursday, November 19, 2026

OUAC. Ontario high schools report midterm/final 4U/M grades
2027 entry
School deadline, not a student task. Universities receive these grades by November 26. Verbatim: "Deadline for the OUAC to receive all midterm or final grades available for 4U/M courses from Ontario high schools. Schools may report in-progress grades for full-year courses as soon as they are available." Universities receive these by the target date of November 26, 2026. This is a deadline on the high school, not on the student, but it governs which grades a university sees in the first round.
Official deadline

Other deadline details

No single OUAC deadline, deadlines are set by each university and sometimes by programOUAC Undergraduate application, applicants who are not Ontario high school students (Group B)2026 entry

No single OUAC deadline, deadlines are set by each university and sometimes by program
No single OUAC deadline
University, program, transcript, portfolio, interview, and audition dates still apply

Full source wording

Verbatim: "There is no specific Undergraduate application deadline if you are a Group B applicant. Deadlines vary at each university and sometimes depend on the program. Visit the university websites or contact the universities directly for their deadlines. If you are interested in a program but the deadline has passed, you may contact the university's admission office for help. Be aware of university-specific deadlines for submitting transcripts and portfolios, if required, and for arranging interviews and auditions. You must ensure the OUAC has enough time to process your choices before the universities' program deadlines." OUAC defines Group B as anyone who does not meet the Group A criteria, e.g. not currently taking an Ontario high school course, a Canadian outside Ontario, an international applicant, a postsecondary transfer student, or a mature applicant.

SourceChecked Aug 14, 2026

Requirements

Admission requirements

High-school prerequisites

ENG4UEnglish
SBI4UBiology
MHF4U / MCV4UAdvanced Functions or Calculus and Vectors
One additional, distinct course from MHF4U, MCV4U, SCH4U or SPH4U

Ontario Secondary School Diploma and six Grade 12 U or M courses, including the prerequisites.
Applicants without Grade 12 Calculus and Vectors must complete calculus in Level I.

Application steps

Entry terms · Fall

September 2027 first-year entry through OUAC code MLS.

Step 1Check the admission requirements
- Check the published entry route for your applicant category.
McMaster Fall 2027 admission selector for Ontario high-school applicantsMcMaster Fall 2027 admission selector for Ontario high-school applicants
Step 2Apply through OUAC
- Create your application and select this program.
OUACOUAC
Step 3Academic documents for your applicant category
- Canadian high school applicants outside Ontario upload the requested records to the Applicant Portal. Uploaded records can support initial review; accepted conditional offers require final official transcripts. Current Ontario high school applicants follow the separate instructions rather than sending unrequested records.
McMaster transcripts and documentsMcMaster transcripts and documents
Step 4English test results, if required
- When English proficiency evidence is required, IELTS, TOEFL and other accepted test results must come directly from the testing centre.
McMaster direct submission of language resultsMcMaster direct submission of language results
Step 5Apply through OUAC to the appropriate first-year entry programme or gateway; submit the required academic records.
- Complete this item using the university’s applicant instructions.
McMaster Fall 2027 admission selector for Ontario high-school applicantsMcMaster Fall 2027 admission selector for Ontario high-school applicants

Applicant pathways

Life Sciences Gateway: Prerequisites

Ontario high-school applicants entering Life Sciences Gateway (MLS) in 2027/28. Applies only to the named entry route; later major declaration is separate.

English 4U
1 of Advanced Functions 4U, Calculus & Vectors 4U
Biology 4U
1 of Advanced Functions 4U, Calculus & Vectors 4U, Chemistry 4U, Physics 4U
Applicants without Calculus & Vectors 4U will be required to take an equivalent Calculus course in Level I.

Life Sciences Gateway: Additional Admission Criteria

Ontario high-school applicants entering Life Sciences Gateway (MLS) in 2027/28. Applies only to the named entry route; later major declaration is separate.

OUAC Application Deadline: April 1, 2027 *Some programs may stay open beyond this deadline, depending on capacity. It is recommended to apply as soon as possible.

Life Sciences Gateway: Basic Requirements for Admission

Ontario high-school applicants entering Life Sciences Gateway (MLS) in 2027/28. Applies only to the named entry route; later major declaration is separate.

If you have 6 Grade 12 U/M (4U/M) midterm grades or 3 final Grade 12 U/M (4U/M) grades, you will be considered for admission on a rolling basis beginning in February 2027. To be eligible, you must have 6 Grade 12 U/M courses, completed or in progress, including any program-specific requirements. Your application will be reviewed again once your second-semester midterm grades are received.
Note: Co-op courses are not included in any admission or final admission average calculations.
Admission to all programs requires the completion of English (ENG4U).

Life Sciences Gateway: Timing and Process for Admission Decisions

Ontario high-school applicants entering Life Sciences Gateway (MLS) in 2027/28. Applies only to the named entry route; later major declaration is separate.

Be sure to check the university's Admission Tool for information and updates about the admission process, estimated cut-offs, enrollment targets, application deadlines and more. McMaster will begin making offers of admission at the end of February until early May on a rolling basis, based on a minimum of 3 final 4U/M grades and registration in sufficient 4U/M courses to a total of 6; or 6 interim and/or final 4U/M grades, including any required courses.
All offers are conditional upon completing the OSSD with at least six 4U/M courses and an acceptable final admission average, which will be specified in the offer of admission.
Most offers to the By-Selection Programs will be made in May. All of these programs require supplementary application information (except Midwifery, where an interview is part of the application process). Contact McMaster for details about application deadlines, timing of offers and more.
We do not automatically make alternative offers of admission. Instead, we encourage you to apply to all of the McMaster programs you are interested in (up to 3). We will give full consideration to each program selection.
We may not accept your application if you do not pay the OUAC application fee by the program deadline date.
Level II program options

Ontario course formats and repeated-course review

Ontario high-school applicants; exact programme prerequisites remain controlling

Summer school, online, night and correspondence courses from a Ministry-accredited institution can be used without penalty. Summer courses immediately before September entry cannot be used for that admission.
For up to two repeated courses, the highest reported mark is used. More than two repeated courses, or one course taken three or more times, may require an explanatory letter. Courses completed after June30 immediately before Fall intake are excluded from that admission calculation. No held programme average is changed.

McMaster English Language Diploma alternative

Ontario applicants who do not meet the published English-proficiency requirement

The Ontario applicant page directs an applicant who does not meet English proficiency to consider changing the OUAC programme choice to the McMaster English Language Diploma (MELD). MELD is a separate choice with its own requirements; this is not a waiver or a promise of entry into every held bachelor programme.

Degree requirements

Credits and degree requirements

Choose the recommended 30 Level I units for the intended major. Without Grade 12 Calculus and Vectors, complete MATH 1F03. Without Grade 12 Chemistry, CHEM 1R03 is the prerequisite for CHEM 1A03.
Honours Life Sciences requires 120 units with no more than 48 at Level I.

References

Program facts

Entering average~Mid 90s

Anticipated admission average for first-year Life Sciences Gateway. Later specialization has separate requirements.

Co-opPaid co-op on eligible upper-year routes

Honours Life Sciences co-op admits eligible students after Level II and schedules four work terms across Levels III–V. The Origins of Disease and Sensory Motor Systems specializations do not offer this co-op option.

Check work experience options

Majors & specializations

MLS is a one-year gateway. Students rank eligible Level II programs after first year. Honours Life Sciences, Psychology, Neuroscience and Behaviour and other majors each have their own requirements.

Biology

BSc

Study living systems and select courses in areas such as cells, genetics, physiology and biodiversity.

Published requirements Published courses

Courses

Separate study choices within this entry program. Each course block belongs to its named choice; it is not required of every student in the degree.

Life Sciences115 listed

Named courses in the selected current requirements and choice menus. Alternatives are included; not every listed course is mandatory. The PDF is the university’s abridged advising edition. Life Sciences Gateway:30 recommended first-year units selected for the intended Level II programme. Honours Life Sciences:120 units; no more than 48 units at Level I. Choose the recommended 30 Level I units for the intended major. Without Grade 12 Calculus and Vectors, complete MATH 1F03. Without Grade 12 Chemistry, CHEM 1R03 is the prerequisite for CHEM 1A03. Honours Life Sciences requires 120 units with no more than 48 at Level I.

MATH 1F03INTRODUCTION TO CALCULUS AND ANALYTIC GEOMETRY3 credits
Learn differential calculus and vector geometry, including exponential and trigonometric functions.
CHEM 1R03GENERAL CHEMISTRY3 credits
Learn introductory chemistry without requiring Grade 12 chemistry.
CHEM 1A03INTRODUCTORY CHEMISTRY I3 credits
Explore bonding, chemical reactions and energy, with laboratory applications.
WHMIS 1A00INTRODUCTION TO HEALTH AND SAFETY0 credits
Complete training in laboratory safety practices and hazardous-materials information.
BIOSAFE 1BS0BIOSAFETY TRAINING0 credits
Complete biosafety training for work with bacteria, cell lines and biological materials.
BIOLOGY 1A01CELLULAR AND MOLECULAR BIOLOGY - LABORATORY SKILL DEVELOPMENT1 credits
Use laboratory methods to examine cell structure, molecular composition and function.
BIOLOGY 1A03CELLULAR AND MOLECULAR BIOLOGY3 credits
Explore cell structures, their molecular components and how they function.
BIOLOGY 1A02FOUNDATIONS AND APPLICATIONS OF CELLULAR AND MOLECULAR BIOLOGY2 credits
Study how molecules and cellular structures support biological functions.
BIOLOGY 1M03BIODIVERSITY, EVOLUTION AND HUMANITY3 credits
Study evolution, ecology and the diversity of living organisms.
PSYCH 1F03SURVEY OF PSYCHOLOGY3 credits
Explore psychological research methods, questions and major subject areas as an elective.
PSYCH 1FF3SURVEY OF BIOLOGICAL BASIS OF PSYCHOLOGY3 credits
Explore sensory systems and survival-related behaviour as an introductory psychology elective.
PSYCH 1X03INTRODUCTION TO PSYCHOLOGY, NEUROSCIENCE & BEHAVIOUR3 credits
Study scientific approaches to higher-order psychological processes and interpersonal behaviour.
PSYCH 1XX3FOUNDATIONS OF PSYCHOLOGY, NEUROSCIENCE & BEHAVIOUR3 credits
Explore sensory systems and behaviours important to survival in psychology and neuroscience.
MATH 1A03CALCULUS FOR SCIENCE I3 credits
Learn calculus for science, including derivatives, optimisation and integration.
MATH 1LS3CALCULUS FOR THE LIFE SCIENCES I3 credits
Apply calculus, differential equations and dynamical systems to life-science problems.
PHYSICS 1A03INTRODUCTORY PHYSICS3 credits
Study forces, energy, mechanics, waves and fluids through scientific applications.
PHYSICS 1C03PHYSICS FOR THE CHEMICAL AND PHYSICAL SCIENCES3 credits
Explore linear mechanics, conservation laws, harmonic motion and fluids using calculus.
PHYSICS 1V03INTRODUCTORY PHYSICS3 credits
Study forces, energy, mechanics, waves and fluids through online teaching and laboratories.
EARTHSC 1G03EARTH AND THE ENVIRONMENT3 credits
Explore Earth's materials, plate tectonics and environmental processes, with field trips.
ENVIRSC 1C03CLIMATE, WATER AND ENVIRONMENT3 credits
Explore sustainability and environmental issues through soil, climate and water science.
BIOLOGY 2C03GENETICS3 credits
Explore gene structure, inheritance, chromosome function and genetic mapping.
MOLBIOL 2C03GENETICS3 credits
Study gene structure, inheritance, chromosome function and genetic mapping.
LIFESCI 3RP3LIFE SCIENCES RESEARCH PRACTICUM3 credits
Explore a supervised research project through laboratory, field or literature work.
LIFESCI 4A03LIFE SCIENCES ADVANCED RESEARCH PRACTICUM3 credits
Complete a supervised research practicum using laboratory, field or literature methods.
SCICOMM 4A03INDEPENDENT PROJECT IN SCIENCE COMMUNICATION3 credits
Complete a supervised research or creative project in science communication.
LIFESCI 4CM3FOUNDATIONS OF DISEASE STATES INQUIRY LAB3 credits
Use laboratory inquiry to study behavioural, cellular and molecular aspects of human disease.
LIFESCI 4XX3THE SYNAPSE3 credits
Investigate synaptic transmission and its roles in sensation, memory and disease.
LIFESCI 4Z03ADVANCED INQUIRY IN THE LIFE SCIENCES3 credits
Investigate a life-science topic through literature, data analysis and collaborative scientific communication.
LIFESCI 3P03COMMUNICATING SCIENCE FOR PUBLIC AUDIENCES3 credits
Create inclusive science communication for different audiences, purposes and settings.
LIFESCI 3PP3COMMUNICATING SCIENCE FOR PROFESSIONAL AUDIENCES3 credits
Communicate science for professional audiences and examine its influence on public perceptions.
SUSTAIN 3SS3COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT AND PROTOTYPING FOR SUSTAINABILITY3 credits
Collaborate with community partners on initiatives for more sustainable cities.
LIFESCI 3AA3HUMAN PATHOPHYSIOLOGY3 credits
Trace physiological changes from healthy tissues to disease and its management.
LIFESCI 3BB3NEUROBIOLOGY OF DISEASE3 credits
Explore cellular and system-level mechanisms of nervous-system disease.
LIFESCI 3BP3MODELLING LIFE3 credits
Build computational models that connect life-science hypotheses with experimental questions.
LIFESCI 3E03REPRODUCTIVE ENDOCRINOLOGY3 credits
Explore human reproductive behaviour through endocrinology, evolution and science communication.
LIFESCI 3G03INTRODUCTION TO EPIDEMIOLOGY3 credits
Study epidemiology, clinical study design, disease-risk measures and diagnostic testing.
LIFESCI 3J03HUMAN BIOMECHANICS3 credits
Apply mechanical principles to the human musculoskeletal system.
LIFESCI 3K03NEURAL CONTROL OF HUMAN MOVEMENT3 credits
Explore movement control through neurophysiology, cognition and dynamical systems.
LIFESCI 3M03CELLULAR DYNAMICS IN HEALTH AND DISEASE3 credits
Explore cellular responses to biochemical and physical signals using cell-biology methods.
LIFESCI 3N03HUMAN NUTRITIONAL TOXICOLOGY3 credits
Examine metal toxicity and environmental, social and political factors affecting exposure.
LIFESCI 3Q03GLOBAL HUMAN HEALTH AND DISEASE3 credits
Investigate global-health threats through disease mechanisms, social factors and science communication.
LIFESCI 3RC3RADIOISOTOPES IN MEDICINE3 credits
Study radioisotopes and radiotracers in research, diagnosis and treatment.
LIFESCI 3W03GENETIC AND EPIGENETIC DETERMINANTS OF HEALTH: ROLE IN HEALTH DISPARITY3 credits
Study genetic and epigenetic influences on health disparities through cases and current research.
LIFESCI 3Z03LIFE SCIENCES INQUIRY3 credits
Explore selected life-science subjects through small-group study.
BIOLOGY 3B03PLANT PHYSIOLOGY3 credits
Study plant physiology, photosynthesis, mineral nutrition and water transport.
BIOLOGY 3JJ3FIELD METHODS IN ECOLOGY3 credits
Use field laboratories and data analysis to study ecological systems.
BIOLOGY 3U03ANIMAL PHYSIOLOGY - HOMEOSTASIS3 credits
Study respiration, circulation, acid-base regulation and kidney function.
LIFESCI 3L03LABORATORY METHODS IN LIFE SCIENCES3 credits
Develop experimental design, research, data-analysis and scientific-communication skills.
LIFESCI 3LA3INTRODUCTION TO DATA LITERACY3 credits
Collect, organise, visualise and analyse complex scientific datasets.
LIFESCI 3LL3LIVING SYSTEMS LABORATORY PRACTICUM3 credits
Explore selected life-science topics through small-group laboratory study.
LIFESCI 3LX3APPLIED BIOSTATISTICS AND SCIENTIFIC WRITING3 credits
Develop a research question, apply biostatistics and write a scientific manuscript.
MOLBIOL 3D03EXPERIMENTAL APPROACHES IN CELL BIOLOGY3 credits
Investigate cellular and molecular biology through laboratory inquiry and research techniques.
MOLBIOL 3M03FUNDAMENTAL CONCEPTS OF DEVELOPMENT3 credits
Explore genetic and molecular advances through classical experiments and animal model systems.
CMTYENGA 2MC3DESIGN AND CREATION OF ENGAGED LEARNING FOR COMMUNITY YOUTH3 credits
Design interactive learning workshops for young people through community-engagement practice.
CMTYENGA 2MD3COMMUNITY-BASED LEARNING WITH MCMASTER CHILDREN AND YOUTH UNIVERSITY3 credits
Deliver inquiry-based workshops for Hamilton youth and practise research communication and leadership.
CMTYENGA 4A06SEMESTER AT CITYLAB: DESIGN AND DIALOGUE INQUIRY6 credits
Develop design, dialogue and project-management skills through Hamilton's CityLAB challenges.
CMTYENGA 4A09SEMESTER AT CITYLAB: APPLIED PROJECT EXPERIENCE9 credits
Apply interdisciplinary teamwork to real CityLAB projects with city staff and community partners.
EXPLORE 3IS3INTERDISCIPLINARY SCIENCE FIELD CAMP3 credits
Practise ecological, Earth and environmental field-investigation methods during an interdisciplinary field camp.
HTHSCI 3DM3DEMYSTIFYING MEDICINE3 credits
Explore clinical research and create educational materials for patients and the public.
HTHSCI 4ID3INNOVATION BY DESIGN I3 credits
Use interdisciplinary design thinking to investigate health challenges and prototype solutions.
HTHSCI 4LA3INNOVATION BY DESIGN II3 credits
Explore strategic foresight and develop plausible future health scenarios in interdisciplinary teams.
LIFESCI 3EP3LIFE SCIENCES APPLIED PLACEMENT3 credits
Combine academic study with a supervised community, volunteer or professional placement.
LIFESCI 3XX3PEER MENTORING3 credits
Learn peer-mentorship methods and apply them while supporting junior science students.
LIFESCI 4B09INDEPENDENT THESIS9 credits
Conduct an independent research study with faculty supervision.
LIFESCI 4C12INDEPENDENT THESIS2 credits
Complete an independent supervised thesis project.
LIFESCI 4D15INDEPENDENT THESIS5 credits
Complete an independent thesis under faculty supervision.
LIFESCI 4EP6LIFE SCIENCES ADVANCED PLACEMENT6 credits
Integrate academic study with a supervised community, volunteer or professional placement.
PSYCH 2NF3CLINICAL NEUROPSYCHOLOGY3 credits
Explore clinical neuropsychology through brain anatomy, damage case histories and assessment methods.
SCIENCE 2A03PEER MENTORING IN SCIENCE3 credits
Develop mentorship, leadership, reflection and communication through theory and practical peer support.
SUSTAIN 3S03IMPLEMENTING SUSTAINABLE CHANGE3 credits
Explore sustainability leadership and strategy through interdisciplinary study and community projects.
ASTRON 2B03THE BIG QUESTIONS3 credits
Explore the origins of space-time, elements, stars, planets and galaxies.
BIOPHYS 2A03BIOPHYSICS OF THE CELL AND LIVING ORGANISMS3 credits
Explore physical methods for studying molecules, cells and biological processes.
CHALLENG 2CC3CRITICAL CHALLENGES FOR HUMANITY3 credits
Examine scientific and social responses to challenges such as climate change, AI and warfare.
CHEM 2BC3MAKING CHEMISTRY MORE SUSTAINABLE3 credits
Explore sustainable chemistry while developing scientific literature, writing and presentation skills.
CHEMBIO 2A03INTRODUCTION TO BIO-ANALYTICAL CHEMISTRY3 credits
Analyse biological samples using quantitative chemistry, spectroscopy and chromatography.
DATASCI 2G03SCIENTIFIC COMPUTING3 credits
Learn C/C++ scientific programming under Linux through a research project.
EARTHSC 2E03EARTH HISTORY3 credits
Study Earth's geological history and evidence for the evolution of marine life.
ENGLISH 3NH3NARRATIVES OF HEALTH3 credits
Analyse representations of health through literary, cultural and interdisciplinary critical approaches.
ENVIRSC 2B03SOILS AND THE ENVIRONMENT3 credits
Study soil properties and their implications for land use and environmental change.
ENVSOCTY 2EI3ENVIRONMENT & SOCIETY: CHALLENGES AND SOLUTIONS3 credits
Compare approaches to environmental problems at local, national and global scales.
HLTHAGE 3D03PERSPECTIVES ON DISABILITY, CHRONIC ILLNESS AND AGING3 credits
Explore disability, chronic illness and ageing through research, policy and practice perspectives.
HTHSCI 2G03STATISTICS & EPIDEMIOLOGY 13 credits
Learn epidemiological study design, health measurement, statistical analysis and sources of bias.
HISTORY 3CH3CLIMATE HISTORY3 credits
Examine how natural and technological disasters have shaped societies and historical understanding.
INSPIRE 3MP3A WORLD OF BIG QUESTIONS AND MULTIPLE PERSPECTIVES3 credits
Explore how academic evidence, history, controversy and perspectives shape knowledge across disciplines.
KINESIOL 2X03HUMAN ANATOMY AND PHYSIOLOGY I3 credits
Explore tissue development and nervous, skeletal and muscular anatomy through online learning.
MATH 2UU3NUMBERS FOR LIFE3 credits
Develop quantitative reasoning and problem-solving for everyday, social and environmental questions.
MEDPHYS 4B03RADIOACTIVITY AND RADIATION IN MEDICAL PHYSICS3 credits
Study radiation physics in medical imaging, cancer treatment, dosimetry and protection.
MEDRADSC 3X03RESEARCH METHODS IN MEDICAL RADIATION SCIENCES3 credits
Develop clinical-research methods and critically evaluate medical-radiation literature.
NEUROSCI 3J03VISUAL NEUROSCIENCE3 credits
Use clinical cases to explore genetic and environmental influences on the visual system.
NEXUS 2A03IMPACT OF INFECTIOUS DISEASE ON INDIVIDUALS AND SOCIETY3 credits
Examine the health, social and economic impacts of infectious disease and barriers to eradication.
LIFESCI 4DD3RACISM & HEALTH INEQUITIES IN SCIENCE & HEALTH CARE3 credits
Explore how racism and bias have shaped scientific thought, medicine and access to health care.
LIFESCI 4E03SCIENCE & STORYTELLING3 credits
Use storytelling to communicate science across cultures and audiences.
LIFESCI 4F03EMERGING PARADIGMS IN ENVIRONMENTAL CHANGE AND HEALTH3 credits
Investigate advanced topics linking environmental change with human health.
LIFESCI 4H03REGENERATION: WHAT CAN WE LEARN FROM ANIMAL MODELS?3 credits
Explore molecular mechanisms of regeneration and current methods for studying them.
LIFESCI 4I03RESEARCH SEMINAR3 credits
Investigate selected advanced life-science topics through seminar discussions.
LIFESCI 4J03SCIENCE COMMUNICATION IN THE MEDIA3 credits
Analyse media portrayals of science and produce evidence-based scientific reporting.
LIFESCI 4L03OUR INVISIBLE BODY: MICROBES AND HUMAN HEALTH3 credits
Explore microbes in the human body and their roles in health and disease.
LIFESCI 4M03RESEARCH SEMINAR3 credits
Explore selected advanced life-science topics in a small-group seminar.
LIFESCI 4N03RESEARCH SEMINAR3 credits
Explore selected advanced life-science topics in a small-group seminar.
LIFESCI 4O03RESEARCH SEMINAR3 credits
Explore selected advanced life-science topics in a small-group seminar.
LIFESCI 4P03ANCIENT SCIENTIFIC LITERATURE3 credits
Investigate early scientific activity and how language, culture and society shaped it.
LIFESCI 4Q03RESEARCH SEMINAR3 credits
Explore selected advanced life-science topics in a small-group seminar.
LIFESCI 4U03MECHANISMS OF DISEASE3 credits
Study disease mechanisms, cellular miscommunication and the design of targeted treatments.
LIFESCI 4W03ADVANCED TOPICS IN NUTRITION3 credits
Explore clinical uses of nutrition in disease prevention, management and different life stages.
LIFESCI 4X03THE BIOPSYCHOLOGY OF SEX3 credits
Explore reproductive and hormonal health across the lifespan through neuroscience and behaviour.
LIFESCI 4Y03APPLIED BIOMECHANICS3 credits
Apply biomechanics to occupational, clinical and sporting movement problems.
LIFESCI 2A03RESEARCH METHODS IN LIFE SCIENCES3 credits
Practise scientific investigation, hypothesis testing, data interpretation and research communication.
LIFESCI 2L03LIVING SYSTEMS LABORATORY3 credits
Use experimental methods and model organisms to investigate human-health research questions.
SCICOMM 2A03FOUNDATIONS IN SCIENCE COMMUNICATION3 credits
Practise written, visual and oral science communication for different audiences.
STATS 2B03STATISTICAL METHODS FOR SCIENCE3 credits
Apply inferential statistics to environmental and life-science data using statistical software.
BIOLOGY 2B03CELL BIOLOGY3 credits
Study cell structure, transport, signalling and specialised cell functions.
LIFESCI 2CC3FUNDAMENTALS OF NEUROSCIENCE3 credits
Explore neural signalling, synapses, neurotransmitters and nervous-system development through case studies.
LIFESCI 2D03BEHAVIOURAL PROCESSES3 credits
Examine how selection pressures shape human and animal behaviour.
LIFESCI 2N03HUMAN NUTRITION FOR LIFE SCIENCES3 credits
Study how nutrients interact with physiology to influence health and disease risk.
LIFESCI 2X03ENVIRONMENTAL CHANGE AND HUMAN HEALTH3 credits
Explore links between environmental change and human health through case studies.

Psychology, Neuroscience & Behaviour45 listed

Current PNB department course menu plus published BSc entry-course choices after Level I. The BSc specialization begins after a Level I programme; these alternatives are not one mandatory first-year timetable. The calendar is the university’s 2026/27 abridged advising edition. Honours PNB BSc: 120 units total, with no more than 48 at Level I. Level I is 30 units; the remaining Science I choices and electives must fit the intended programme.

PNB 2A03PYTHON FOR PNB3 credits
Use Python for experimental-psychology data analysis, plotting and task automation.
PNB 2QQ3INTRODUCTORY INDEPENDENT RESEARCH3 credits
Participate in supervised research projects in a PNB laboratory.
PNB 2XA3HUMAN PERCEPTION & COGNITION3 credits
Explore how people sense, perceive, evaluate and act on the world.
PNB 2XB3NEUROANATOMY & NEUROPHYSIOLOGY3 credits
Study neurons and the neural circuits supporting sensation and movement.
PNB 2XC3ANIMAL BEHAVIOUR & EVOLUTION3 credits
Explore shared animal behaviours through evolution, genetics and cognition.
PNB 2XD3INTEGRATIVE PNB THROUGH SCIENTIFIC WRITING3 credits
Connect psychology, neuroscience and behaviour topics while developing scientific writing skills.
PNB 2XE3DESCRIPTIVE STATISTICS AND RESEARCH METHODS3 credits
Learn experimental design, statistical description and data visualisation using software.
PNB 2XF3PERSPECTIVES IN PNB3 credits
Read and discuss scientific papers and attend psychology and neuroscience research seminars.
PNB 2XT0PNB TUTORIAL0 credits
Complete the tutorial supporting progression through Honours PNB programmes.
PNB 3A03NEUROIMAGING3 credits
Explore brain-imaging methods and practise image processing through programming exercises.
PNB 3EE3PERCEPTION LABORATORY3 credits
Design perception experiments, analyse data and communicate findings through collaborative research.
PNB 3HP3HISTORY OF PSYCHOLOGY3 credits
Trace philosophical and physiological influences on the development of psychology.
PNB 3L03NEURODEVELOPMENT & PLASTICITY LAB3 credits
Investigate current neurobiology problems through seminars and laboratory work.
PNB 3MM3COGNITIVE NEUROSCIENCE LAB3 credits
Conduct group cognitive-neuroscience experiments with emphasis on research design and communication.
PNB 3Q03INDEPENDENT LIBRARY STUDY3 credits
Complete a faculty-supervised library research project.
PNB 3QM3INDEPENDENT RESEARCH IN MENTAL HEALTH3 credits
Undertake supervised research within the mental-health community.
PNB 3QQ3INTERMEDIATE INDEPENDENT RESEARCH3 credits
Complete a supervised laboratory research project.
PNB 3S03ANIMAL BEHAVIOUR LAB3 credits
Study different species through laboratory and field investigations.
PNB 3SL3SERVICE LEARNING IN PSYCHOLOGY, NEUROSCIENCE & BEHAVIOUR3 credits
Collaborate with community partners on outreach, education, research or resource development.
PNB 3V03HUMAN MEMORY LAB3 credits
Conduct experiments in human memory and cognition, including design, analysis and communication.
PNB 3XD3INTEGRATIVE MENTOR: LEARNING TO WRITE THROUGH STUDENT EDITING3 credits
Develop scientific-writing and mentoring skills while supporting second-year PNB writers.
PNB 3XE3INFERENTIAL STATISTICS AND RESEARCH METHODS3 credits
Study advanced statistical models, regression, variance analysis and factor analysis.
PNB 4A03ASSESSMENT IN CHILDREN3 credits
Explore standardised psychological assessments, interviewing, interpretation and report writing.
PNB 4D06SENIOR THESIS6 credits
Conduct an individual research project under faculty supervision.
PNB 4D09SENIOR HONOURS THESIS9 credits
Conduct an individual research project under faculty supervision.
PNB 4E03TOPICS IN SOCIAL DIVERSITY3 credits
Explore research on social identity, bias, empathy and dehumanisation.
PNB 4J03INQUIRY IN PSYCHOLOGY, NEUROSCIENCE & BEHAVIOUR3 credits
Develop investigation skills in selected psychology, neuroscience and behaviour areas.
PNB 4PN3PSYCHOLOGY, NEUROSCIENCE & BEHAVIOUR IN SOCIETY3 credits
Develop collaborative inquiry projects connecting PNB knowledge with society and multimedia communication.
PNB 4Q03SENIOR INDEPENDENT LIBRARY STUDY3 credits
Complete a faculty-supervised library research project.
PNB 4QQ3SENIOR INDEPENDENT RESEARCH3 credits
Complete a supervised laboratory research project.
PNB 4QQ6SENIOR INDEPENDENT RESEARCH6 credits
Complete a supervised laboratory research project across both terms.
PNB 4SC6SCIENCE COMMUNICATION IN THE BEHAVIOURAL SCIENCES6 credits
Develop critical writing that translates scientific research for popular media.
PSYCH 1FF3SURVEY OF BIOLOGICAL BASIS OF PSYCHOLOGY3 credits
Explore sensory systems and survival-related behaviour as an introductory psychology elective.
PSYCH 1XX3FOUNDATIONS OF PSYCHOLOGY, NEUROSCIENCE & BEHAVIOUR3 credits
Explore sensory systems and behaviours important to survival in psychology and neuroscience.
MATH 1A03CALCULUS FOR SCIENCE I3 credits
Learn calculus for science, including derivatives, optimisation and integration.
MATH 1LS3CALCULUS FOR THE LIFE SCIENCES I3 credits
Apply calculus, differential equations and dynamical systems to life-science problems.
BIOLOGY 1A01CELLULAR AND MOLECULAR BIOLOGY - LABORATORY SKILL DEVELOPMENT1 credits
Use laboratory methods to examine cell structure, molecular composition and function.
BIOLOGY 1A02FOUNDATIONS AND APPLICATIONS OF CELLULAR AND MOLECULAR BIOLOGY2 credits
Study how molecules and cellular structures support biological functions.
BIOLOGY 1A03CELLULAR AND MOLECULAR BIOLOGY3 credits
Explore cell structures, their molecular components and how they function.
BIOLOGY 1M03BIODIVERSITY, EVOLUTION AND HUMANITY3 credits
Study evolution, ecology and the diversity of living organisms.
CHEM 1A03INTRODUCTORY CHEMISTRY I3 credits
Explore bonding, chemical reactions and energy, with laboratory applications.
MEDPHYS 1A03Physics in Medicine and Biology
Explore physics in medical imaging, diagnosis, therapy and biological systems.
PHYSICS 1A03INTRODUCTORY PHYSICS3 credits
Study forces, energy, mechanics, waves and fluids through scientific applications.
PHYSICS 1C03PHYSICS FOR THE CHEMICAL AND PHYSICAL SCIENCES3 credits
Explore linear mechanics, conservation laws, harmonic motion and fluids using calculus.
PHYSICS 1V03INTRODUCTORY PHYSICS3 credits
Study forces, energy, mechanics, waves and fluids through online teaching and laboratories.

Life Sciences

First year: Life Sciences Gateway (recommended choices)18 listed

Published first-year choices. Prerequisites and the intended Level II degree determine selection.

MATH 1F03INTRODUCTION TO CALCULUS AND ANALYTIC GEOMETRY3 credits
Learn differential calculus and vector geometry, including exponential and trigonometric functions.
CHEM 1R03GENERAL CHEMISTRY3 credits
Learn introductory chemistry without requiring Grade 12 chemistry.
CHEM 1A03INTRODUCTORY CHEMISTRY I3 credits
Explore bonding, chemical reactions and energy, with laboratory applications.
WHMIS 1A00INTRODUCTION TO HEALTH AND SAFETY0 credits
Complete training in laboratory safety practices and hazardous-materials information.
BIOSAFE 1BS0BIOSAFETY TRAINING0 credits
Complete biosafety training for work with bacteria, cell lines and biological materials.
BIOLOGY 1A01CELLULAR AND MOLECULAR BIOLOGY - LABORATORY SKILL DEVELOPMENT1 credits
Use laboratory methods to examine cell structure, molecular composition and function.
BIOLOGY 1A03CELLULAR AND MOLECULAR BIOLOGY3 credits
Explore cell structures, their molecular components and how they function.
BIOLOGY 1A02FOUNDATIONS AND APPLICATIONS OF CELLULAR AND MOLECULAR BIOLOGY2 credits
Study how molecules and cellular structures support biological functions.
BIOLOGY 1M03BIODIVERSITY, EVOLUTION AND HUMANITY3 credits
Study evolution, ecology and the diversity of living organisms.
PSYCH 1F03SURVEY OF PSYCHOLOGY3 credits
Explore psychological research methods, questions and major subject areas as an elective.
PSYCH 1FF3SURVEY OF BIOLOGICAL BASIS OF PSYCHOLOGY3 credits
Explore sensory systems and survival-related behaviour as an introductory psychology elective.
PSYCH 1X03INTRODUCTION TO PSYCHOLOGY, NEUROSCIENCE & BEHAVIOUR3 credits
Study scientific approaches to higher-order psychological processes and interpersonal behaviour.
PSYCH 1XX3FOUNDATIONS OF PSYCHOLOGY, NEUROSCIENCE & BEHAVIOUR3 credits
Explore sensory systems and behaviours important to survival in psychology and neuroscience.
MATH 1A03CALCULUS FOR SCIENCE I3 credits
Learn calculus for science, including derivatives, optimisation and integration.
MATH 1LS3CALCULUS FOR THE LIFE SCIENCES I3 credits
Apply calculus, differential equations and dynamical systems to life-science problems.
PHYSICS 1A03INTRODUCTORY PHYSICS3 credits
Study forces, energy, mechanics, waves and fluids through scientific applications.
PHYSICS 1C03PHYSICS FOR THE CHEMICAL AND PHYSICAL SCIENCES3 credits
Explore linear mechanics, conservation laws, harmonic motion and fluids using calculus.
PHYSICS 1V03INTRODUCTORY PHYSICS3 credits
Study forces, energy, mechanics, waves and fluids through online teaching and laboratories.

Honours Life Sciences (current requirements) / LEVELS II-IV: 90 UNITS12 listed

Published level allocation, with alternatives included. This is not a weekly timetable.

LIFESCI 2A03RESEARCH METHODS IN LIFE SCIENCES3 credits
Practise scientific investigation, hypothesis testing, data interpretation and research communication.
LIFESCI 2L03LIVING SYSTEMS LABORATORY3 credits
Use experimental methods and model organisms to investigate human-health research questions.
SCICOMM 2A03FOUNDATIONS IN SCIENCE COMMUNICATION3 credits
Practise written, visual and oral science communication for different audiences.
STATS 2B03STATISTICAL METHODS FOR SCIENCE3 credits
Apply inferential statistics to environmental and life-science data using statistical software.
BIOLOGY 2C03GENETICS3 credits
Explore gene structure, inheritance, chromosome function and genetic mapping.
BIOLOGY 2B03CELL BIOLOGY3 credits
Study cell structure, transport, signalling and specialised cell functions.
LIFESCI 2CC3FUNDAMENTALS OF NEUROSCIENCE3 credits
Explore neural signalling, synapses, neurotransmitters and nervous-system development through case studies.
LIFESCI 2D03BEHAVIOURAL PROCESSES3 credits
Examine how selection pressures shape human and animal behaviour.
LIFESCI 2N03HUMAN NUTRITION FOR LIFE SCIENCES3 credits
Study how nutrients interact with physiology to influence health and disease risk.
LIFESCI 2X03ENVIRONMENTAL CHANGE AND HUMAN HEALTH3 credits
Explore links between environmental change and human health through case studies.
LIFESCI 3P03COMMUNICATING SCIENCE FOR PUBLIC AUDIENCES3 credits
Create inclusive science communication for different audiences, purposes and settings.
LIFESCI 3PP3COMMUNICATING SCIENCE FOR PROFESSIONAL AUDIENCES3 credits
Communicate science for professional audiences and examine its influence on public perceptions.

Psychology, Neuroscience & Behaviour

First year before PNB BSc: psychology choice2 listed

Choose 3 units with at least B-. PSYCH 1XX3 is recommended. PNB selection follows completion of a Level I programme; meeting the minimum does not guarantee a place.

PSYCH 1FF3SURVEY OF BIOLOGICAL BASIS OF PSYCHOLOGY3 credits
Explore sensory systems and survival-related behaviour as an introductory psychology elective.
PSYCH 1XX3FOUNDATIONS OF PSYCHOLOGY, NEUROSCIENCE & BEHAVIOUR3 credits
Explore sensory systems and behaviours important to survival in psychology and neuroscience.

First year before PNB BSc: calculus choice2 listed

Complete 3 units from these calculus options for admission to Level II Honours PNB BSc.

MATH 1A03CALCULUS FOR SCIENCE I3 credits
Learn calculus for science, including derivatives, optimisation and integration.
MATH 1LS3CALCULUS FOR THE LIFE SCIENCES I3 credits
Apply calculus, differential equations and dynamical systems to life-science problems.

First year before PNB BSc: biology choices4 listed

Complete 6 units from these options. BIOLOGY 1A01 and 1A02 together substitute for BIOLOGY 1A03 and should be taken in the same term.

BIOLOGY 1A01CELLULAR AND MOLECULAR BIOLOGY - LABORATORY SKILL DEVELOPMENT1 credits
Use laboratory methods to examine cell structure, molecular composition and function.
BIOLOGY 1A02FOUNDATIONS AND APPLICATIONS OF CELLULAR AND MOLECULAR BIOLOGY2 credits
Study how molecules and cellular structures support biological functions.
BIOLOGY 1A03CELLULAR AND MOLECULAR BIOLOGY3 credits
Explore cell structures, their molecular components and how they function.
BIOLOGY 1M03BIODIVERSITY, EVOLUTION AND HUMANITY3 credits
Study evolution, ecology and the diversity of living organisms.

First year before PNB BSc: chemistry and physics choices5 listed

Complete at least 3 units from the published science options for admission. CHEM 1A03 and a physics option are both required by the end of Level II and recommended in Level I. The degree table also references BIOPHYS 1S03; its current standalone course entry has not been verified.

CHEM 1A03INTRODUCTORY CHEMISTRY I3 credits
Explore bonding, chemical reactions and energy, with laboratory applications.
MEDPHYS 1A03Physics in Medicine and Biology
Explore physics in medical imaging, diagnosis, therapy and biological systems.
PHYSICS 1A03INTRODUCTORY PHYSICS3 credits
Study forces, energy, mechanics, waves and fluids through scientific applications.
PHYSICS 1C03PHYSICS FOR THE CHEMICAL AND PHYSICAL SCIENCES3 credits
Explore linear mechanics, conservation laws, harmonic motion and fluids using calculus.
PHYSICS 1V03INTRODUCTORY PHYSICS3 credits
Study forces, energy, mechanics, waves and fluids through online teaching and laboratories.

Study routes

MLS is a one-year gateway. Students rank eligible Level II programs after first year. Honours Life Sciences, Psychology, Neuroscience and Behaviour and other majors each have their own requirements.

Sensory Motor Systems

Study locations

Published academic-unit location: The Registrar’s academic-advising directory lists the Faculty of Science office in Burke Science Building, room 136. This is a faculty academic-support office; individual Life Sciences course rooms are separate.Mcmaster: named life-sciences academic-unit location