Which Program is Right for You?

Discovery Builds Transferable Skills

A key feature of all Biology programs at StFX is experiential learning involving self-guided inquiry and discovery. These experiences particularly build fundamental skills valuable in a variety of post-graduate programs and careers: independence, organization, critical thinking, etc. There are several ways discovery can be included in your degree:

• courses designated as involving discovery (see Tools & Advice for Registration)
• Directed Study (Biol 499) courses, involving a custom-designed independent research project supervised by a faculty member
• An Honours Thesis (Biol 475 and Biol 493), involving a custom-designed independent research project (often with paid work in the summer) and then composition of the thesis, describing the project and what was discovered

Major vs Honours: Balancing Rigor, Breadth, and Discovery

Both programs provide in-depth study of biology, including opportunities for experiential learning from hands-on scientific discovery.

Major: This program is designed for students interested in a less rigorous program with more elective course options to explore other disciplines during their degree. Scientific discovery opportunities in this program include certain upper level courses and Directed Studies projects. Post-graduate programs and future employers typically value a Major degree slightly less than an Honours degree because of the difference in rigor and focus.

Honours: This program is designed for students interested in a more rigorous program with more focus on biology, and expanded opportunities for self-guided inquiry, discovery, or research including certain upper-level courses, Directed Study projects, and the required Honours Thesis. Post-graduate programs and future employers typically value an Honours degree slightly more than a Major degree because of the difference in rigor and focus.

Students planning to pursue a postgraduate Master's degree are advised to obtain research experience by completing the Honours program, or at least to include a Directed Study as part of the Major program.

Concentrations Show Special Expertise

Students can choose one of five areas of concentration to be included in their official academic record and to appear on any transcript issued. 

The concentrations (health, ecology, cell and molecular biology, animal biology, and aquatic biology) prepare students for post graduate programs and careers linked to these different aspects of biology.

More detail on concentrations is available here: Concentrations