Bachelor of Science in Biochemistry
Forensics. Pharmacology. Food science. What do these three areas have in common? They are just some of the career paths you can take with a degree in biochemistry.
Biochemistry is the study of all living systems at the molecular level. It looks at the chemical and physical basis of life and how these living systems interact with their environments. It is a demanding field that combines expertise in the biological sciences, chemistry, physics and mathematics. Versatility and intense curiosity are the hallmarks of successful biochemists, as they draw on knowledge from a variety of fields to investigate the molecules that facilitate life.
From the structure, function and dynamics of molecular machines, to the complex regulation of metabolic pathways and biological processes, biochemists study the extraordinary molecules that are produced and utilized by living systems. As a consequence, many of the most spectacular advances in the sciences are driven by discoveries in biochemistry.
Biochemistry will help you develop a strong background in the basic sciences and extensive laboratory skills, while emphasizing the chemical and physical basis of life. As a biochemistry student, you will gain hands-on experience with the latest tools and technology used in chemistry, physics and biological sciences, such as molecular biology, protein crystallography and advanced biophysics. You will also develop skills in molecular techniques like DNA sequencing, gene cloning and enzymology.
Additionally, you will have access to state-of-the-art science and research facilities. These facilities support the research interests of our award-winning faculty, your instructors, as they investigate diverse areas such as cancer research, toxicology, crystallography, bioinformatics and molecular modelling, as well as applied research in medicine, disease research and food development.
Minors | Adding a minor to your degree is a great way to explore academic interests beyond your major. A minor is a set of courses comprising a secondary focus of interest. It is generally not related to your major. A minor may be required or optional. Pursue a second passion by adding a minor to your degree.
Honours thesis | If your GPA is high enough in your fourth year, you can opt to complete an undergraduate thesis course. This is an excellent opportunity for you to earn an “Honours Thesis” designation on your degree.
Experience learning | Our students have a number of experiential learning opportunities available to them including co-operative education, international exchanges, independent and applied studies as well as volunteer opportunities. uLethbridge is the only university in Alberta to offer co-operative education to all majors in the arts & sciences, at both the undergrad and grad level. Transfer students can actually head out on their first work term before ever stepping foot on campus! For example, many transfer students have completed a summer work term before starting classes in September.
Skills acquired | In addition to developing exceptional written and oral communication skills in this program, you’ll also develop strong critical and analytical thinking skills, advanced information acquisition and management skills, as well as precise attention to detail. All of these abilities are highly sought after in the business world and can be applied to practically any scenario.
Campus Information
Lethbridge
Located on the west side of the city of Lethbridge, the University stretches across the coulees and has a great view of the Oldman River valley. It combines a beautiful setting with green space, gardens, and trees with high-tech facilities and classroom and research space. Spanning more than 500 acres, our campus is designed to ignite new ideas and encourage collaboration across disciplines.
Intakes
- Jan
- Sep
Application Processing Time in Days: 30
Minimum English Language Requirements
| English Level Description | IELTS (1.0 -9.0) | TOEFL IBT (0-120) | TOEFL CBT (0-300) | PTE (10-90) | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Expert | 9 | 120 | 297-300 | 86-90 | |
| Very Good | 8.5 | 115-119 | 280-293 | 83-86 | |
| Very Good | 8 | 110-114 | 270-280 | 79-83 | |
| Good | 7.5 | 102-109 | 253-267 | 73-79 | |
| Good | 7 | 94-101 | 240-253 | 65-73 | |
| Competent | 6.5 | 79-93 | 213-233 | 58-65 | |
| Competent | 6 | 60-78 | 170-210 | 50-58 | |
| Modest | 5.5 | 46-59 | 133-210 | 43-50 | |
| Modest | 5 | 35-45 | 107-133 | 36-43 | |
| Limited | 4 | 32-34 | 97-103 | 30-36 | |
| Extremely Limited | < 4 | < 31 | < 93 | < 30 |
Job Opportunity Potential
Possible careers
Biochemists are employed in virtually all areas of the life sciences as a result of their strong foundation in the basic sciences and extensive laboratory experience. Here are just a few of the career options open to you once you’ve earned your degree:
Laboratory Scientist
Laboratory Technician
Research Assistant
Agricultural Chemistry
Soil Science
Food Technology
Biotechnology
Bioenergy
Forensic Science
Drug Development
Toxicology
Pathology
Commercial Research
Academia
Professional disciplines & graduate studies | Your undergraduate degree in biochemistry provides an excellent foundation for medicine, veterinary medicine, pharmacy, dentistry and research. The University of Lethbridge’s School of Graduate Studies offers programs at the master's and doctoral levels, in more than 60 disciplines — so why not consider pursuing grad school right here in Lethbridge! Whether you choose to do your advanced studies at uLethbridge or another institution, know that your undergraduate degree has set you on the path to post-graduate success
PSW Opportunity
Eligibility for Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP):
Graduated from a designated learning institution (DLI) in Canada.
Desire to stay in Canada temporarily for work.
Important Note:
Graduating from a DLI doesn't automatically qualify you for a PGWP.
Validity of PGWP:
Depends on the length of the study program or the expiry date of your passport, whichever comes first.
Duration of PGWP Based on Study Program Length:
Less than 8 months (or 900 hours for Quebec credentials): Not eligible for PGWP.
At least 8 months (or 900 hours for Quebec credentials), but less than 2 years: PGWP may be granted for the same length as the study program (e.g., a 9-month program results in a 9-month PGWP).
2 years or more: PGWP may be valid for 3 years.
Completion of Multiple Programs:
PGWP may combine the lengths of each program if:
Each program is PGWP eligible.
Each program is at least 8 months (or 900 hours for Quebec credentials) in length.
Important Restriction:
You cannot obtain a PGWP if you already had one after completing an earlier program of study
Admission Requirement / Eligibility Criteria
Academic Standard XII certificate (e.g. Higher Secondary School Certificate, All-India Senior School Certificate, Indian School Certificate) with Second Division standing. Vocational Standard XII certificates will be considered on a case-by-case basis
The ELP requirement must be met prior to registration in a graduate program. The University reserves the right to use discretion in determining adequate levels of language proficiency to ensure success in academic programs. In all cases, the decision of the School of Graduate Studies shall be final.
Required Documentation
All proof of English proficiency must be provided on official academic transcripts or standardized test score reports. Standardized test scores must be valid and verifiable.
High School
Alberta English Language Arts 30-1, or equivalent, with a minimum final (blended) grade of 75 percent.
A grade of 5 or higher in IB Higher or Standard Level English.
A grade of 4 or higher in AP English.
A grade of B or higher in GCE A/S-level or A-level English.
Successful completion of a minimum of three consecutive years of full-time academic study in English at a secondary school in Canada or another country where English is recognized as the primary language (see Recognized Countries, below). English as a Second Language of study is not considered academic.
Post Secondary
Successful completion of a minimum two years of full-time academic study in English at a post-secondary institution in Canada or another country where English is recognized as the primary language (see Recognized Countries, below). English as a Second Language of study is not considered academic.
Successful completion of an academic diploma, applied degree, or baccalaureate degree, requiring at least two years of full-time study, at a recognized post-secondary institution in Canada where the language of instruction is English.
English for Academic Purposes
(Must have been completed within two years prior to the date of application).
Successful completion of the Advanced Level of the University of Lethbridge English for Academic Purposes (EAP) program.
A passing grade in an English for Academic Purposes (EAP) program accepted as a means of satisfying ELP by another recognized Canadian university, and whose ELP requirement is at least as demanding as that of the University of Lethbridge.
A passing grade in an EAP program approved by the Manager of Admissions.
ELP Assessments
(Must have been completed within two years prior to the date of application).
Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL (iBT) or TOEFL iBT Home Edition) with a minimum total score of 80, with minimum scores of 16 in each of Listening, Reading, and Speaking, and a minimum score of 18 in Writing.
Academic International English Languages Testing System (IELTS or IELTS Online) test with a minimum overall score of 6.0, and a minimum 6.0 in each band. IELTS One Skill Retake results are accepted.
Cambridge English Qualifications: C1 Advanced (C1 Advanced), with a minimum score of 169, and a minimum 169 in each subscore.
Cambridge English Qualifications: C2 Proficiency (C2 Proficiency), with a minimum score of 169, and a minimum 169 in each subscore.
Pearson Test of English (PTE) Academic score with a minimum overall score of 54.
Canadian Academic English Language (CAEL or CAEL Online) assessment with a minimum overall score of 60, a minimum of 50 in each of Listening, Reading, and Speaking, and a minimum of 60 in Writing.
Duolingo with a minimum score of 105.
- Course Type: Full Time
- Course Level: Bachelors/UG Degree
- Duration: 04 Year
-
Total Tuition Fee:
89476 CAD
Average Cost of Living: 22895 CAD /year
Application Fee: 150 CAD
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