University of New Brunswick

What you'll study

This master's programme combines focused research with advanced coursework and seminar experience. Students typically follow a thesis-based route under the supervision of a faculty member and undertake a tailored combination of modules in areas such as molecular and cellular biology, genetics, population and conservation biology, aquatic and marine ecology, environmental toxicology, and biostatistics. Core elements usually include research methods, experimental design and data analysis, a departmental seminar series, and a literature review linked to the thesis project.

Research projects often exploit the coastal and estuarine environments of the Fundy region and may involve fieldwork, laboratory experiments, molecular techniques, ecological surveys, and modelling. Students can also take interdisciplinary electives that draw on neighbouring disciplines (for example, environmental science, chemistry, or engineering) to support applied projects and community collaborations.

Entry requirements

Applicants should hold an honours or four-year bachelor’s degree in biology or a closely related discipline with strong academic standing. Admission normally requires evidence of research potential, which may include a prior research project or honours thesis, a statement of research interests, and identification of a prospective supervisor whose expertise matches the applicant’s proposed project.

• Academic transcripts demonstrating competitive undergraduate performance;
• A research statement or proposal outlining intended area of study;
• Curriculum vitae highlighting relevant laboratory, field or technical experience;
• Letters of reference that can attest to academic and research ability;
• Proof of English language proficiency for applicants whose first language is not English, as required by the university.

Meeting the listed criteria does not guarantee admission; selection is based on the fit with available supervisors, resources, and the strength of the overall application.

Career prospects

Graduates from UNB Saint John’s biology master’s programme enter a range of career paths. Many proceed to PhD study and academic research; others move into professional roles in environmental consulting, conservation and wildlife management, governmental and regulatory agencies, fisheries and aquaculture, biotechnology and pharmaceutical industries, or non-profit research organisations. The programme’s emphasis on applied research and field skills also prepares graduates for roles in environmental monitoring, watershed planning, species recovery programs and science communication.

Why study at University of New Brunswick

UNB Saint John offers a small-campus environment with close student–supervisor interaction and access to faculty whose research spans molecular to ecosystem levels. Its coastal location provides excellent opportunities for field-based research in estuarine and marine systems, and students often collaborate with regional agencies, industry partners and interdisciplinary research centres. The department provides laboratory facilities and core instrumentation appropriate for modern biological research alongside coursework tailored to support thesis-driven projects. For students seeking a programme that blends rigorous research training with practical, regionally relevant experience, UNB Saint John is a compelling option.