Health and Biological Science Programs at the University of Windsor

The University of Windsor offers a variety of programs through the Faculty of Science and the Faculty of Arts, Humanities, and Social Sciences. The faculty to student ratio is the best in Ontario and one of the best in Canada. Our science degrees combine the right balance of classroom instruction and hands-on learning in the lab and in the field. Students get into labs within the first few weeks and continue to have laboratory and hands-on experiences throughout undergraduate studies.

Biological Sciences and Interdisciplinary Health Sciences

The Biological Sciences – Interdisciplinary Health Sciences program focuses on providing career-relevant skills. You can explore various specializations including Cell Biology, Ecology, Genetics, and Human Physiology. A significant portion of Science students will participate in undergraduate research, and many take advantage of co-op opportunities and the thesis available in the Honours 4-Year Program.

Biochemistry and Biomedical Sciences

Unravel life’s molecular mysteries by joining the biochemistry program. You will gain hands-on experience with state-of-the-art instruments and techniques that are highly desirable across biotechnology, health sciences, agriculture, and academia. This program is designed for those passionate about uncovering the secrets of biomolecules that sustain life, cause diseases, and drive drug or vaccine innovation.

For those interested in the Biochemistry and Biomedical Sciences – Health Science Stream, the program offers small class sizes allowing you access to opportunities not found at larger institutions, preparing you for a successful career. Biochemistry students may apply to a co-op internship in their third year.

Chemistry

Chemistry prepares you for professions from the lab to law. It is a flexible program that aims to answer questions of matter, energy and how they interact in the world around us. You’ll be able to do research with award-winning faculty, find innovative ways to apply your analytical skills, and develop as a professional with industry-specific hands-on experience through a co-op internship.

Admission Requirements for Undergraduate Programs

The following table outlines the requirements for high school students entering these competitive programs:

Program	Minimum Average	Mean Average	Required Courses
Biological Sciences	70%	88%	Advanced Functions, Chemistry, Biology, English
Biochemistry	70%	88%	Advanced Functions, Chemistry, Biology, English
Chemistry	70%	87%	Chemistry, Advanced Functions, and Physics or Biology; English

Strongly Recommended: Calculus & Vectors. Recommended: Physics. Note that the minimum average of 70% applies to all attempted science and math courses.

Career Tracks and Professional Opportunities

Graduates from these programs are well-prepared for a variety of career paths. Our programs provide you with skills in critical thinking, problem-solving, and communication through internships, co-ops, and undergraduate research.

Potential Career Paths:

• Professional schools: medicine, pharmacy, dentistry
• Research and development (R&D): pharmaceuticals, nutraceuticals, and biotechnology industry
• Technical roles: Laboratory technicians, quality control analysts, and quality assurance supervisors
• Communication and Education: Science educators/communicators and medical writers
• Specialized fields: Microbiology, Evolution, Economic Botany, and Human Physiology

Research Ecosystem and Community Engagement

The University of Windsor is supported by the WE-SPARK Health Institute, which creates a dynamic environment for researchers by enabling, supporting, and promoting excellence. The research ecosystem focuses on various areas including translational health sciences and biomedical sciences.

Students can participate in studies and attend departmental seminars, such as the Biomedical Sciences Departmental Seminar featuring topics like "Intestinal stem cells in epithelial repair and cancer." There are also opportunities to study abroad, from the volcanoes of Iceland to the jungles of Costa Rica, and engage in service learning for credit.