Marine and Freshwater Biology (MFB)
Admission Requirements
Ontario Requirements
Out of Province Requirements
International Requirements
How Do We Protect Aquatic Life?
Fostering Healthy Aquatic Environments
Study freshwater and marine environments and the aquatic organisms that call them home from both biological and physical science perspectives, with a focus on sustainable management and conservation.
Access the Hagen Aqualab
Take advantage of the University of Guelph’s state-of-the-art aquatic research facility, the Hagen Aqualab, which houses a wide variety of flora and fauna from arctic, temperate or tropical climes in simulated marine, brackish or freshwater habitats.
Gain Technical Skills
Learn hands-on skills from global leaders in aquatic research in both on-campus research facilities and through field courses in arctic, tropical and temperate regions. Exchange programs are also available in collaboration with universities around the world.
Why Marine and Freshwater Biology?
Marine and Freshwater Biology capitalizes on Guelph's recognized excellence in aquatic research. In this major, you will build upon core courses in ecology, evolution, genetics, physiology and zoology as you study freshwater and marine environments and work with aquatic organisms in the field and the lab.
If you're interested in studying Marine and Freshwater Biology, you may also be interested in Animal Biology, Ecology, Wildlife Biology and Conservation, Zoology, or other majors.
Gain Valuable Experience Through Co-op
Marine and Freshwater Biology co-op is a five-year program, which includes five work terms, and helps to provide invaluable experience in hands-on aquatic settings, providing skills and experience to boost your resume and fast-track your career.
Hear From Marine and Freshwater Biology Students and Graduates
I love the Marine and Freshwater Biology program because it provides lots of hands-on experience and practical labs. I also love how we cover everything from evolution to ecology and physiology and much more. We also learn about all types of aquatic ecosystems and how they are unique, which is super interesting.
Every opportunity I received while at U of G, such as volunteering in labs, meeting students from diverse backgrounds, and joining the various clubs on campus, has got me to where I am today.
What Can You Do with a Degree in Marine and Freshwater Biology?
Marine and Freshwater Biology prepares students for post-graduate work in the aquatic sciences, and provides a sound scientific background for students wishing to pursue careers in biology, management and conservation, aquaculture, biotechnology, education, and research, either in public or private sectors.
Here are a few careers our graduates have successfully pursued:
- Aquatic Biologist
- Aquatic Ecologist
- Aquatic Science Technician
- Environmental Technician
- Fisheries Technician
- Freshwater Turtle Field Coordinator
- Genomics Lab Supervisor
- Marine Biologist
- Marine Ecosystems Scientist
- Oceans Biologist
- Research Assistant
- Species at Risk Biologist
- Watershed Management Specialist
Scholarships
In 2021, more than $42.7 million in scholarships was awarded to U of G students. Learn more about applications, requirements and available Scholarships.
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