The minimum requirement for admission is a baccalaureate in an honours science program, or the equivalent, from a recognized university or college. The applicant must have achieved an average standing of at least second-class honours (`B-' standing) in the work of the last two undergraduate years.

In addition to a research thesis, three courses (1.5 credits) including the Research Topics Course, MBG*6080, are normally required for the MSc degree. Students must also take part in Seminars in Molecular Biology and Genetics, MBG*6000, and present a formal seminar on their thesis research at the end of their program.