Integrative Biology Specialist

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Program Overview

The Integrative Biology program allows students to pursue a specialist program built on a broad, multi-perspective approach towards understanding biological complexity. This program provides students with a solid foundation in core biological areas (cellular and organismal biology, ecology and conservation, genes and development). A key advantage to this program is that it allows students to pursue specialization in more than one area at the same time. Many of the biggest issues facing today’s planet require scientists that are capable of bringing different and complementary perspectives to look for solutions, and this program provides the coursework and training to help undergraduates build this broad knowledge base.

Check out future career opportunities and skills acquired from completing this program:

1. Competencies & Skills

  • Collect, analyze and interpret data
  • Conduct and design experiments; use lab equipment
  • Explore how organisms interact with the environment
  • Chart the development of complex organisms
  • Inspect specimens
  • Research and analyze biological questions
  • Use statistical tests to predict outcomes
  • Write literature reviews and scientific reports

2. Careers for Graduates

  • Pharmaceuticals/Medical Sales • Conservation Officer
  • Lab Technician (Industry/ Government)
  • Assistant Biologist, Food Inspection
  • Water Technologist in Conservation Authorities
  • Policy Analyst
  • Health Care careers
  • Careers in Education/TRCA/ Ministry of Natural Resources

3. Further Education

  • Graduate Studies
  • Public Health: Epidemiology
  • Environmental Science
  • Sustainability
  • Genetic Counselling
  • Medicine
  • Dentistry
  • Physical Therapy
  • Occupational Therapy
  • Education
  • Clinical Research
  • Medical Laboratory Technology
  • Environmental Technology

Program Pathway

Year 1
CHOOSE YOUR COURSES WISELY
DEVELOP YOUR ACADEMIC & RESEARCH SKILLS
  • Attend BioSA’s BioAID Review Sessions for guidance with writing lab reports.
  • Contact the UTSC Library for in-depth research assistance; writing support is available at the CTL Writing Centre.
  • Attend a BioSci info session on directed research.
APPLY THEORY TO PRACTICE
BECOME AN ENGAGED CITIZEN (LOCALLY & GLOBALLY)
PLAN FOR YOUR FUTURE CAREER
Year 2
CHOOSE YOUR COURSES WISELY

DEVELOP YOUR ACADEMIC & RESEARCH SKILLS

  • Seek support from professors and TAs during office hours.
  • Check the Research Catalogue on CLNx for possible research opportunities.
  • Volunteer in research labs, hospitals, doctors offices, community organizations, foundations.
  • Consider doing a directed research course.

APPLY THEORY TO PRACTICE

  • Take part in Conversation with Biologists, an event where students can interact with leading scientists and learn about their research and career trajectory.
  • Consider Work Study (>Jobs & Recruitment>Work Study) jobs for possible research opportunities.

BECOME AN ENGAGED CITIZEN (LOCALLY & GLOBALLY)

PLAN FOR YOUR FUTURE CAREER

  • Gain experience by applying for a summer, part-time or Work Study position via CLNx (>Jobs & Recruitment).
  • If you are considering grad school, speak to professors and program advisors early so you know what to keep in mind.
  • Explore careers through AA&CC’s Job Shadowing and In The Field programs.
  • Apply for DSL’s All-In Leadership program.
Year 3

CHOOSE YOUR COURSES WISELY

DEVELOP YOUR ACADEMIC & RESEARCH SKILLS
APPLY THEORY TO PRACTICE
BECOME AN ENGAGED CITIZEN (LOCALLY & GLOBALLY)
PLAN FOR YOUR FUTURE CAREER
Year 4 or Final Year
CHOOSE YOUR COURSES WISELY
  • 1.0 credit of Advanced Courses in Ecology and Conservation.
  • 1.0 credit of Advanced Courses in Genes and Development.
  • Complete BIOC90H3 if you have not already.
  • 1.0 Credit of D-Level Biology Courses.
  • Register your “Intent to Graduate” on ACORN by the deadline.
  • Attend the weekly Biology Seminar Series (Fridays 12pm).
DEVELOP YOUR ACADEMIC & RESEARCH SKILLS
APPLY THEORY TO PRACTICE
BECOME AN ENGAGED CITIZEN (LOCALLY & GLOBALLY)
  • Participate in the AA&CC’s Partners in Leadership program to learn and network with an alumni mentor about transitioning to work or further education.
  • Consider joining a relevant professional association (eg: ESA, ASCB, ASM, SICB) that take student members, and volunteer for their events.
PLAN FOR YOUR FUTURE CAREER
  • Attend the AA&CC’s Get Hired job search conference in April/May.
  • Attend the Jobs for Grads orientation for a job search “crash course”; find job opportunities on CLNx.
  • If you are considering grad school, discuss your plans with staff at the AA&CC and your professors.
  • Get your Personal Statement reviewed in the AA&CC.

Contacts

Did You Know

Students will be well trained to take positions in government agencies, consulting firms or NGO’s.