Comprising 50-80% of biodiversity on Earth is thought to exist under the surface of the oceans, making over 70 percent of the planet’s surface and providing more than 97% of its water supply. In this sense, marine biology encompasses research into everything from the nutrient and pollution levels in water to the diversity of marine organisms.
A degree in marine biology can help investigate ocean diversification patterns to offer nutritious animal feed, therapeutic ingredients for medicines, and construction materials from coral reefs. Additionally, these scientists can monitor pollution rates by analyzing water samples from various depths.
Marine experts also educate fleets and individual fishermen on new strategies to encourage sustainable fishing. To learn about the ideal marine biology schools in Canada, we have created a detailed article on the top Marine Biology schools in Canada for our readers below.
Is Pursuing a Degree in Marine Biology Worth It?
There is a basic level at which marine life contributes to determining the fabric of the planet. Marine life plays a crucial role in maintaining a stable global temperature and oxygen levels.
A marine biology graduate, postgraduate, or Ph.D. holder can work in a variety of settings, including government organizations, private business enterprises, consultancies, production facilities, and educational institutions.
There is a rewarding career opportunity in this field, with a wide variety of high-paying employment positions available in the field of marine biology. Positions such as biomedical research scientist, marine biotechnologist, biological oceanographer, research technician, aquaculture scientist, environmental consultant, and so on are high in demand.
Top Marine Biology Schools in Canada for International Students
Canada being the top destination regarding advanced degrees offers a number of courses in marine biology in its world-recognized institutions, some of which are mentioned below.
1. Dalhousie University – Faculty of Science
Our first suggestion is The Dalhousie University which, in the QS World University Rankings 2023, is placed at #12 among Canadian universities and #314 among the globe’s finest. Their extensive array of more than 300 degrees in fields such as marine biology, computer science, health, business, and commerce, attracts and retains an impressively diversified student body.
The university has created a one-of-a-kind learning environment based on its generous scholarships and latest research that encourages learners to collaborate together and share ideas. For those with a deep interest in aquatics, Dalhousie University offers both undergraduate and honors degrees. They set the bar for universities around the country. The pupils have the option of exploring the ocean from land or by boat.
The amazing aquatic life of Atlantic Canada may be researched. In addition, they are given the opportunity with a variety of research techniques, such as real specimen collection and data analysis. The undergraduate and honors courses both consist of four years of study. Apart from being one of the Canadian universities offering excellent Marine Biology courses, Dalhousie also has a welcoming campus life and various amenities for the students.
2. University of Victoria – Faculty of Science
The second suggestion in our list is the University of Victoria, established in 1963, which holds its position among the best 300 universities in the world and within the top 20 in Canada. The Biology undergraduate degree here relies on the University of Victoria’s well-deserved reputation for scientific expertise in aquatic structure.
At UVic, students pursuing a major in biology (BIOL) have the exceptional chance to focus their studies on marine biology. UVic’s location near the ocean makes it a great choice for students interested in majoring in marine biology concentration. Southern Vancouver Island’s sandy and rugged coasts are easily accessible on foot or in a brief car ride from campus. As well as being an affiliated institution for Bamfield Marine Sciences Centre, UVic is also linked to the massive global ocean monitoring projects NEPTUNE Canada and VENUS.
The focus of the 4-year bachelor program is to get students ready for advanced studies in the marine sciences. Apart from this, the university offers various other courses in the fields of Fine Arts, Business, Economics and Law, Engineering, etc. They also offer deserving students financial aid in the form of scholarships based on merit. On an annual basis, UVic gives out about $8 million in scholarships.
3. Memorial University of Newfoundland – Faculty of Science
Another top institution to study marine biology in Canada is Memorial University of Newfoundland. It is well-recognized as a top academic institution for its dedication to research. It offers a wide variety of undergraduate, graduate, and doctoral degrees in areas ranging from marine biology to business, music, education, engineering, and many more. Relating to marine biology, more than 40% of Memorial’s research focuses on the ocean. It undertakes marine life research in the North Atlantic.
Moreover, the Ocean Frontier Institute is a $220 million joint investigation with which Memorial University is involved. Its goal is to fully use the marine environment’s immense potential. The undergraduate program in marine biology through this university is a rigorous study period of four years, and the Master’s Diploma consists of research and practical-skill-based study of two years.
A student who earns a BS in Marine Biology is well-equipped for a wide range of occupations in the area such as marine biologist, biological oceanographer, aquatic science instructor, research technician, aquaculture scientist, and many more. The university offers partial funding for undergraduate and full funding scholarships for master’s level students as well.
4. Ontario Tech University – Faculty of Science
The next institution on our list is the advanced and future-focused Ontario Tech University. It is ranked 27th in Canada, and its research and academic excellence are highly recognized worldwide. Additionally, the university experts here support knowledge acquisition and execution, which boosts economic growth, local improvements, and social progress.
The undergraduate marine biology program offers basic to advanced studies for 4 years about marine ecosystems. Students majoring in marine biology at Ontario Technological University may also take advantage of a study abroad program at the Bermuda Institute of Ocean Sciences. It is often considered to be one of the more biologically rich areas of the ocean floor on Earth.
Ontario Tech University has a diverse student body with various amenities and accommodation options as well. A number of different types of prizes and scholarships, such as honor scholarships, in-course grants, and merit-based scholarships, are available to students at the institution.
5. University of New Brunswick – Faculty of Science, Applied Science, and Engineering
The University of New Brunswick is one of Canada’s best Marine Biology schools. It is well-suited to provide this degree, with its globally renowned faculty and prime position in the Saint John Kennebecasis River estuarine region. Ranked in the top 300 universities globally through QS World Ranking, the public institute is committed to providing students with unparalleled learning experiences and innovative research opportunities.
The marine biology 4-year bachelor course here provides a broad overview of the field while focusing on marine environments off the eastern coast of Canada. Those majoring in marine biology acquire a well-rounded education that opens doors to various careers in Canada and throughout the world.
Students at New Brunswick will find a hospitable, supportive environment on campus. The application process is easy and eligibility requires excellent grades in the field of science. They also offer scholarships to aid the students financially.
Marine life constitutes a majority portion of life on Earth. It contributes to a big section of the nutrient supply for humans. To gain a degree in such a field, Canada has some of the best marine biology schools mentioned above. We hope this article helped you in deciding which university you want to pursue your marine biology course in, effectively.
We hope this article on the best marine biology schools in Canada was helpful. Please visit the Ultimate Guide to Study in Canada for more information!
