Program description
Biochemistry is the study of the chemical composition, activity and constituents of living systems. Both Microbiology and Chemistry share in the teaching and administration of the program. The Honours and cooperative work-study (co-op) programs provide experience in government, private sector and research laboratories.
Program options
Degree options
B. Sc. Bachelor of Science, Honours in Biochemistry – 4 years
B. Sc. Bachelor of Science, Honours in Biochemistry (Co-op) – 5 years
B. Sc. Bachelor of Science, Major in Biochemistry – 4 years
B. Sc. Bachelor of Science, Major in Biochemistry (Co-op) – 5 years
Interesting courses and unique opportunities
Within the Biochemistry programs, you can take courses and conduct research in topics ranging from chemistry to microbiology to biology including: cellular signaling and cancer biology, molecular biology, structural biology, biophysics and bioenergetics, genomics and genetics. Many courses include laboratory components to develop skills in scientific techniques.
Research opportunities
You can experience research first hand for several summers through Undergraduate Student Research Awards (USRA) and in an honours research project in your last year of undergraduate studies. If you enjoy the experience, you can go on and do your own real independent research project in a Masters or PhD program. There are also opportunities to apply for The Natural Sciences and Engineering Research Council of Canada (NSERC) for funding opportunities.
Co-op options
Cooperative-work study options for Major and Honours Programs
Professional opportunities
- Medical research
- Public health
- Natural sciences research
- Industrial microbiology or chemistry: producing antibiotics, vaccines, bioethanol, enzymes and antibodies
Admission requirements & prerequisites
Direct entry option
- Manitoba high school graduation, with five full credits at the Grade 12 level, in courses designated S, G or U.
- A minimum 85% average over the following, with no less than 60% in each course:
- English 40S
- Pre-Calculus Mathematics 40S (recommended) or Applied Mathematics 40S and
- One of: Biology 40S; Chemistry 40S; Computer Science 40S; or Physics 40S
This entry option is open to high school students or high school graduates who have not completed any university or college courses. Specific program requirements will vary; details of these requirements are available on each program’s application page.
Advanced entry option
24 credit hours in U1 (or an approved bachelors program)
This entry option is open to students who have completed a minimum of 24 credit hours of university level study. Specific program requirements will vary; details of these requirements are available on each program’s application page.
High school prerequisites
High school prerequisites: Depending on major, may include Biology 40S, Chemistry 40S, Physics 40S, Pre-Calculus Math or Applied Math 40S
Many programs will require or recommend specific high school courses over and above their admission requirements. These high school prerequisites are not always required to enter the program, but they must be completed to enrol in certain university courses within it. If a student does not have a particular prerequisite when they enter the program, they may complete an equivalent upgrading course at university that will satisfy the prerequisite requirement.
More details on admission requirements, application dates and the application process are available on the Faculty of Science apply for admission page.
What is unique about this program at the U of M?
The Biochemistry Program at the University of Manitoba allows students the opportunity to combine two fascinating areas of life sciences. The program offers excellent faculty members from two departments, all who have externally-funded research programs, including one provincial and two national research chair holders. Students will experience hands-on research opportunities, strong links to other programs in Science and Medicine, good preparation for graduate programs and excellent undergraduate laboratories.
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