Graduate programs
We offer qualified students the opportunity to work toward a Master of Science (MSc) or a Doctoral degree. The latter is traditionally called a Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) at UNB rather than a Doctor of Science degree.
Our graduate degrees are centered on the development and performance of an original research project. Your program will typically include specialized and individualized course work.
Graduate studies in Biology is administered by the Biology Graduate Unit (GAU) which includes the research staff of the two UNB campuses.
We also have research associates and adjunct professors from outside research institutions who can co-supervise through UNB.
- GAU Faculty Members
- Milestones and timelines
- Handbook/guidelines
- School of Graduate Studies regulations
- Graduate courses in biology
- Biology graduate program - Information sheet
- School of Graduate Studies travel grant application
- Department travel grant application
- Graduate student program of study
- Annual progress report
Director of Graduate Studies: Dr. Shawn MacLellan
Both of graduate programs are research-based and require supervision of a faculty member. We encourage you to contact a faculty member working within your area of interest to inquire about availability and funding.
Admission requirements
The minimum admission requirement is a 3.0 (B) average. A candidate may be required to take a qualifying year when it’s felt they lack sufficient background.
International students
If you apply from outside Canada, you should do so at least six months in advance. Contact the School of Graduate Studies or the International Student Advisor’s Office for more information.
Language proficiency
If you are an international applicant and your first language isn’t English, you will be required to demonstrate proficiency in English prior to your admission. This is normally done by completing one of the following:
- Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) and a minimum of 550 on the paper-based test or 80 on the internet-based test
- International English Language Testing System (IELTS) and a minimum overall band score of 7
- Michigan English Language Assessment Battery (MELAB) and a minimum score of 85
How to apply
Research proposal presentations
All graduate students must present a research proposal to the Graduate Academic Unit:
- Within six months for MSc students
- Within twelve months for PhD students
Funding
An offer of financial assistance is subject to availability for full-time MSc students (first two years) and full-time PhD students (first four years) for $13,500 a year plus tuition and incidental fees.
You should discuss the possibility of wining a scholarship or award after your financial award, with your supervisor, in case this impacts your financial offer.
You are expected to TA 2 units as part of your funding, which equals two labs per fall and winter semesters.
GRA (Graduate Research Award) is included to the total funding. Your funding comes from three sources:
- Graduate Student Teaching Assistant (GSTA) is awarded for demonstrating in laboratories and marking assignments
- Graduate Research Award (GRA) is given by the Graduate School for research work
- Graduate Academic Award (GAA) is paid by the supervisor's research grants
