Best Marine Biology Universities in Canada – Part 2 – Focus on University of Guelph
The east coast of Canada plays home to the Bay of Fundy, known to have the highest tide in the world. Because of its unique structure and significant role in the ecosystem, this area is known to be one of the best dabbling grounds for aspiring marine biologists and scientists.
Capitalizing on the natural and educational treasures of the east coast is the University of Guelph (U of G), a public research university situated in the heart of Ontario, Canada. Known as one of the best marine biology schools in Canada, U of G is heralded all over the world for its excellence in aquatic research.
So if you are thinking of being dabbling with Marine Biology – whether in the field of practice or education – then
read on! This article will give you a sneak preview of the University of Guelph’s stellar Marine Biology program – and how it can help you become one of the best marine biologists in the world.
In this article series, MyCanadianUniversity.com will present to you the Best Marine Biology Universities in Canada. These schools were chosen based on a number of factors: student experience, overall quality of education, and student feedback. The schools presented to you here are in no particular order. Therefore, if they are on this list you can assume that these Canadian Marine Biology Schools are doing something right. Please note that this is an article series, see the end of this article for their respective parts.
Marine and Freshwater Biology Program at the University of Guelph
Situated under the Department of Integrative Biology, BS Marine and Freshwater Biology (MFB) is one of the most notable programs of the University of Guelph. This degree tackles the genetics, evolution, zoology and physiology of creatures in marine and freshwater environments.
The ecologies of these milieus are tackled with biological and scientific perspectives, with management and conservation issues incorporated along the way.
MFB covers seven semesters, with a maximum of four courses per semester. Students can enroll in the Honors program after the first semester. They need to require a minimum of 20 credits to graduate with a major in MFB.
With a degree in Marine and Freshwater Biology from the U of G, you can make it big as an academician, a
researcher, a government official or a consultant from the private sector. It is also considered a good educational stepping stone for individuals who wish to pursue post-graduate studies in Marine Biology or its related disciplines.
Why does University of Guelph have one of the best Marine Biology Universities in Canada?
With Canada’s rich marine resources, it does not come as a surprise why the country plays home to institutions specializing in the study of Marine Biology. Despite the handful of schools offering this unique degree, the University of Guelph stands out from all the rest because of these factors:
1) Excellent curriculum.
At the University of Guelph, you can work your way towards becoming a world-class marine biologist with the help of its excellent, well-rounded curriculum. During your junior years, you get to study the important prerequisites, such as Chemistry, Calculus, Physics for Life Sciences and Biodiversity. As you progress towards the higher years, you get to learn about the advanced concepts, such as Molecular Biology and Genetics, Integrative Biology, Invertebrate Morphology and Evolution, Aquatic Environments, to name a few.
2) Intensive immersions.
At the University of Guelph, you can practice everything you have learned in school with its intensive immersion programs. As a student, you get to spend a few weeks in the Bay of Fundy, an area known for its abundant array of wildlife. The upwelling of nutrients in this body of water makes it the preferred home to a collection of marine life. With this experience, you can hone your knowledge and skills under the tutelage of the University’s respected professors and instructors.
3) Practical research applications.
Apart from marine life observation, U of Guelph students get to carry out tasks and assist in researches that deal with marine life and biology. U of G learners take the first hand in studying various environments with the use of the investigative techniques that were taught in school.
4) Excellent in-house resources.
As a U of G Marine Biology student, you get to ‘practice what you preach’ with the use of the faculty’s fine devices. Such is the Hagen Aqualab, a sophisticated research center known for its modern facilities and nouveau recirculation systems. Here, you can study a variety of disciplines – from embryology to toxicology, and from genetics to disease – without ever leaving the confines of the University of Guelph.
5) Access to external resources.
Apart from the university’s in-house facilities, Guelph MFB students get to feel the life of a professional marine biologist with the access they are given to external resources. Such is the WB Scott, a vessel used for both biological and oceanological investigations. The high-tech devices on board this ship will give you the chance to apply all the knowledge you have learned in the classroom.
6) Real-life learning opportunities at respectable Marine Science Centers.
The U of Guelph works hand in hand with a variety of aquatic facilities, such as the Huntsman Marine Science Center, a private educational facility that promotes ocean stewardship, research and discovery. Here, you can participate in collaborative research that can improve the current status of the seas and its creatures.
Apart from the Huntsman Marine Science Center, U of Guelph students also get to study field courses at the Bamfield Marine Science Center, Algonquin Provincial Park, Churchill Research Facility. You can even dabble in fieldwork in one of the notable marine biology institutions in Jamaica.
7) Reputable Professors
At the University of Guelph, you get to be honed by leaders in the field of Marine Biology and its related disciplines. The faculty’s esteemed professors are known for their researches, consulting jobs and governmental associations in the fields of oceanography, conservation biology and fisheries, to name a few. With their teaching and guidance, you can become an expert, just like them.
8) Extensive Employment Opportunities for Graduates.
Because of the way the University molds its students, it comes as no surprise why Guelph’s MFB students are sought after by many companies. Graduates of the course have been hired by respected bodies, including the Canadian Government, the Department of Fisheries and Oceans, Environment Canada, Ministry of Natural Resources and Nature Conservancy of Canada, to name a few.
What Students Have to Say
As one of the leading universities when it comes to biological research, U of G, without a doubt, is one of the best marine biology schools in Canada. Such claim is supported by its loyal students, who praise the University for its intensive study pursuits, excellent quality of education, and learning-friendly environment.
If you want to experience high-quality marine biology education, follow the footsteps of successful MFB graduates by obtaining a diploma from one of Canada’s best: the University of Guelph.
Conclusion
With its long history of aquatic education and research, the University of Guelph proves to be one of the best marine biology universities in Canada – if not the whole world. Backed up with intensive exposure programs, reputable professors, sophisticated equipment and a favorable learning environment, the U of G’s highly-regarded MFB program can help you achieve your dreams of becoming a world-class marine biologist.
Relevant Links:
1. Best Marine Biology Universities in Canada – Part 1
