Biomedical Sciences
Understand basic biological processes. Investigate how they relate to health and disease. Study the basics of anatomy and cell biology, biochemistry, microbiology and immunology, pharmacology and physiology. Prepare for a future in the professional health sciences. These opportunities and more are available when you choose biomedical sciences at the University of Saskatchewan.
What are Biomedical Sciences?
Biomedical sciences (BMSC) focus on life science processes and how they relate to health, disease and medicine. The Division of Biomedical Sciences, in the College of Medicine, is composed of five basic science departments: anatomy and cell biology, biochemistry, microbiology and immunology, and pharmacology and physiology. Each basic science department offers Bachelor of Science degree programs (Three-year, Four-year and Honours) through the College of Arts and Science. These departments also offer Master of Science and Doctor of Philosophy degrees through the College of Graduate Studies and Research.
The Biomedical Sciences Common Core Platform
The BMSC Common Core Platform is a novel approach to education in biomedical sciences offering six core BMSC courses. All basic undergraduate science degrees within the biomedical sciences stem from these six common core courses:
- BMSC 200 Biomolecules
- BMSC 210 Microbiology
- BMSC 220 Cell Biology
- BMSC/BIOL 224 Animal Body Systems
- BMSC 230 Metabolism
- BMSC 240 Laboratory Techniques
These courses, within the first two years of study, provide a strong educational foundation in the life sciences as preparation for the many basic and health science disciplines. Prior to the third year of study, students can choose to major in and pursue undergraduate degrees in any of the following areas:
- anatomy and cell biology
- biochemistry
- microbiology and immunology
- physiology and pharmacology
A Stepping Stone ...
Many students choose the flexibility of the BMSC common core platform in order to prepare for Bachelor of Science degrees in a range of life scineces, and for admission to professional health science programs. The BMSC common core leads to numerous career choices in the life and health sciences:
- Anatomist
- Biochemist
- Biotechnologist
- Cell Biologist
- Chiropractor
- Dentist
- Life Science Educator
- Medical Doctor
- Microbiologist
- Naturopathic Doctor
- Occupational Therapist
- Optometrist
- Pharmacist
- Pharmacologist
- Physical Therapist
- Physiologist
- Research Scientist
- Veterinary Doctor
The U of S Advantage
The Biomedical Sciences Common Core Platform provides a solid scientific foundation by exposing students to all biomedical disciplines within the first two years of study. After completing the common core, students can confidently choose a variety of paths, including many undergraduate study options, application to professional colleges and a wide range of career opportunities.
Outstanding Research & Facilities
The Division of Biomedical Sciences administrative offices, undergraduate teaching laboratories and research laboratories are located in the Health Sciences Building, Saskatoon Cancer Centre, City Hospital and Innovation Place. Research activities include studies in the areas of life sciences and development of collaborations with clinicians. Major research themes include biomedical imaging using synchrotron-based and other approaches, cardiovascular research, cell biology, cancer, immunology, infectious disease, neuroscience, metabolic disorders, and structural biology.
Career Opportunities
Those who graduate with a degree from a discipline in biomedical sciences often find employment in academic/research institutions or related industry. They are also prepared for careers in biotechnology or entry into a professional health science programs. Students who desire to focus on research at the master's and doctorate level are best served by pursuing graduate studies.
Getting Involved
Join a student society within the area of your major. The undergraduate programs within the Division of Biomedical Sciences each have a student society. These societies are organized by enthusiastic groups of students and are involved in numerous extra-curricular activities and social events each year. They provide opportunities for new students to seek advice from their upper-year peers and serve as liaisons with faculty members.
Admission Requirements
Certain university courses have secondary-level prerequisites. A complete listing of admission requirements can be found at explore.usask.ca. Students are encouraged to visit our website for up-to-date information on our programs, admission requirements and application deadlines.
Students planning to register in the biomedical sciences common core
from high school must have completed the following Grade 12-level courses or their equivalents:
• English
• mathematics
• biology
• chemistry
• physics
First Two Years Common Core Platform of Study
Following admission to the College of Arts and Science, students are advised to register in the following courses during the first two years of university.
Year One (30 credit units) BIOL 120.3; CHEM 112.3, 115.3; MATH 125.3 (or equivalent); PHYS 115.3, 117.3 (or 125.3); BMSC 200.3; plus 9 credit units from the College of Arts and Science Type C degree requirements (See course calendar for details upon registration).
Year Two (30 credit units) BMSC 210.3, 220.3, 224.3, 230.3, 240.3; CHEM 250.3; plus 12 credit units from the College of Arts and Science Type C degree requirements (See course calendar for details).
Admission Requirements
The following is a list of high school subjects required for admission. Please select the province/territory where you completed high school.
Additional Information
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