Honours Bachelor of Science -Biology with Concentration in Plant Sciences

ENTRY REQUIREMENTS for International Students:

Application Fees : CAD $ 135

1. Academic Qualifications:

   • Undergraduate: To be eligible for admission to Lakehead University, international students must have completed their secondary education or its equivalent. They should have achieved a minimum grade percentage of 65% or above in their qualifying examinations.
      

2. English Language Proficiency:

   • IELTS: For undergraduate programs, the minimum IELTS score required is an overall band score of 6.5, with no individual band score less than 6.
   • TOEFL: Lakehead University accepts a minimum TOEFL score of 88 for undergraduate programs.
   • PTE: Lakehead University requires a minimum PTE score of 60 for undergraduate programs.
   • DET: Lakehead University accepts a minimum DET score of 110 for undergraduate programs.

   It is important to note that the English language proficiency requirements may vary for different programs and levels of study. 

3. Other Requirements:

   • Transcripts: International students must provide official transcripts from their previous educational institutions, including grades and courses completed.
   • Proof of Identity: A valid passport or other identification documents are required for the application process.
   • Letter of Intent: Some programs may require international students to submit a letter of intent or statement of purpose outlining their motivations and goals for studying at Lakehead University.
   • Letters of Recommendation: Depending on the program, international students may need to provide letters of recommendation from teachers, professors, or employers to support their application.

Lakehead University values diversity and welcomes international students who meet the entry requirements. It offers a range of undergraduate programs, including the opportunity to pursue a Bachelor's degree in various fields.

Lakehead University offers several scholarships and financial aid opportunities to support international students in their academic pursuits. These scholarships recognize students' achievements and provide assistance to help cover the cost of tuition and living expenses. 

1. International Entrance Scholarships: Lakehead University offers a range of entrance scholarships for international students who demonstrate academic excellence. These scholarships are available to both undergraduate and graduate students and are awarded based on academic achievements and potential. The values of the scholarships vary and are renewable for subsequent years based on maintaining the required academic standing.

2. President's Entrance Scholarships: The President's Entrance Scholarships are prestigious awards available to high-achieving international students entering Lakehead University's undergraduate programs. These scholarships are valued at a significant amount and are renewable for subsequent years based on maintaining the required academic standing.

3. Graduate Research Assistantships: Lakehead University offers graduate research assistantships to international students pursuing research-based master's or doctoral programs. These assistantships provide financial support and valuable research experience while assisting faculty members with their research projects.

4. International Student Bursary: The International Student Bursary is a need-based financial aid program designed to support international students facing financial challenges. This bursary provides assistance to eligible students to help cover their educational expenses.

5. External Scholarships and Funding Opportunities: Lakehead University encourages international students to explore external scholarship opportunities offered by government agencies, foundations, and organizations in their home countries. The university provides resources and guidance to help students search for and apply to these external scholarships.

It's important to note that the eligibility criteria, application process, and deadlines for scholarships may vary. Students are advised to visit the official Lakehead University website and the specific scholarship pages for detailed information on each scholarship, including eligibility requirements, application procedures, and deadlines.

Graduating with an Honours Bachelor of Science in Biology with a concentration in Plant Sciences from Lakehead University equips students with a strong foundation in plant biology and a diverse skill set that opens up various career opportunities. Graduates with a concentration in Plant Sciences have diverse career options in fields such as botany, ecology, agriculture, conservation, biotechnology, and environmental science, where they can make meaningful contributions to plant research, conservation, and sustainable development.

1. Botanist/Botanical Scientist: Graduates can pursue careers as botanists or botanical scientists, studying plant life in various ecosystems, conducting research on plant genetics, physiology, ecology, taxonomy, and evolution. They may work in botanical gardens, research institutions, government agencies, or conservation organizations.

2. Plant Biologist: Plant biologists focus on understanding the biological processes of plants at the molecular, cellular, and organismal levels. They may research plant genetics, biochemistry, physiology, and development, with applications in agriculture, biotechnology, and pharmaceuticals.

3. Ecologist: Graduates can work as ecologists, studying the interactions between plants, animals, and their environment. They may conduct ecological research, monitor biodiversity, assess ecosystem health, and develop conservation strategies. Ecologists often work for government agencies, environmental consulting firms, non-profit organizations, or research institutions.

4. Environmental Scientist: Environmental scientists address environmental challenges related to pollution, climate change, and habitat degradation. Graduates with a concentration in Plant Sciences may specialize in areas such as restoration ecology, conservation biology, or environmental monitoring, working for government agencies, environmental consulting firms, or non-profit organizations.

5. Agronomist: Agronomists focus on improving crop production and agricultural sustainability. Graduates may work in agricultural research, extension services, or agribusiness, developing new crop varieties, optimizing cultivation practices, or advising farmers on sustainable agricultural practices.

6. Forester: Foresters manage and conserve forest ecosystems, ensuring sustainable forest management and biodiversity conservation. Graduates may work in forestry companies, government forestry agencies, conservation organizations, or as consultants, conducting forest inventories, managing timber resources, and implementing forest management plans.

7. Horticulturist: Horticulturists specialize in the cultivation, propagation, and management of plants for ornamental, medicinal, or culinary purposes. They may work in botanical gardens, nurseries, landscaping firms, or agricultural production facilities, developing new plant varieties, managing green spaces, or advising on landscape design.

8. Conservation Scientist: Conservation scientists work to protect and preserve natural habitats, biodiversity, and endangered plant species. They may conduct research, develop conservation plans, and implement restoration projects to mitigate environmental threats. Conservation scientists may work for government agencies, non-profit organizations, or environmental consulting firms.

9. Biotechnologist: Graduates may pursue careers in plant biotechnology, working on projects such as genetic engineering, crop improvement, or pharmaceutical development. They may work in biotechnology companies, research institutions, or agricultural biotech firms, developing innovative solutions to agricultural and environmental challenges.

10. Educator/Researcher: Some graduates may choose to pursue further studies at the graduate level and become educators or researchers in academia or research institutions. They may teach courses in plant biology, ecology, or environmental science and conduct research on plant-related topics, contributing to scientific advancements and knowledge dissemination.