- Level
- Master Degree
- CIP code
- 26.0101
- Duration
- 2 year master degree
- Open intake
-
Off-shoreSep 2027
- Field
- Biotechnology and Life Sciences
- Institution
- Public University
- Offer speed
- Fast Offer Speed5–7 days
- Next deadline
- 2026-09-01
Program overview
A two year thesis based master in biological science, built on supervised original research, advanced coursework in the chosen field, and the production and defence of a thesis.
Master of Science in Biology (Thesis) is priced at CAD 12,752, well below the undergraduate rate, which is typical of thesis based research degrees in Canada where departmental funding and teaching assistantships often supplement the student. Ask the department directly what funding is attached to your supervisor before you assume the fee is the whole cost picture.
Master of Science in Biology (Thesis) is taught at St. Francis Xavier University in Antigonish, a designated learning institution, so completing Master of Science in Biology (Thesis) supports a Post-Graduation Work Permit application of up to 3 years. Canada requires a Provincial Attestation Letter with the study permit application for Master of Science in Biology (Thesis), and the university issues that alongside the letter of acceptance. Every permit decision rests with Canadian immigration authorities, and Apply Study Visa confirms the position for Master of Science in Biology (Thesis) in writing before you pay any deposit.
Entry to Master of Science in Biology (Thesis) is a three year bachelor degree with a minimum of 70 percent. The English requirement is IELTS 6.5 with no band below 6.0, and tuition for Master of Science in Biology (Thesis) is recorded at CAD 12,752 a year. No entrance scholarship is recorded against Master of Science in Biology (Thesis), so budget the full tuition. September only, one intake each year to 2028. Apply Study Visa manages the Master of Science in Biology (Thesis) application, the deposit, the letter of acceptance and the Canadian study permit as one process.
What it costs per year · indicative
Living cost is an estimate; tuition is the institute's published international fee. We confirm exact, current figures before you pay anything.
Do you qualify?
These are the published minimums. Whether your profile fits — with your marks, gap and budget — is exactly what a free counsellor check confirms.
Admission requirements
Who can apply (guide for international students):
- Education: A completed three year bachelor degree from a recognised university, at 70 percent or above.
- English (meet any one): IELTS Academic 6.5 overall with no band below 6.0, PTE Academic 60 overall with no component below 50, or TOEFL iBT 90 with at least 20 in every section. The Duolingo English Test is not accepted.
- Application and deposit: An application fee of CAD 100 applies. An initial tuition deposit of CAD 1,000 is required to confirm the seat and trigger the letter of acceptance.
- Scholarship: No entrance scholarship is recorded for this programme. Budget the full tuition.
- Work permit: Master of Science in Biology (Thesis) is delivered by a designated learning institution and supports a Post-Graduation Work Permit of up to 3 years. A Provincial Attestation Letter is required with the study permit application. Because this programme runs 16 months or longer at master level, a spouse may apply for an open work permit. Confirm this in writing, since the rules change.
- Study permit: Apply Study Visa handles the provincial attestation letter, the study permit application and the biometrics appointment with you.
English requirements
Documents you'll need typical · we confirm yours
- Valid passport (6+ months validity)
- Class 10 & 12 marksheets and certificates
- Bachelor's degree marksheets & final certificate
- English test scorecard (IELTS / PTE / TOEFL) or MOI certificate
- Statement of Purpose (SOP)
- Letters of Recommendation (LOR)
- Updated CV / resume
- Financial proof — bank statement / loan sanction + GIC
- Passport-size photographs
- Study-gap affidavit or work-experience letter (if applicable)
Getting documents right is the #1 reason applications succeed or get refused — our team checks every file before submission.
Career opportunities
Typical destinations for graduates:
- Research Scientist: laboratories and institutes
- Environmental Consultant: assessment and monitoring
- Laboratory Manager: academic and commercial labs
- Field Biologist: survey and conservation work
- Science Policy Officer: government agencies
- Doctoral Study: biological research
Reality check: a thesis master requires a supervisor willing to take your project, so approach the department with a research proposal before applying rather than treating this as a standard application.
About St. Francis Xavier University
- Type
- University
- Ownership
- Public
- Rating
- ★ 4.8
- World rank
- #4729
- Established
- 1853
- Reference No.
- O19391556899
