Marine and Freshwater Biology
Why Study Marine and Freshwater Biology at U of G?
Marine and Freshwater Biology capitalizes on the University of Guelph's recognized excellence in aquatic research. In this major, you will build upon core courses in ecology, evolution, genetics, physiology and zoology as you study freshwater and marine environments and work with aquatic organisms in the field and the lab.
Conduct Research on Ocean and Lake Sustainability
Study aquatic organisms and freshwater and marine environments from both biological and physical science perspectives, with a focus on sustainable management and conservation.
Access the Hagen Aqualab
Take advantage of the University of Guelph’s state-of-the-art aquatic research facility, the Hagen Aqualab, which houses a wide variety of flora and fauna from arctic, temperate, and tropical regions in marine, brackish, and freshwater habitats.
Gain Practical Skills
Learn hands-on skills from global leaders in aquatic research in both on-campus research facilities and through field courses, including to St. Andrews, New Brunswick. Exchange programs are also available in collaboration with universities around the world.
To see all courses offered in the Marine and Freshwater Biology program, visit our Academic Calendar.
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- Top Comprehensive University
- in Canada (Maclean’s)
- Top 150 in the World
- for Life Sciences (Times Higher Education 2026)
- Top 20% in the World
- for Biological Sciences (QS World University Rankings by Subject 2025)
- Top 4 in Canada
- for Wildlife and Fisheries Management and Conservation (EduRank 2025)
Careers in Marine and Freshwater Biology
Marine and Freshwater Biology graduates pursue careers in aquatic management and conservation, aquaculture, oceanography, biotechnology, education, and research, or continue their studies in professional schools or graduate programs.
Here are just a few careers our graduates have successfully pursued:
- Aquatic Biologist
- Conservation Biologist
- Environmental Biologist
- Fisheries Manager
- Freshwater Turtle Field Coordinator
- Limnologist
- Marine Biologist
- Marine Ecosystems Scientist
- Oceanographer
- Research Assistant
- Species at Risk Biologist
- Stream Ecologist
- Sustainable Aquaculturist
- Teacher
- Watershed Management Specialist
Gain Valuable Experience Through Co-op
The Marine and Freshwater Biology co-op is a five-year program that includes five paid work terms. Apply what you’ve learned in the classroom to the real world, with hands-on work experiences available in private, non-profit, and governmental organizations. Benefits of co-op include:
- Relevant work experience
- Up to two years of work experience
- Earning while learning
- Career exploration
- Professional networking
Students can apply for the co-op program directly from high school or later for in-course admission. Learn more about the Marine and Freshwater Biology co-op program.
Hear From Marine and Freshwater Biology Students and Graduates
My time studying Marine and Freshwater Biology (MFB) at the University of Guelph has been an incredible experience. In classes, we learn about the physiology, ecology, and overall biology of aquatic species and apply our knowledge in hands-on labs with real organisms. As MFB students in 4th year, we get to complete an independent research project using marine animals in the Hagen Aqualab! I have made many connections with students, staff, faculty, and alumni during my degree, which has made me feel ready to start my career when I graduate.
During my undergraduate studies, I completed five diverse co-op work terms across four locations. These experiences included working at a National Wildlife Area in Saskatchewan, on an Arctic charr farm in the Yukon, conducting Wildlife Habitat Assessments in Northern Ontario's boreal forests, and researching algae on the Great Lakes. These opportunities were pivotal in helping me identify my career interests post-graduation. The co-op program equipped me with practical skills and prepared me to succeed in the marine and freshwater industry!
As an international student, the Marine and Freshwater Biology program allows me to gain hands-on experience and education directly in the field without compromising my passion for marine sciences. The co-op program has also been extremely beneficial in gaining hands-on experience with fish husbandry and lab techniques, which benefit me greatly in future opportunities.
My time as a co-op student at the University of Guelph in Marine and Freshwater Biology was immensely rewarding. I gained valuable hands-on experience in fish health assessments, habitat restoration, and data analysis, utilizing advanced technologies such as electrofishing, R programming, and GIS. This comprehensive training enabled me to secure a position immediately after graduation and provided me with the knowledge and skills necessary to excel in my career.
I love the Marine and Freshwater Biology program because it provides lots of hands-on experience and practical labs. I also love how we cover everything from evolution to ecology and physiology and much more. We also learn about all types of aquatic ecosystems and how they are unique, which is super interesting.
Discover More Options
Students considering Marine and Freshwater Biology may also be interested in Animal Biology, Ecology, Wildlife Biology and Conservation, Zoology, or other majors.
Admission Requirements
Explore admission requirements for Canadian, international, transfer, and mature students. Start your journey today!
Scholarships & Bursaries
We offer a wide range of financial aid programs to assist with funding your education at the University of Guelph.
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