Molecular Biology and Genetics
Why Study Molecular Biology and Genetics at U of G?
DNA, the carrier of genetic information in nearly all living organisms, is at the core of the Molecular Biology and Genetics program.
In this lab-intensive major, you will study the genetics of animals, plants and microorganisms, as well as the structure and function of cells. You’ll investigate processes in gene regulation in the context of developmental biology, as well as the molecular basis for inherited diseases and regulatory disorders. You’ll also learn about the application of molecular genetics in biotechnology and medicine.
Choose a general program or focus your courses in areas such as molecular biology, cell biology, developmental biology, or agricultural genetics. Available electives cover topics as varied as epigenetics, molecular virology, cell function and signalling, and applied bioinformatics.
In molecular biology labs, you’ll learn the cutting-edge skills and techniques used in the biotechnology and medical sectors. Through a fourth-year research project, you can even lead your own research project in a lab, under the supervision of a Molecular and Cellular Biology faculty member.
Join an Innovative Field
Discover how significant advances in molecular and cellular biology can be applied to gene therapy, genetic testing, biopharmaceuticals and crop production, among other areas of study.
Gain Hands-on Experience
You’ll develop the practical lab-based skills and knowledge needed in the field of molecular biology and genetics, including the ability to analyze and interpret experimental results.
Participate in Research Projects
In your upper years, you’ll have the opportunity to work closely with faculty members in some of the University of Guelph’s state-of-the-art research labs and facilities.
To see all courses offered in the Molecular Biology and Genetics program, visit our Academic Calendar.
Events and Webinars Available Now
Future Gryphon Webinar Series
Canadian high school students are invited to connect with Admission Services through several virtual events this winter. Register today to learn more about campus, scholarships, tuition, housing and more!
International Virtual Open House
Prospective international students and their families are invited to explore our International Virtual Open House! Watch the recordings to learn more about programs, scholarships and life in Canada, plus hear current students and admission experts.
- 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 5 in Canada for Life Sciences
- Top 4 for Life Sciences Teaching (THE 2026)
Gain Valuable Experience Through Co-op
The Molecular Biology and Genetics co-op is a five-year program that includes four 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 16 months 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 Molecular Biology and Genetics co-op program.
Careers in Molecular Biology and Genetics
The program qualifies students for postgraduate training in cell or molecular biology and genetics, including clinical genetics and genetic counselling, and provides an excellent background for careers in biotechnology, toxicology, agriculture and medical research.
Here are a few careers our graduates have successfully pursued:
- Clinical Research Scientist
- Cytogeneticist
- Data Scientist
- Genetic Counsellor
- Laboratory Technologist
- Physician
- Policy Analyst
- Professor
- Research Data Manager
- Research Laboratory Technician
- Science Communicator
Hear from a Molecular Biology and Genetics student and graduates
My time in the Molecular Biology and Genetics program was a critical stepping stone that opened the door to many potential career paths. While the educational journey provided academic and laboratory knowledge, the opportunities for pure hands-on experience and the people involved in those opportunities enhanced my knowledge and skillset to become a forensic biologist.
Your first year within the Bachelor of Science focuses on the core science courses, which allowed me to transfer into Molecular Biology and Genetics co-op in my second year. At Guelph, there are many options for experiential learning. I completed one of my eight-month co-op terms at a biotechnology company called STEMCELL in Vancouver, B.C. I loved having the opportunity to utilize my academic knowledge in a practical, hands-on way. In my final year, I completed the optional Research Project course (MCB*4500/4510), which allowed me to gain exposure to research and academia while working under Dr. Marc Coppolino, one of the many amazing professors at the university. I am excited about the next steps as I apply for a Master's in Genetic Counselling after graduation.
Molecular Biology and Genetics is unparalleled in providing a well-rounded and comprehensive education. This includes undergraduate research opportunities studying under leading scientists, which uniquely prepares students for graduate studies or the workforce. There are a wide variety of course offerings that provide an abundance of educational support, laboratory training, and assignments that encourage the critical thinking necessary for a successful scientific career. I also appreciate that Molecular Biology and Genetics is a smaller program that has an amazing culture of supportive collaboration between students.
I switched into Molecular Biology and Genetics as soon as I took one of the core courses in the department but, if I had to choose again, I would pick the program from the start.
Starting with a broad set of biology courses in first year, the Molecular Biology and Genetics program has allowed me the freedom to explore classes covering many subdisciplines of biology, all with a unique molecular lens. The program also emphasizes and builds practical skills through course labs, research opportunities with professors, and even a co-op option. I’ve enjoyed studying MBG immensely and would highly recommend it to anyone looking to follow their interest in biology to wherever it leads!
Discover More Options
Students considering Molecular Biology and Genetics may also be interested in Microbiology and Immunology, Bio-Medical Science, Biological Engineering, Biomedical Engineering, 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.
Tour Our Campus
Through virtual tours, presentations, webinars and in-person tours, get familiar with the University of Guelph campus.
Have Questions?
Learn more about how to connect, discover, and engage with programs, facilities and life at the University of Guelph.