Undergraduate
Forensic Biology
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- Bachelor of Science (B.Sc.)
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- Peterborough
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- Fall
- Forensics
At a glance:
- Degree Bachelor of Science (B.Sc.)
- Campus Peterborough
- Program is Offered Fall
- Study Options Part time/Full time
- OUAC Codes RUF - Peterborough
- Apply Now Stay in Touch
The Trent Advantage
Apply biological science to forensic investigation, developing expertise in DNA analysis, genetics, and evidence interpretation while studying at one of Canada’s most renowned Forensics programs.
Forensic Biology combines the study of living systems with forensic investigation. In this unique degree, you'll develop the expertise to tackle complex questions that extend beyond the scope of many traditional forensic programs.
- Specialized study in DNA analysis, forensic entomology, human identification, and crime scene investigation.
- Comprehensive biological science training spanning molecular, cellular, organism, and population-level biology.
- Trent's 4,100-square-foot Forensics Crime Scene Facility, the first facility of its kind on a Canadian university campus, where evidence collection, analysis, and investigation come together in one learning environment.
- Direct access to DNA profiling expertise through the Natural Resources DNA Profiling and Forensics Centre located right on campus.
Career experience while you learn
Every Forensic Biology student has a guaranteed route to paid, credited experience before they graduate.
Research Opportunities
- Conduct independent research under faculty supervision through upper-year research projects, honours thesis opportunities, and community-based forensic research experiences.
- Partner with local organizations to tackle real-world research questions through community-based research projects.
- Research alongside experts working in the Natural Resources DNA Profiling and Forensics Centre, and the Ontario Ministry of Natural Resources and Forestry – located right on campus.
Field Schools and Hands-On Courses
- Explore applied forensic courses in forensic entomology and human identification.
- Investigate realistic forensic scenarios in Trent's 4,100-square-foot Forensics Crime Scene Facility, connecting evidence recovery with scientific interpretation.
Study Abroad
- Take your Trent education global. Spend a semester or year studying at one of Trent’s 50+ international partner universities, participate in a summer field course, or gain international experience through a placement or internship.
- With opportunities in more than 35 countries, you can broaden your academic perspective, experience new cultures, and build skills that prepare you for a global career.
Placements
- Complete a third-year placement in a forensic or biological science setting, gaining hands-on experience in the field, working with organizations such as the Canada Border Services Agency, RCMP, Health Canada, and Canadian Food Inspection Agency
Career Paths
- Forensic Biologist
- Forensic Entomologist
- Wildlife Forensics Expert
- Coroner
- DNA Analyst
In Their Own Words
I was always interested in the investigation side of forensics but enjoyed the flexibility of having a joint major so that I could explore additional career options.
Dr. Kelsey Spence
Forensic Science alum
Admissions
Whether you're graduating from an Ontario high school, looking to study in Canada, or training for a second career, Trent has clear pathways for students to apply and be admitted to study at either of our campuses.
Requirements
If you are coming straight from high school in Ontario or are a recent grad, the general admission requirements are:
- Ontario Secondary School Diploma (OSSD)
- A minimum of six Grade 12 4U or 4M courses, including program-specific prerequisites
- ENG4U with a minimum of 60%
| Admission Requirements | Recommended Admission Requirements | Estimated Admission Average | Co-op Admission Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| ENG4U, SBI4U, SCH4U, and MHF4U or MCV4U | SPH4U | 75-80% |
Requirements
Students from across Canada can use their grades from their home province to apply to Trent.
Requirements
International students from outside Canada can apply based on the curriculum of their home country.
Requirements
Mature students can apply to Trent based on previous education and professional or volunteer experience.
Requirements
With many transfer agreements and flexible pathway options, Trent University makes it easy for students to make the most of the credits you have already earned.
Tuition Estimate
Estimate your tuition, ancillary fees, and potential entrance scholarships based on your program, residency status, and academic average.
Tuition
Base Tuition Fee
$6,240.85
Ancillary Fees
Ancillary Fees (non-tuition costs supporting student services, such as athletics, campus safety, college fees, etc.)
$2,122.22
Total:
$ 8,363.07
* The tuition details and scholarships listed are for domestic students only. International applicants should contact the financial aid office directly for equivalent guidance.
Scholarships
If you’re a top scholar with an average of 80% or higher, you qualify to automatically receive an entrance scholarship to Trent. Scholars with 95% or higher? You earn free first-year tuition – no application required.
| Entrance Average | Maximum Scholarship Potential | Details |
|---|---|---|
| 95%+ | $18,241 | $6,241 first year Full Tuition + $4,000 x 3 years |
| 90-94.9% | $12,000 | $3,000 x 4 years |
| 85-89.9% | $8,000 | $2,000 x 4 years |
| 80-84.9% | $6,000 | $1,500 x 4 years |
* Available to Domestic students only. Based on 2026/27 tuition for a general arts and science program
Explore additional funding for domestic and international students