Plant Biology

In the Plant Biology Specialization, you will learn all about the nature of plants   from their cellular structure, to their role in the ecosystem.    

You will examine the structure and development of plants in the context of their function as the primary producers on earth. You will also learn about the physiology and biochemistry of plants, from the basics of photosynthesis, to the production of chemical compounds used for defence against herbivores, pests and pathogens. This program will also help you to develop skills in plant identification, plant propagation, and molecular methods for studying plants and fungi.   

Most courses offer laboratory portions that expand on the lecture material, and will introduce you to the latest techniques in plant biology. Many laboratory exercises use the excellent research and field facilities at the Morgan Arboretum, McGill Herbarium, Lods Centre, the Horticultural Centre and the Plant Science greenhouses, and McGill field stations. You can also undertake a research project under the guidance of a member of the Plant Science Department as part of your studies. 

This specialization must be combined with a major in the BSc(AgEnvSc). The recommended majors are Environmental Biology or Life Sciences (Biological & Agricultural).

• Canadian citizenship or Canadian permanent residency
• 23 years of age or older by the start of classes (21 years of age for the Faculties of Management and Music)
• No high school, college or university level studies within the last five years that would constitute a basis for admission
• Two letters of reference
• Mature Student Statements:
  • Letter of Intent, including description of all educational experiences
  • Complete resume of employment and other activities, highlighting points relevant to the application
• In some cases, an interview may be required
• Demonstrate academic potential by successfully completing a minimum number of specific courses (see 'Minimum grades & prerequisites' below) within the three-year period prior to admission and no later than May 15th of the year of application for the intended program (May 1 for some programs). These courses, which may be completed at CEGEP or university, will also fulfill prerequisites for the intended program. 

Career paths can include: 

• Field biologist 
• Research technician   
• Environmental biologist 
• Botanist 
• Manager, educator, or researcher in a botanical garden 
• Horticulturalist 

1. Know your deadlines.

   Mark your calendar with these important dates regarding your application. 

2. Decide what to study.

   Use the program finder tool to explore over 300 undergraduate programs and find your best match. 

3. Make sure you're eligible.

   Admission to most programs is based on grades only. In this step, you'll find:
   • How your academic record is reviewed
   • The grades that gained entrance to your program in previous years
   • The prerequisites for your program

4. Get ready to apply.

   As of October 1, you can apply. Complete each step of the pre-application to-do list, including:

   • Understand the deadlines that apply to you
   • Prepare your academic documents
   • Identify supporting documents you'll need to provide

5. Submit your application.

   Review our tips on how to apply and see what the application fees will be. Remember that you can apply to two programs.

6. Apply for an entrance scholarship.

   Look into entrance scholarships early! The deadline is usually a week after your application deadline. This page provides information about entrance scholarships, bursaries, and other funding opportunities.

7. Submit documents and keep in touch.

   We'll connect with you by email to let you know when to upload supporting documents, if required. In this step, you'll see:
   • How to follow your applications status
   • Supporting documents you may need to prepare
   • How to submit supporting documents, including self-reporting your grades