Academic Programs - Undergraduate

Applied Bioscience

Applied Bioscience mixes Biology and Chemistry with real-world work experience and research opportunities in the growing biopharma and beverage industries.

The business of growth

Four co-op students walk down a path side-by-side in a vineyard.

Applied Bioscience at Acadia combines biology and chemistry with real-world experience, preparing you for a thriving career in the biopharma and beverage industries. From day one, you’ll dive into hands-on learning, developing professional skills while exploring the science behind drug development, diagnostics, and craft beverages.

Our program is rooted in the Annapolis Valley, where local vineyards, craft breweries, and biopharma companies offer a living laboratory. You’ll work alongside industry professionals on real-world research problems, gaining practical experience and building projects using current biotechnology practices. With 12 months of co-op placements, you’ll graduate not only with knowledge, but with valuable workplace experience and a minor in Business Administration.

Applied Bioscience prepares you for careers across the life sciences sector, including health professions, research, production, and management. You’ll also have the foundation to pursue advanced studies or professional programs in medicine, pharmacy, and more.

We offer two streams: the Science and Business of Biopharma Stream, focusing on drug discovery and production, and the Science and Business of Beverage Stream, emphasizing beverage production, marketing, and analysis.

Sample Courses

These sample courses give you a taste of the hands-on, interdisciplinary learning you’ll experience in Applied Bioscience, combining biology, chemistry, research skills, and industry-relevant business knowledge.

  • BIOT 2013
    Research Methods in Biotechnology
  • CHEM 2713
    Biochemistry
  • BIOL 3613
    Principles of Genetics
  • BUSI 3343
    Wine and Beverage Marketing

Career Options After Graduation

Applied Bioscience graduates launch careers that combine science, innovation, and real-world impact across industries from healthcare to biotechnology and beyond.

  • Agricultural researcher
  • Laboratory technician
  • Quality control scientist
  • Bioscience entrepreneur
  • Public relations
  • Marketing
  • Dentist
  • Medical doctor
  • Pharmacist
  • Biochemist
  • Process Scientist
 

Degree Timeline

First Year

  • Take required introductory courses
  • Join clubs and get involved on campus and within the program

Middle Years

  • Opportunity to become a teaching assistant
  • Connect with faculty about summer research
  • Enrol in the co-op program

Final Year

  • Complete final co-op placements
  • Complete advanced courses
  • Earn your degree

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Related Programs

Bioscience connects with several other disciplines. You might enjoy programs including:

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