The BSc (BMSC) Program
In 2021-22, the College of Arts and Science, in an exciting partnership with the College of Medicine, introduced the new collaborative degree, a Bachelor of Science in Biomedical Sciences (BSc (BMSC)).
These programs include the necessary courses for students preparing to enter graduate studies in biomedical sciences or into health-related professional schools such as Medicine, Dentistry, Veterinary Medicine, Pharmacy and Nutrition.
Biomedical Sciences Guidebook
This guidebook is intended for current BSc (BMSC) students to help guide your program planning at the University of Saskatchewan. This will provide valuable information about the Biomedical Science (BMSC) program; how to apply for major; how to plan your major; highlights of important course offering; available research opportunities; and more. While not exhaustive, this guidebook offers essential information that is helpful for your academic journey.
Bachelor of Science in Biomedical Sciences
There are five degree options in Biomedical Sciences:
This program provides education in disciplines of the anatomical sciences (cell biology, developmental biology, and gross anatomy), physiology and pharmacology. These life science disciplines provide a comprehensive understanding of the functions and mechanisms of actions of the cells and major systems of the human body, and of the effects and mode of action of chemicals which modify the major systems of the body.
Options: Four-year or Honours degree
Please click here to view this program in the University Catalogue.
This program includes education in many of the major topics in neuroscience including molecular and cellular neuroscience, systems and sensory neuroscience, behavioural and cognitive neuroscience, neurophysiology and neuroanatomy.
Options: Four-year or Honours degree
Please click here to view this program in the University Catalogue.
This program which provides education in the areas the molecular and cellular approaches to the study of the life sciences including microbial physiology and pathogenesis, protein structure and function, molecular biology, microbial genetics, virology, tumour biology and cancer, immunology and immunopathogenesis.
Options: Four-year or Honours degree
Please click here to view this program in the University Catalogue.
The Departments of Anatomy, Physiology, and Pharmacology and Biochemistry, Microbiology, and Immunology offer this program that enables cutting-edge, multi-disciplinary training that positions graduates for careers in the biomedical sciences as well as health-related professions.
Options: Four-year or Honours degree
Please click here to view this program in the University Catalogue.
This program builds on the shared two-year biomedical sciences platform shared by all the biomedical science majors to provide students with a strong foundation of multi-disciplinary training while providing flexibility for initial specialization within a particular biomedical science. This program includes necessary courses for students prepared to enter into health-related professional schools not requiring a four-year degree such as Dentistry, Veterinary Medicine and Pharmacy.
Options: Three-year degree
Please click here to view this program in the University Catalogue.
Recommended 2-year Course Sequencing
The first two years of all BMSC programs include core courses indicated below. These two years ensure students build a solid foundation moving forward in the program. The BMSC courses incorporate content from each of the Biomedical Science areas of study to broaden student knowledge and create versatility in their studies.
2-year schedule sample
This degree program is flexible and offers you the opportunity to take courses in many different subject areas. Here is what a suggested first-year schedule might look like:
Course | Description |
---|---|
Fall Term |
|
BIOL 120b | The Nature of Life |
CHEM 112b | General Chemistry I Structure Bonding and Properties of Materials |
PHYS 115b | Physics and the Universe |
INDG 107c | Introduction to Canadian Indigenous Studies |
ENG 112d | Literature and Composition Reading Drama |
Winter Term |
|
BMSC 200a | Biomolecules |
CHEM 115b | General Chemistry II Chemical Processes |
PHYS 117b | Physics for the Life Sciences |
PSY 120b | Biological and Cognitive Bases of Psychology |
ART 110e | Art Today Ideas and Practices |
a Required course for the M4 Core Requirement
b Course from the Cognate Requirement
c Or other course listed under the Indigenous Learning Requirement could be chosen
d Or other course listed under the English Language Writing Requirement could be chosen
e Or other course listed under the Breadth or Elective Requirement could be chosen
The Course and Program Catalogue has the complete and official listing of required classes and their descriptions for this program.
This degree program is flexible and offers you the opportunity to take courses in many different subject areas. Here is what a suggested second-year schedule might look like:
Course | Description |
---|---|
Fall Term |
|
BMSC 207a | Human Body Systems I |
BMSC 210a | Microbiology |
BMSC 240a | Laboratory Techniques |
CHEM 250a | Introduction to Organic Chemistry |
MUS 101c | Fundamentals of Music I Exploring Foundations |
Winter Term |
|
BMSC 208a | Human Body Systems II |
BMSC 220a | Cell Biology |
BMSC 230a | Metabolism |
MATH 110b | Calculus I |
LING 111c | Structure of Language |
a Required course for the M4 Core Requirement
b Or other course listed under the Quantitive Reasoning Requirement chould be chosen
c Or other course listed under the Cognate, Breadth or Elective Requirements chooud be chosen
The Course and Program Catalogue has the complete and official listing of required classes and their descriptions for this program.
The M4 Core Requirements must be finished before a student can apply for a BSc (BMSC) major.
The M4 Core Requirements (24 credit units) consist of the following classes:
- BMSC 200.3 Biomolecules
- BMSC 207.3 Human Body Systems I
- BMSC 208.3 Human Body Systems II
- BMSC 210.3 Microbiology
- BMSC 220.3 Cell Biology
- BMSC 230.3 Metabolism
- BMSC 240.3 Laboratory Techniques
- CHEM 250.3 Introduction to Organic Chemistry
These classes must be finished before a student can apply for a BSc (BMSC) major.
Application for a major and transfer details for current A&S students
Eligibility for Transfer into the BSc (BMSC) Program
Arts & Science students who wish to transfer into the Bachelor of Science in Biomedical Sciences (BSc BMSC) program must meet the following requirements:
- A minimum grade of 50% in 3 credit units of 100-level or higher courses in each of the following subjects:
- Biology (BIOL)
- Chemistry (CHEM)
- Physics (PHYS)
- Mathematics (MATH)
If these university-level course requirements are not met at the time of transfer, students' high school grades will be considered. In that case, students must have a minimum average of 70% across the following high school courses:
- Biology 30
- Chemistry 30
- Physics 30
- Math Foundations 30
How can I apply for the 3-year BSc (BMSC) Biomedical Foundations major (BMF)?
Once you are accepted into the BSc (BMSC) program, you will be placed in the General major. You can apply to three-year BMF program at any time through the A&S Student Inquiry form.
How can I apply to one of the BSc (BMSC) 4-year majors?
You need to complete the M4 Core Requirements by the end of April in the year you want to apply a major, typically completed by the end of 2nd year. These classes must be completed by April 30th, 2026 to be eligible to apply to a major for the 2026-27 academic year.
M4 Core Requirements (24 credit units)
- BMSC 200.3 Biomolecules
- BMSC 207.3 Human Body Systems I
- BMSC 208.3 Human Body Systems II
- BMSC 210.3 Microbiology
- BMSC 220.3 Cell Biology
- BMSC 230.3 Metabolism
- BMSC 240.3 Laboratory Techniques
- CHEM 250.3 Introduction to Organic Chemistry
Application for a Major is open annually from March 1st to April 30th and must be completed by April 30, 2026, for the 2026-27 academic year. Once the application closes, student eligibility will be checked and application for majors ranked (if requesting a program with limited seats). You will be informed of your placement at the beginning of May of the year you are eligible to apply to a major, via your USask email.
*If you started your program prior to 2020 and are currently declared in a past major (ACB, BIOC, MCIM, PHPY) you can choose to continue with that major or apply for a new major in the BSc (BMSC) program.
What if I do not meet the requirements to choose a major?
We encourage you to fill out the BMSC major application once you are eligible.
Is space limited in some majors?
Yes, there is limited capacity (40 seats) in the Biomedical Neuroscience (BMNS) and the Interdisciplinary Biomedical Science (ID BMSC) majors.
If student demand is greater than the program's capacity, all eligible students will be ranked by their average in the courses included in the criteria to apply to a major. The top students will be accepted into the major and the remaining placed in their second choice. Students should not complete third year courses in ID BMSC or BMNS unless they have been accepted into the major.
The application has been closed for the 2025-2026 intake. It will re-open next year from March 1st to April 30th, 2026.
News, Announcements and Course Updates
Course Updates for 2025-2026
(last updated June 11, 2025)
This document includes all important BMSC course and program changes for the upcoming year to assist with planning and registration for the 2025-2026 year.
CMPT 140.3: Introduction to Creative Computing
CMPT 140 has been added to the BMI major. Students can use either BINF 151, BINF 351, or CMPT 140 to fulfill the program requirements for the Bioinformatics portion of their BMI major.
CPPS 310.3: Basic Human Anatomy
This course will only be offered in Fall Term.
CPPS 498.3: Everything Changed When They Wrote Science as Story– New Course* Fall Term
This unconventional hands-on hybrid seminar course formally applies the irrefutable power of storytelling to science writing so that you can have the impact you want and need on your readers and your research field. Regular in-class writing exercises and discussions aim to catalyze learner self-discovery and empowerment with narrative writing skills. Students will read, reflect and write a lot in ways they may not have before, consciously harness their creativity and critical thought, and incorporate a story-based toolkit into their work processes.
Prerequisite(s): Registered in BMSC and passed four 300-level CPPS course.
Note: No previous science writing experience or training is required.
This course is not listed in the course list for CPPS programs.
CPPS majors: this course can be used under the M5 Major Requirements: ‘choose 6 credit units’ in the 4Y program and honours program.
CPPS 498.3: Integrative Physiology, Metabolism, and Metabolic Diseases – New Course* Fall Term
The focus of this course is to provide a detailed review of integrative physiology, metabolism, and metabolic diseases. We will use primary research literature in the field to advance our understanding of metabolic regulation in health, pathophysiology of metabolic diseases, and recent developments in therapies. This course aims to equip students with advanced knowledge and prepare students for more advanced courses or a senior research thesis in areas of physiology, metabolism, and pharmacology.
Prerequisite(s): CPPS 303 or permission of course coordinator.
This course is not listed in the course list for CPPS programs.
CPPS majors: this course can be used under the M5 Major Requirements: ‘choose 6 credit units’ in the 4Y program and honours program.
BMIS 325.3: Fundamentals of Bacteriology
This course has been moved to Fall Term.
BMIS 405.3: Structure and Function of Biomolecules
This course has been renamed and renumbered to BMIS 455.3: Mechanisms of Protein Function.
BMIS 412.3: Protein Structure Function and Engineering
This course has been renamed to Methods for Engineering Designer Proteins
BMIS 420.3: Antimicrobial Resistance of One Health Pathogens – New Course* Winter Term - previously known as BMIS 498.3
Themes related to antimicrobial resistance (AMR) in the USask signature area of One Health will be introduced through formal introductory lectures, followed by presentation and discussion and critique of primary research articles. Students are required to study all the manuscripts ahead of time and are encouraged to actively participate in the in-class discussions and activities. Graduate students are expected to take a more engaged, leadership role in class discussions. An emphasis will be placed on the critical analysis of the research articles discussed. Methods generally applicable and of interest to the field will also be discussed. Topics to be addressed include but are not limited to defining AMR, AMR in a historical context, canonical mechanisms of resistance in One Health pathogens, surveillance and transmission of AMR in the environment, emerging and novel mechanisms of resistance, and treatment strategies for extensively drug-resistant pathogens.
Prerequisite(s): BMIS 325.3 or permission of the course coordinator.
Note: Students with credit for BMIS 498.3 Advances in Antimicrobial Resistance of One Health Pathogens cannot take BMIS 420 for credit. Students who have taken BMIS 420.3 as an undergraduate student are ineligible to take BMIS 820.3 as a graduate student.
This course is not listed in the course list for the BMIS programs.
BMI majors: BMIS 420.3 can be used under the M5 Major Requirements: ‘choose 9 credit units’ 4Y program and ‘choose 15 credit units’ honours program to be included in “Any BMSC, BMIS, BIOC or MCIM course at the 300 or 400 level” note for that section.
BMIS 423.3: Immunopathogenesis
This course has been renamed to Advanced Immunology and has been moved to Fall Term.
BMIS 425.3: Molecular Basis of Microbial Pathogenesis
This course will only be offered in Winter Term.
BMIS 450.3 Molecular Basis of Symbiosis and Microbiomes – New Course* Fall Term - previously known as BMIS 498.3
Course Description: An introduction to the molecular bases of multiorganismal interactions from theory to well-established models involving microbes. This course emphasizes the importance of functional biological units and methods to study interactions between organisms. After an introduction to the field, students will read and present relevant literature.
Prerequisite(s): BMIS 325.3
Note: Students with credit for BMIS 498.3 Molecular Basis of Symbiosis and Microbiomes may not have credit for this course.
This course is not listed in the course list for the BMIS programs.
This course is not listed in the course list for BMIS programs. BMIS majors: BMIS 498.3 can be used in the M5 ‘choose 9cu’ 4-year and ‘choose 15cu’ honours to be included in “Any BMSC, BMIS, BIOC or MCIM course at the 300 or 400 level” note for that section.
MCIM 223.3: Principles of Microbiology and Immunology for Nursing
This course has been moved to Winter Term.
PSY 448.3: Advanced Seminar in Neuroscience – Prerequisite change
BMNS students who were planning to take PSY 448, please note that the prerequisites have changed:
Prerequisite(s): 3 credit units from PSY 252.3, PSY 246.3, or PSY 242.3; and 3 credit units of 300-level Psychology. Restricted to Honours students in Health Studies and Psychology.
The Department of Psychology is willing to review NEUR 301, NEUR 334 or NEUR 350 in place of the 300 level Psychology requirements if seats are available in PSY 448. Please submit a prerequisite override indicating the courses you have taken and ask permission to enroll in the class.
*Note: Please add the course coordinator as the approver of this ticket.
The following notices are for the specific majors:
Biochemistry, Microbiology and Immunology (BMI) Announcements for 2025-2026
(last updated June 4, 2025)
CMPT 140.3: Introduction to Creative Computing
CMPT 140 has been added to the BMI major. Students can use either BINF 151, BINF 351, or CMPT 140 to fulfill the program requirements for the Bioinformatics portion of their BMI major.
BMIS 325.3: Fundamentals of Bacteriology
This course has been moved to Fall Term.
BMIS 405.3: Structure and Function of Biomolecules
This course has been renamed and renumbered to BMIS 455.3: Mechanisms of Protein Function.
BMIS 412.3: Protein Structure Function and Engineering
This course has been renamed to Methods for Engineering Designer Proteins
BMIS 420.3: Antimicrobial Resistance of One Health Pathogens – New Course* Winter Term - previously known as BMIS 498.3
Themes related to antimicrobial resistance (AMR) in the USask signature area of One Health will be introduced through formal introductory lectures, followed by presentation and discussion and critique of primary research articles. Students are required to study all the manuscripts ahead of time and are encouraged to actively participate in the in-class discussions and activities. Graduate students are expected to take a more engaged, leadership role in class discussions. An emphasis will be placed on the critical analysis of the research articles discussed. Methods generally applicable and of interest to the field will also be discussed. Topics to be addressed include but are not limited to defining AMR, AMR in a historical context, canonical mechanisms of resistance in One Health pathogens, surveillance and transmission of AMR in the environment, emerging and novel mechanisms of resistance, and treatment strategies for extensively drug-resistant pathogens.
Prerequisite(s): BMIS 325.3 or permission of the course coordinator.
Note: Students with credit for BMIS 498.3 Advances in Antimicrobial Resistance of One Health Pathogens cannot take BMIS 420 for credit. Students who have taken BMIS 420.3 as an undergraduate student are ineligible to take BMIS 820.3 as a graduate student.
This course is not listed in the course list for the BMIS programs.
BMI majors: BMIS 420.3 can be used under the M5 Major Requirements: ‘choose 9 credit units’ 4Y program and ‘choose 15 credit units’ honours program to be included in “Any BMSC, BMIS, BIOC or MCIM course at the 300 or 400 level” note for that section.
BMIS 423.3: Immunopathogenesis
This course has been renamed to Advanced Immunology and has been moved to Fall Term.
BMIS 425.3: Molecular Basis of Microbial Pathogenesis
This course will only be offered in Winter Term.
BMIS 450.3 Molecular Basis of Symbiosis and Microbiomes – New Course* Fall Term - previously known as BMIS 498.3
Course Description: An introduction to the molecular bases of multiorganismal interactions from theory to well-established models involving microbes. This course emphasizes the importance of functional biological units and methods to study interactions between organisms. After an introduction to the field, students will read and present relevant literature.
Prerequisite(s): BMIS 325.3
Note: Students with credit for BMIS 498.3 Molecular Basis of Symbiosis and Microbiomes may not have credit for this course.
This course is not listed in the course list for the BMIS programs.
This course is not listed in the course list for BMIS programs. BMIS majors: BMIS 498.3 can be used in the M5 ‘choose 9cu’ 4-year and ‘choose 15cu’ honours to be included in “Any BMSC, BMIS, BIOC or MCIM course at the 300 or 400 level” note for that section.
Biomedical Neuroscience (BMNS) Announcements
for 2025-2026
*These notices are only for students who have been officially accepted into the BMNS major
(last updated May 20, 2025)
PSY 448.3: Advanced Seminar in Neuroscience – Prerequisite change
BMNS students who were planning to take PSY 448, please note that the prerequisites have changed:
Prerequisite(s): 3 credit units from PSY 252.3, PSY 246.3, or PSY 242.3; and 3 credit units of 300-level Psychology. Restricted to Honours students in Health Studies and Psychology.
The Department of Psychology is willing to review NEUR 301, NEUR 334 or NEUR 350 in place of the 300 level Psychology requirements if seats are available in PSY 448. Please submit a prerequisite override indicating the courses you have taken and ask permission to enroll in the class.
*Note: Please add the course coordinator as the approver of this ticket.
Changes to the BMNS major in the 2023-2024 calendar
Learn about the differences in the 2022-2023 academic year and the 2023-2024 academic year as well as current program catalogues.
What is the program catalogue?
The program catalogue displays the most current calendar requirements in a degree. In March each year the newest catalogue is released for the next academic year.
Which BMNS calendar year should I follow?
All current BMNS students are encouraged to switch to the 2022-2023 or 2023-2024/Current calendar because new courses have been added, providing more flexibility.
Differences between the calendars:
BMNS 2022-2023 year |
BMNS 2023-2024 year/Current |
M5 section: ‘Choose 3 cu’ NEUR 420 ‘Choose 6 cu’ PSY 242 |
M5 section: ‘Choose 6 cu’ NEUR 420 ‘Choose 3 cu’ PSY 242 |
How do I switch calendar years?
Once you are officially accepted in BMNS major, you can switch calendar years by submitting a request through an ‘A&S Student Inquiry’ form.
Cellular Physiological and Pharmacological (CPPS) Announcements 2025-2026
(last updated June 11, 2025)
CPPS 310.3: Basic Human Anatomy
This course will only be offered in Fall Term.
CPPS 498.3: Everything Changed When They Wrote Science as Story– New Course* Fall Term
This unconventional hands-on hybrid seminar course formally applies the irrefutable power of storytelling to science writing so that you can have the impact you want and need on your readers and your research field. Regular in-class writing exercises and discussions aim to catalyze learner self-discovery and empowerment with narrative writing skills. Students will read, reflect and write a lot in ways they may not have before, consciously harness their creativity and critical thought, and incorporate a story-based toolkit into their work processes.
Prerequisite(s): Registered in BMSC and passed four 300-level CPPS course.
Note: No previous science writing experience or training is required.
This course is not listed in the course list for CPPS programs.
CPPS majors: this course can be used under the M5 Major Requirements: ‘choose 6 credit units’ in the 4Y program and honours program.
CPPS 498.3: Integrative Physiology, Metabolism, and Metabolic Diseases – New Course* Fall Term
The focus of this course is to provide a detailed review of integrative physiology, metabolism, and metabolic diseases. We will use primary research literature in the field to advance our understanding of metabolic regulation in health, pathophysiology of metabolic diseases, and recent developments in therapies. This course aims to equip students with advanced knowledge and prepare students for more advanced courses or a senior research thesis in areas of physiology, metabolism, and pharmacology.
Prerequisite(s): CPPS 303 or permission of course coordinator.
This course is not listed in the course list for CPPS programs.
CPPS majors: this course can be used under the M5 Major Requirements: ‘choose 6 credit units’ in the 4Y program and honours program.
CPPS Course and Program changes for 2024-25 academic year:
Interdisciplinary Biomedical Sciences (ID BMSC) Announcements for 2025-2026
*These notices are only for students who have been officially accepted into the ID BMSC major
There are no notices for this major.
This information will help you choose the correct courses for your program requirements. The following new courses are accepted as equivalents to the past courses. Always read individual course details to note equivalencies and registration notes in the USASK catalogue.
Anatomy, Physiology and Pharmacology
|
||
Note: All ACB and PHPY courses changed to CPPS or NEUR in the 2022-2023 academic year, with the exception of PHPY 490.0 | ||
Old Course Code | New Course Code | Course Name |
ACB 310.3 | CPPS 310.3 | Basic Human Anatomy |
ACB 325.3 | CPPS 325.3 | Advanced Cell Biology |
ACB 330.3 | CPPS 330.3 | Principles of Developmental Biology |
ACB 331.3 | CPPS 331.3 | Methods in Cell and Developmental Biology |
ACB 334.3 | NEUR 334.3 | Introductory Neuroanatomy |
ACB 400.3 | CPPS 400.3 | Clinical and Biomedical Imaging |
ACB 401.6 (PHPY 432.6) |
CPPS 432.6 | Undergraduate Research Project in CPPS |
ACB 405.3 | CPPS 405.3 | Current Topics in CPPS |
ACB 406.3 | CPPS 406.3 | Comparative Vertebrate Histology |
HSC 350.3 | NEUR 350.3 | Fundamental Neuroscience |
PHPY 301.3 | NEUR 301.3 | Fundamental Neuroscience Intercellular Communication |
PHPY 302.3 | CPPS 302.3 | Human Physiology Transport Systems |
PHPY 303.3 | CPPS 303.3 | Human Physiology Reproduction Growth and Energy Homeostasis |
PHPY 304.3 | CPPS 304.3 | Introduction to Pharmacology |
PHPY 305.3 |
Students choose: |
CPPS 306.3 Systems Pharmacology I |
PHPY 308.3 | CPPS 308.3 | Experimental Bases of Physiology and Pharmacology |
PHPY 402.3 | CPPS 337.3 | Experimental Design in the Health Care System |
PHPY 403.3 | CPPS 403.3 | Physiological Genomics and Pharmacogenetics |
PHPY 404.3 | NEUR 404.3 | Neurophysiology and Neuropharmacology |
PHPY 405.3 | CPPS 415.3 | Advances in Cardiovascular Physiology and Pharmacology |
PHPY 432.6 (ACB 401.6) |
CPPS 432.6 | Undergraduate Research Project in CPPS |
PHSI 208.6 | BMSC 207.3 & BMSC 208.3 |
BMSC 207 Human Body Systems I BMSC 208 Human Body Systems II |
Biochemistry, Microbiology and Immunology
|
||
Note: All BIOC and MCIM courses changed to BMIS and BMSC in the 2021-2022 academic year. BMSC 350.3 was changed to CHEP 350.3. | ||
Old Course Code | New Course Code | Course Name |
BIOC 300.3 (MCIM 326.3) |
BMSC 320.3 | Nucleic Acids from Central Dogma to Human Disease |
BIOC 310.3 | BMIS 310.3 | Proteins and Enzymes |
BIOC 311.3 (MCIM 391.3) |
BMIS 340.3 | Introductory Molecular Biology |
BIOC 405.3 | BIMS 405.3 | Structure and Function of Biomolecules |
BIOC 412.3 | BMIS 412.3 | Protein Structure Function and Engineering |
BIOC 430.3 | BMIS 430.3 | Biochemistry of Cancer |
BIOC 435.3 | BMIS 435.3 | Human Metabolism and Disease |
BIOC 436.3 | BMIS 436.3 | Advanced Molecular Biology |
BIOC 490.0 (MCIM 490.0) |
BMIS 400.0 | Seminar in BMI Experimental Microbiology and immunology |
BIOC 489.6 (MCIM 491.6) |
BMIS 489.6 | Undergraduate Research Project in BMI |
BMSC 350.3 | CHEP 350.3 | Introduction to Epidemiology |
MCIM 308.3/ MCIM 309.3 |
BMIS 308.3 | An Introduction to Microbial Pathogens |
MCIM 321.3 | BMIS 321.3 | Principles of Immunology |
MCIM 326.3 (BIOC 300.3) |
BMSC 320.3 | Nucleic Acids from Central Dogma to Human Disease |
MCIM 390.3 | BMIS 390.3 | Experimental Microbiology and Immunology |
MCIM 391.3 (BIOC 311.3) |
BMIS 340.3 | Introductory Molecular Biology |
MCIM 398.3 | BMIS 380.3 | Team Based Experimental Microbiology |
MCIM 417.3 | BMIS 417.3 | Molecular Virology |
MCIM 423.3 | BMIS 423.3 | Immunopathogenesis |
MCIM 425.3 | BMIS 425.3 | Molecular Basis of Microbial Pathogenesis |
MCIM 487.3 | BMIS 487.3 | Microbial Genetic Systems |
MCIM 490.0 (BIOC 490.0) |
BMIS 400.0 | Seminar in BMI Experimental Microbiology and Immunology |
MCIM 491.6 (BIOC 489.6) |
BMIS 489.6 | Undergraduate Research Project in BMI |
Additional Course Changes for
|
||
Old Course | New Course | Course Name |
BINF 200.3 | BINF 351.3 | Introduction to Bioinformatics |
BINF 210.3 | BINF 151.3 | Computing in the Biological Sciences |
Anatomy and Cell Biology (ACB) Announcements
for 2025-2026
The following notice is for students who are following the BSc Anatomy and Cell Biology (ACB) program. The BSc in ACB is only available to students who started their program prior to 2020 and are currently declared in the ACB major.
CPPS 405 seats are limited
If you require CPPS 405: Current Topics in Cellular Physiological and Pharmacological Sciences to complete your ACB degree please contact bmscadvising@usask.ca as soon as possible to secure a seat.
Biochemistry (BIOC) Announcements for 2025-2026
The following notice is for students who are following the BSc Biochemistry (BIOC) program. The BSc in BIOC is only available to students who started their program prior to 2020 and are currently declared in the BIOC major.
Bioinformatics Options
The BIOC major requires BINF 200 or BINF 210 in the area of major. Please note the following course code changes and course additions for 2022-2023 moving forward. Students can take one of the following options to complete this requirement.
BINF 151.3 (formerly BINF 210 in the program)
BINF 351.3 (formerly BINF 200 in the program)
CMPT 140.3 Introduction to Creative Computing
This change is not reflected in the course catalogue but 3 credit units from this list will be accepted.
Microbiology and Immunology (MCIM)
Announcements for 2025-2026
The following notice is for students who are following the BSc Microbiology and Immunology (MCIM) program. The BSc in MCIM is only available to students who started their program prior to 2020 and are currently declared in the MCIM major.
MCIM 416
This course is no longer offered; this change is not reflected in the program catalogue or DegreeWorks.
If you have not completed MCIM 416, any 300 level MCIM course that is not already required for the degree will be accepted in its place. Current options include: BMIS 308.3 (formerly MCIM 308.3, 309.3, either will be accepted), or BMIS 380.3 (formerly MCIM 398.3), or BMIS 425.3 (formerly MCIM 425.3)
CHEP 350.3 Course Inclusion
MCIM majors can use CHEP 350.3 (formerly BMSC 350.3) as a C6 restricted elective option in area of major
*This course is currently not accepted as a replacement for MCIM 416.3
Bioinformatics Options
Please note the following course code changes and course additions for 2022-2023 moving forward. Students can take one of the following options to complete this requirement.
BINF 151.3 (formerly BINF 210 in the program)
BINF 351.3 (formerly BINF 200 in the program)
CMPT 140.3 Introduction to Creative Computing
This change is not reflected in the course catalogue but 3 credit units from this list will be accepted.
Physiology & Pharmacology (PHPY)
Announcements for 2025-2026
The following notice is for students who are following the BSc Physiology and Pharmacology (PHPY) program. The BSc in PHPY is only available to students who started their program prior to 2020 and are currently declared in the PHPY major.
Students who have not yet completed CPPS 310 can request a prerequisite override to register for CPPS 400 before or alongside CPPS 310. The course will cover all related anatomy content needed in the course. This course is intended for 3rd and 4th year students.
CPPS 400: Clinical and Biomedical Imaging
Prerequisite(s): PHYS 115.3, PHYS 117.3 (or PHYS 125.3); and CPPS 310.3.
Please add the course coordinator as the approver of this ticket and indicate that you are a PHPY major.
PHPY 490.0 Process
PHPY majors are required to complete the seminar course: PHPY 490.0, for the major requirement in their final year. Students completing PHPY 490.0 will register for the course and receive an automatic pass for the course. Students will receive notifications for departmental seminars, but attendance is not mandatory and there will not be any scheduled content or coursework associated with the course. If you have any time conflicts with PHPY 490.0, ensure you register in the conflicting class first, then request the time conflict override to PHPY 490.0.
Please add the course coordinator as the approver of this ticket.
Honours Program
The Honours Program is designed for students who seek in-depth research experience in their major field of study and who meet the minimum academic requirements. It is ideal for those considering graduate studies or a career in research.
Requirements
To earn a BSc (BMSC) Honours degree, students must complete 120 credit units, including at least 66 credit units at the senior level. The Honours Program requires an additional 6 credit units in the M5 major area to include the Undergraduate Research course (CPPS 432.6, NEUR 432.6, or BMIS 489.6). Students can still complete an honours degree within four years but should note that this requires 6 fewer elective credit units.
Admission to the Honours Program is mandatory to enroll in the Undergraduate Research course and to receive the Honours designation.
Eligibility:
To be eligible for the Honours Program, students must meet the following requirements:
- Have completed a minimum of 60 credit units.
- Have an overall Cumulative Weighted Average (CWA) of at least 70%.
- Maintain a minimum average of 70% in their Honours subject area (M4 and M5 courses).
When to Apply:
- Students planning to take the Undergraduate Research course (CPPS 432.6, NEUR 432.6, or BMIS 489.6) must apply to the Honours Program by May of the same year they intend to enroll in the course.
- Applications may also be submitted after completing 60 credit units to begin planning according to Honours Program requirements.
Application Process:
- All Honours Program applications are processed by the Undergraduate Student Office in the College of Arts and Science.
- Students will be notified of their application status via their Usask email, typically by late June, prior to enrollment in the research course.
Course Registration
- Students do not register for the Undergraduate Research course (CPPS 432.6, NEUR 432.6, or BMIS 489.6) during their regular registration window. Students will receive permission to register in the Undergraduate Research course (CPPS 432.6, NEUR 432.6, or BMIS 489.6) once admission to the honours program is confirmed and the BMSC Academic Advisor has been notified of desired supervisor.
- Permissions are typically granted in July and August by the BSMC Academic Advisor.
Deadline:
- The deadline to apply to the Honours Program is May 1st: A&S Honours Application
Students planning to complete an Honours Program must independently secure a faculty supervisor to enroll in the Undergraduate Research course, which is typically completed in the final year of study.
Getting Started
- Start early: Finding a supervisor can be competitive. Begin your search the year before you plan to take the course. On October 15, all students accepted into a major will receive an email with a list of approved potential supervisors.
- Clarify your interests: Identify your research interests and explore the work of potential supervisors in your major.
- Use available resources: Refer to the Tips for Securing a Supervisor document for guidance on writing emails to potential supervisors.
After Securing a Supervisor
- For CPPS, BMNS, or ID BMSC students enrolling in CPPS 432.6 or NEUR 432.6:
Email the BMSC Academic Advisor at bmscadvising@usask.ca to confirm your supervisor from the approved list. - For BMIS or ID BMSC students enrolling in BMIS 489.6:
Email the BMIS 489.6 course coordinator to supervisor approval. Once approved, the coordinator will notify the BMSC Academic Advisor.
The BMSC Academic Advisor will confirm supervisor approval, verify Honours Program acceptance, and grant registration permission for the research course. Permissions are typically issued in July and August.
Important Deadline
Deadline to secure a supervisor for the 2026–2027 academic year: August 31, 2026
Academic Advising
Academic advising is available to help you successfully plan your program and support your career goals. It’s a great idea to meet with an academic advisor once a year throughout your studies, or anytime you have questions or concerns about your academic planning or progress.
As a BMSC student, you are encouraged to meet with an Arts and Science Academic Advisor as well as with the Biomedical Sciences Academic Advisor throughout your program.
Academic Orientation
If you are new to Arts and Science, we ask that you complete Academic Orientation. These asynchronous modules are a part of our Class of 2029 Canvas page which also includes answers to frequently asked questions (e.g., parking, student ID, textbooks, and campus clubs) and an opportunity to meet your peers.
Academic Orientation will answer the following questions:
- Where do I go for help?
- What are the expectations at university?
- What classes do I take?
- How do I sign up for classes?
Completion of all modules should take 30 to 45 minutes, and you can revisit the information any time you want.
It is recommended that all new incoming students completed the Academic Orientation prior to booking an advising appointment to make the best use of your time in your appointment.
To Book an Appointment
Advance Booking: Students can schedule an appointment with an academic advisor up to 7 days in advance.
- Example: If it's Wednesday morning, you can book an appointment for the following Wednesday. Similarly, Thursday morning allows booking for the next Thursday, and so on.
Calendar Availability: The bookings calendar will only show availability for the next 7 days and will not display the full month.
Fully Booked Slots: If you do not see any available times for a specific day, it means all appointment slots for that day are fully booked. Please check again the following day for new availability.
The Biomedical Sciences Advisor can help with:
- major specific questions or concerns - M4 and M5 requirements
- navigating the Course and Program Catalogue
- confirming program and degree requirements
- application for a major process
- choosing a major and choosing courses
- course sequencing for competitive majors
- navigating university policies and procedures
- connecting you with educational supports
- answering any other questions you have
Time slots for advising appointments are 30-minutes in length, which is adequate for most advising concerns. However, if you have more than one item to address, please book two 30-minute back-to-back time slots (60 minutes total).
Arts and Science Advisors can help with:
- outside of major questions or concerns - M1, M2, M3 and M6 requirements
- navigating the Course and Program Catalogue
- exploring majors, minors, and certificates
- confirming program and degree requirements
- group advising sessions on a variety of topics
- clarifying academic policies and procedures
- submitting academic appeals, deferred exam requests, visiting student requests, and second degree requirements
- understanding faculty actions (i.e., required to discontinue and probation status)
- creating plans of action for academic success, including course retake strategies
- answering any other questions you have
The Undergraduate Student Office (UGSO) offers in-person and remote academic advising appointments. You will find the link to book an appointment when you log into PAWS and go to the Arts and Science Students and click on Advising Appointments. Students can schedule an appointment with an academic advisor up to 7 days in advance during regular office hours Monday to Friday. Evening appointments may be booked on Tuesday and Thursday from 5:00pm-8:00pm (CST). Drop-in advising is also available in Arts 265 on a first come, first served basis during regular office hours:
- Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, and Friday: 8:30am-4:00pm (CST)
- Wednesday: 9:30am-4:00pm (CST)
If you have a quick question but you are unable to visit Arts 265, please call the UGSO at 306-966-4231 (toll free: 1-844-966-4231) or submit a ticket to the online service desk.
BMSC Academic Advisor
Robin Parent
Room GA20.3, A-Wing, Health Sciences Building
Please email bmscadvising@usask.ca
Map to GA20 offices in Health Sciences
For more information, please contact:
Program | Undergraduate Chairs |
Anatomy, Physiology and Pharmacology | |
Biochemistry, Microbiology and Immunology | Dr. Kyle Anderson |