Biological, Life, and Health Sciences Specialization

What to expect from the program

The Arts and Sciences diploma specialization in Biological, Life, and Health Sciences lets you focus your studies on a specific area of interest while building a strong foundation across the sciences, social sciences, and humanities. You’ll choose from a wide range of electives that explore topics in biology, chemistry, psychology, and health, gaining hands-on experience through applied research, experiential learning, and community-engaged projects. 

NorQuest’s first-qualified entry and small class sizes create a supportive, barrier-free environment that fosters mentorship, collaboration, and a learning experience designed for your success. You’ll also benefit from: 

Expert faculty 

Learn from experienced instructors with advanced degrees and active research experience. Many teach equivalent courses at partner institutions, helping maintain curriculum consistency and supporting smooth transfer pathways. 

Personalized study plans 

Work one-on-one with an Academic Program Advisor to choose your courses and navigate degree-transfer requirements, so you can graduate with the prerequisites you need to achieve your goals.  

Course flexibility 

Choose between full-time or part-time studies and enjoy an educational experience that fits your life. Some courses are offered online or in HyFlex formats. 

Transfer preparation and pathways 

Build the academic foundation and transferable credits you need to pursue further post-secondary studies in science, health, and related fields. Benefit from established partnerships with universities and colleges that support smooth and seamless transfer opportunities. 

Student support services  

NorQuest provides a range of student support services, including free tutoring, mental health and wellness resources at the Centre for Growth and Harmony, career coaching, and more.  

What you will learn

The Biological, Life, and Health Sciences specialization within the Arts and Sciences diploma allows you to customize your program to match your interests. You will choose from a wide range of electives, including course topics in:

• Biological sciences: Cell biology, genetics, ecology, microbiology, and plant biology
• Chemistry: General and organic chemistry fundamentals
• Health and wellness: Health education, personal wellness, and Indigenous health perspectives
• Psychology: Human development, aging, sexuality, and mental health
• Research and analysis: Research methods and statistics

Beyond the classroom, you will:

• Strengthen your critical thinking, reading, writing, and research skills
• Gain confidence in lab work through hands-on experiments and data analysis
• Explore the intersection of scientific evidence, culture, and ethics, and understand how bias can shape knowledge
• Learn to communicate ideas clearly and apply creative, analytical approaches to problem-solving
• Collaborate with diverse groups through respectful dialogue and shared perspectives

Transfer opportunities

Upon completion, you will graduate with an Arts and Science diploma, specializing in Biological, Life, and Health Sciences, and a minimum of 60 transferable credits—the equivalent of two years full-time study recognized by post-secondary institutions across Alberta and Canada.

Established agreements with the University of Alberta and MacEwan University provide direct pathways to apply to a Bachelor of Arts or Bachelor of Science program. Students in the Biological, Life, and Health Sciences specialization may be eligible to enter the third year of degree programs, including:

• Biological Sciences
• Psychology
• Chemistry

A degree in these areas can lead to careers in health, laboratory sciences, sustainability, waste management, occupational health and safety, research, and more.

Explore transfer pathways