Why study this program?
Paleontology is the study of the history of life as preserved in the fossil record, examining the patterns and processes of evolution and extinction.
Our Paleontology program is world-renowned, with leading researchers, extensive collections, and access to digs, bone beds, and work experience opportunities you won’t find anywhere else.
The Paleontology Specialization program concentrates on the study of fossils and ancient life forms. It is an interdisciplinary program designed to give you a strong background in paleontology, earth sciences, and biological sciences, and prepares you for graduate-level studies.
Can’t wait to study Paleontology? Check out our Dino101 Massive Open Online Course (MOOC).
Paleontology can also be taken as part of a BSc with Specialization degree.
Why take the BSc Specialization degree?
The Bachelor of Science Specialization degree provides a focused education in one program. You will take most of your courses in your main subject area, and are expected to maintain a higher standard of academic achievement. A Specialization degree can provide the background to help you proceed to a higher degree, but its primary function is to provide a comprehensive education at the undergraduate level.
This program can also be taken as part of a BSc Specialization degree.
Why study at the University of Alberta?
The Faculty of Science at the University of Alberta delivers high-quality programs that investigate, explain, and explore the real science behind issues that affect our daily lives. With nearly 60 degree programs in 39 subject areas, we are one of the most comprehensive science faculties in Canada, with state-of-the-art teaching and learning facilities, opportunities for undergraduate research, and professors who are leading researchers in their fields.
- Paleontologist
- Research Scientist
- Secondary School Teacher

Yasmin is a recent Science graduate who was awarded the prestigious Rhodes Scholarship and is now studying at Oxford University. As a UAlberta student, Yasmin was President of the Health & Wellness student group and the founder of StolleryBOTs, a robotics program for patients at the Stollery Children's Hospital.
Admissions Requirements for 2023 - 2024
This information is for students applying directly from high school. Transfer students: see the Calendar
View requirements and cost for:
Because the U of A wants you to succeed, our admissions policy ensures that all students, regardless of citizenship, have the language skills they need to understand, participate and learn in our classes. The primary language of instruction in our classes, with the exception of those at the Faculte Saint-Jean, is English. For more information on the English Language Proficiency policy refer to the U of A Calendar. Information on writing ELP examinations is also available.
At the U of A, we are committed to encouraging Indigenous Students in their work towards a degree. Indigenous students have been under-represented in higher education in Canada, thus our policy is aimed at increasing opportunity, with the goal of our Aboriginal student population being representative of the public we serve. For more information on Admission of Indigenous Students refer to the U of A Calendar.
Deadline
Fall application: March 1, 2023
March 1st is the deadline to apply for most direct entry programs, but be sure to double-check! For a complete listing of application and document deadlines refer to the University Calendar.
For additional information and the most up-to-date admission requirements, please see admission requirements by faculty in the University Calendar.
View costs for:
The Office of the Registrar administers over $28 million each year in scholarships, awards, and financial support for undergraduate students, as well as financial and loan advising. Additional scholarships are also available for specific faculties and programs.
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University of Alberta
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Edmonton, Alberta, Canada T6G 2M7
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