Marine Biologist
Study ocean life and marine ecosystems.
Marine Biologist Salary in Canada
Marine Biologists in Canada earn about $50,000 at entry level and around $100,000 in senior roles.
- Entry level: $50,000
- Senior level: $100,000
Government (DFO) and universities are the main employers.
About the Career
Very popular major, but highly competitive to get full-time field research roles.
Job Outlook
Competitive demand. Very popular major, but highly competitive to get full-time field research roles.
How to Get There
- 4-yr BSc (Marine Biology) + often MSc/PhD
- Time to career: 4-8 years post-Grade 12
Degrees That Lead Here
- Biology – mid to high 80s at most schools
Key Skills
- Field Sampling & Diving
- Lab Analysis
- Data Collection & Reporting
- Marine Species Identification
- Research Planning
Typical Employers
- Fisheries & Oceans Canada (DFO)
- Universities & research institutes
- Aquariums & conservation groups
- Environmental consulting
- Aquaculture industry
High School Roadmap
- Take Biology. Volunteer at an aquarium or animal rehab.
- Learn to Scuba dive if possible.
- Maintain high science grades.
- Apply to coastal universities. Dalhousie and UVic are Canada's premier marine biology schools.
Top Universities for This Path
- Dalhousie University – Halifax, NS
- University of Victoria – Victoria, BC
- University of British Columbia – Vancouver, BC
- University of Guelph – Guelph, ON
Insider Tips
- Dalhousie (Nova Scotia) and UVic (British Columbia) offer the best proximity to the ocean and top-tier facilities.
- Volunteer hours at aquariums, labs, or conservation groups are essential for competitive grad programs.
- Fisheries & Oceans Canada (DFO) is the largest single employer of marine biologists in the country.