Ecology (Co-op and Regular)
About
The Ecology Specialization allows you to take courses that will prepare you for the increasing demand for graduates who combine scientific knowledge, creativity, and determination to address ecological sustainability.
Beyond the classroom
The Environmental Sciences program has a strong ecological and biological focus, emphasizes the fundamental science needed to understand and solve ecological problems.
First-year courses
The Ecology specialization features engaging courses, many supplemented by hands-on learning in labs and field trips.
First-year courses you'll take:
| fall term | winter term |
|---|---|
| BIOL250 Organismal and Evolutionary Ecology EARTH121/121L Introductory Earth Sciences CHEM 120/120L Physical and Chemical Properties of Matter PHYS 111/111L Mechanics and Waves 1 One elective |
BIOL120 Introduction to Plant Structure and Function EARTH 122/122L Introductory Environmental Sciences CHEM123/123L Chemical Reactions, Equilibria and Kinetics MATH127 Calculus 1 One elective |
After completing this set of courses you can continue in the Ecology specialization or transfer to the Geoscience specialization
Upper-year courses
Beginning in second year, you'll take hydrology courses that draw on Waterloo's expertise in groundwater studies. Our greenhouses and freshwater labs will provide you with practical, hands-on experience.
- Genetics
- Introductory Zoology
- Ecosystem Ecology
- Introductory Biochemistry
- Introductory Vertebrate Zoology
- Environmental Toxicology 1
- Applied Geomorphology
- Chemistry of Aquatic Systems
- Aquatic Ecology
- Aquatic Field Biology
Co-op
What is co-op?
The Environmental Science program is designed to allow you to participate in the co-op option. In the second term of your second year, you are able to begin a co-op job. You will complete 4 months of co-op, then return for 4 months of school. This pattern will continue during the rest of your stay at Waterloo. For more information on co-op.
Co-op earnings
| work term | 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| earnings/week (avg $) | 474 | 512 | 548 | 584 | 622 |
Important information
Information on admission requirements, financing and housing.
