Programs in Waterloo's Faculty of Science are grouped into four categories: Life Sciences, Physical Sciences, multidisciplinary programs, and professional programs.
Life Sciences and Physical Sciences
Life Sciences and Physical Sciences are "entry programs" that group most of our science degrees for the application process.
- An entry program is what you apply to access to the major you'd like to study.
- If you receive an offer of admission, your offer will say either Life Sciences or Physical Sciences, depending on which major you applied to. Don't worry though! You'll be enrolled in your major of choice and start your studies in your major on your first day.
Majors within Physical Sciences
Majors within Life Sciences
The Life Sciences and Physical Sciences labels are only important when you apply for admission through the Ontario Universities' Application Centre (OUAC).
Multidisciplinary programs
For the programs listed below, you'll apply directly to them on your application.
Professional programs
- Medical Sciences (Waterloo) and Doctor of Medicine (St. George's University)
- You apply directly from high school.
- Pharmacy
- You can apply to Conditional Admission to Pharmacy from high school or apply to Pharmacy after completing at least two years of university-level science.
- Optometry
- You can apply after completing at least three years of university-level science.
Can't decide on a major?
Choosing a specific field of scientific study — and wondering if it’ll lead to a fulfilling career one day — is a critical step in predicting the you of the future. The key is to put time into figuring out where your passions and interests lie.
Common questions about applying to the Faculty of Science
Can I apply to Life Sciences and Physical Sciences?
Yes, you're encouraged to apply to both Life Sciences and Physical Sciences if you're interested in both! However, keep in mind that we understand your interests might change and we offer flexibility to change your major/program once you are enrolled.
Can I apply to more than one major in Life Sciences or Physical Sciences?
No, you cannot apply to more than one major within Life Sciences or Physical Science. You can change your subject of major interest once you start your studies.
What if I can't choose between majors?
If you can't choose, Honours Science is a great choice because it offers a lot of flexibility in the courses you'll take. It's okay if you don't know what program/major you want because it's easy to change to a different one once you're enrolled.
Can I do two majors within my degree?
No, that would be basically two science degrees at the same time and there are too many requirements you’d have to meet. However, you can customize and tailor your degree through specializations, options, and minors in the Faculty of Science.
Is co-op available?
Yes! Co-op is available in most Science programs except Honours Science, Biomedical Sciences, and Science and Aviation.
What degree will I earn?
When you graduate, you'll receive a Bachelor of Science in your subject of major interest or program, e.g., Bachelor of Science in Biology or Bachelor of Science in Environmental Sciences.
Can I change my program or major?
Yes! You can request to change your program or major through the Science Undergraduate Office any time until the end of December of your first year. If you submit your request after that, we typically wait to see your final fall term grades before making the change effective for the winter term (January to April).
To understand how you can switch between majors and programs, the ‘What’s your science’ graphic in the how to pick a program in the Faculty of Science article is very helpful to show connections between programs.
Tips on choosing a program
- Chat with students and professors during an open house.
- Ask a current student what they like best about their program.
- Contact us for advice on which programs might be best for you based on your interests.