Programs in Waterloo's Faculty of Science are grouped into four categories: Life Sciences, Physical Sciences, multidisciplinary programs, and professional programs.
Read our tips on how to choose a program in the Faculty of Science!
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 through the Ontario Universities' Application Centre to get access to the major (Bachelor of Science degree program) 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 Life Sciences
Majors within Physical 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 schools
Medical Sciences (Waterloo) and Doctor of Medicine (St. George's University)
Apply directly to St. George's University.
School of Pharmacy
There are two ways to apply.
- Apply to Conditional Admission to Pharmacy (CAP) from high school.
- Apply to the PharmD program in the fall term of your second year (or later) of your undergraduate degree.
School of Optometry
Honours Science, Biology (through the Life Sciences program), and Biomedical Sciences (through the Life Sciences program) are the three majors at Waterloo that will best prepare you for admission. Other majors may take you more time and possible degree modifications to achieve the academic requirements for Optometry admission.
Students with a Bachelor of Science and/or program in science fields from other institutions are given equal consideration.
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 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 in the Faculty of Science →
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.
Related questions
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 of interest 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.
How do I apply to Waterloo?
You'll apply to Waterloo through the Ontario Universities' Application Centre, which processes applications for each of Ontario universities.