First-year courses
Programs/majors in the Faculty of Science start right in first year. To select your program with confidence, here’s some handy info to get you started.
September to December
- BIOL 130/130L – Introductory Cell Biology/Laboratory
- CHEM 120/120L – General Chemistry 1/Laboratory
- One program elective
- One elective
Plus one course from
January to April
This a sample schedule. Courses or when a course is offered may change depending on availability.
After first year
Most of the classes you’ll take will be Biology and Chemistry courses. With your remaining classes, you can choose electives from many of the 100 subject areas at Waterloo.
View a list of all the courses required for your degree.
Sample upper-year courses
BIOL 273 – Principles of Human Physiology 1
HLTH 340 – Environmental Toxicology and Public Health
BIOL 302 – Functional Histology
BIOL 303 – Introductory Development Biology and Embryology
Types of courses you'll take
This is a general guideline. The ratio of courses may change slightly from year to year.
Skills you'll develop with this major
- Data analysis
- Laboratory methodology
- Resiliency
- Communication
- Organization and time management
This isn't an exhaustive list – rather a glimpse into the skills a Biomedical Sciences major can provide.
Your experience will be unique, and the skills you develop will depend on your goals; which courses you take; and your involvement with any clubs, jobs, or research projects.
Advisors are here to help
With so much flexibility, you might have a lot of questions. We're here to help! If you're applying for admission, contact our Faculty of Science recruitment co-ordinator.
Once you're a Waterloo student, you'll have access to academic advisors who can help you
- choose your courses,
- select minors and specializations,
- ensure that you're meeting the requirements for your degree, and more.
Learn more
Overview of Waterloo's Biomedical Sciences degree program.
