Spreadsheets + science = career success
In the world of biotech, specialists who can understand both spreadsheets and gene sequencing are a hot commodity. Enrol in the only accountancy program in Canada that combines biotechnology, accounting, and paid co-op work terms.
You’ll learn about biology, biochemistry, and biotechnology in the Faculty of Science. At the same time, you’ll take accounting, auditing, financial management, and taxation courses in Waterloo’s top-ranked School of Accounting and Finance.
Outside the classroom, you’ll have all kinds of opportunities to get involved in competitions and student clubs. You’ll graduate ready to succeed in your choice of fields: accounting, biotech business development, financial analysis, and more.
Program highlights
Get career-relevant skills. Our curriculum emphasizes case-based lectures and workshops, along with the communications and analytical skills you’ll need for roles in leadership and management.
Build an awesome résumé. Explore possible career areas and acquire valuable on-the-job experience during your co-op work terms (experience that you may be able to credit toward a CPA designation!).
- Offered as a co-op program only
- Graduate with a Bachelor of Science in Biotechnology/Chartered Professional Accountancy
- Offered by the Faculty of Science
What will you learn?
In your first year, you'll take a mixture of Accounting and Financial Management, Biology, and Science and Business courses to give you the foundations for your upper-year classes. After first year, most of your classes will be Biology and Accounting and Financial Management courses.
Learn more about courses you'll take for your degree.
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Monthly topics include how to choose a university program, what it's like to be a Waterloo student, and more.
Questions? Ask a student!
Contact a Science student ambassador to learn about their experience.
Ask them questions such as why they chose their program, what the classes are like, and how you can get involved on campus.
Co-op = relevant paid work experience
Waterloo's co-op program, the largest in North America, is an amazing way to explore potential careers, learn to interview for jobs, graduate with up to two years of valuable experience – and make money!
Sample co-op job titles
- Staff accountant
- Financial analyst
- Supply chain analyst
- Tax consultant
- Assurance, external auditor
- Wealth management financial reporting analyst
- Transfer and administration assistant
Co-op work-study sequence
Year | September to December (Fall) | January to April (Winter) | May to August (Spring) |
---|---|---|---|
First | Study | Study | Off |
Second | Study | Co-op | Study |
Third | Study | Co-op | Study |
Fourth | Co-op | Study | Co-op |
Fifth | Study | - | - |
Your first work term will be halfway through second year (January to April 2026).
Admission requirements
Ontario students: six Grade 12U and/or M courses including
- English (ENG4U) (minimum final grade of 70% is required)
- Advanced Functions (minimum final grade of 70% is required)
- Calculus and Vectors (minimum final grade of 70% is required)
- Two of Biology, Chemistry, Earth and Space Science, Mathematics of Data Management, Physics
Admission averages: High 80s
Not studying in Ontario? Search our admission requirements.
How to apply?
Apply directly to this program on your application.
Connect with us
Questions about courses, programs, requirements, or careers?
Please contact Alisia, our Science recruitment coordinator who can answer any questions you have.
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- Accounting and Financial Management
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