Rocket science, meet medical science
If you enjoy biology and physics and want a career in medical technology or health research, Life Physics at Waterloo is for you.
Run by the Department of Physics and Astronomy — one of the largest and most innovative physics departments in Canada — this flexible and interdisciplinary program is based on a solid foundation of physics, chemistry, and biology. Not to mention that students have the opportunity to gain paid work experience through their co-op streams.
You’ll enjoy small classes, hands-on labs, and the opportunity to get involved in research and teaching.
Join a program that fosters curious minds to question the smallest particles, the largest forces, and everything in between. Be part of a community that includes Nobel Prize in Physics laureate professor Dr. Donna Strickland and professor Avery Broderick, part of the team to take the first image of a black hole.
Waterloo is ranked top 100 in the world for Physics and Astronomy
Specializations: Biophysics or Medical Physics
Admission requirements
Ontario students: six Grade 12 U 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, or Physics (Chemistry, Earth and Space Science, and/or Physics are recommended)
Admission averages: Low 80s
We recommend completing the Admission Information Form once you've applied.
Not studying in Ontario? Search our admission requirements.
How to apply
Apply to Physical Sciences and select Life Physics as your major in first year.
What will you learn?
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.
Skills you'll develop with this major
- Quantitative and analytical thinking in biology and health-related professions
- Statistical and analytical problem solving in life sciences
- Modeling clinical procedures with scientific methods
- Integrated laboratory methodologies in biology, chemistry, and physics
- Technical skills to implement experiments in life and medical physics
This isn't an exhaustive list – rather a glimpse into the skills a Life Physics 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.
Types of courses you'll take
This is a general guideline. The ratio of courses may change slightly from year to year
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Earn a Bachelor of Science degree
Offered through the Faculty of Science
Apply to Physical Sciences, select Life Physics as your major
Ready to learn more?
- Visit the Life Physics website
- Related programs
Learn from top researchers
Get the scoop on the latest research in the physics seminar, which brings together all Waterloo physics students for talks from top scientists.
Make friends for life
Plan to live in residence? Join a Science Academic Cluster to connect with students who share your passion (and get study support).