Life Sciences

Study the science of living things

Life Sciences is the study of living organisms, ranging from the very tiny world of microbiology and genetics to the physiology and zoology of the world’s great mammals – with plants, botany, and more in between!

At Waterloo, Life Sciences is a group of three related majors. Each major brings together disciplines such as biology, chemistry, physics, and math to help you learn how living systems work and interact. You'll get to do labs and experiments starting right in first year.

When you apply to Waterloo, you'll select one of the majors and choose the co-op program or the regular system of study.

You'll graduate with a Bachelor of Science in your major and be well-prepared for careers in science or for further education in specialized graduate programs and health professions such as medicine, optometry, and pharmacy.

Get tips on how to choose a program within the Faculty of Science.

Faculty:
Faculty of Science

Degree:
Bachelor of Science in your chosen major

Choose from three majors

Biochemistry

Study the chemical processes in living organisms, and utilize your foundation in chemistry to better understand biological systems.

Learn more about Biochemistry →

A student holds a brown and blue butterfly specimen

Biology

Explore all aspects of life and living creatures — from cells and genes to species and diversity.

Learn more about Biology →

Psychology

Study the science of behaviour and the mind, with emphasis on the biological processes that enable cognitive function.

Learn more about Psychology →

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, Physics

Admission averages: low 80s