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Life Sciences

Study the science of living things.

Interested in how living systems work and work together? Life Sciences at Waterloo will bring together many disciplines, like biology, chemistry, physics, and math to create a broad learning environment that will enable your success.

Choose one of our 4 majors when you apply: Biochemistry, Biology, Biomedical Sciences, or Psychology.

All programs are available through both the co-op and regular systems of study, except Biomedical Sciences, which is regular only.

    Life Sciences student looks through microscope at the University of Waterloo

    As a Life Sciences student, you'll be able to specialize in your major of interest in your first year. Upon graduation, you'll be prepared to tackle current issues in agriculture, medicine, technology and more.

    About the Life Sciences program

    BreifcaseMost majors offered as a
    co-op and regular program

    ClickChoose from 4 different majors within Life Sciences

    CapEarn a Bachelor of Science in one of 4 majors

     

    Admission requirements for majors within Life Sciences

    • Ontario students: 6 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)
      • 2 of: Biology, Chemistry, Earth and Space Science, Mathematics of Data Management, Physics (Biology, Chemistry, and/or Physics are recommended)
    • Admission averages: Low 80s
    • An Admission Information Form is recommended.
    • Not studying in Ontario? Search our admission requirements.

    First-year courses

    Most students take 5 courses per term, plus associated labs if applicable. Select your program of interest to see a list of first-year courses.

    Gain relevant work experience through co-op

    By alternating school terms and paid co-op work terms throughout your degree, you can explore new career areas and types of employers as your career interests evolve.

    Co-op work/study sequences

      Fall Winter Spring
    First year School School Off
    Second year School Co-op School
    Third year Co-op School Co-op
    Fourth year School Co-op Co-op
    Final year School School  

    Fall = September to December, Winter = January to April, Spring = May to August
    School = 4-month school term
    Co-op = 4-month co-op work term
    Off = You can make your own plans for that term (work, travel, vacation, etc.)

    The order of school and work terms may vary, depending on the major you choose.

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