Go beyond your own limits – participate in ground-breaking research, engage with award-winning professors, and dive into hands-on learning opportunities.
Science drives the human race forward by increasing our understanding of the world. It helps us uncover the past while discovering what the future holds. Science takes us beyond our limits into a universe of infinite possibilities.
At Waterloo, you’ll use unique tools, technologies, and innovation to push the boundaries of science. Whether it’s through our integrated programs or delving into pure science, we’ll equip you with the skills and knowledge you need to succeed here and in the future.
Science programs and majors
No general first-year here...
What's your science?
In the Faculty of Science, you'll start in your chosen major on day one. This means a more focused first-year, where you'll gain knowledge and experience that much sooner in what you're passionate about.
This also means you'll need to know what major you're interested in when you apply to Waterloo.
- Your selected major is the Entry Program for Biotechnology/CPA, Environmental Science, Honours Science, Science and Aviation, and Science and Business.
- Your selected major is the Subject of Major Interest listed under Life Sciences and Physical Sciences.
Mapping it out
Use this infographic to view the common science disciplines you're likely familiar with (biology, chemistry, physics) and understand how other subjects are connected to them. There might be something you've never heard about, but might just be the perfect fit for you.
We encourage you to connect with us, review our commonly asked questions, and investigate the majors available to you.
If you aren't sure which major is right for you, you can switch before or after you begin your degree (just talk to your academic advisor once you get here), or take Honours Science if you just can't decide.
Experience is everything
Waterloo boasts the largest co-op program of its kind. You can apply directly to the co-op program when you submit your application. Co-op provides you the opportunity to work during four or five (4-month) terms, and with access to over 7,000 employers (nearly 600 are science-specific) you'll graduate with real-world experience you can brag about (and take to the bank).
14 of our 17 science majors have a co-op option (some are co-op only). For those interested in Science and Aviation, Biomedical Sciences, or Honours Science and want to explore careers and gain experience, the EDGE certificate program will help you develop key professional skills, explore career options, and market yourself to employers.
The Faculty of Science has its benefits...
It's a scientist's life for me
When you picture a scientist, what comes to mind? A lab coat-wearing and goggled person pipetting random chemicals into test tubes within a sterile lab? If yes, you're not alone.
This is a common image of a scientist. Seriously, Google it. It might be because science is known for performing research that changes the world. It helps us understand our planet, our bodies, our DNA, and even the tiniest particles known to humans.
Research propels the world forward and is incredibly valuable to industry, academia, governments, and hospitals. If this is your passion – to experiment and research – Waterloo is an amazing place to do this! We believe students who can experiment with confidence will find success wherever their career takes them.
But what if you're interested in something beyond the lab? Many students ask what they can do with a science degree that doesn't involve research.
Good news! Scientists are needed in areas that don't require the traditional lab bench. They're lawyers, pilots, data analysts, project managers, computer scientists, economists, financial analysts, and more.
Science helps you gain skills that are immediately valuable and transferable to many careers in science. Couple these skills with your own university experience and your passions, and you'll discover a future that is made just for you.
Bringing ideas to life; it's in our DNA
Have an idea to help solve a world problem? Want support getting started with your own company that manufactures your scientific solution? Oh, and did we mention you will retain all intellectual property (IP) rights?
Concept Science is our own pre-incubator entrepreneurship program. It's part of the Faculty of Science's Innovation Hub, a place for students to test their ideas and get involved in student-run science teams.
At the University of Waterloo, we have an incredibly strong entrepreneurship culture. We're the home of Velocity, the world's most productive university-linked start-up incubator.
Our students are what make us awesome!
Beyond Science Fiction
Jake Malliaros, a student in Physics, is hoping to change the future of travel by being part of Waterloo's Hyperloop team.
For more inspiring science stories, visit our Beyond Ideas blog, where student, staff, and faculty experiences are our focus.
Meet our students
Who better to tell you about the Faculty of Science than our own incredible stud
ents?
Ambassadors are student volunteers who make it their goal to help future scientists determine if the University of Waterloo is right for them.
Are we biased about our fun-loving group of ambassadors? You betcha! But we really think you'll enjoy learning about who they are, their fav foods, their programs, and why they made Waterloo their home away from home.
Science is beautiful
Check out the Faculty of Science Instagram account!
Waterloo's other faculties
