The Faculty of Science is organized into four departments and two professional schools
Department of Biology
Drawing on our core values of discovery, integrity, community, and synergy, we aim to inspire scientific discovery that empowers humanity to transcend global challenges. Potential research areas for aspiring graduate students include Bioinformatics, Ecology and Environmental Biology, and Molecular Genetics.
Department of Chemistry
Chemistry graduate studies at Waterloo encompasses a broad range of topics relevant to life and environmental sciences, to the development of new materials and nanotechnology, but also to improving our fundamental understanding of the world surrounding us.
Department of Physics and Astronomy
Our research-intensive department focuses on five areas of research: astrophysics, biological physics, condensed matter physics, optics, and quantum computing, with faculty members specializing in theoretical, experimental and computational tools.
Department of Earth and Environmental Sciences
We have one of the leading groundwater hydrology research groups in the world. Here, you’ll explore the mechanisms behind our currently changing climate to derive a deeper understanding of our impact as humans on Earth systems, both at the surface and deep underground.
Professional schools
School of Optometry & Vision Science
Graduates from the Vision Science program go on to further studies, are employed within research laboratories nationally and worldwide, as well as in health care. Many of our doctoral graduates have retained positions as faculty at various universities worldwide.
School of Pharmacy
As Canada’s most innovative pharmacy school, we are leading the future of healthcare through a strategic integration of experiential learning, impact-driven research, entrepreneurial culture, community partnerships, teaching and academic excellence.
Science programs
Science at Waterloo is more than just biology, chemistry, Earth sciences, and physics; we offer combinations of those fields, as well as unique and multidisciplinary programs, so you can customize your degree to suit your interests.
Explore your options to build a science education that prepares you for innovative careers, hands-on research, and real‑world impact.