Discover how the world works by investigating the natural laws and processes of non-living matter
Explore, investigate, and discover the natural laws and forces that govern all matter. Apply to Physical Sciences and choose one of these eight majors starting in first year. Each major is available through the co-op as well as regular system of study with the exception of Medicinal Chemistry, which is co-op only.
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
Biological and Medical Physics
Harness the power of physics and apply it to biological systems.
Chemistry
Study everything from organic chemistry and analytical chemistry to polymer chemistry, nanoscience, and more.
Earth Sciences
Learn about the fascinating and complex world under your feet by exploring topics such as geology, geophysics, and hydrogeology.
Materials and Nanosciences
Dive into the world of nanoparticles and learn about materials such as superconductors, insulators, and biomaterials, and how they are made.
Mathematical Physics
Apply your love of mathematics to the understanding of how the natural world works.
Medicinal Chemistry
Want to create the life-saving drugs of tomorrow? Earn a chemistry degree with a difference.
Physics
Study the most fundamental aspects of nature in one of Canada’s largest and most innovative physics departments.
Physics and Astronomy
Study our vast universe, from subatomic particles to planets, stars, and galaxies, as well as the origin, evolution, and fate of the whole cosmos.
Science + AI: Discover what’s possible
Artificial intelligence is transforming the way scientists explore our world, from uncovering patterns in biological data to tackling global challenges in health and the environment.
At Waterloo, students in the Faculty of Science can learn how AI and science work together to drive new discoveries and innovation.
Examples of how we're using AI to make an impact
- Waterloo co-op student applies machine learning to develop tools to forecast drought in Kenya
- AI modelling shows planting in northern forests could help Canada become carbon-neutral
- Waterloo co-op students contribute to SickKids research which uses AI in genetic studies of cerebral palsy
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
Admission averages: low 80s
Not studying in Ontario?
Search our admission requirements.
How to apply
Apply directly to this program and indicate the major that interests you.
Get information about programs, applying, and more!
Connect with us
Questions about courses, programs, requirements, or careers?
Please contact our Faculty of Science recruitment team who can answer any questions you have.