Bachelor Of Science - Earth Sciences at University of Waterloo - Program overview

Program overview

Admission Requirements

Intakes

Last updated on 2025-11-18

Program overview

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Program overview

Earn your Bachelor of Science in Earth Sciences and delve into the fascinating world beneath our feet. This program offers a comprehensive exploration of geology, geophysics, and hydrogeology, allowing students to understand the Earth's four-billion-year history. You'll learn about essential resources such as minerals, energy, and water, and how geoscientists play a crucial role in discovering these valuable assets. With a focus on practical experience, students can engage in paid co-op work opportunities, gaining up to 20 months of relevant experience in fields like geology and mining. Graduates will be well-prepared to become licensed Ontario Professional Geoscientists, equipped to tackle environmental challenges and predict natural disasters.

Program structure

The Bachelor of Science in Earth Sciences program is designed to provide a robust educational foundation over a four-year period. The program includes:

Program Length: 4 years
Co-op Option: Yes, providing valuable paid work experience
Regular Program Option: Yes
Minor Availability: Yes, students can choose to add a minor

Students will alternate between academic study and co-op work terms, typically starting in their second year. This structure allows for a seamless integration of classroom learning with real-world experience, enhancing both knowledge and employability. The program also encourages students to customize their education by selecting electives from a wide range of subjects, ensuring a well-rounded academic experience.

Featured Experiences

The Earth Sciences program at Waterloo offers a variety of unique experiences that enhance learning and professional development:

Co-op Program: Engage in relevant paid work experiences, gaining practical skills and industry exposure.
Field Trips: Participate in organized field trips through the Earth and Environmental Science club (WATROX), fostering community and hands-on learning.
Advanced Lab Facilities: Gain practical experience in state-of-the-art laboratories from the first term.
Research Opportunities: Work on projects led by professors in diverse locations across the globe.
Networking: Build connections with peers and professionals in the field through various social activities and events.

Career Options

Graduates of the Earth Sciences program can pursue a variety of career paths in Canada, including:

Airborne Geophysicist: Conduct aerial surveys to gather geophysical data for resource exploration.
Groundwater Specialist: Analyze and manage groundwater resources, ensuring sustainable use and protection.
Hydrogeologist: Study the distribution and movement of groundwater, contributing to environmental protection and resource management.
Environmental Geoscientist: Assess environmental impacts and develop strategies for remediation and sustainability.
Geological Research Assistant: Support research projects by collecting and analyzing geological data.

These roles highlight the diverse opportunities available to graduates, allowing them to make significant contributions to the fields of energy, natural resources, and environmental consulting.

DISCLAIMER: The information above is subject to change. For the latest updates, please contact LOA Portal's advisors.

Visit University of Waterloo official website

Last updated on 2025-11-18

Program overview

Academic Requirements

For the Bachelor of Science - Earth Sciences program at the University of Waterloo, the following Academic Requirements apply:

Minimum GPA: Not specified.
Prerequisite Courses:
- English and Mathematics with a minimum grade of 7.5 in each.
Overall average of 8.3 is required.
For international students, specifically those from Vietnam, the following is required:
- Bàng Tốt Nghiệp Phố Thông Trung Học (Secondary School Graduation Certificate).

Transcripts may be required to be evaluated by WES in some cases.

Students are encouraged to apply as soon as possible to ensure they meet all necessary deadlines.

If you have any questions or need further clarification regarding the admission process, please feel free to contact LOA Portal's advisors for support.

English Language Requirements

English is the language of instruction at the University of Waterloo. Success in our programs requires a high level of English language proficiency.

You need to provide an English language test score if:

your four most recent years of full-time education have NOT been in an English-language school system AND
your first language is NOT English.

Required English Language Scores

Tests that do not appear on this chart are not accepted for admission consideration.

Official test scores must be sent by the testing agency directly to Waterloo's Office of the Registrar. Emails, faxes, and student copies of test scores are not accepted for admission.

Test	Minimum Score	How to Send Test Results
Internet-based TOEFL (iBT), including Home Edition and Paper Edition	90 overall, 25 writing, 25 speaking	Waterloo's institution code is 0996 and our department code is 00. We do not accept electronic TOEFL scores for undergraduate admissions.
IELTS Academic	6.5 overall, 6.5 writing, 6.5 speaking, 6.0 reading, 6.0 listening	We accept the electronic Test Report Form (TRF). Waterloo's e-transfer institution name is University of Waterloo – Undergraduate OR University of Waterloo Admissions.
CAEL or CAEL online	70 overall, 60 per band, 70 writing, 70 speaking	You must log in to your affiliated account and select University of Waterloo as a recipient institution.
PTE Academic	63 overall, 65 writing, 65 speaking	Send your Score Report Code or Registration ID to myapplication@uwaterloo.ca.
Cambridge English test (C1 Advanced or C2 Proficiency)	180 overall, 176 writing, 176 reading, 176 speaking, 176 listening	Go to the Candidate Results Online portal, input your ID and secret number then click on "Send my result."
Duolingo English test	The minimum requirement for tests completed before July 1, 2024 is an overall score of 120, with minimum Literacy and Production scores of 110. Tests completed after July 1, 2024 require an overall of 120 with Literacy and Production scores of 125 for direct entry to a Waterloo program.	Results will not be accepted without subscores. You must log in to your affiliated account and select University of Waterloo – Undergraduate as a recipient institution.
EFAS - English for Academic Success	75% overall in 400 levels, 75% in each of academic, oral, and writing	Your scores will be sent to us automatically by the English Language Institute.

DISCLAIMER: The information above is subject to change. For the latest updates, please contact LOA Portal's advisors. The listed minimum requirements are a guideline and do not guarantee admission. Do not worry, we will notify you of any changes during the application process.

Not meeting the minimum language requirements?

You may still be able to apply!