At a glance
48 mo
Duration
6.5
IELTS
—
Tuition / yr
en
Language
Bachelor's
Level
- Choice of specialization: Geology, Geophysics, or HydrogeologySpecializations
- Eligible for Professional Geoscientist license in OntarioProfessional Licensure
- Co-op program available for paid, practical work experienceCo-op
- Research opportunities in 15 countries on five continentsGlobal Research
- Develop skills in critical thinking, problem-solving, and fieldworkKey Skills
Explore the dynamic world beneath your feet in the Earth Sciences program. You'll delve into fundamental topics such as geology, geophysics, and hydrogeology, learning about the Earth's four-billion-year history, its changing landscapes, and the resources essential to modern life. This program investigates how the Earth evolves through both gradual processes like mountain building and sudden, impactful events such as earthquakes. You will study rocks, sediments, soils, and the influence of climate change. A significant aspect of the program focuses on the vital resources we derive from the Earth, including minerals, energy, and water, and the role of geoscientists in discovering and managing them. Graduates are prepared for careers in environmental protection, disaster prediction, and water resource management.
Curriculum
The Earth Sciences program offers a comprehensive curriculum designed to build a strong foundation in the first year, followed by specialization options. You will engage with core science courses alongside Earth Sciences specific subjects, with opportunities for electives to tailor your degree. The program emphasizes practical application through labs and fieldwork.
- First Year - September to December
- Introductory Earth Sciences/LaboratoryEARTH 121/121L
- General Chemistry 1/LaboratoryCHEM 120/120L
- Introductory HydrologyEARTH 123
- Physics 1/LaboratoryPHYS 111/111L
- First Year - January to April
- Introductory Environmental Sciences/LaboratoryEARTH 122/122L
- General Chemistry 2/LaboratoryCHEM 123/123L
- Communication in the SciencesENGL 193/COMMST 193
- Physics 2/LaboratoryPHYS 112/112L
- Upper Years
- Disasters and Natural HazardsEARTH 270
- Volcanology and Igneous PetrologyEARTH 331
- Geomorphology and GIS ApplicationsEARTH 342
- Methods in Geological MappingEARTH 390
- Honours ThesisEARTH 436
- Mineral DepositsEARTH 471
Careers
Graduates of the Earth Sciences program are well-prepared for a variety of careers in sectors such as energy and natural resources, environmental consulting, and field research. The program provides a pathway to becoming a certified Professional Geoscientist (P.Geo.) in Ontario.
- Airborne Geophysicist
- Groundwater Specialist
- Partner/Hydrogeologist
- Solutions Advisor
- Environment Supervisor
- Geologist
- Hydrogeologist
Frequently asked questions
- What are the English language proficiency requirements for international students?
- For IELTS Academic, a minimum score of 6.5 overall with no band below 6.0 is required. For TOEFL iBT, a score of 90 overall (taken before January 21, 2026) with 25 in writing and speaking, or 4.5 overall (taken on or after January 21, 2026) with 5 in writing and speaking is necessary.
- How can I estimate my tuition and fees?
- An estimate for tuition fees can be generated using the Tuition Fee Estimator on the University of Waterloo website, which assumes 2026/2027 rates for the fall term start.
- What are the career prospects after graduating from the Earth Sciences program?
- Graduates are prepared for careers in sectors like energy and natural resources, environmental consulting, and field research, with the potential to become a certified Professional Geoscientist (P.Geo.) in Ontario.
- What are the main areas of study within the Earth Sciences program?
- The program covers fundamental topics including geology, geophysics, and hydrogeology, examining the Earth's history, resources, and the impact of phenomena like climate change and natural disasters.
- Are there opportunities for practical work experience?
- Yes, the program offers a co-op option, providing students with paid, practical work experience.
Entry requirements
High School DiplomaSpecific course requirements vary by country and curriculum. Please check the University of Waterloo admissions website for details relevant to your region.
IELTS Academic6.5 overall, with no band below 6.0
TOEFL iBT90 overall (taken before January 21, 2026), with 25 in writing and speaking; 4.5 overall (taken on or after January 21, 2026), with 5 in writing and speaking
You may be exempt from submitting English language test scores if you have studied in Canada for four or more years and your first language is English, or if you are a Francophone Canadian who has completed four or more years of full-time study in Canada. Study in an entirely English-language school system for four or more years may also qualify for an exemption, requiring official transcripts or a letter from your school verifying the language of instruction.
Fees
Tuition (international)Tuition fees are assessed based on domestic residency or international immigration status. An estimate can be generated using the Tuition Fee Estimator on the University of Waterloo website.
Tuition (home)Tuition fees are assessed based on domestic residency or international immigration status. An estimate can be generated using the Tuition Fee Estimator on the University of Waterloo website.
LivingThe Tuition Fee Estimator does not include expenses such as off-campus housing, groceries, textbooks, or equipment.
The Tuition Fee Estimator provides an estimate for the fall term start and assumes 2026/2027 rates. It does not include costs for preliminary English language training programs if required. Fee schedules provide a more detailed breakdown of tuition and incidental fees.
How to apply
1. Apply OnlineSubmit your application through the University of Waterloo's applicant portal.
2. Declaration of Academic ExperienceComplete this declaration in the applicant portal to determine if you need to provide an English language test score.
3. Submit Supporting DocumentsUpload official transcripts and any other required documents by the document deadline. If needed, ensure your English language test scores are sent directly from the testing agency.
4. Await Admission DecisionThe university will review your application and notify you of the admission decision.
Accreditation
Graduates are eligible to be licensed as an Ontario Professional Geoscientist.
Frequently asked questions
What are the English language proficiency requirements for international students?
+
For IELTS Academic, a minimum score of 6.5 overall with no band below 6.0 is required. For TOEFL iBT, a score of 90 overall (taken before January 21, 2026) with 25 in writing and speaking, or 4.5 overall (taken on or after January 21, 2026) with 5 in writing and speaking is necessary.
How can I estimate my tuition and fees?
+
An estimate for tuition fees can be generated using the Tuition Fee Estimator on the University of Waterloo website, which assumes 2026/2027 rates for the fall term start.
What are the career prospects after graduating from the Earth Sciences program?
+
Graduates are prepared for careers in sectors like energy and natural resources, environmental consulting, and field research, with the potential to become a certified Professional Geoscientist (P.Geo.) in Ontario.
What are the main areas of study within the Earth Sciences program?
+
The program covers fundamental topics including geology, geophysics, and hydrogeology, examining the Earth's history, resources, and the impact of phenomena like climate change and natural disasters.
Are there opportunities for practical work experience?
+
Yes, the program offers a co-op option, providing students with paid, practical work experience.