Natural Sciences in Canada

Earth Sciences

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.

Earth Sciences (MSc)

The Master of Science (MSc) in Earth Sciences at Brock University offers a research-intensive environment where graduate students collaborate with internationally recognized faculty. The program focuses on a wide range of geoscientific fields, preparing students to address global challenges related to climate change, resource management, and environmental impacts. Students will delve into diverse research areas including glacial geology, watershed geochemistry, lichen biomonitoring, marine and terrestrial palynology, stream flow dynamics, isotope carbonate geochemistry, and structural geology. This program is designed for those passionate about understanding Earth's processes and contributing to solutions for world governments, industries, and social structures facing global change.

Geography

Geography examines the physical and human processes that shape our planet's geo-systems. It explores both the reasons behind natural phenomena and the spatial distribution of human and cultural elements. A core focus is understanding the interplay between physical and human factors. Studying Geography fosters an appreciation for the environment and prepares students for diverse career paths in education, conservation, urban and rural planning, and resource management.

Geography and Planning: MA and MSc

The Department of Geography and Planning offers Master of Arts (MA) and Master of Science (MSc) programs focused on various aspects of geography. The MA program is suitable for students interested in human geography, including historical/social/cultural geography, urban/economic geography, environmental geography, resource management, and spatial information systems. The MSc program is designed for those focusing on physical geography, spatial information systems, and environmental studies. Applicants should choose the degree that best aligns with their research interests and coursework, with the MA emphasizing social science components and the MSc emphasizing physical science components.

Geology

The Geology program at Acadia University offers a comprehensive exploration of our planet's dynamics, its resources, and sustainable ways to utilize them. This program is ideal for students who enjoy problem-solving and fieldwork, providing a robust foundation in geological principles alongside practical lab and field skills. You will learn to interpret Earth's history, understand current processes, and predict future changes, all within the unique geological setting of Nova Scotia. Acadia's program emphasizes hands-on learning with small class sizes, engaged faculty, and access to specialized facilities and analytical tools. Field trips, world-class teaching collections, and opportunities to contribute to faculty research enhance the immersive learning experience. The geology degrees are designed to meet Nova Scotia Provincial legislative requirements for professional registration and are transferable across Canada, aligning with Canadian Geoscience Knowledge requirements. The curriculum is structured to build a strong base in geology during your first two years, complemented by studies in chemistry, mathematics, and physics. Later years allow for specialization through electives. You can choose to pursue a Major, Honours, Double Major, or Minor, with co-op options available for all programs. Additionally, the department offers research-based MSc programs in Environmental Science, Geology, or Applied Geomatics for those interested in further study.

Graduate Programs in Earth Sciences

The University of Toronto offers Master of Science (MSc) and Master of Applied Science (MASc) degrees, as well as a Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Earth Sciences. The MSc program offers two streams: a doctoral-stream focusing on research culminating in a report, and an all-course option. The MASc program is research-based, requiring a thesis. PhD students conduct original research, culminating in a thesis and defense. Collaborative specializations, such as Environmental Studies, are also available, allowing students to combine Earth Sciences with other disciplines. The department has faculty across three campuses (St. George, UTM, UTSC) and the Royal Ontario Museum. While enrolled at the St. George campus, students may be supervised by faculty from any of these locations. The School of Graduate Studies (SGS) oversees general admission, registration, and departmental operations.

Master of Science in Earth Sciences

The Master of Science (MSc) in Earth Sciences at the University of Western Ontario offers two pathways for graduate study: a research-based thesis option and a project-based option. Both programs are designed to deepen your understanding of Earth and planetary systems, resource geoscience, tectonic processes, and environmental science. Admission to these competitive programs is dependent on securing a supervisor, making early contact with potential faculty members highly recommended. The department encourages applicants from diverse scientific backgrounds, including Earth Sciences, Biology, Physics, Chemistry, Astronomy, Mathematics, and Civil Engineering.

Master’s of Science (MSc) Geography

Physics

Acadia University's Physics program offers a comprehensive undergraduate degree designed to help students understand the fundamental laws governing our universe, from the smallest particles to the largest celestial bodies. With a focus on small class sizes and student-centered learning, the program fosters a strong sense of community among students and faculty. Graduates develop critical thinking, problem-solving, and communication skills, preparing them for a diverse range of careers or further academic pursuits. The curriculum encourages interdisciplinary studies and offers unique opportunities for hands-on research.

Science, Computer Science and Mathematics

This pre-university program is designed for students aiming to pursue higher education in science, computer science, or mathematics. It provides a strong academic foundation, equipping students with the knowledge and skills necessary to succeed in university-level studies in these fields.

Women's and Gender Studies

The Women's and Gender Studies (WGST) program at Acadia University invites students to critically examine how gender and sexuality shape global societies and individual experiences. You will explore diverse topics such as social justice, culture, education, literature, psychology, history, science, and politics through a feminist lens. The program encourages questioning assumptions and developing innovative approaches to societal challenges, offering a robust interdisciplinary curriculum to foster a deep understanding of gender's impact. Students can choose from various program options including a Major, Double Major, Major with Honours, Double Major with Honours, or a Minor. The curriculum is rich with over 60 interdisciplinary courses, covering unique areas like Black Women and Politics, Environmental Justice and Equity, and Women in Science. The program emphasizes hands-on learning, research opportunities, and offers a co-op option, preparing graduates for impactful careers.