International Exchanges
The Faculty of Science strongly supports international competence and encourages participation in mobility programs (e.g., co-op and academic exchanges abroad). Science students pursuing international exchanges can study in a foreign country while working toward their degree at the University of Waterloo. Students can study for up to one year abroad at universities where exchange agreements exist.
Detailed information about exchange programs is available on the Science International Exchange page of the Faculty of Science website.
The majority of students who participate in exchanges have a keen interest in other countries and cultures, enjoy a change of routine, and adapt easily to different circumstances. Students on an exchange meet people from other countries and are exposed to different cultures. Such contacts improve interpersonal skills and confidence in dealing with a variety of different people. The exchange program is an excellent opportunity to improve on language and budgeting skills, while learning to adapt to different environments and situations. Normally exchanges are for students who have completed 2B in Science at Waterloo.
To be eligible for an exchange students must have at least a 70% cumulative overall average and be proficient in the language of instruction at the host university. Because of the limited number of places available each year, a selection process – primarily based on grades – is involved. For more information see the Faculty of Science web page.
International Joint Education Programs
Since 2005, the Faculty of Science has partnered with several universities in China to offer a joint undergraduate program, whereby, students spend the first two years at their Chinese university and the final two years at the University of Waterloo. Students who complete the '2+2' program are awarded BSc degrees by both the University of Waterloo and the Chinese university. Current 2+2 programs in Science include Biochemistry, Biology, Biomedical Science, Chemistry, Earth Sciences, Environmental Science, Materials and Nanosciences, Mathematical Physics, Physics, Psychology, and Science and Business. The 2+2 program is currently available only to international students at the partner Chinese universities.
The Faculty of Science has also developed a '2+1+1' program with Beijing Jiaotong University (BJTU). Students participating in the 2+1+1 program are enrolled in a Nanomaterials and Technology program at BJTU in years one, two and four, and in the Materials and Nanosciences program at the University of Waterloo in year three. Students who complete the 2+1+1 are awarded BSc degrees by both University of Waterloo and BJTU.