Science College

Note

For the complete list of faculty members, please consult the Department website.

Objectives

The aim of the Science College is to provide students with hands-on training in the pursuit of science as well as critical reflection on the nature and role of science. The academic program of the College complements the regular undergraduate curriculum and includes cross‑disciplinary courses and student participation in laboratory research activities from the first year on. The collegial atmosphere fosters interaction among students and between students and faculty.

In Science College, students gain an understanding of several areas of science, while specializing in whichever one they choose. Curricular structures frequently restrict students to a single discipline. To help counteract excessive specialization, the Science College has designed a series of courses to show what practising physicists think about physics; what mathematicians do when they are thinking mathematics: — not “an introduction to,” but “the state of the art.”

The College provides an opportunity for students to become acquainted with science as practised and understood by scientists today. Its curriculum is planned to fulfill the primary goals of the College — to provide an opportunity for experience in a research environment, for thinking broadly about science, and for becoming aware of the similarities and differences between the various scientific disciplines.

In Science College, students have the opportunity to work individually with active research scientists. This is achieved through a program of directed or independent study in each undergraduate year which enables them to undertake or participate in projects of discovery in a variety of different areas of scientific endeavour.

Students of the College are also invited to consider the nature of science. The College offers courses in the intellectual and social context of science. Designed specifically for College students, these courses raise questions of broad interest to scientists and presume an understanding of the subject matter of science itself.

Students are given the opportunity to consider the social and cultural framework of their science studies through a basic course in some aspect of humanistic studies.

Finally, students are also encouraged to appreciate the link between clarity of thought and clarity of expression, through the availability of tutorial assistance in the development of writing skills.

Facilities

The Science College provides a space for students to exchange across disciplinary boundaries, build community and interact with professors. It has quiet study, group work and lounge areas, a kitchen, computer facilities and a small library. The College provides opportunities for students to broaden their experience of science-related activities and hosts a variety of events in which students showcase their work and meet with scientists from different professional paths.

Requirements for Admission to Science College

The program of Science College is academically demanding, involving concentration in one discipline and a critical investigation of other aspects of science. The College is committed to serious academic work and high standards, and seeks to attract talented and enthusiastic students who are willing to work hard in a search for a deeper understanding of their subject.

Students must enrol in a science program that leads to a BSc degree in order to be part of Science College. Students registered for a BCompSc or a BA may be eligible as evaluated by the College.

In addition to the normal requirements for admission to the University’s various programs, applicants are expected to have a good academic average. They are considered on the basis of their academic record, and a personal interview. Preference is given to students who show a disposition and an aptitude to benefit from the unique features of the sort of fundamental scientific education which the College offers. Applicants are encouraged to provide evidence of the range of their intellectual interests and of any creative activity in which they may have been involved. Students may apply for membership to the Science College at the time of their application to the University or as internal candidates.

Students must be prepared to attend courses that take place outside the normal University class schedule. The College is open to full‑time students only.

Science College and Journalism

A limited number of students who have been admitted to the BA Major in Journalism program may be allowed to register in the Science College, with a view to combining a basic understanding of science with a training in journalism.

Performance Requirement

Students in the College must obtain a minimum grade of “B‑” in all required courses in the Minor in Multidisciplinary Studies in Science, as well as in all courses counting toward their discipline‑based honours, specialization, or major program. Students who receive a grade lower than “B-” must contact the College's academic advisor.

Further Information

Further information on the courses and activities of the Science College may be obtained either by writing or by telephoning the College office. Personal interviews with a fellow of the Science College may be arranged through the Science College office.

Science College Curriculum

The College offers a Minor in Multidisciplinary Studies in Science, consisting of a core of courses which is required of all students. This core consists of 30 of the 90 credits normally required for a BSc degree. These courses have been developed specifically for the College with the intention of providing a unique, integrated program of education in science.