Simon Fraser University

What you'll study

The BSc curriculum combines foundational science courses with discipline-specific depth and elective flexibility. In the early years you will typically take core courses in biology, chemistry, physics, mathematics and statistics alongside academic skills and breadth requirements. As you progress you declare a major (or combined majors/minors) and take advanced, specialised modules such as molecular and cellular biology, organic and physical chemistry, classical and quantum mechanics, algorithms and software engineering, applied statistics, sedimentology and climate science, depending on the field.

Typical learning activities include laboratory courses, fieldwork (for Earth and environmental sciences), computer-based projects, quantitative problem sets and group design projects. Many majors offer options for honours-level study or a fourth-year research project/supervised thesis that gives hands-on research experience under a faculty supervisor. Cooperative education, internships and community-engaged practica are available in many streams to build workplace experience.

Sample topics by discipline

• Biology: cell and molecular biology, genetics, ecology, physiology, laboratory techniques and biodiversity field methods.
• Chemistry: analytical, inorganic, organic and physical chemistry, spectroscopy and synthetic laboratory work.
• Computing Science: programming, data structures, algorithms, software engineering, machine learning and systems.
• Physics: classical mechanics, electromagnetism, statistical mechanics, quantum theory and experimental physics labs.
• Mathematics & Statistics: calculus, linear algebra, real analysis, probability, statistical inference and applied modelling.
• Earth & Environmental Sciences: geology, geochemistry, climatology, geospatial methods and field studies.

Entry requirements

Admission to the BSc requires graduation from a recognised secondary school with strong performance in relevant subjects. Typical prerequisite subjects include senior-level mathematics and English plus one or more science courses (biology, chemistry or physics), with particular majors having specific science prerequisites. Admission is competitive and selection is based on secondary school grades; some popular majors may have higher admission thresholds.

Applicants who studied outside the local curriculum must demonstrate equivalent academic preparation. International applicants are required to show proficiency in English through recognised tests or other accepted evidence. Mature applicants, transfer students from other post-secondary institutions and those from community colleges can also be considered; transfer credit is assessed based on completed coursework.

Career prospects

Graduates with a BSc from Simon Fraser University pursue a wide range of career paths. Many enter technical and professional roles in biotechnology, pharmaceuticals, environmental consulting, natural resources, energy, engineering firms, information technology and software development. Quantitative and analytic training also leads to careers in data science, analytics, finance and government research positions.

Some graduates continue to professional programmes (medicine, dentistry, veterinary medicine, engineering) or graduate study (master’s and PhD) in research-focused areas. Other opportunities include teaching (with additional certification), science communication, policy and non-profit work focused on sustainability, conservation and public health. The degree’s practical training, co-op placements and research options help graduates transition into both industry and academic careers.

Why study at Simon Fraser University

Simon Fraser University offers a research-active Faculty of Science with access to modern laboratories, field stations and computing facilities across its campuses. Students benefit from hands-on learning through lab courses, field schools, honours projects and work-integrated learning such as co-op and internships. SFU’s location in the Metro Vancouver region supports industry connections in biotechnology, environmental services and a growing technology sector, enabling networking and employment opportunities.

The university emphasises interdisciplinary study and student support, including academic advising, undergraduate research mentorship and career services. Small-group tutorials, active faculty engagement and opportunities to take cross-disciplinary courses make the BSc flexible for students tailoring their degree to specific academic or career goals.