General Science

Our General Science program is a great choice if you are looking for a multidisciplinary education that allows you the freedom to explore your interests. It is very easy to move from the General Science program into a specific major at any point during your undergraduate degree. 

Our General Science program has 10 departments for you to choose courses from:

  • Anthropology
  • Biology
  • Chemistry
  • Computer Science
  • Economics
  • Geography
  • Mathematical Sciences
  • Geology 
  • Sustainability Sciences
  • Physics 

You are also able to take courses in Environmental Studies, Applied Life Sciences, Environmental Science and Water Resource Sciences 

These departments can be arranged into four subfields if you have determined a topical interest:

Life Sciences

This area focuses on the study of living organisms and how those living systems work. Our natural world is reduced to its most basic principles to observe patterns in organisms from bacteria to humans. Learn more about Applied Life Science, Anthropology, Bioinformatics, Biology, Chemistry and Physics within this area.

Environmental Science & Policy

This area studies the distribution and interaction between humans and the physical features of our world. You will focus on understanding and evaluating environmental issues and choices in a sound scientific manner. Learn more about Earth Sciences, Economics, Geography, Geoarchaeology and Water Resource Science within this area.

Physical Science & Mathematics

Physical Science & Mathematics is about problem solving. You will focus on understanding structures in our day-to-day life and the theories behind them including the study of matter and how matter interacts. Dynamic modelling is a key element of the programs within this area. Learn more about Bioinformatics, Chemistry, Computer Science, Mathematical Sciences and Physics.

Technology

This area is all about using the right tools to analyze the data in our world. These tools enable us to shape the future as they study physical characteristics of the world and beyond. Communications, information storage and human-computer interaction are common features of this area. Learn more about Computer Science, Bioinformatics and Physics.

Lakehead Advantage

Our faculty members are very involved in research at a national and international level. As a General Science student you will have many opportunities to participate in cutting-edge research on various topics including condensed matter, behavioural ecology, quantum-chemical exploration and DNA forensics. This hands-on approach to learning and well-rounded lab experience prepares you for success in any field, professional position or post-graduate training.

We have a number of dedicated, accessible resources to assist with research and to supplement your in-class studies including:

  • Lakehead University Centre for Analytical Services (LUCAS) Lab
  • Science Workshop
  • GIS Research Lab
  • Lakehead University Instrumentation Lab (LUIL)

Unlike other universities, you will be trained in the operation of lab equipment to gather and analyze your own data rather than passing it on to a technician. 

We also offer the ability to do a joint BSc degree with a Bachelor of Education (BEd) in Native Education at the primary, junior, intermediate and senior levels. This is particularly beneficial if you wish to teach in Northwestern Ontario. 

Transfer Options

It’s easy to transfer to Lakehead. Our pathway and general transfer policies are designed to help you maximize your credits from your current or previous studies at either college or university – or even both. 

There are a number of ways to transfer to Lakehead. Let us help you achieve your degree completion goals. For more information regarding specific admission requirements from college or university, check out the “Admissions Requirement” tab above and select your most recent level of study.

Applying to Lakehead University is easy and we are here to help you along the way.

Step 1 – Determine your general admission requirements:

To determine your general admission requirements, select one of the definitions below:

Step 2 – Determine your program-specific prerequisite requirements for your program(s) of choice:

To determine your program-specific prerequisite requirements, choose from the drop-down menus below:

Program Specific Requirements



  • General
    Degree:
    Science
    Alberta/NWT/Nunavut:
    English Language 30-1, 2 from: Biology 30, Chemistry 30, Math 30-1, Math 30-2, Math 31, or Physics 30
    Program Specific Requirements for Ontario High School Students:
    English (ENG4U), 2 from: Advanced Functions (MHF4U), Biology (SBI4U), Calculus & Vectors (MCV4U), Chemistry (SCH4U), Data Management (MDM4U), Earth & Space Science (SES4U), or Physics (SPH4U)
    Program Specific Requirements for Alberta/NWT/Nunavut High School Students:
    English Language 30-1, 2 from: Biology 30, Chemistry 30, Math 30-1, Math 30-2, Math 31, or Physics 30
    Program Specific Requirements for British Columbia/Yukon High School Students:
    English Studies 12 or English First Peoples 12, 2 from: Anatomy and Physiology 12, Calculus 12, Chemistry 12, Environmental Science 12, Foundations of Mathematics 12, Physics 12, Pre-Calculus 12, or Statistics 12
    Program Specific Requirements for International Students:
    English, 2 from: Biology, Chemistry, Earth & Space Science, Math, or Physics
    Program Specific Requirements for Manitoba High School Students:
    English Language Arts (Comprehensive Focus, Literary Focus, or Transactional Focus) 40S, 2 from: Advanced Mathematics 45S & Introduction To Calculus 45S, Applied Math 40S, Biology 40S, Chemistry 40S, Physics 40S, or Pre-Calculus 40S
    Program Specific Requirements for Mature/Transfer Students:
    English (ENG4U), 2 from: Advanced Functions (MHF4U), Biology (SBI4U), Calculus & Vectors (MCV4U), Chemistry (SCH4U), Data Management (MDM4U), Earth & Space Science (SES4U), or Physics (SPH4U). Other secondary or post-secondary courses that are equivalent to these requirements are accepted. College transfer students entering via a transfer pathway are not required to satisfy these specific prerequisite requirements.
    Program Specific Requirements for New Brunswick High School Students:
    English Language Arts 121 or 122, 2 from: Biology 121 or 122, Calculus 120, Chemistry 121 or 122, Foundations of Math 120, Introduction to Environmental Science 120 or Advanced Environmental Science 120, Physics 121 or 122, or Pre-Calculus A120 or B120
    Program Specific Requirements for Newfoundland/Labrador High School Students:
    English 3201, 2 from: Academic Math 3201, Advanced Math 3200, Biology 3201, Calculus 3208, Chemistry 3202, Environmental Science 3205, or Physics 3204
    Program Specific Requirements for Nova Scotia High School Students:
    English 12 or English 12 African Heritage, 2 from: Biology 12, Calculus 12, Chemistry 12, Mathematics 12, Physics 12, or Pre-Calculus 12
    Program Specific Requirements for PEI High School Students:
    English 621A, 2 from: Biology 621A, Calculus 611B, Chemistry 621A, Environmental Science 621A, Foundations of Math 621A, Physics 621A, or Pre-Calculus 621B
    Program Specific Requirements for Quebec (CEGEP) Students:
    2 English (603 or 604), 4 from: Biology I (NYA), Biology II, Calculus I (201-NYA or 201-103), Calculus II (201-NYB or 201-203), Chemistry (NYA, NYB, or NYC), Linear Algebra I (201-NYC, 201-105, or 201-106), or Physics (NYA, NYB, or NYC)
    Program Specific Requirements for Quebec (Private) Students:
    English (ENG4U), 2 from: Advanced Functions (MHF4U), Biology (SBI4U), Calculus & Vectors (MCV4U), Chemistry (SCH4U), Data Management (MDM4U), Earth & Space Science (SES4U), or Physics (SPH4U). Equivalent courses to the Ontario prerequisite requirements will be considered.
    Program Specific Requirements for Saskatchewan High School Students:
    English Language Arts 30 A or English Language Arts 30 B, 2 from: Biology 30, Calculus 30, Chemistry 30, Computer Science 30, Earth Science 30, Physics 30, or Pre-Calculus 30
  • Science One
    Degree:
    Science and Education (PJ)
    Alberta/NWT/Nunavut:
    English Language Arts 30-1, Math 30-1, 1 from: Biology 30, Chemistry 30, Math 30-2, Math 31, or Physics 30
    Program Specific Requirements for Ontario High School Students:
    English (ENG4U), Advanced Functions (MHF4U), 1 from: Biology (SBI4U), Calculus & Vectors (MCV4U), Chemistry (SCH4U), Computer Science (ICS4U), Data Management (MDM4U), Earth & Space Science (SES4U), or Physics (SPH4U)
    Program Specific Requirements for Alberta/NWT/Nunavut High School Students:
    English Language Arts 30-1, Math 30-1, 1 from: Biology 30, Chemistry 30, Math 30-2, Math 31, or Physics 30
    Program Specific Requirements for British Columbia/Yukon High School Students:
    English Studies 12 or English First Peoples 12, Pre-Calculus 12, 1 from: Anatomy and Physiology 12, Calculus 12, Chemistry 12, Computer Science 12, Environmental Science 12, Foundations of Mathematics 12, Physics 12, or Statistics 12
    Program Specific Requirements for International Students:
    English, Math, 1 from: Biology, Chemistry, Computer Science, Earth & Space Science, Math (additional), or Physics
    Program Specific Requirements for Manitoba High School Students:
    English Language Arts (Comprehensive Focus, Literary Focus, or Transactional Focus) 40S, Pre-Calculus 40S; 1 from: Advanced Mathematics 45S & Introduction To Calculus 45S, Applied Math 40S, Biology 40S, Chemistry 40S, Computer Science 40S, or Physics 40S
    Program Specific Requirements for Mature/Transfer Students:
    English (ENG4U), Advanced Functions (MHF4U), 1 from: Biology (SBI4U), Calculus & Vectors (MCV4U), Chemistry (SCH4U), Computer Science (ICS4U), Data Management (MDM4U), Earth & Space Science (SES4U), or Physics (SPH4U). Other secondary or post-secondary courses that are equivalent to these requirements are accepted.
    Program Specific Requirements for New Brunswick High School Students:
    English Language Arts 121 or 122, Pre-Calculus A120 or B120, 1 from: Biology 121 or 122, Calculus 120, Chemistry 121 or 122, Computer Science 120, Foundations of Math 120, Introduction to Environmental Science 120 or Advanced Environmental Science 120, or Physics 121 or 122
    Program Specific Requirements for Newfoundland/Labrador High School Students:
    English 3201, Advanced Math 3200, 1 from: Academic Math 3201, Biology 3201, Calculus 3208, Chemistry 3202, Environmental Science 3205, or Physics 3204
    Program Specific Requirements for Nova Scotia High School Students:
    English 12 or English 12 African Heritage, Pre-Calculus 12, 1 from: Biology 12, Calculus 12, Chemistry 12, Mathematics 12, or Physics 12
    Other Admission Requirements & Important Information:

    Biology, Chemistry or Physics is recommended

    Program Specific Requirements for PEI High School Students:
    English 621A, Pre-Calculus 621B, 1 from: Biology 621A, Calculus 611B, Chemistry 621A, Computer Studies 621A, Environmental Science 621A, Foundations of Math 621A, or Physics 621A
    Program Specific Requirements for Quebec (CEGEP) Students:
    2 English (603 or 604), Linear Algebra I (201-NYC, 201-105, or 201-106), 2 from: Biology I (NYA), Biology II, Calculus I (201-NYA or 201-103), Calculus II (201-NYB or 201-203), Chemistry (NYA, NYB, or NYC), or Physics (NYA, NYB, or NYC)
    Program Specific Requirements for Quebec (Private) Students:
    English (ENG4U), Advanced Functions (MHF4U), 1 from: Biology (SBI4U), Calculus & Vectors (MCV4U), Chemistry (SCH4U), Computer Science (ICS4U), Data Management (MDM4U), Earth & Space Science (SES4U), or Physics (SPH4U). Equivalent courses to the Ontario prerequisite requirements will be considered.
    Program Specific Requirements for Saskatchewan High School Students:
    English Language Arts 30 A or English Language Arts 30 B, Pre-Calculus 30; 1 from: Biology 30, Calculus 30, Chemistry 30, Computer Science 30, Earth Science 30, or Physics 30
  • Science One
    Degree:
    Science and Education (IS)
    Alberta/NWT/Nunavut:
    English Language Arts 30-1, Math 30-1, 1 from: Biology 30, Chemistry 30, Math 30-2, Math 31, or Physics 30
    Program Specific Requirements for Ontario High School Students:
    English (ENG4U), Advanced Functions (MHF4U), 1 from: Biology (SBI4U), Calculus & Vectors (MCV4U), Chemistry (SCH4U), Computer Science (ICS4U), Data Management (MDM4U), Earth & Space Science (SES4U), or Physics (SPH4U)
    Program Specific Requirements for Alberta/NWT/Nunavut High School Students:
    English Language Arts 30-1, Math 30-1, 1 from: Biology 30, Chemistry 30, Math 30-2, Math 31, or Physics 30
    Program Specific Requirements for British Columbia/Yukon High School Students:
    English Studies 12 or English First Peoples 12, Pre-Calculus 12, 1 from: Anatomy and Physiology 12, Calculus 12, Chemistry 12, Computer Science 12, Environmental Science 12, Foundations of Mathematics 12, Physics 12, or Statistics 12
    Program Specific Requirements for International Students:
    English, Math, 1 from: Biology, Chemistry, Computer Science, Earth & Space Science, Math (additional), or Physics
    Program Specific Requirements for Manitoba High School Students:
    English Language Arts (Comprehensive Focus, Literary Focus, or Transactional Focus) 40S, Pre-Calculus 40S; 1 from: Advanced Mathematics 45S & Introduction To Calculus 45S, Applied Math 40S, Biology 40S, Chemistry 40S, Computer Science 40S, or Physics 40S
    Program Specific Requirements for Mature/Transfer Students:
    English (ENG4U), Advanced Functions (MHF4U), 1 from: Biology (SBI4U), Calculus & Vectors (MCV4U), Chemistry (SCH4U), Computer Science (ICS4U), Data Management (MDM4U), Earth & Space Science (SES4U), or Physics (SPH4U). Other secondary or post-secondary courses that are equivalent to these requirements are accepted.
    Program Specific Requirements for New Brunswick High School Students:
    English Language Arts 121 or 122, Pre-Calculus A120 or B120, 1 from: Biology 121 or 122, Calculus 120, Chemistry 121 or 122, Computer Science 120, Foundations of Math 120, Introduction to Environmental Science 120 or Advanced Environmental Science 120, or Physics 121 or 122
    Program Specific Requirements for Newfoundland/Labrador High School Students:
    English 3201, Advanced Math 3200, 1 from: Academic Math 3201, Biology 3201, Calculus 3208, Chemistry 3202, Environmental Science 3205, or Physics 3204
    Program Specific Requirements for Nova Scotia High School Students:
    English 12 or English 12 African Heritage, Pre-Calculus 12, 1 from: Biology 12, Calculus 12, Chemistry 12, Mathematics 12, or Physics 12
    Other Admission Requirements & Important Information:

    Biology, Chemistry or Physics is recommended

    Program Specific Requirements for PEI High School Students:
    English 621A, Pre-Calculus 621B, 1 from: Biology 621A, Calculus 611B, Chemistry 621A, Computer Studies 621A, Environmental Science 621A, Foundations of Math 621A, or Physics 621A
    Program Specific Requirements for Quebec (CEGEP) Students:
    2 English (603 or 604), Linear Algebra I (201-NYC, 201-105, or 201-106), 2 from: Biology I (NYA), Biology II, Calculus I (201-NYA or 201-103), Calculus II (201-NYB or 201-203), Chemistry (NYA, NYB, or NYC), or Physics (NYA, NYB, or NYC)
    Program Specific Requirements for Quebec (Private) Students:
    English (ENG4U), Advanced Functions (MHF4U), 1 from: Biology (SBI4U), Calculus & Vectors (MCV4U), Chemistry (SCH4U), Computer Science (ICS4U), Data Management (MDM4U), Earth & Space Science (SES4U), or Physics (SPH4U). Equivalent courses to the Ontario prerequisite requirements will be considered.
    Program Specific Requirements for Saskatchewan High School Students:
    English Language Arts 30 A or English Language Arts 30 B, Pre-Calculus 30; 1 from: Biology 30, Calculus 30, Chemistry 30, Computer Science 30, Earth Science 30, or Physics 30
  • Science One
    Degree:
    Science
    Alberta/NWT/Nunavut:
    English Language Arts 30-1, Math 30-1, 1 from: Biology 30, Chemistry 30, Math 30-2, Math 31, or Physics 30
    Program Specific Requirements for Ontario High School Students:
    English (ENG4U), Advanced Functions (MHF4U), 1 from: Biology (SBI4U), Calculus & Vectors (MCV4U), Chemistry (SCH4U), Computer Science (ICS4U), Data Management (MDM4U), Earth & Space Science (SES4U), or Physics (SPH4U)
    Program Specific Requirements for Alberta/NWT/Nunavut High School Students:
    English Language Arts 30-1, Math 30-1, 1 from: Biology 30, Chemistry 30, Math 30-2, Math 31, or Physics 30
    Program Specific Requirements for British Columbia/Yukon High School Students:
    English Studies 12 or English First Peoples 12, Pre-Calculus 12, 1 from: Anatomy and Physiology 12, Calculus 12, Chemistry 12, Computer Science 12, Environmental Science 12, Foundations of Mathematics 12, Physics 12, or Statistics 12
    Program Specific Requirements for International Students:
    English, Math, 1 from: Biology, Chemistry, Computer Science, Earth & Space Science, Math (additional), or Physics
    Program Specific Requirements for Manitoba High School Students:
    English Language Arts (Comprehensive Focus, Literary Focus, or Transactional Focus) 40S, Pre-Calculus 40S; 1 from: Advanced Mathematics 45S & Introduction To Calculus 45S, Applied Math 40S, Biology 40S, Chemistry 40S, Computer Science 40S, or Physics 40S
    Program Specific Requirements for Mature/Transfer Students:
    English (ENG4U), Advanced Functions (MHF4U), 1 from: Biology (SBI4U), Calculus & Vectors (MCV4U), Chemistry (SCH4U), Computer Science (ICS4U), Data Management (MDM4U), Earth & Space Science (SES4U), or Physics (SPH4U). Other secondary or post-secondary courses that are equivalent to these requirements are accepted.
    Program Specific Requirements for New Brunswick High School Students:
    English Language Arts 121 or 122, Pre-Calculus A120 or B120, 1 from: Biology 121 or 122, Calculus 120, Chemistry 121 or 122, Computer Science 120, Foundations of Math 120, Introduction to Environmental Science 120 or Advanced Environmental Science 120, or Physics 121 or 122
    Program Specific Requirements for Newfoundland/Labrador High School Students:
    English 3201, Advanced Math 3200, 1 from: Academic Math 3201, Biology 3201, Calculus 3208, Chemistry 3202, Environmental Science 3205, or Physics 3204
    Program Specific Requirements for Nova Scotia High School Students:
    English 12 or English 12 African Heritage, Pre-Calculus 12, 1 from: Biology 12, Calculus 12, Chemistry 12, Mathematics 12, or Physics 12
    Other Admission Requirements & Important Information:

    Biology, Chemistry, or Physics is recommended

    Program Specific Requirements for PEI High School Students:
    English 621A, Pre-Calculus 621B, 1 from: Biology 621A, Calculus 611B, Chemistry 621A, Computer Studies 621A, Environmental Science 621A, Foundations of Math 621A, or Physics 621A
    Program Specific Requirements for Quebec (CEGEP) Students:
    2 English (603 or 604), Linear Algebra I (201-NYC, 201-105, or 201-106), 2 from: Biology I (NYA), Biology II, Calculus I (201-NYA or 201-103), Calculus II (201-NYB or 201-203), Chemistry (NYA, NYB, or NYC), or Physics (NYA, NYB, or NYC)
    Program Specific Requirements for Quebec (Private) Students:
    English (ENG4U), Advanced Functions (MHF4U), 1 from: Biology (SBI4U), Calculus & Vectors (MCV4U), Chemistry (SCH4U), Computer Science (ICS4U), Data Management (MDM4U), Earth & Space Science (SES4U), or Physics (SPH4U). Equivalent courses to the Ontario prerequisite requirements will be considered.
    Program Specific Requirements for Saskatchewan High School Students:
    English Language Arts 30 A or English Language Arts 30 B, Pre-Calculus 30; 1 from: Biology 30, Calculus 30, Chemistry 30, Computer Science 30, Earth Science 30, or Physics 30


The General Science program strives to overcome the restrictions of traditional programs by allowing as much latitude as possible when choosing courses. Therefore, first year requirements are very flexible and driven by your interests. 

Five credits must be taken within the Faculty of Science and Environmental Studies such as Chemistry, Biology, Physics or Calculus. 

Out of the 15 courses you will complete to successfully attain your BSc, no more than four may be taken outside of the Faculty of Science and Environmental Studies and the Faculty of Social Sciences and Humanities, as well as the Faculty of Education if you are pursuing a joint Native Education degree. If you wish to major after first year, these requirements will change based on your field of choice.

We encourage you to get involved in our Science Outreach Programs - Science Olympics, Faculty of Science & Environmental Studies Speaker Series and Superior Science - held throughout the academic year and in the summer. 

Participating as a mentor in the Science Olympics and for Superior Science is a great way to gain experience in the field and add to your resume, especially if you are considering teaching in the future. Our Speaker Series is always diverse and informative and will undoubtedly open your eyes to new topics and ideas.

If you are interested in attending a professional workshop or giving a presentation based on your research, the Science & Environmental Studies (SES) Undergraduate Conference Travel Award can help you do so. Each year 10 awards are presented by the Dean of Science & Environmental Studies to help students expand their knowledge and represent Lakehead University. This is a great opportunity for those considering graduate studies.


More information about Payment Methods, and Payment Due Dates can be found here: Student Fees Information



Arts & Science
Orillia
YearTuitionAncillary FeesTotal
1
$5,984.51
$1,126.83
$7,111.34
2
$5,955.86
$1,044.11
$6,999.97
3
$5,915.30
$1,044.11
$6,959.41
4
$5,398.29
$1,044.11
$6,442.40
Science
Thunder Bay
YearTuitionAncillary FeesTotal
1
$5,984.51
$1,408.45
$7,392.96
2
$5,955.86
$1,325.73
$7,281.59
3
$5,915.30
$1,325.73
$7,241.03
4
$5,398.29
$1,325.73
$6,724.02