The Faculty of Science offers the following options for enrolment in first year:
For additional information on first-year programs, visit the Faculty of Science.
Science One, a unique alternative to the standard first year in the Faculty of Science, is a 27-credit program of study spanning two terms. The aim of the curriculum is to provide a broad interdisciplinary science education for a student's first-year science studies within a small academic community of learners. Science One has dedicated classroom and study space, along with excellent student support.
This interdisciplinary option integrates the essential material of first-year biology, chemistry, mathematics, and physics through lectures, tutorials, workshops, and laboratories. Successful completion of Science One with the necessary academic standing satisfies the entrance requirements for all second-year courses in biology, chemistry, mathematics and physics. With appropriate choice of electives and the necessary academic standing, Science One will also satisfy the prerequisites for all second-year specializations in the Faculties of Science, Pharmaceutical Sciences, and others.
Students enrolled in Science One may register for additional credits of electives in consultation with Science One advisors.
On successful completion of the Science One Option, students receive one composite mark for the Science One course and individual marks for electives.
Prerequisites for enrolment in Science One are:
Students who are lacking a prerequisite are advised to contact the Science One Office to discuss their alternatives.
Admission to Science One requires a formal application. Enrolment is limited. Information and the online application are available from Science One.
Students who want to be part of a smaller academic community may wish to apply for the First-Year Focus (FYF) option. Students will enroll in a standard timetable of core courses and take additional electives in each term to meet the requirements for their desired specialization and promotion to second year in UBC Science. Details about the courses offered in the Standard timetable can be found on the First-Year Focus website.
All FYF students attend their standard timetable lectures together and have access to a study space, creating a smaller social and learning community within first-year science. FYF students have access to designated cocurricular programming such as mentorship, events, and networking opportunities.
Admission to FYF requires a separate application. Space is limited, and the application is designed to help identify students who will benefit most from—and contribute the most to—a supportive, cohort-based first-year experience in UBC Science. Students who have been admitted to the Faculty of Science and wish to apply for First-Year Focus should consult the website for requirements. Please contact the First Year Focus Program Coordinator for more information.
Additional information about the program is available from the FYF Website.