Get a strong foundation in the sciences with the opportunity to specialize in two or three specific subjects. The General Science program is appropriate if you plan to continue studying in professional areas such as post-secondary education, business administration, dentistry, law, medicine, or veterinary medicine.
General Science provides a comprehensive undergraduate science education with the opportunity for concentration in two or three of the following subject areas: Chemistry, Earth & Environmental Sciences, Life Science, Mathematical Sciences, and Physics. The program is appropriate if you plan to continue study in professional areas (such as business administration, medicine, law, or education), and do not intend to pursue graduate studies in science.
Stoichiometry, atomic and molecular structure, chemical periodicity, gases, liquids, solids, and solutions. Not open to students with Chemistry 12.
Introduction to core biology concepts employing an Aboriginal perspective of cyclical analysis and synthesis. Scientific method, energy acquisition, cell structure and function, genetics, evolution and diversity. degree.
Origin of rocks, oceans, atmosphere and the record of life on Earth. Scientific methods of studying Earth history. Geologic time, dating methods, the stratigraphic record. Organic evolution, the fossil record, and extinctions.
Provides knowledge and skills to navigate the digital society. The importance of digital participation will be investigated by studying issues surrounding digital access, skills, and utilization. Digital literacy is emphasized through the exploration of computer applications, the use of converging technologies, and online resources. This course does not assume students have any Computer Science background.
Intended for students not majoring in Mathematics or the Sciences who want some exposure to mathematical thinking. Logic, set theory, combinatorics, probability theory, matrix algebra, linear programming, graphs, and networks. This course cannot be taken for credit towards a B.Sc. degree.
Intended for students in earth, environmental, and life sciences. Thermodynamics and kinetics as they apply to natural systems. This course cannot be used for credit by Chemistry Majors.
Simple and multiple linear regression, calibration, nonlinear regression, analysis of variance, factorial experiments, nonparametric methods, and basic quality control charts.
Selected experiments in relativity, quantum mechanics, thermodynamics, particle physics or nuclear physics. Quantitative analysis of data, methods of measurement, formal presentation of laboratory results.
Focuses on a variety of personality theories including psychoanalytic, behaviouristic, cognitive, humanistic, and trait perspectives. Methods of research and critical analysis of theoretical foundations and research.
Mendelian genetics, gene expression, recombination, mutation, evolution, and molecular techniques. Examples will be drawn from both eukaryotic and prokaryotic systems.
Techniques for computation, analysis, and visualization of data using software. Manipulation of small and large data sets. Automation using scripting. Real-world applications from life sciences, physical sciences, economics, engineering, or psychology. No prior computing background is required.
Chemistry and biochemistry of winemaking (enology) and grape-growing (viticulture) including development of the important major constituents of a wine; ethanol, acids, sugars, and colour; the subtle aspects of the aroma; odour-active compounds and how they form; and the effects of storing a wine in oak barrels.
Concepts in the forensic chemical analysis of materials. Sampling protocols, sample preparation and clean up, instrumental techniques, chemical tracers, chemical fingerprinting, drug and toxin analysis, complex statistical analysis. Specific case studies with emphasis on environmental forensic issues will be presented.
Effects of watershed management on water quality and quantity, channel morphology, in-stream wood, and aquatic habitat. Emphasizing integrated land use management and the maintenance of critical watershed functions and services.
Advanced or specialized topics in computer science. Consult the unit for the specific topic to be offered in any given year.
Foundation of the use of statistical concepts and methods in environmental science and management. Scientific problem-solving using statistical methods. Integration of the formulation of objectives, study design, and quantitative methods appropriate for the design. The role and use of statistical software packages.
Draws on foundational knowledge of normal biochemistry. Inborn errors of metabolism, abnormal growth and metabolism, neurodegeneration and inappropriate protein folding, deficiency diseases, endocrine disorders, and cardiovascular and hematological disorders.
Graphs and complex networks in scientific research. Probabilistic and statistical models. Structures, patterns, and behaviors in networks. Algorithmic and statistical methods. (online/mobile) social networks and social media platforms. Social influence, information diffusion, and viral marketing. Sentiment analysis and opinion mining. Data privacy. Search engines and recommendation systems.
Independent research projects in the field, while considering application of methods to solving problems in ecology. Study design, hypothesis development, primary data collection, analysis, and interpretation; formal manuscripts for publication.
A UBC education will introduce you to people and ideas from around the world, open doors to new opportunities, and take you places you never imagined. You’ll graduate not only with expertise in your chosen field, but with the skills you need to continue growing, learning, and evolving with your career over time.