The Life Sciences Gateway program at McMaster prepares students for a variety of careers in science and elsewhere by giving them a firm foundation in traditional scientific disciplines while exposing them to multidisciplinary approaches to solving pressing problems.
An understanding of the tapestry of life comes not from a single discipline but is woven from all of the Life Sciences: biochemistry, cell biology, genomics, developmental biology, neurobiology, psychology, ecology, and earth sciences. The avalanche of information available from these fields allows scientists to look at biological systems in unprecedented detail. The key is to integrate knowledge across disciplines in order to understand organisms and their place in the ecosystem.
Graduates who begin their studies in the Life Sciences Gateway have pursued careers in the following areas:
Completion of the High School Diploma plus 6 Grade 12 U/M requirements, including:
Anticipated Admission Average: Mid 90’s
Target Enrollment: 1000
OUAC Application Code: MLS
Note: While not required, completion of Calculus & Vectors and Chemistry is strongly recommended.
The structure of our Level 1 Life Sciences Gateway will provide you with a range of Level 2 program options. Courses taken in Level 1 serves as admission requirements to prepare students for their Level 2 programs of interest. There are 36 Level 2 programs to choose from, but the following may be of interest to you. Please also explore all of the Level 2 program options available.
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Cellular and Molecular Biology
Biodiversity, Evolution and Humanity
Calculus for the Life Sciences 1
Introductory Physics
Introductory Chemistry 1
Introductory Chemistry 2
Introduction to Psychology, Neuroscience & Behaviour
Climate, Water And Environment
Part of the reason I chose Mac was because of how many options the Life Sciences Gateway gave me.
I chose McMaster because it felt right. I had heard great things about the Faculty of Science before visiting the school, but it was when I came to Mac and walked around campus, I started to envision myself there.
Part of the reason I chose Mac was because of how many options the Life Sciences Gateway gave me. When it came time to choose a specialization, I wanted to continue exploring my options as a science student. I applied to Honours Biology and PNB, to get the most out of two disciplines I love: Biology and Psychology. I also loved the idea of getting hands-on research experience through the PNB Department.
I’ve had the opportunity to try out a number of research positions and in-lab experiences through my program. While I’m still not sure what my next steps are, I’ve been able to learn about what kind of work I enjoy, apply my coursework to hands-on experience, and make valuable connections with faculty and other experts in the field.
One of my fondest memories from my undergrad was of second year welcome day. I met a lot of new friends that I still have today.
I chose McMaster because of their reputation for excellence in science and I knew it would prepare me well for a career in science. I chose my program to pursue my future plans of being an urban planner.
I began second year in Honours Biology but eventually switched into Honours Environmental Science so I could pursue my Master’s of Urban Planning in the future.
My advice for future students would be to make sure you go into your first-year program with an open mind. Do not be afraid to explore a new interest or change your path later in your university career.