Bachelor of Arts and Science - French/Spanish & Physics (Optional Co-op)

The Faculty of Arts & Science offers programming leading to a Bachelor of Arts (BA), Bachelor of Science (BSc), or a Bachelor of Arts and Science (BSc). These degree options are tailored to students' specific areas of interest across three academic divisions, humanities, social sciences, and sciences. In addition to traditional degrees, many departments offer specialized programs or participate in the delivery of multi-disciplinary programs and majors.

For the Bachelor of Arts and Science, students must complete two majors: an Arts major, and a Science major.

The Department of Modern Languages & Linguistics offers instruction in three languages: French, Japanese and Spanish (beginner to advanced).

In today's globalized context, students of modern languages are being prepared for membership in a global community that extends far beyond the boundaries of the English-speaking world. Modern Languages is about far more than just learning how to communicate in another language. It’s about exploring other identities and values through language, literature, history and culture in a global community.

Students who study French/Spanish will gain awareness of other cultures through courses in language, literature, and culture and civilization, and through academic and living experiences in Canada or abroad.

Classes are taught in the language being studied — so, French courses are taught in French and Spanish classes in Spanish. Students can specialize in one language or study a combination.

Physics is the study of matter and energy at all scales, from the sub-nuclear to the dimensions of the universe. It is the fundamental science — all other sciences and technologies rely on the principles of physics.

Physics involves observing and understanding natural phenomena. It is evident in the world around people in everything from the seasons, the motion of objects, the flight of birds, the night sky and the weather, to lasers, electronics and the technology they rely on today.

Physics is very much a “hands-on” science, so the most effective way for students to learn the subject is to actually do physics. Astronomy teaches them how to study objects at a distance and interpret the information gathered. This helps everyone begin to understand the universe they live in. The skills students will learn in astronomy are also applicable to remote sensing and its application to environmental problems.

The department offers a comprehensive physics major. The foundation of this program is built in the first two years, as students study mechanics, waves, electricity and magnetism, optics, thermal physics and modern physics.

In students' third and fourth years, they will gain a deeper understanding of the fundamentals and delve into more advanced and specialized areas. Specialized topics may include the research interests of department faculty members, as all faculty members are involved in rigorous research programs.

Faculty members also ensure students are provided with a wide view of physics, exposing them to all areas of the subject and describing a wide variety of applications. This enables them to make informed decisions when choosing the areas they may wish to pursue in the future.