Identity area
Type of entity
Campus unit
Authorized form of name
University of Waterloo. Faculty of Science.
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Description area
Dates of existence
1959-
History
The Faculty of Science is among the oldest academic units at the University of Waterloo. Its origins date to 1957, when students were enrolled under a combined Faculty of Science and Engineering. Although these students pursued engineering degrees, their programs incorporated substantial science coursework. By the 1958–59 academic year, more than half of the faculty members were scientists, establishing a strong academic presence that laid the groundwork for the creation of an independent Faculty of Science.[1]
This vision was realized in 1959 with the formal establishment of the Faculty of Science under the leadership of Dean Bruce Kelley. In its inaugural year, the faculty introduced four programs: Honours Chemistry, Honours Chemistry and Physics, Honours Mathematics and Physics, and a three-year General Science course. That autumn, approximately 24 students enrolled, attending classes in the Chemistry and Chemical Engineering building (now Douglas Wright Engineering) and the Mathematics and Physics building (now Physics).[2]
In 1960, Dr. W.A.E. “Pete” McBryde was appointed acting dean as enrolment increased to 75 students. Two years later, the University of Waterloo extended its pioneering co-operative education model beyond engineering for the first time, introducing a co-operative program in Applied Physics.[3]
The 1960s marked a period of significant departmental expansion. Biology was established as a separate department in 1964 under the leadership of Dr. H.B.N. Hynes, followed by the creation of the Earth Sciences department in 1965, chaired by Dr. P.F. Karrow. In 1966, the faculty launched a co-operative Chemistry program.[4]
Over the decades, the Faculty of Science has experienced sustained growth, broadened its academic offerings, and continually enhanced the diversity of its co-operative education opportunities for students. Today, it stands as an integral part of the University of Waterloo and is internationally recognized for its leadership in research and education.
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The Faculty of Science is one of six faculties at the University of Waterloo.
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Created by NM November 2025.
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Sources
[1] Scott, James. Of Mud and Dreams : University of Waterloo, 1957-1967. Ryerson Press, 1967, p. 98-99. ; Waterloo College and Associate Faculties. Faculty of Science and Engineering. Academic calendar, 1958-59.
[2] Ibid., p. 99. ; "Waterloo University Deans Are Appointed." Kitchener-Waterloo Record. Friday, January 15, 1960, page 3.
[3] Ibid., p. 99-101.
[4] Ibid., p. 101-103.
Additional Resources
Faculty of Science - University of Waterloo