2012 Faculty of Science - McMaster University by McMaster University

Faculty of Science

www.science.mcmaster.ca

HAMILTON O N TA R I O CANADA mcmaster.ca/future

www.science.mcmaster.ca

Faculty of Science This is a very exciting time to be a part of science, as new and important discoveries are being made in every area of scientific research. The solutions to many of our most pressing social and environmental issues will require significant scientific contributions, creating a demand for scientists and professionals who understand science. McMasterâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Faculty of Science will prepare you to become a leader in a wide variety of sciencerelated careers. Our internationally renowned researchers are enthusiastic and dedicated teachers who will provide you with a firm grounding in scientific knowledge and methods. We are committed to developing your ability to evaluate information, think critically, and apply your understanding of science to a wide range of real-world problems and issues. As an undergraduate student in the Faculty of Science you will have many opportunities to become involved in the scientific enterprise, and to work side-by-side with faculty members, graduate students and your fellow undergraduates, on scientific research. Our Faculty can now boast of having a Canadian Research Chair in every department. Examples of their research and the research being done by some of our other faculty members can be found on the departmental pages of this brochure and on our website. We look forward to sharing our enthusiasm for science with you!

The Faculty is dedicated to the enhancement of student learning through exposure to both practical and theoretical science. In self-directed learning and research, students learn how to think and apply their knowledge and understanding. 2

Level I ‘Gateway’ Programs

Level I ‘Direct-Entry’ Programs

The Faculty of Science offers the following Level I ‘Gateway’ programs that lead to a variety of Honours Bachelor of Science and Bachelor of Science (B.Sc.) degree programs. The Gateway programs are:

In addition to the Gateway programs, the Faculty of Science offers the following direct-entry Level I programs (and degrees):

Environmental and Earth Sciences I Life Sciences I Mathematics & Statistics I Physical Sciences I

Honours Integrated Science I (iSci) which leads to the Honours Bachelor of Science degree Honours Kinesiology I which leads to the Honours Bachelor of Science Kinesiology degree Medical Radiation Sciences I (in collaboration with Mohawk College), leading to the Bachelor of Medical Radiation Sciences degree. For information regarding Honours Integrated Science, Honours Kinesiology or Medical Radiation Sciences, please refer to those specific program brochures.

Our Level I program structure allows for admission requirements that better reflect the academic needs of different areas of science. It also allows us to offer Level I courses that are more challenging, more rewarding, and more relevant to students with interests in that area of study. In some programs these courses will also be smaller, allowing for more personalized instruction. For students who know exactly what area of science they are interested in, our four Level I ‘Gateway’ programs provide the opportunity to focus their studies directly from high school. Those students who are undecided or who change their mind in first year, are still able to move easily between disciplines. For example, provided Level II admission requirements are met, a Life Sciences I student may choose to move into Level II Honours Physics or Chemistry. Similarly, an Environmental and Earth Sciences I student, with the appropriate course selection and grades, may decide to pursue a degree in Honours Mathematics & Statistics. In other words, our Level I ‘Gateway’ programs structure provides science students with a range of Level II program options. Extensive academic advising is readily available to all students to help answer questions and concerns or provide directions that lead our students toward appropriate programs and careers.

Environmental and Earth Sciences I

Mathematics & Statistics I

Human life and society depend critically on environmental resources we all too often take for granted: air, water, soil and the mineral and organic resources of the earth. With the recent attention to global warming and climate change, there has been a dramatic increase in scientific research and employment opportunities in this area. The Environmental and Earth Sciences program lays the foundation for Level II programs offered by the School of Geography and Earth Sciences and provides an excellent background for Level II programs that deal with life in its broader environmental context.

Mathematics & Statistics is the science which studies patterns underlying such diverse phenomena as the shape of a flower, the form of a molecule or the structure of galaxies. Mathematics helps us to discover subtle and unexpected features, as well as explain and predict properties of the phenomena, for which prove useful throughout the sciences. Statistics studies patterns which arise in data, and is used to distinguish regularities from chance effects. The Level I program introduces students to the foundational tools and ideas of mathematics leading into our degree programs. With careful selection of elective courses, it also provides excellent preparation for programs in Biology and Mathematics, Mathematics and Computer Science, Mathematics and Physics and Level II programs in the many other areas of science.

Life Sciences I The explosion of knowledge and understanding in the traditional life sciences is reshaping how scientists conduct research, transmit and apply knowledge. The Honours B.Sc. and B.Sc. Life Sciences are interdisciplinary programs that build on courses from the departments of Biology; Biochemistry & Biomedical Sciences; Kinesiology; Psychology, Neuroscience & Behaviour and the School of Geography & Earth Sciences. Life Sciences students have considerable choice when picking their courses and choose from a diverse range of topics including: nutrition and metabolism, molecular biology, human anatomy and physiology, immunology, sensory processes, human learning and cognition, evolution ecology and environmental sciences.

Physical Sciences I Everything we know is either matter or energy. Understanding the ways in which matter and energy behave and interact is critical to an understanding of the universe at every level, from the submicroscopic constituents of matter to the macroscopic behaviour of galaxies and star clusters. This understanding comes through a mix of mathematical description, computational modeling and experimental investigations. These techniques are covered in Physical Sciences I, which is the appropriate preparation for Level II programs in chemistry, physics and astronomy. With the careful selection of courses, it also provides excellent preparation for programs in Chemical Biology, Medical Physics and Biophysics.

Overview of our Level I “Gateway” Programs Students in Level I Environmental & Earth Sciences, Life Sciences, Mathematics & Statistics and Physical Sciences programs, through careful Level I course selection, can pursue any Level II program noted on the chart on page 5.

Level I Programs Environmental & Earth Sciences I

Life Sciences I Course List

Requirements: 30 Units

ASTRON 1F03; BIOLOGY 1A03, 1M03; CHEM 1A03, 1AA3; COMP SCI 1FC3, 1MA3, 1MD3; ENVIR SC 1A03, 1B03, 1G03; GEOG 1HA3, 1HB3; KINESIOL 1Y03, 1YY3; MATH 1A03, 1AA3, 1B03, 1LS3, 1LT3; MED PHYS 1E03; PHYSICS 1B03, 1BA3, 1BB3, 1L03; PSYCH 1X03, 1XX3

2 of: ENVIR SC 1A03, 1B03, 1G03 1 of: MATH 1A03, 1LS3 1 of: BIOLOGY 1M03, PHYSICS 1B03, 1L03 (see notes 2,4) 1 of: CHEM 1A03 (see note 3)

Mathematics & Statistics I

3 courses from Environmental & Earth Sciences I Course List

Requirements: 30 Units

6 units Electives (see note 1)

MATH 1B03, 1C03, 1X03, 1XX3 (see note 9)

HTH SCI 1BS0 (see note 7)

1 course in the Faculty of Science (see notes 5, 7) OR COMP SCI 1FC3, 1MA3, 1MD3 (see note 6)

SCIENCE 1A00 (see note 5)

Environmental & Earth Sciences I Course List BIOLOGY 1A03, 1M03; CHEM 1AA3; COMP SCI 1FC3, 1MA3, 1MD3; ENVIR SC 1A03, 1B03, 1G03; GEOG 1HA3, 1HB3; KINESIOL 1Y03, 1YY3; MATH 1A03, 1AA3, 1B03, 1LS3, 1LT3; MED PHYS 1E03; PHYSICS 1B03, 1BA3, 1BB3, 1F03, 1L03; PSYCH 1X03, 1XX3

Life Sciences I Requirements: 30 Units 3 of: BIOLOGY 1A03, 1M03, PSYCH 1X03, 1XX3 1 of: MATH 1A03, 1LS3 1 of: PHYSICS 1B03, 1L03 3 courses from Life Sciences I Course List (see notes 3, 4, 8) 6 units Electives (see note 1) HTH SCI 1BS0 (see note 7) SCIENCE 1A00 (see note 5)

LEVEL I PROGRAM NOTES 1. Students without Grade 12 Calculus and Vectors U must complete MATH 1F03 which serves as a prerequisite for Math 1A03 or 1LS3. 2. Students who did not complete Grade 12 BIOLOGY U must complete BIOLOGY 1P03 in Level I. Given this course is considered elective, an additional three units from the Environmental and Earth Sciences I Course List must be completed. BIOLOGY 1P03 serves as the prerequisite for BIOLOGY 1A03 and 1M03 for those students who did not complete Grade 12 Biology U. 3. Students who did not complete Grade 12 Chemistry U must complete CHEM 1R03 in Level I. Given this course is considered elective, an additional three units from the Environmental and Earth Sciences I Course List must be completed. CHEM 1R03 serves as the prerequisite for CHEM 1A03 for those students who did not complete Grade 12 Chemistry U. 4. PHYSICS 1L03 serves as the prerequisite for PHYSICS 1B03 for those students who did not complete Grade 12 Physics U. 5. SCIENCE 1A00, a one-hour, mandatory on-line Health and Safety course, is a co-requisite to Level I courses with a lab component and must be completed prior to the first lab. 6. Completion of COMP SCI 1MD3 is required for admission to the Honours Mathematics and Computer Science program.

15 units Electives

Physical Sciences I Requirements: 30 Units CHEM 1A03, 1AA3 MATH 1A03, 1AA3 (see note 10) PHYSICS 1B03 1 of: PHYSICS 1BA3, 1BB3 2 courses from Physical Sciences I Course List (see note 7) 6 units Electives (see note 2) SCIENCE 1A00 (see note 5)

Physical Sciences I Course List ASTRON 1F03; BIOLOGY 1A03, 1M03; COMP SCI 1FC3, 1MA3, 1MD3; ENVIR SC 1A03, 1B03, 1G03; GEOG 1HA3, 1HB3; KIN 1Y03,1YY3; MATH 1B03; MED PHYS 1E03; PHYSICS 1L03; PSYCH 1X03, 1XX3

7. HTH SCI 1BS0, a mandatory on-line introduction to bio-safety lab training, is a co-requisite to BIOLOGY 1A03, ISCI 1A24, KINESIOL 1A03 and 1Y03 and must be completed prior to the first lab. 8. Life Sciences I students must complete at least 9 units from BIOLOGY 1A03, 1M03, PSYCH 1X03, 1XX3, however, it is important to note the admission requirements for the following Level II programs: – Completion of both PSYCH 1X03 and 1XX3 is required for admission to all Honours B.Sc. Psychology, Neuroscience & Behaviour programs and most Level II Psychology courses. – Completion of both BIOLOGY 1A03 and 1M03 is required for admission to all Biology programs and some Level II Biology courses. 9. Registration in MATH 1X03 and 1XX3 is required for students in Mathematics and Statistics I. MATH 1A03 and 1AA3 or MATH 1LS3 and 1LT3 may be used as substitutions for MATH 1X03 and 1XX3 for consideration to Level II Mathematics and Statistics programs for students from other Level I programs. 10. Registration in MATH 1A03 and 1AA3 is required for students in Physical Sciences I. MATH 1LS3 and 1LT3 (or MATH 1X03 and 1XX3) may be used as substitutions for MATH 1A03 and 1AA3 for consideration to Level II programs.

Level II Programs Students from any Level I Science program can, through careful Level I course selection, pursue any Level II program noted below. For admission requirements to Level II programs, please refer to the specific pages in this brochure.

Honours Bachelor of Science (Hons. B.Sc.) Programs Honours Biochemistry – Biotechnology Specialization – Biomedical Sciences Specialization Honours Biology – Physiology Specialization Honours Molecular Biology and Genetics Honours Biology & Environmental Sciences Honours Biology & Mathematics Honours Biology & Pharmacology (begins in Level III) Honours Biology & Psychology Honours Chemical Biology

Legend Limited Enrolment Honours B.Sc. Programs Enrolment in this program is limited and possession of the published admission requirements does not guarantee admission. Admission is by selection but requires, as a minimum, completion of any Level I program (a minimum of 24 units) with a Cumulative Average of at least 6.0 including the specified courses and where stated, minimum grade requirements. Non-limited Enrolment Honours B.Sc. Programs E nrolment in this program requires completion of any Level I program (a minimum of 24 units) with a Cumulative Average of at least 6.0 including the specified courses and where stated, minimum grade requirements.

Honours Chemistry

Non-limited Enrolment B.Sc. Programs

Honours Earth & Environmental Sciences

E nrolment in this program requires completion of any Level I program (a minimum of 24 units) with a Cumulative Average of at least 3.5 including the specified courses and where stated, minimum grade requirements.

Honours Environmental Sciences Honours Geography & Environmental Sciences Honours Life Sciences Honours Mathematics & Computer Science Honours Mathematics & Physics Honours Mathematics & Statistics – Mathematics Specialization

T his program may be combined with the Origins Research Specialization. See the 2011-2012 Undergraduate Calendar for more detailed Level II Program Admission Requirements and Notes. Co-operative Education (Co-op) program, beginning in Level III, is available.

– Statistics Specialization Honours Medical Physics Honours Physics – Astrophysics Specialization – Biophysics Specialization Honours Psychology, Neuroscience & Behaviour – Music Cognition Specialization

Bachelor of Science (B.Sc.) Programs Environmental Sciences Life Sciences Mathematical Science Physical Sciences

Level I Course Descriptions Note: The last digit of the course code indicates the unit value of a particular course (e.g. 1A03 = 3 units). Descriptions for courses offered beyond Level I, prerequisites and electives are available online through the Undergraduate Calendar at: http://registrar.mcmaster.ca/CALENDAR/current/ . The following is a listing of course options for students in Environmental & Earth Sciences I, Life Sciences I, Mathematics & Statistics I, and Physical Sciences I taken to satisfy the various program requirements. Electives may be taken from other Faculties as long as prerequisites are met.

Astronomy 1F03

Chemistry 1A03

Introduction to Astronomy and Astrophysics

Introductory Chemistry I

This course covers topics such as orbital motion, electromagnetic radiation, the solar system, stars and stellar evolution, the Milky Way Galaxy, galaxies and quasars, and the evolution of the universe.

This course provides the first part of a fundamental background in chemistry for students proceeding to more advanced chemistry in the physical sciences, life sciences and earth sciences. Topics include: bonding, structure, reactivity and energetics, with emphasis on applications to health, energy and the environment. Laboratories highlight hands-on experimental techniques; tutorials support the development of problem-solving skills.

Prerequisite: One of MCV4U, MHF4U, MCB4U, Math 1F03; and SPH4U or Physics 1L03.

Biology 1A03 Cellular and Molecular Biology As a combined lecture/laboratory course, Biology 1A03 is a prerequisite for many health-related professional programs including medicine, optometry and dentistry. It is also a prerequisite for many higher level Biology courses. Topics covered include structure, molecular composition and function in sub-cellular and cellular systems. The laboratory component emphasizes skill development, scientific communication and problembased learning. Prerequisite: SBI4U or Biology 1P03 and registration in any Level I program from the Faculty of Science or any program above Level I; or registration in Arts & Science I, Chemical Engineering & Bioengineering or Electrical & Biomedical Engineering.

Biology 1M03 Biodiversity, Evolution and Humanity This course covers fundamental evolutionary and ecological concepts with particular reference to biodiversity and human evolution. Students will examine the dynamics of species diversity and explore the evolution and impact of humans. Emphasis is placed on evolution, ecology, behaviour and conservation, as related to the gain and loss of biodiversity. The PBL (problem-based learning) tutorials reinforce the lecture topics and develop skills facilitating the interpretation of scientific observations. The course is a prerequisite for many programs and most relevant to those focusing on evolution and ecology.

Prerequisite: SCH4U and either registration in a Level I program in the Faculty of Science or Arts & Science I, Engineering I, Health Sciences I, any program above Level I; or a grade of at least 80% in SCH4U; or Chemistry 1R03.

Chemistry 1AA3 Introductory Chemistry II This course continues from Chemistry 1A03 with the principles and practice of chemical equilibrium, introduces chemical kinetics and lays the foundation of organic chemistry. Emphasis will be on relevant experimental techniques and solving real problems ranging from drug discovery to environmental chemistry. Lecture demonstrations are an integral part of the course. Prerequisite: Chemistry 1A03.

Chemistry 1R03 General Chemistry This introductory course is intended for students lacking Grade 12 U Chemistry (or equivalent). It discusses the basic principles of chemistry, and applies them to everyday life. Prerequisite: SCH3U Not open to students with 80% or higher in SCH4U or with credit or registration in Chemistry 1A03.

Prerequisite: SBI4U or Biology 1P03.

Computer Science 1FC3

Biology 1P03

Mathematics for Computing

Introductory Biology

Introduction to logic and proof techniques; functions, relations and sets; counting; trees and graphs. Concepts are illustrated using computational tools.

This introductory course explores basic biological principles and is designed for students without a credit in SBI4U. Not open to students with a credit in SBI4U.

Prerequisite: Credit or registration in one of Mathematics 1A03 (or 1X03) or ISCI 1A24.

Computer Science 1MA3 Computer Based Problem Solving A first course in computer science, focusing on the practice of problem solving, in the context of interesting software applications. Topics include: problem formulation, problem decomposition, and procedural formulation of problem solution. Prerequisite: One of MCV4U, MCB4U or Mathematics 1F03.

Computer Science 1MD3 Introduction to Programming This course is intended to serve as a foundation for students who plan to specialize in computer science. It examines disciplined programming; programming environments; debugging; imperative programming constructs; values and types; libraries; file input-output. Throughout the course, computer science concepts are illustrated. Prerequisite: Credit or registration in one of Mathematics 1A03 (or 1X03).

Environmental Science 1A03 Climate and Water This course offers an introduction to the controls on and behaviour of weather, climate, surface and subsurface waters with a focus on the human impacts on these processes. The course will focus on the atmospheric processes that are essential to understanding climate and climate change, climate variability, distribution of surface and sub-surface waters. The labs will emphasize techniques in data analysis and presentation.

Environmental Science 1B03

Geography 1HA3 Human Geographies: Society and Culture This course is an introduction to human-environment relations and spatial analysis with special emphasis on urban, political, social, health and cultural environments.

Geography 1HB3 Human Geographies: City and Economy This course includes basic principles in spatial analysis and location theory applied to the changing urban, economic, and environmental patterns of development and urbanization at the local, national and international scale.

Health Science 1BS0 Biosafety Training This is an on-line biosafety training course for the handling of non-pathogenic bacteria, cell lines, blood and body fluids or mammalian tissues based on federal Laboratory Biosafety Guidelines. This course is evaluated on a Complete/Fail basis. Students who fail will be required to repeat the online quiz during the same academic session as this course must be completed prior to the first lab.

Environmental Systems

Kinesiology 1Y03

This course provides an introduction to the characteristics of the biosphere and to major environmental processes and issues. It includes discussion of soil, nutrients, population, air and water pollution, environment and human health and biodiversity. The labs will emphasize analysis of field samples and techniques in data analysis and presentation.

Human Anatomy and Physiology I

Environmental Science 1G03 Earth and the Environment

This course introduces the student to basic embryology and tissue development and examines the anatomy and physiology of the skeletal, nervous, cardiovascular, lymphatic and respiratory systems. Lectures are enhanced with integrative tutorials and experimental anatomy and physiology laboratory experiences. Prerequisite: Completion of SBI4U is strongly recommended.

This course provides an introduction to environmental geology and geomorphology. It includes discussion of the composition and structure of the Earthâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s crust, plate tectonics, volcanism, weathering and mass movement. Fluvial, glacial and coastal systems will be the main landform systems studied. The labs will emphasize fieldwork and techniques in data analysis and presentation. A mandatory one day field trip will be held.

Level I Course Descriptions Kinesiology 1YY3

Mathematics 1F03

Human Anatomy and Physiology II

Introduction to Calculus and Analytical Geometry

A continuation of Kinesiology 1Y03, this course examines anatomy and physiology of the articular, muscular, gastrointestinal, endocrine, renal and reproductive systems. Lectures are enhanced with integrative tutorial and experimental anatomy and physiology laboratory experiences.

This course introduces students to the techniques of differential calculus including exponential, logarithmic and trigonometric functions and provides an introduction to vector geometry.

Prerequisite: Kinesiology 1Y03.

Prerequisite: One of MHF4U or MCB4U. Not open to students with credit in MCV4U.

Mathematics 1A03

Mathematics 1LS3

Calculus for Science I

Calculus for the Life Sciences I

This course is geared towards applications for students in Science, but also stresses the underlying concepts of calculus. Topics include limits, continuity, derivatives, optimization, curve sketching, antiderivative, definite integral and techniques of integration.

This course is oriented toward students intending to pursue a program in the Life Sciences. Topics include differential and integral calculus, differential equations, and discrete math, chosen for their relevance to the life sciences.

Prerequisite: One of MCV4U, MCB4U, Mathematics 1F03.

Prerequisite: One of MCV4U, MCB4U or Mathematics 1F03. Not open to students with credit or registration in Mathematics 1A03 (or 1X03).

Mathematics 1AA3 Calculus for Science II This course is a continuation of Mathematics 1A03. Topics include: additional techniques of integration, applications of definite integrals, polar coordinates, parametrized curves, sequences and infinite series, power series, introduction to multi-variable calculus, partial derivatives, differential equations. Prerequisite: Mathematics 1A03 (or 1X03) or a grade of at least B- in Math 1LS3.

Mathematics 1B03 Linear Algebra I The course begins with the practical problem of using matrices to solve linear equations, and leads up to the theoretical ideas (including linear independence, dimension and eigenvalues, eigenvectors, diagonalization, and complex numbers), that underlie the applications of linear algebra. Examples are stressed throughout. Prerequisite: One of MCV4U, MGA4U, or Mathematics 1F03.

Mathematics 1C03 Introduction to Mathematical Reasoning The goals of this course are two-fold: to teach students the techniques of proof that they will use throughout their study of mathematics, and to introduce them to the range of ideas that arise in advanced mathematics. Material will include topics selected from algebra, calculus, discrete math, geometry and number theory. The course will include traditional homework assignments, but also reading and group presentations. Prerequisite: One of MCV4U, MGA4U, or Mathematics 1F03; credit or registration in Mathematics 1B03.

Mathematics 1LT3 Calculus for the Life Sciences II This course is a continuation of Math 1LS3. Topics include applications of integration, autonomous differential equations, sequences and series, parametrized curves and polar coordinates, functions of several variables, chosen for their relevance to the life sciences. Prerequisite: Math 1LS3 or Math 1A03 .

Mathematics 1X03 Calculus for Mathematics & Statistics I This course is developed for students in Math & Stats I to further explore their interest in Mathematics and Statistics. With smaller class sizes, students will interact closely with their professors. Stronger emphasis will be placed on geometric intuition and theoretical foundations in calculus. Topics that will be covered include limits, continuity, derivatives, optimization, curve sketching, antiderivative, definite integral and techniques of integration. Prerequisite: Registration in Mathematics & Statistics I.

Mathematics 1XX3 Calculus for Mathematics & Statistics II A continuation of Math 1X03, this course maintains its smaller class sizes as students cover more advanced topics in calculus including integration, application of definite integrals, differential equations, polar coordinates, parametrized curves, sequences, infinite series, power series and partial derivatives. Prerequisite: Mathematics 1X03 and registration in Mathematics & Statistics I.

Medical Physics 1E03

Physics 1L03

Physics in Medicine and Biology I

Physics of Living Systems

An introductory course of the physics underlying techniques used in the diagnosis and treatment of disease. The course will cover many topics including, atomic and nuclear structure, waves, electromagnetic fields and application to x-radiography, ultrasonography, MRI, PET and radiation therapy.

This course concentrates on conceptual and descriptive applications of physics to understand living systems. Topics include: biomechanics, light and vision, fluid, energy, and mass transfer and their interaction with or use by biological systems.

Prerequisite: One of Mathematics 1A03, 1LS3, 1X03 and either PHYSICS 1L03 or SPH 4U; or credit or registration in ISCI 1A24; or permission of the instructor. Cross-list: Science 1E03

Physics 1B03 Mechanics and Waves An introductory course in physics that begins by looking at how and why particles move. The course will extend the arguments to systems of particles in fluids and waves, including properties of sound and light waves, interference and diffraction. A key aim is to teach analytic thinking and the use of mathematics to describe some aspects of the world around us. Prerequisite: One of SPH4U or Physics 1L03; one of MCV4U or Mathematics 1F03.

Physics 1BA3 Introduction to Modern Physics This is a calculus-based course and is the continuation of Physics 1BO3 for those students intending to major in one of the physical sciences. It looks at rotational motion and the extension of particle mechanics to rigid body motion. After a brief examination of electric and magnetic fields it then moves to quantum physics where objects such as the electron have both particle and wave properties. These ideas are then used to discuss atomic and nuclear physics. Prerequisite: Physics 1B03.

Physics 1BB3

Prerequisite: One of MHF4U or MCB4U.

Psychology 1X03 Introduction to Psychology, Neuroscience & Behaviour This course introduces the scientific methods used to understand the broad topics of experimental psychology. Students will explore learning and cognitive functions, higher order processes, social psychology, personality and psychopathology through interactive web modules, class reviews, weekly small group discussions and live lectures.

Psychology 1XX3 Foundations of Psychology, Neuroscience & Behaviour This course builds on the themes of Psychology 1X03 to understand that modern approaches to problems in psychology use multiple levels of analysis. Students will explore how methods in neuroscience, evolution and behaviour contribute to our understanding of sensory systems and behaviours critical to survival through interactive web modules, class reviews, weekly small group discussions and live lectures. Prerequisite: Psychology 1X03.

Science 1A00 Introduction to Health and Safety This course introduces safety guidelines at McMaster, acceptable safety conduct and positive safety attitudes and practices in laboratories and Workplace Hazardous Materials Information System (WHMIS). Using web modules, this course is evaluated on a Pass/Fail basis. This course must be completed prior to the first lab.

Modern Physics for Life Sciences

Science 1E03

This course is the continuation of Physics 1BO3 for those students intending to major in one of the life sciences. It begins by looking at rotational motion and the extension of particle mechanics to rigid body motion. After a brief examination of electric and magnetic fields it then moves to quantum physics where objects such as the electron have both particle and wave properties. These ideas are then used to discuss atomic and nuclear physics. Examples from the life sciences and medical physics are used throughout the course.

Physics in Medicine and Biology I

Prerequisite: Physics 1B03.

An introductory course of the physics underlying the techniques used in the diagnosis and treatment of diseases. The course will cover many topics including, atomic and nuclear structure, waves, electromagnetic fields and application to x-radiography, ultrasonography, MRI, PET, and radiation therapy. Prerequisite: One of MATH 1A03, 1LS3, 1X03 and either PHYSICS 1L03 or SPH 4U; or credit or registration in ISCI 1A24; or permission of the instructor. Cross-list: Medical Physics 1E03.

Physics 1F03 Introduction to Astronomy and Astrophysics This course covers topics such as orbital motion, electromagnetic radiation, telescopes, the solar system, stars and stellar evolution, the Milky Way Galaxy, galaxies and quasars and the evolution of the universe. Prerequisite: One of MHF4U or MCB4U; and SPH4U or Physics 1L03. Cross-list: Astronomy 1F03

Biochemistry & Biomedical Sciences Biochemistry is a continuum with structural and molecular biology, and builds on a strong foundation of the other natural sciences. Research ranges from the study of structures and properties of individual chemicals and molecules (such as proteins and DNA) to their function and integration into the whole organism and understanding vital biological processes in health and disease. Biochemistry and Biomedical Sciences is an outstanding department for education in the areas of life sciences; one that places a high value on interdisciplinary research. Our faculty members run internationally competitive research programs of high productivity and impact. These investigators are likewise providing first rate and innovative training for the next generation of life scientists.

Focus of Study

Admission to Level II

All of our programs focus on the development of transferable skills in research, oral and written communication and the application of theory to solving real-life problems.

You may choose a more general course of study in the Honours Biochemistry program or add a specialization in Biotechnology or Biomedical Sciences to Honours Biochemistry. Specializations include the completion of a senior thesis with a supervisor at the McMaster campus or in area hospitals, and are also available as co-op programs beginning in Level III. Honours Biochemistry may also be combined with the Origins Research Specialization.

The Department fosters an atmosphere of innovation and discovery that is imparted at every level of undergraduate education. Our programs offer a diverse background in biochemistry and molecular biology, including advanced courses in: biotechnology and drug discovery genetic engineering protein structure and enzyme mechanisms membrane structure and function clinical biochemistry molecular pharmacology nutrition and metabolism nucleic acid structure and function gene expression biochemistry research skills structural and mechanistic aspects of macromolecules.

Honours Biochemistry Completion of any Level I program including: Biology 1A03, 1M03 Math 1A03 or 1LS3 Chemistry 1A03, 1AA3 Physics 1B03 or 1L03 Two courses from Life Sciences I Course List Biochemistry students who successfully complete the first three levels of an Honours Program may request permission to transfer to graduate with a Bachelor of Science degree in Life Sciences.

Possible Careers r esearch

and development

professional

schools and graduate work (medicine, veterinary medicine, dentistry, law)

industry

Facilities The laboratories of our investigators are located throughout the McMaster campus and affiliated hospitals with the majority located in the Health Sciences Centre at McMaster. Several faculty members are associated with newly founded research institutes, the Stem Cell and Cancer Research Institute and the Michael G. DeGroote Institute for Infectious Disease Research.

(pharmaceutical, biotechnology, occupational health and safety, genetic engineering, drug design, toxicology, forensics)

e merging

career sectors such as genomics, proteomics, gene therapy, bioengineering, bioinformatics, biomedical engineering, environment and biosensors

The Biochemistry programs at McMaster are supported by state-of-the-art equipment and instrumentation, including: Protein Crystallography facility High-Throughput Screening laboratory Instrumentation for protein analysis, purification and biophysical characterization Centralized facilities for DNA synthesis, automated DNA sequencing, electron microscopy and NMR spectroscopy Biophotonics Imaging facility

Co-op Opportunities Our exceptional co-op programs offer students first-hand exposure to potential careers in the academic or industrial sectors, leaving them with new confidence, expertise and knowledge when they return to their academic terms. Students have conducted work terms in the following areas: research and development in the fields of biochemistry, molecular biology, biotechnology, genetic engineering, toxicology, immunology and pharmacology organic and analytical chemistry in the food, agricultural and pharmaceutical industries

Examples of Faculty Research Alba Guarné – is working to understand how DNA replication and repair prevent genome instability and cancer predisposition. Dr. Guarné’s research interests are focused on understanding how architectural proteins determine the fate of DNA in chromosome replication and repair. Dr. Guarné uses structural biology combined with molecular biology and biochemical analysis to characterize how the structure of these complexes determines their function. Yingfu Li’s – research interest is to examine unusual functions of nucleic acids and to be creative about them. It has been well demonstrated that nucleic acids, in addition to their roles in the storage and transmission of genetic information, can also act as enzymes and receptors. The Li lab is interested both in the study of basic functions of these molecules (basic science focus of the lab) and in the exploration of these molecules as novel molecular tools for therapeutics, biomolecular detection, drug discovery and nanotechnology (applied science focus of the lab). To find out more about our programs, faculty and research, please visit: www.fhs.mcmaster.ca/biochem www.science.mcmaster.ca/spotlight

product development, compound screening and drug efficacy studies clinical trials and regulatory affairs technical service and support marketing and seed-investment analysis

Biology Biology is the science of life and of living organisms, including their structure, function, growth, origin, evolution, physiology, ecology, diversity and distribution. As such, it is the science with the broadest base. McMasterâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Department of Biology is a hub of basic research on living systems and of its application in environmental and medical biotechnology. Our approach to undergraduate education emphasizes problem-based learning, inquiry, laboratory courses, and project or research laboratory based thesis work. Outside the laboratory, students also participate in small group tutorials and computer mediated instruction. Research in the Department is as diverse as the discipline, which gives undergraduate students broad experiential and educational opportunities. Students have the choice of a range of inter-disciplinary programs, co-op options and laboratory-based research projects all of which open a wide variety of options for professional and personal development. Biology students who successfully complete the first three levels of an Honours program may request permission to transfer to graduate with a Bachelor of Science degree in Life Sciences.

Focus of Study Research and teaching in McMasterâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Department of Biology are diverse, with particular strengths in Molecular Biology and Genetics of plant, animal and microbe models systems, Bioinformatics, Ecology, and Environmental Physiology. Courses cover a diverse range of topics including: molecular biology, cell biology, ecology and conservation genetics, environmental physiology, microbiology, genetics, evolution, developmental biology, neurobiology, plant biology, bioinformatics, genomics, biodiversity, conservation and field ecology. Students have access to a range of field courses offered both in Ontario, across Canada and overseas (eg. Costa Rica, Peru, Taiwan, Tanzania), as well as a great selection of small enrolment inquiry-style courses emphasizing active learning. Students have the opportunity to conduct independent research under the supervision of a faculty member in their final year Honours degrees include Honours Biology, Honours Molecular Biology and Genetics, and Honours Biology with a specialization in Physiology or Honours Biology with a specialization in Origins Research. Also, our co-op programmes are detailed below. For students who cannot decide between two areas of interest, Honours Biology may be completed as a combined degree with: Environmental Sciences, Mathematics, and Psychology, Neuroscience and Behaviour.

Admission to Level II Honours Biology, Honours Molecular Biology and Genetics Completion of any Level I program including: Biology 1A03, 1M03

Physics 1B03 or 1L03

Math 1A03 or 1LS3

Two courses from Life Sciences I Course List

Chemistry 1A03, 1AA3

Biology is the science of life and of living organisms, including their structure, function, growth, origin, evolution, physiology, ecology, diversity and distribution. As such, it is the science with the broadest base. Biology students who successfully complete the first three levels of an Honours Program may request permission to transfer to graduate with a Bachelor of Science degree in Life Sciences.

Facilities modern, well equipped labs

equipment for recombinant DNA

animal quarters

Confocal microscope and environmental scanning electron microscope

greenhouses and plant growth chambers

Possible Careers H ealth

Science Professional Schools

– medicine, dentistry, optometry, pharmacy – paramedical (physiotherapy, dietitian etc) Post-graduate

Professional Schools

– law, business (MBA) Education

Co-op Opportunities Beginning in Level III, Honours Molecular Biology & Genetics and Honours Biology & Pharmacology are available as co-op options. Students in the Molecular Biology & Genetics Co-op Program will be prepared to work in fields such as: drug discovery and development biotechnology clinical research forensics

– Graduate (M.Sc and Ph.D.) programs

brewing and viticulture

– Government

food regulation

– Health Canada – Fisheries and Oceans – Agriculture Canada – Environment Canada – Forensics Industry

– Biotechnology – Pharmaceuticals – Environmental consulting

microbiology Students in the Biology & Pharmacology Co-op Program have been placed work terms that include: research and development pharmacological, biochemical and toxicological studies planning, design and implementation of clinical trials medical information and product evaluation governmental and corporate regulatory affairs pharmacoepidemiology and pharmacoeconomics Students have access to a range of field courses offered both locally and at remote sites, as well as a great selection of small enrolment inquiry-style courses emphasizing active learning.

Examples of Faculty Research Chris Wood – Canada Research Chair in Environment and Health, is one of the world’s foremost experts in fish physiology. He has conducted field studies from China to Brazil and his field research and laboratory studies have shown that fish are surprisingly resilient in adapting to changes in their environment. His laboratory studies have uncovered new knowledge about the most important organ in a fish – its gills, which act as lungs and combine the functions of a human’s kidney and digestive tract. He has conducted pioneering research into the effects of acid water and aluminum on the gills of fish and was the first to identify cardiovascular collapse as the final cause of death in fish living in highly acidic waters – a finding that is highly significant in understanding the global problem of acid rain. Wood’s work has been instrumental in developing scientifically sound environmental regulations.

Marie Elliot – Research in the Elliot lab focuses on the Streptomyces bacteria. Streptomyces are multicellular bacteria that have a complicated developmental cycle (involving the formation of several different cell types) and are renowned for their ability to make a wide variety of medically important compounds, including most antibiotics. Using genetic, biochemical and cell biological technologies, researchers are working to address important scientific questions including: how different cell types formed and what proteins are required for this differentiation process; how newly discovered RNA regulators contribute to development, and antibiotic production; and how genetic engineering can be used to stimulate the production of new antibiotics.

To find out more about our programs, faculty and research, please visit: www.biology.mcmaster.ca/ www.science.mcmaster.ca/spotlight

Chemistry & Chemical Biology The subject of chemistry deals with the properties and reactions of chemical substances, and their interactions with energy and with one another. Chemistry is involved in the development of diverse products such as computers and flat panel displays, biodegradable plastics, fuel and solar cells, optical communications networks, and new pharmaceuticals. Chemistry is also important in detecting and identifying substances in our environment. Chemical Biology is the study of biological molecules and living organisms using the strategies, tools and techniques of Chemistry. It crosses the borders between chemistry, biochemistry and biology, integrating tools from all three disciplines. Chemical biologists use small molecule probes and advanced analytical methods to solve complex biological problems such as the mechanisms of disease, the regulation of biological pathways and the roles of different biomolecules in controlling cellular function (or dysfunction). The department of Chemistry & Chemical Biology at McMaster is a vibrant place to study and do research in the chemical sciences. The quality of our faculty, the quality of our facilities and the strong links between our department and other departments and programs means that McMaster Chemistry & Chemical Biology is an outstanding department to do productive research and gain hands-on access to modern instrumentation. Many of our undergraduate students participate in paid summer research and have the opportunity to present their work at scientific conferences. Students in our Co-op Chemistry or Co-op Chemical Biology programs also gain valuable research and industrial experience.

Focus of Study Students in Honours Chemistry programs have the opportunity to explore: the structures and properties of organic, inorganic and biological molecules the mechanisms of chemical and biochemical reactions the synthesis of molecules and materials for medical applications, such as the early detection and treatment of cancer and other diseases the preparation and characterization of polymers, membranes, and solid-state materials useful for a variety of technological applications the detection of trace quantities of toxic substances in the environment.

These and other important topics are reflected in courses that relate fundamental chemical principles to solutions to real-world problems. The Honours Chemical Biology program involves a multi-disciplinary investigation of phenomena at the interface between Chemistry and the Life Sciences. Students acquire the background knowledge and develop the laboratory skills that will allow them to tackle such issues as drug discovery, the molecular basis of diseases and the processes by which chemicals affect biological processes. Chemistry and Chemical Biology students, who successfully complete the first three levels of an honours program, may request permission to transfer to graduate with the appropriate Bachelor of Science degree. Chemistry impacts all areas of our lives. Chemistry is integral to the development of products such as anti-cancer drugs, fuel cells and forensic analysis equipment.

Admission to Level II

Possible Careers

Honours Chemistry Completion of any Level I program including: Chemistry 1A03, 1AA3 Math 1A03 or 1LS3 Physics 1B03

4 courses from the Life Sciences I or Physical Sciences I Course Lists

Specializations available beginning in Level III include: Advanced Materials

Molecular Science

Chemistry and Chemical Biology graduates are always in high demand, and find employment in various fields including: academic

and industrial research

biotechnology

sector

environmental

sector

Honours Chemistry may also be combined with the Origins Research Specialization.

plastics

Honours Chemical Biology

medicine/dentistry/law

Math 1A03 or 1LS3

Physics 1B03 or 1L03

Biology 1A03, 1M03

Two courses from either the Life Sciences I or Physical Sciences I course lists

Chemistry 1A03, 1AA3

Facilities state-of-the-art research labs newly-renovated teaching labs undergraduate instrumentation of the calibre used in industry and government research labs McMaster Regional Centre for Mass Spectrometry McMaster Nuclear Reactor NMR, X-Ray Diffraction and Optical Spectroscopy facilities

and polymers

pharmaceuticals/drug

development

teaching business.

Career Development Chemistry and Chemical Biology co-op option is available with two 8-month work terms in laboratory courses students use modern techniques and state-of-the-art, industry-recognized analytical equipment students are trained in computer-supported data interpretation and analysis the Senior Research Project course provides training in scientific research with a faculty supervisor

undergraduate study room/lounge

opportunity for paid summer research positions

Brockhouse Institute for Materials Research

undergraduate teaching assistantships and a departmental Outreach Program provide opportunities for teaching experience

Example of Faculty and Undergraduate Student Research The quality of research in the department has been recognized externally by a range of prestigious awards to new and established faculty, including: Paul Ayers (Sloan Fellow and Canada Research Chair in Chemical Biology), John Brennan (Canada Research Chair in Bioanalytical Chemistry), Mike Brook (Killam Research Professor), Adam Hitchcock (Canada Research Chair in Materials Analysis), Brian McCarry (Stephen A. Jarislowsky Chair in Environment and Health), Gary Schrobilgen (2011 Humboldt Award, 2010 FRSC, 2002 Alcan Award, 2002 Award for Pure and Applied Inorganic Chemistry, Canadian Society for Chemistry) and John Valliant (2010 Canadaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Top 40 under 40). Some student examples: Talena Rambarran, B.Sc. Honours Chemistry 2011, in the summer of 2010, she received an NSERC Undergraduate Student Research Award (USRA) and a RISE Scholarship to work under the supervision of Dr. Cornelia Bohne at the University of Victoria where the project included fluorescence techniques, absorption spectroscopy and laser flash photolysis. Her 4th year thesis project, under the supervision of Dr. Mike Brook, included small molecule and polymer synthesis, modification of solid state materials and subsequent characterization. Talena will pursue a Masters in Chemistry at McMaster where she will continue her research with Dr. Brook. To find out more about our programs, faculty and research, please visit: www.chemistry.mcmaster.ca/ www.science.mcmaster.ca/spotlight

Cory Ozimok, B.Sc. Honours Chemical Biology 2011, held summer research assistantships in every year of his undergraduate degree. In 2008, he won a 1st Year Chemistry Research Award and assisted in the development of a 2nd Year Chemical Biology lab course. In 2010, he was awarded an NSERC USRA and worked under the supervision of Dr. Fred Capretta synthesizing a small library of 1,2,3,4-tetrasubstituted isoquinolines using a microwave assisted Pictet-Spengler reaction between the appropriate Ă&#x;-ethylarylamine and aldehyde. His plans include both graduate school and Medical school.

Earth & Environmental Sciences Two particular strengths in the School of Geography and Earth Sciences are the development of interdisciplinary research programs that integrate the earth and environmental sciences with human geography and the use of spatial analysis to investigate the geographical relationships between the environment and society.

Undergraduate Experience small class size

Facilities

award winning faculty

State-of-the-art undergraduate teaching lab for rock and mineral analysis, soil texture analysis and water analysis

innovative teaching methodology

Geographic Information Systems (GIS) lab

engaging students through hands-on learning

Lloyd Reed’s Map Collection housed in Mills Library with over 140,000 map sheets

many opportunities for field-based learning active undergraduate student society.

Stable and radiogenic isotope labs Centre For Climate Change

Focus of Study Earth and Environmental Sciences involves the interdisciplinary study of Earth’s dynamic systems and how these systems interact with human populations. The Honours Bachelor of Science programs offered by the School provides students with a broad, but thorough grounding in basic and applied science and include: Honours Earth and Environmental Sciences Honours Environmental Sciences Honours Geography and Environmental Sciences There School of Geography and Earth Sciences also contributes to combined degree – Honours Biology and Environmental Sciences. Numerous course offerings covering a wide range of Earth and Environmental Sciences topics including, aqueous environmental geochemistry; earth sciences; environmental hydrology and climate; and geographic information systems. Honours students who successfully complete the first three levels of a program offered by the school may request permission to transfer to graduate with a Bachelor of Science degree in Environmental Sciences.

Facilities off-campus for studying the natural environment includes the Niagara Escarpment, Royal Botanical Gardens and the Hamilton Region Conservation Authority (all within 10 minutes of campus)

Admission to Level II Honours Biology & Environmental Sciences Completion of any Level I program including: Biology 1A03, 1M03 One of: Environmental Science 1A03, 1B03, 1G03 Math 1A03 or 1LS3 Four of: Astronomy 1F03, Chemistry 1A03, 1AA3, Computer Science 1FC3, 1MA3, 1MD3, Environmental Science 1A03, 1B03, 1G03, Geography 1HA3, 1HB3, Kinesiology 1Y03, 1YY3, Math 1AA3, 1B03, 1LS3, 1LT3, Medical Physics 1E03, Physics 1B03, 1BA3, 1BB3, 1F03, 1L03, Psychology 1X03, 1XX3, Science 1E03

Honours Earth & Environmental Sciences Completion of any Level I program including: Two of: Environmental Science 1A03, 1B03, 1G03 Math 1A03 or 1LS3 Chemistry 1A03 or 1R03

Four of: Biology1A03, 1M03, Chemistry 1AA3, Math 1AA3, 1B03, 1LT3, Physics 1B03, 1BA3, 1L03

Honours Environmental Sciences Completion of any Level I program including: Two of: Environmental Science 1A03, 1B03, 1G03 Math 1A03 or 1LS3 Biology 1M03 Four of: Astronomy 1F03, Biology 1A03, Chemistry 1A03, 1AA3, Computer Science 1FC3, 1MA3, 1MD3, Environmental Science 1A03, 1B03, 1G03, Geography 1HA3, 1HB3, Kinesiology 1Y03, 1YY3, Math 1AA3, 1B03, 1LS3, 1LT3, Medical Physics 1E03, Physics 1B03, 1BA3, 1BB3, 1F03, 1L03, Psychology 1X03, 1XX3

Honours Geography and Environmental Sciences Completion of any Level I program including: One of: Environmental Science 1A03, 1B03, 1G03 One of: Geography 1HA3 or 1HB3 Math 1A03 or 1LS3 Five of: Astronomy 1F03, Biology 1A03, 1M03, Chemistry 1A03, 1AA3, Computer Science 1FC3, 1MA3, 1MD3, Environmental Science 1A03, 1B03, 1G03, Geography 1HA3, 1HB3, Kinesiology 1Y03, 1YY3, Math 1AA3, 1B03, 1LT3, Medical Physics 1E03, Physics 1B03, 1BA3, 1BB3, 1F03, 1L03, Psychology 1X03, 1XX3.

Possible Careers Graduates find employment in a wide range of private sector, government and educational jobs including: consulting

and planning

exploration

and mining geology

geographic

information systems

conservation teaching research

Internship and Field Courses The School of Geography and Earth Sciences now offers Internship courses which allow students to integrate academic learning to employment or volunteer opportunities. Students are able to combine employment placements in the environmental industry (e.g. environmental sampling and monitoring, pollution prevention, environmental consulting, etc.) or field/lab work with university researchers, to an academic component. The School also offers field courses which give students the opportunity to combine classroom knowledge and hands-on experience. These courses are conducted locally (e.g. Niagara, Sudbury) or abroad (e.g. Costa Rica, Oman).

Examples of Faculty Research Pavlos Kanaroglou, Canada Research Chair in Spatial Analysis, is a world leader in transportation research. He is using mathematical modeling and spatial analysis to predict the choices people will make on public policy questions that range from childcare to housing to transportation and healthcare. Spatial analysis provides planners with a statistical tool to analyze complex relationships and plan human activities in the spatial dimension. His research helps planners who want to understand the environmental impact of expanding boundaries or building a new link in their transportation network. Kanaroglou is also the director and driving force behind the new McMaster Institute for Transportation and Logistics â&#x20AC;&#x201C; an industry-government-university partnership focused on developing the most efficient methods of transport and logistics of goods and people. Lesley Warren, an aqueous geochemist, is spearheading an innovative research group that integrates geochemistry, microbiology and molecular biology to investigate and identify links between water quality and human health. Her work is hallmarked by innovative advancements in the conceptual understanding of how the biosphere and geosphere interact at the microorganismenvironment level. And her approach has led to new discoveries about environmental processes â&#x20AC;&#x201C; knowledge that is at the heart of geobiological linkages to infectious disease and environmental sustainability of our water resources. Altaf Arain, Director of the McMaster Centre for Climate Change, is actively involved in measurement and modeling of the energy, water and carbon exchanges above forests and other natural surfaces. His research interests include all aspects of land surface-atmosphere interactions at local, regional and global scales, including micrometeorological field measurements, evaporation process, boundary layer meteorology, hydrology, global change, environmental quality and ecosystem and climate change modeling. To find out more about our programs, faculty and research, please visit: www.science.mcmaster.ca/geo www.science.mcmaster.ca/spotlight The School of Geography and Earth Sciences at McMaster is an internationally recognized centre for graduate research and training. Its strengths lie in the discovery, application and transfer of knowledge to issues and problems in the earth, environmental and geographical sciences.

Life Sciences McMasterâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Honours and B.Sc. Life Sciences are interdisciplinary programs that build on courses from the departments of Biochemistry & Biomedical Sciences, Biology, Kinesiology, and Psychology, Neuroscience & Behaviour as well as the School of Geography & Earth Sciences. Life Sciences students select courses from a diverse range of topics including: nutrition and metabolism, molecular biology, human anatomy and physiology, immunology, sensory processes, human learning and cognition, evolution ecology and environmental sciences.

Focus of Study

Admission to Level II

Life Sciences courses are interdisciplinary investigations of diverse topics, including cell biology, nutrition and metabolism, neuroscience, human health, behavioural processes, evolution, ecosystem health and environmental sciences. Emphasizing connections between Biochemistry & Biomedical Sciences, Biology, Environmental & Earth Sciences, Kinesiology and Psychology, Neuroscience & Behaviour, this program is designed to give students a broad education in all aspects of the Life Sciences. Life Sciences 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.

Honours Life Sciences Completion of any Level I program including: Math 1A03 or 1LS3 Four of: Biology 1A03, 1M03, Kinesiology 1Y03, 1YY3, Psychology 1X03, 1XX3 (see Note 1) Three courses from the Life Sciences I Course List Notes: 1) Completion of each of Biology 1A03, 1M03 and Psychology 1X03, 1XX3 is strongly recommended in Level 1 and is required by the end of Level II as these courses are prerequisites for Life Science courses. 2) Physics 1B03 or 1L03 must be completed by end of Level II. Completion of Chemistry 1A03 and 1AA3 in Level I is strongly recommended. Honours Life Sciences may also be combined with the Origins Research Specialization.

Facilities modern, well-equipped labs access to a range of field courses offered both locally and at remote sites inquiry-style courses that emphasize active learning small-group seminar courses and individual study projects available in current research areas

The explosion of knowledge and understanding in the traditional life sciences including biology, biochemistry and psychology as well as, the areas of Kinesiology and Environmental Sciences is reshaping how scientists conduct research and transmit and apply knowledge.

Research Opportunities Given the interdisciplinary nature of the program and the many faculty who are part of it, students are exposed to a wide range of exciting and engaging research. In fact, the following list represents just a small sampling of projects completed by our Honours Life Sciences students under the supervision of a faculty member: Human Nutrition Mitochondrial Dysfunction with Anti-HIV Medications Physiology and Toxicology in Insects Nutrition and Bone Development in Various Pediatric Disorders Honours Life Sciences students who have successfully completed the equivalent of three years of studies, may apply to graduate with the B.Sc. in Life Sciences. To find out more about our programs, faculty and research, please visit: www.science.mcmaster.ca/lifesciences www.science.mcmaster.ca/spotlight

Possible Careers medicine dentistry environmental

research & consulting

physiotherapy teaching

medical/scientific writing clinical research environmental health & safety laboratory technology health care support

Careers in Life Sciences Due to the interdisciplinary approach of studies in the Life Sciences, our students are preparing for careers in a variety of different fields. Their ability to integrate information across disciplines and work collaboratively with peers prepares them to be leaders and innovators in a wide number of careers. A degree in Life Sciences prepares you for: post-graduate studies in health-related fields including: medicine, dentistry, physiotherapy and pharmacy careers in law, policy, and ethics of the Life Sciences careers in environmental research and consulting careers in public awareness, media relations, journalism postgraduate studies in education within the Life Sciences teaching or assisting at various levels: elementary, high school, college, or university post-graduate studies in research in cross-disciplinary field. For more information on careers in the Life Sciences, please visit http://www.science.mcmaster.ca/scce/

Mathematics & Statistics The study of Mathematics and Statistics at McMaster emphasizes a student-centered approach to teaching by offering a curriculum that is rich with opportunities for cooperative education, experiential learning, and undergraduate research. Students who take courses in mathematics and statistics enjoy the following aspects of our curriculum: Broad-based, interdisciplinary courses

A dynamic undergraduate Math & Stats Society

Lectures by worldâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s recognized leaders in research and teaching

Opportunities for paid undergraduate summer research with faculty members

Program flexibility (a minor in any area can be declared with math degree) Courses in actuarial mathematics

Paid and volunteer teaching opportunities through our Math Help Centre and Outreach program

Courses in applied mathematics and statistics including training in industry-recognized software Students also have the opportunity to conduct independent research under the supervision of a faculty member in their final year as part of an Honours thesis.

Focus of Study

Admission to Level II

Students in Mathematics & Statistics at McMaster enjoy the benefits of a program that is fully integrated within the Faculty of Science. The department offers an Honours Mathematics & Statistics program that can be taken with or without a specialization. Specializations are available in:

Honours Mathematics & Statistics

Mathematics

Statistics

These options allow the student flexibility in course selection from both within and outside the Faculty of Science. The opportunity is available for interdisciplinary studies possibly leading to a minor in another subject. In addition, the department offers combined Honours programs with the following: Biology

Philosophy

Computing & Software

Arts & Science

Economics

Integrated Science

Physics

Completion of any Level I program including: Math 1A03 or 1LS3 or 1X03 Math 1AA3 or 1LT3 or 1XX3 Math 1B03

Completion of Math 1C03 in Level I (or II) is strongly encouraged.

Co-op Opportunities The Department of Mathematics & Statistics offers two co-op programs with specialization in Mathematics or Statistics beginning in Level II. These are five-year programs that include two 8-month work terms. Employment rates in these programs have been consistently at 100%, with students spending work terms in a variety of sectors including: bioinformatics

imaging

experimental design and data analysis

information technology mathematical finance

The Mathematics & Statistics department has core strengths in Algebra and Number Theory, Analysis and Partial Differential Equations, Financial Mathematics, Geometry and Topology, Industrial Mathematics, Mathematical Biology, Mathematical Logic, Probability and Statistics.

Possible Careers Employers increasingly appreciate that mathematical training produces graduates with strong analytical and problem-solving skills that are extremely useful and immediately transferable to a wide variety of fields. In addition, with a strategic choice of electives, graduates of the Honours Mathematics & Statistics program are wellprepared for entry into medical school, teacher’s college, law school and other professional programs including Actuarial Science and Master’s of Financial Mathematics. Our graduates have found careers in: actuarial science

image processing

banking

insurance

commerce

medical science

data mining

medicine

finance

teaching… and much more!

forecasting

Facilities

Career Development co-op Mathematics & Statistics option available with two 8-month work terms core courses develop problem solving and analytical reasoning skills applied mathematics and statistics courses provide training in industry-recognized mathematical and statistical software inquiry-based courses enhance written and oral technical communication skills actuarial science courses provide preparation for professional exams small advanced classes, reading courses and a summer research program allow opportunity for mentorship by individual faculty members

Learning Environment The Department of Mathematics & Statistics is housed in the James Stewart Centre for Mathematics in Hamilton Hall. A recent renovation of this historic building has resulted in an award winning design which retains the classic exterior with a completely modernized and vertically integrated interior that has been tailored to facilitate dynamic interactions amongst undergraduate students, graduate students, post doctoral fellows and faculty. The Math Café and Math Help Centre provide a social and intellectual centre. Numerous blackboards line the walls of the generous hallways which are set up with study tables to encourage undergraduates to work together and allow them unprecedented access to professors both during and outside of office hours.

James Stewart Centre for Mathematics featuring an integrated teaching, research and outreach centre. SharcNet High Performance Computing Facility

Faculty Research and Undergraduate Profiles The department is well-known throughout the world mathematical community for the high quality of research in many areas including Mathematics Education. This has been recognized externally by a range of prestigious awards to new and established faculty, including to Professors Megumi Harada and Bartek Protas (Early Researcher Awards), Professor Walter Craig (Killam Fellowship and Senior Canada Research Chair in Mathematical Analysis and its Applications), Professor Lia Bronsard (Canadian Mathemarical Society Krieger-Nelson Award), Professor Balakrishnan (American Statistical Association Don Owen Award). Our undergraduate students have also been involved in a number of interesting research projects and co-op placements that have provided them with rich experiences and important career networking opportunities, including: Darius Bayegan, B.Sc. Honours Mathematics and Statistics 2010, was awarded NSERC Undergraduate Student Research Awards (USRA) in the summers after his 2nd, 3rd and 4th years. In 2008, he worked under the supervision of Dr. Walter Craig on a new approach to the study of Brownian motion. In 2009 and 2010, he worked under the supervision of Dr. Megumi Harada in the field of Algebraic Geometry. In the past academic year, Darius has deepened his study of Mathematics at Cambridge University, UK, while participating in Cambridge’s famous and prestigious Master of Mathematics program (Part III of the Mathematical Tripos). Darius will begin Medical School at McMaster in September 2011. To find out more about our programs, faculty and research, please visit: www.math.mcmaster.ca www.science.mcmaster.ca/spotlight

Savironi Chet, B.Sc. Honours Mathematics & Statistics Co-op, Mathematics Specialization, 2011, had a variety of co-op placements as an undergraduate. In 2009 she worked for Environment Canada in Toronto, ON as a Climate Change Analyst. In the summer of 2010 she worked for the National Research Council in Victoria, BC where she was involved in research to model quasars. In the fall of 2010 she worked at the Canada Pension Plan Investment Board in Toronto, ON where she was an intern in the Global Corporate Securities Healthcare Division. Upon graduation, Savironi immediately secured a permanent position with the Canada Pension Plan Investment Board as a Portfolio Analyst.

Medical Physics & Applied Radiation Sciences Medical Physics is the field of study where physics, medicine, and biology meet and is ideal for students with a broad interest in all three disciplines. It encompasses cutting-edge topics including the interactions of radiation with biological tissue (important in understanding cancer therapy, nuclear safety, and disease diagnosis), medical imaging (including MRI and PET), and physics-based clinical techniques (such as treating diseases with light). Students enter the Honours Medical Physics program from Level I Physical Sciences or Life Sciences. In the program, they develop the deep core skill set in math and physics required to powerfully apply these subjects to problems in medicine and biology. At the same time, students learn the biological mechanisms underlying human health and how these are disrupted in disease. This background is highly desirable in a world where sophisticated technology is increasingly used to prevent, diagnose, and treat disease. Courses in the program cover diverse and fascinating material including human anatomy and physiology, cell biology and genetics, electricity and magnetism, electronics, radioactivity, medical imaging, quantum mechanics, and radiation biology. These are taught by Faculty who routinely bring their own topical research into the classroom.

Admission to Level II Honours Medical Physics Biology 1A03 Two of: Math 1A03, 1AA3, 1LS3, 1LT3 Chemistry 1A03 Physics 1B03, 1BA3 (or 1BB3) 2 courses from the Faculty of Science

Facilities

Possible Careers Graduating students are well prepared to work in a number of areas in medical physics requiring an Honours degree, including: research laboratories nuclear power generating utilities

McMaster Nuclear Reactor

medical radiation source manufacturers

McMaster Accelerator Laboratory

cancer clinics

Medical Physics equipment used for diagnosis and therapy within the Juravinski Cancer Centre and Hamilton Health Sciences

medical imaging technology manufacturers regulatory authorities environmental consultants

As well, students are amply prepared to enter further studies beyond their undergraduate degree, most specifically graduate work in Medical Physics and medical school.

Co-op Opportunities Students may enter a co-op program in Honours Medical Physics in Level III, with the first 8-month work term beginning in the winter term (January). Students in this program have conducted work terms in the following areas: experimental cancer therapeutics

analysis of space flight physiological data

development of diagnostic imaging techniques

radiation treatment planning

radiation monitoring and protection in Nuclear power stations

hospital radiation safety

nuclear reactor operations

assessment of radiation doses of children undergoing major surgery

Examples of Faculty Research Carmel Mothersill, Canada Research Chair in Radiobiology, is interested in the effects of low-dose radiation. Specifically, she studies the effects of low-dose exposures to cells derived from humans and other species. She is interested in the long-term changes in the behaviour cells: changes, for example, in how they grow and how they communicate. The information derived from Mothersill’s research helps put radiation risks in context given the benefits of the medical use of radiation. Her research will contribute to the understanding of the risks of ionizing radiation to humans and the environment following low-dose exposures and it will aid in developing cost effective protection policies.

Doug Boreham, radiation biologist and NSERC (National Science and Engineering Research Council) Industrial Research Chair (industry partners include Bruce Power and the CANDU Owner’s Group), has attracted millions of dollars in research support for McMaster University and is building Canada’s first biological microbeam to study the effects of a single alpha particle in cells. He has over 22 years of radiation research experience and his expertise involves radiation cancer risk and genetic effects of radiation on living systems. After working for a decade at the Atomic Energy of Canada Limited, he joined McMaster’s faculty in 2000. Since that time, he has established four new state-of-the-art radiation biology laboratories to study the biological effects of low dose radiation exposures in humans and non-human biota.

Mic Farquharson, is the chair of the Department of Medical Physics and Applied Radiation Sciences and is a medical physicist specializing in low energy x-ray interactions to classify cancer tissue in terms of being benign or malignant. Since taking up a post at McMaster in January 2009, Mic has developed an x-ray analysis laboratory on campus dedicated to materials analysis using x-ray techniques. The aim of his research is to develop a system for real-time analysis of tissue in surgical oncology as aid to determining surgical margins. Other research includes investigating the role of trace metals in cancer and this work involves extensive use of international synchrotron radiation facilities in order to map the distribution of these metals at a sub cellular resolution. His work will help target drug therapy regimes for cancer patients.

To find out more about our programs, faculty and research, please visit: www.science.mcmaster.ca/medphys www.science.mcmaster.ca/spotlight

Physics Physics applies powerful abstract reasoning and practical problem-solving approaches to fundamental questions ranging from the origin of space and time to the properties of matter. Physicists are at the forefront of progress in instrumentation, measurement techniques and quantitative modeling in many areas, including lasers, optics, electricity and magnetism, material science, particle physics and astrophysics. McMaster’s Department of Physics and Astronomy is a medium-sized department with 27 full-time faculty, more than 60 graduate students, and 6 post doctoral researchers. We are committed to excellence and innovation in forefront research and in teaching, and support strong programs within the fields of Astrophysics, Atomic/Molecular/Optical Physics, Condensed Matter Physics, Computation and Theory, and Soft Condensed Matter & Biophysics, as well as a small but growing research group in Subatomic Physics. Between 25 and 30 undergraduate students participate in research each summer. McMaster’s Department of Physics & Astronomy believes in education through experience at an undergraduate level. Our undergrads are encouraged to participate in ground-breaking research right alongside our professors, fellows and graduate students. Many of our undergraduates have presented their work at the Canadian Undergraduate Physics Conference where, in 2010, our students won numerous awards including best overall talk and first place awards in Condensed Matter Physics and Astrophysics. Our Physics Co-op program has consistently had a 100% placement rate with our Co-op students gaining valuable relevant experience in both research and industry. Physics students who successfully complete the first three levels of an Honours program may request permission to transfer to graduate with a Bachelor of Science degree in Physical Sciences.

Focus of Study The Honours Physics program provides breadth and depth in both theoretical and experimental physics. The flexibility of the program and the number of electives allows students to build on this foundation and take additional courses in mathematics, computational physics, quantum mechanics, relativity, nuclear physics, optical physics, soft condensed matter physics, solid state physics, astrophysics, biophysics and origins science. Students may choose electives from amongst many other courses within the Faculty of Science or any other Faculty including Engineering and Business. Honours Physics Co-op is a five year degree that includes 16 months of relevant work experience. A concentration in Astrophysics or Biophysics can lead to a Specialization in one of these areas. In addition, the department offers combined honours programs or specializations with the following departments: Integrated Science (iSci), Mathematics, Origins Institute and Arts and Science.

Admission to Level II Honours Physics Completion of any Level I program including: Two of: Math 1A03, 1AA3, 1LS3, 1LT3 Chemistry 1A03, 1AA3

Physics 1BA3 or 1BB3 Two courses from the Physical Sciences I course list.

Physics 1B03

Facilities Newly renovated teaching labs

McMaster Nuclear Reactor

Undergrad study room/lounge

The Origins Institute

State-of the-art research labs

SharcNet high performance computing network

Brockhouse Institute for Materials Research

William J. McCallion Planetarium

The department also has access to several of the most prestigious research institutes, advanced laboratories and equipment around the world including: Perimeter Institute (with which several of our faculty have research affiliation), Aspen Center for Physics (Aspen, CO), Kavli Institute for Theoretical Physics (Santa Barbara, CA). Neutron scattering experiments at Chalk River Laboratories in Canada, NIST, Oak Ridge, and Los Alamos in the USA, ISIS in the UK, the HZB in Germany, and the ILL in France. Giant observational telescopes in Chile and Hawaii as well as the Hubble Space telescope and the Herschel Space Observatory. Experiments at advanced nuclear facilities - TRIUMF (Vancouver), RIKEN (Japan) and the National Superconducting Cyclotron Accelerator (USA). McMaster’s Department of Physics & Astronomy believes in education through experience at an undergraduate level. This is why our undergrads are encouraged to participate in ground-breaking research right alongside our professors, fellows and graduate students. Coupled with a varied curriculum, the skills our students develop are excellent preparation for careers in research or industry.

Co-op Opportunities

Possible Careers

A co-op program in Honours Physics is available beginning in Level II. It is a five-year program that includes two 8-month work terms. Employment rates in this program have been consistently at 100%, with students spending work terms at industrial facilities, research institutions, experimental facilities and space agencies and in a wide variety of areas including:

Students pursuing an undergraduate degree in Physics develop a deeper understanding of how the world works and acquire a powerful set of mathematical and problem-solving skills that are immediately transferable to a wide variety of fields. Graduates of the Honours Physics program automatically qualify for Teacher’s College at the High School Level (with “teachables” in Physics and Mathematics). They are also well-prepared for Law School and, with a strategic selection of electives, for Medical School, Dentistry, and graduate school in a number of areas, including Physics, Astrophysics, Biophysics, Engineering Physics, Geophysics, Materials Engineering, Meteorology, Physical Chemistry, Economics and Finance. Our Graduates have found careers in:

astronomy

nuclear/particle physics

astrophysics

physics of materials

condensed matter physics

nuclear power physics

biophysics

quantum computing

Career Development co-op Physics option available with two 8-month work terms undergraduate Summer Research Program (20-30 students hired each summer) senior research project course provides training in scientific research with a faculty supervisor

scientific computer courses provide training in modern scientific structured programming laboratory courses provide training in laboratory techniques and data interpretation undergraduate teaching assistantships and a departmental Outreach Program provide opportunities for teaching experience

Physicists seek a deep understanding of nature and how it works both in everyday life and at the most fundamental level. To find out more about our programs, faculty and research, please visit: www.physics.mcmaster.ca www.science.mcmaster.ca/spotlight

aerospace Industry education energy sector finance government labs hi tech industry industrial R & D

manufacturing industry medicine and medical industry nuclear industry fundamental research … and much more!

law

Examples of Faculty and Undergraduate Student Research The department’s per capita research funding is among the highest in Canada and the quality of faculty research has been recognized externally by a range of prestigious awards including Royal Society of Canada Fellowships and Prizes (Professors Cliff Burgess, Bruce Gaulin, Bill Harris, Kari Dalnoki-Veress and Doug Welch), Killam Fellowships (Professors Cliff Burgess, Bruce Gaulin and Bill Harris), and American Physical Society Fellowships (Professors Bruce Gaulin, Takahshi Imai, Graeme Luke, An-Chang Shi, Donald Sprung). Our undergraduate students have also been involved in a number of exciting projects in various areas of research. Some examples: Evan Sinukoff, B.Sc. Honours Physics Coop, was awarded an NSERC Undergraduate Student Research Award (USRA)in the summer of 2008 to work in the department under the supervision of Dr. Christine Wilson on an observational study of nearby galaxies. He followed that research experience with two eight-month coop placements at the Goddard Space Flight Center in Greenbelt, Maryland where he worked with a team of NASA scientists developing new interferometry technology to be used in future space telescopes.

Allison MacDonald, 5th year Honours Physics Coop, was awarded an NSERC USRA in 2009 to work in the department under the supervision of Dr. Alan Chen in the area of nuclear astrophysics including participation in an experiment at TRIUMF in Vancouver. She also completed an eight-month coop placement at the Institute for Quantum Computing. Recently, Allison was selected as one of only five Canadian undergraduate students to receive special funding from the Institute for Particle Physics to spend part of Summer 2011 at CERN in Switzerland. She has also been awarded an NSERC USRA to work with a professor at Simon Frasier University who is a researcher on the ATLAS project at CERN.

Psychology, Neuroscience & Behaviour Psychology is both a science and a practice. As scientists we do research to understand thought, learning, perception, emotion, and behaviour. As practitioners we apply scientific understanding towards helping individuals, institutions and society deal with issues relating to behaviour and health.

Focus of Study

Admission to Level II

Course offerings, reflecting the research strengths of our faculty, are in the following areas:

Honours Psychology, Neuroscience & Behaviour

Cognition & Perception – understanding how people mentally represent their experience and then use these representations to operate effectively. Development – the study of the factors that affect physical, perceptual, cognitive, emotional, and social development from infancy through adulthood. Evolution & Social Behaviour – the study of social cognition, development and behaviour, integrated with the study of non-human animal behaviour, physiology and behavioural evolution. Systems and Behavioural Neuroscience – How does the brain work? Behavioural Neuroscientists study behaviour and its functional correlates in the brain with the goal of understanding the neural bases of psychological and behavioural responses. The Music Cognition Specialization integrates arts and science into the study of music. Students will receive training in both music and psychology, take courses in how perception, cognition and neuroscience applies to music and engage in experiential learning, such as conducting experimental research or investigating how to apply scientific knowledge in music education. To find out more about our programs, faculty and research, please visit: www.science.mcmaster.ca/psychology www.science.mcmaster.ca/spotlight

Completion of any Level I program including: Biology 1A03, 1M03 Psychology 1X03, 1XX3 One of: Chemistry 1A03, Physics 1B03, 1L03 Math 1A03 or 1LS3 Two courses from the Life Sciences I Course List. Honours Psychology, Neuroscience & Behaviour may be combined with Biology or the Origins Research Specialization.

Honours Psychology, Neuroscience & Behaviour (B. Sc.) (Music Cognition Specialization) Completion of any Level I program including: Biology 1A03, 1M03 Psychology 1X03, 1XX3 One of: Chemistry 1A03, Physics 1B03, 1L03 Math 1A03 or 1LS3 Music 1A03 or 1AA3 Two courses from the Life Sciences I Course List.

Facilities

Possible Careers

The Department of Psychology, Neuroscience & Behaviour is housed in its own building consisting of five floors. The 19,700 square feet of Human Research facilities provide space equipped with eye-tracking systems, virtual reality systems, a transcranial magnetic stimulation system and several electroencephalography (EEG) systems. In addition to the many facilities housed in our department, human researchers also enjoy access to an MRI system at the Imaging Research Centre in St. Joseph’s Hospital in Hamilton through our ongoing collaborations with faculty in the Brain-Body Institute. In conjunction with Brock University, we have created a mobile human electrophysiology laboratory. This mobile facility, which is unique within Canada, will be particularly useful in ongoing research with special populations, school-aged children, and seniors – participants for whom access to our department-based facilities may be difficult. The 20,680 square foot state-of-the-art animal facility houses a physiological optical imaging laboratory, transgenic procedure suite, two animal surgery suites, electrophysiology and neurochemistry suites, an automatic cage washing facility, classrooms, and meeting rooms.

Psychology, Neuroscience & Behaviour is a diverse field of study with utility in a wide range of academic, government, and industry professions. Students who graduate from our programs are well prepared for pursuing postgraduate training as well as careers in:

New facility for 2012 - LIVE Auditory Laboratory The McMaster Institute for Music and the Mind (MIMM) is soon to have a unique research-based performance theatre and testing centre. The “LIVE” (Large Interactive Virtual Environment) Auditory Lab will be the only facility of this exact kind in the world. Date for completion of this multi-functional interactive space is scheduled for early in 2012. The centre will: Feature a 100-seat specially constructed performance hall that will be able to mimic virtually any acoustic environment, from subway stations to music halls. Be able to measure brain responses (dense array EEG) from several performers at a time to investigate, for example, how musicians play together during a performance. Have motion capture equipment to see how musicians and dancers coordinate movements. Be able to measure physiological responses such as heart rate and breathing rate in audience members to understand how they react cognitively and emotionally to various aspects of performances. Have a large LCD screen so that the interaction between visual and auditory information in performance can be assessed. Enable the study of communication in realistic environments in people with tinnitus, hearing impairment or autism.

science

clinical psychology

medicine

biomedical sciences

neuroscience

business

law

teaching

speech & hearing pathology

research

Additionally, students completing the Music Cognition specialization often pursue careers in music education, performance or therapy.

Examples of Faculty Research Mel Rutherford, Canada Research Chair in Social Perceptual Development, is investigating how autistic children view movement and facial expressions in ways that are different from typical children, in order to improve both testing and treatment. Research suggests that autism affects at least 20 out of every 100,000 children, making the quest for treatments all the more urgent. Rutherford’s past research revealed that autistic children cannot differentiate between moving human figures and other moving, non-human objects. He is now using computer simulations of a human-like figure and gauging the response from both autistic and typical children to determine if, either by themselves or with training, autistic children will come to the same view as a typical child. His work will help diagnose autism and will offer new ways to help autistic children learn, develop and grow. Laurel Trainor, an accomplished musician and researcher, is investigating what infants perceive when they hear music or language. Her pioneering work on the development of music perception using behavioural, EEG and MEG methods has earned her international acclaim in both academic circles and the popular press. Through the interdisciplinary McMaster Institute of Music and the Mind – she is working with other researchers to learn how sound and musical structure are encoded in the nervous system, how music and language are related in development, how specific musical training affects how the brain gets wired up, and how music induces emotional responses.

Origins Research Specialization Admission to Level II

Focus of Study

Origins Research Specialization

Students register in an Origins Research Specialization in Level II, in combination with one of the following programs:

Students must refer to the description for the Honours program that they seek to combine with the Origins Specialization for specific admission and program requirements. Completion of admission requirements for an appropriate Honours program and at least the following courses: Math 1A03 or 1LS3

Physics 1B03 or 1L03

Chemistry 1A03

elements

Biology Chemistry Life Sciences

The Origins Institute is a leading transdisciplinary enterprise at McMaster University. Our mission is to explore the most-fundamental problems in 21st century science through six origins themes: space-time

Biochemistry & Biomedical Sciences

structure in the cosmos

species and biodiversity

life

humanity

To find out more about our programs, faculty and research, please visit: http://origins.mcmaster.ca

Mathematics & Statistics Physics & Astronomy Psychology, Neurosciences, & Behaviour. Students are introduced to general problems in Level II through two survey courses and a specially designed, literature-based seminar course. In Level III, students enrol in two (among six available) specialized courses, exploring particular interests among the six origins themes; students also enrol in a unique, research-based seminar course in which they discuss origins themes with leading scientists, who we invite to contribute to our colloquium series. The curriculum culminates in an exciting Level IV undergraduate research thesis course, in which students interact with institute members investigating mutually interesting problems.

The Origins Research Specialization is designed to allow students to participate in our activities by interacting with our members, meeting our visiting speakers and taking our courses.

Focus of Study Students register in an Origins Research Specialization in Level II, in combination with one of the following programs: Biochemistry & Biomedical Sciences Biology Chemistry Life Sciences Mathematics & Statistics

Possible Careers any career obtainable with the honours degree with which the specialization is combined a career in a transdisciplinary science (e.g. astrobiology, with NASA) editor for a journal such as Nature or Science

Physics & Astronomy Psychology, Neurosciences, & Behaviour. Students are introduced to general problems in Level II through two survey courses and a specially designed, literature-based seminar course. In Level III, students enrol in two (among six available) specialized courses, exploring particular interests among the six origins themes; students also enrol in a unique, research-based seminar course in which they discuss origins themes with leading scientists, who we invite to contribute to our colloquium series.

Facility Support resources available through honours degrees with which the specialization is combined research expertise and equipment available from Origins Institute members personal contact with speakers in the colloquium and public lecture series

The curriculum culminates in an exciting Level IV undergraduate research thesis course, in which students interact with institute members investigating mutually interesting problems.

tours.mcmaster.ca

Visitor Information Regular Campus Tours Campus tours take about 1½ hours and are conducted by McMaster students. The entire campus is covered in the tour including a visit to at least one residence building. Please note: advanced notice of two to three working days is required tours are available Monday to Friday, from October 3 to December 6, 2011 and January 9 to April 5, 2012 tour times are 10:30 a.m. or 1:30 p.m. campus tours may be scheduled on some Saturdays with at least one week’s advance notice campus tours are also available throughout the summer, from mid-May to the beginning of August

Special Visit Events Fall Preview Saturday, October 29, 2011

Virtual Tour tours.mcmaster.ca Unable to visit McMaster in person? Explore our picturesque campus via one of our online tours. You can take a Guided Tour that follows the same route as an in-person walking tour, create a personalized tour or simply explore major campus hotspots. We also offer a basic version for users with a slower internet connection or older computer.

visit display areas and talk with reps from academic, service areas and student groups in a relaxed and informal Roam Around Session tour the campus

March Break Monday, March 12 – Friday, March 16, 2012

To register for a campus tour, contact the Student Recruitment & Admissions Office: Tour Portal tours.mcmaster.ca e-mail liaison@mcmaster.ca phone 905-525-9140 ext. 23650 fax 905-524-3550

regular campus tours faculty-specific activities available be sure to register in advance as group sizes are limited

May@Mac Saturday, May 12, 2012 Complimentary parking passes will be provided for registered campus tour visitors upon arrival. Please refer to your tour booking confirmation e-mail for further details. It is best to enter the campus via the Sterling Street entrance (Central Campus). Directions can be found online at: www.mcmaster.ca/welcome/findus.cfm

University-wide Open House event applicants will be sent information in the Spring includes campus bus tours, special facility tours, sample lectures and lab demonstrations, opportunities to speak with professors, staff and students

Still have questions? ask.mcmaster.ca

Hamilton, Ontario Canada L8S 4L8 905-525-9140 ext. 23650 mcmaster.ca/future