Integrated Science FAQ
What is iSci?
Honours Integrated Science (iSci) is a unique undergraduate program that uses a fully integrated, research-based approach to the learning of science. It highlights the applications and linkages among disciplines such as mathematics, physics, chemistry, life sciences and Earth science, with an emphasis upon building research and professional skills.
What are research projects?
iSci course content is organized around topical research projects, which integrate many different disciplines within science. Each module challenges students with hands-on research problems supported by interactive concept seminars, laboratories and field trips. For example, in Level I, students complete research projects around the themes ‘Planetary Exploration’, ‘Drugs, Doses and Biodistribution’, ‘Sustainable Energy Challenge’, and ‘Cancer: A 21st Century Plague’.
What are the Ontario high school (Grade 12) course requirements for iSci?
Six Grade 12 U/M courses including:
- ENG4U – English
- MHF4U – Advanced Functions
- MCV4U – Calculus and Vectors
- 2 of SBI4U (Biology), SCH4U (Chemistry), SPH4U (Physics)
Students are strongly encouraged to take all 3 Grade 12 U science courses (Biology, Chemistry, Physics).
As well, all applicants must submit a Supplementary Application by February 1. Applications open in late October.
If I do not have Grade 12 Physics (or Biology) (or Chemistry), will I still be considered?
A: YES, but you will be required to complete an online orientation prior to your studies beginning in September. These online resources will provide you with the basic knowledge and background in Physics (or Biology) (or Chemistry) that we require for iSci.
What are you looking for in the Supplementary Application?
Through the Supplementary Application, we aim to identify:
- Highly motivated, well-rounded students with an interest in all fields of science
- Students with strong communication skills
- Students who are excited about scientific research
- Students who can ‘think outside the box’
The Supplementary Application is designed to allow YOU to communicate: "Why iSci is the correct Program for ME?"
We are not looking for “Why are you right for iSci?”
What is the admission cut-off?
A minimum of high 80s average is required for consideration. Admission is by selection based upon the Supplementary Application.
What courses will I take in first year?
ISCI 1A24: Fully integrated delivery of content across all science disciplines, with particular focus on Mathematics, Physics, Chemistry, Life Science (Biology & Psychology), Earth Science, and Science Literacy. Material is delivered via research-based learning which includes interactive classes, tutorials, laboratories, fieldwork, and team research projects. Content is organized around project topics including i) Planetary Exploration ii) Drugs, Doses and Biodistribution iii) Sustainable Energy iv) Cancer: A 21st Century Plague.
Students will also take 6 units of electives, which can be any course(s) for which requisites are met and which complement the ISCI 1A24 schedule.
What courses will I take in second year?
ISCI 2A18: Integrated learning of scientific concepts and issues such as thermodynamics, biochemistry, ecology & statistics, Earth history, and neuroscience. ISCI 2A18 also includes math, science literacy, and laboratory work. Strong emphasis on research, inquiry, and problem-based learning.
12 units electives (may be focused in a CONCENTRATION e.g. chemistry, physics, math, biology) and/or a Minor.
May I combine my iSci studies with another subject?
Yes, Honours combinations, called CONCENTRATIONS, may be completed in one of the following areas, starting in Level 2:
- Biochemistry Concentration
- Biology Concentration
- Chemical Biology Concentration
- Chemistry Concentration
- Earth & Environmental Sciences Concentration
- Geography and Environmental Sciences Concentration
- Mathematics & Statistics Concentration
- Medical & Biological Physics Concentration
- Physics Concentration
- Psychology, Neuroscience & Behaviour Concentration
- Sustainable Chemistry
Students may also choose to pursue any number of subjects as a Minor.
Does the iSci program offer co-op or other experiential education opportunities?
There is no co-op option within iSci because of the scaffolded and integrated design of the Program. Students in iSci have a variety of experiential education opportunities that are built into the program (eg,core research projects, laboratories) and a number of experiential education electives that are offered within the School of Interdisciplinary Science.
What if I wish to transfer out of iSci?
Students wishing to transfer out of iSci will have their coursework evaluated by an Academic Advisor to determine which course equivalents have been completed. iSci students who have successfully completed all components of ISCI 1A24 will have the appropriate requisites to register in most Level II courses in the Faculty of Science. Students will need to take MATH 1B03 (Linear Algebra) if they wish to continue with courses in mathematics and physics.
Will iSci lead to Medical/Dental/Veterinary/Law/… school?
It certainly can! Professional schools do not require a degree in a certain program; instead, they require high marks, success at an interview, certain courses (but not a particular program), and sometimes success on a test such as the MCAT, GMAT, LSAT, etc. The best advice is to register in a program best suited for YOU.
What can I do with a degree in iSci?
- Graduates of iSci will be broadly educated research scientists capable of contributing to all modern fields of science, with both specialist knowledge in their chosen field and the background to understand science in its broader context.
- Graduates may consider pursuing post-graduate scientific research, enter professional programs (e.g. medical or law school), or seek employment in leading research laboratories.
- Graduates will be ideally prepared to be future scientific leaders!
