A general major in the sciences, unlike a single discipline major, allows you to customize your course selection to your interests and abilities. Where you compromise depth of focus in one area, you gain breadth of knowledge in a few key areas, thus increasing your flexibility. This multidisciplinary approach provides access to the "big picture" or the wider context of any subject area. Conversely, the courses you choose can enhance your focus and provide a cross-discipline perspective on one particular theme.

Students choosing a general major in the sciences select three disciplinary streams from the following:

archaeology
biological sciences
chemistry
computer science
geography
kinesiology
mathematics
neuroscience
physics
psychology
As a student participating in a general major degree program, you’re not limited to studying only within your three streams. As part of your liberal education, you will be required to take classes outside your major(s). This allows you to develop skills and experience in all three streams.

Experience learning | Our students have a number of experiential learning opportunities available to them including co-operative education, international exchanges, independent and applied studies as well as volunteer opportunities. uLethbridge is the only university in Alberta to offer co-operative education to all majors in the arts & sciences, at both the undergrad and grad level. Transfer students can actually head out on their first work term before ever stepping foot on campus! For example, many transfer students have completed a summer work term before starting classes in September.

Skills acquired | In addition to developing exceptional written and oral communication skills, you will also develop your critical and analytical thinking skills, your information acquisition and management skills, as well as your attention to detail. You will also develop exceptional research and information management skills. You will leave the program with a strong ability to summarize research findings, excellent fieldwork and risk assessment techniques, as well as an in-depth knowledge of scientific issues.

The discipline and the three streams that you choose to focus on will help determine the occupations for which you are best qualified. Below are some examples of where a general major in the sciences may take you:

Geography, archaeology, and computer science could lead to work as a computer modeler for archaeological research.
An emphasis on kinesiology, psychology, and biology might lead to opportunities in sports medicine, occupational therapy, or drug research.
Mathematics, physics, and computer science could lead to entry-level aerospace occupations, engineering, or government research