Careers in Science
Explore Careers
Students applying to the Faculty of Science can choose courses and programs within the following areas. Below is a guide of brief descriptions along with potential careers.
Physics
Physics is the study of matter, energy, and their interactions
It is the foundation for many other scientific disciplines.
Geology
Geology is the study of the Earth, the materials of which it is made, the structure of those materials, and the processes acting upon them.
Learn MoreChemistry
Chemistry is the basic science concerned with the structure and behaviour of atoms (elements and molecules).
Learn MoreRespiratory Therapy
Respiratory therapy is the study of the respiratory system and the treatment of respiratory disorders.
Learn MoreVeterinary Technology
Veterinary technology is the study of animal health and the application of medical principles to the care of animals.
Learn MoreBiological Sciences
Interested in the study of living organisms? Experience hands-on learning and research opportunities during your studies.
Learn MoreBiological Sciences
For students interested in the study of living organisms there are five major programs to choose from: general biology, animal biology, ecology and environmental biology, cellular, molecular and microbial biology and chemical biology. You will experience hands-on learning and opportunities for research.
Graduates have successful careers in medicine, veterinary medicine, medical genetics, university, elementary and high school teaching, dentistry, wildlife biology, physiotherapy, pharmacy, biotechnology, chiropractic, optometry, microbiology, conservation and land management, marine biology, toxicology, bioengineering, molecular biology and more.
Chemistry
Chemistry is the basic science concerned with the structure and behaviour of atoms (elements), the composition and properties of compounds, the reactions that occur between substances and the resultant energy exchange and the laws that unite these phenomena into a system.
Geology
Geology is the study of the Earth, the materials of which it is made, the structure of those materials, and the processes acting upon them. It includes the study of the organisms which inhabit our planet. A very important part of geology is the study of how Earth’s materials, structures, processes and organisms have changed over time. Geologists work to understand the history of our planet. The better they can understand Earth’s history the better they can foresee how events and processes of the past might influence the future.
Geologists work in a variety of settings which include: natural resource companies, environmental consulting companies, government agencies, non-profit organizations, and universities. Many geologists do field work at least part of the time. Others spend their time in laboratories, classrooms or offices. All geologists prepare reports, do calculations and use computers. Although a bachelor's degree is required for entry level employment, many geologists earn masters and/or doctorate degrees. The advanced degrees provide a higher level of training, often in a geology specialty area such as paleontology, mineralogy, hydrology or volcanology. Advanced degrees will often qualify the geologist for supervisory positions, research assignments or teaching positions at the university level. These are some of the most desirable jobs in the field of geology.
Natural Resource Sciences
This four-year degree program prepares students for careers in the natural resource sector or for further academic study in graduate school. The program provides a unique combination of courses covering biology, ecology, scientific methods, and sector-specific resource management skills in a cooperative education format. Students will learn problem solving, oral and written communication skills, and integration of various disciplines in both an independent and team environment.
Courses and fieldwork give students technical skills in a wide variety of management disciplines. Upon graduation, students will have acquired technical abilities in assessing the status of ecosystems. This assessment covers aspects such as forestry, fisheries, range, and wildlife management.
Careers in Natural Resource Management
Resource management and planning for government or industry, operational forestry, teaching, museum curator, industry research, environmental consulting, scientific writers, research scientist, scientific computation, and more.
Physics
All other sciences and technologies rely on the principles of physics. Physics is evident in the world around us and in all the technology we rely on day by day. The physics major offered at TRU is designed to serve multiple interests and career plans.
Careers in Physics
Physics graduates have gone on to work as teachers, professors, engineers, medical physicists, research scientists, astronomers, automotive industry, electronics and audio industry, manufacturing industry, laboratory technicians, and space research.
Respiratory Therapy
A respiratory therapist is a multi-faceted health care professional who specializes in the assessment and treatment of cardiopulmonary disorders. Respiratory therapists evaluate, treat and care for patients with breathing disorders such as asthma and emphysema. Respiratory therapists also perform chest physiotherapy and provide emergency care for patients who suffer from heart failure, stroke, drowning or shocks.
To evaluate patients, respiratory therapists measure lung capacity and analyze the oxygen, carbon dioxide and ph levels of the blood. Respiratory therapists are in great demand in hospitals (life flight, newborn intensive care, respiratory care, hyperbaric, pulmonary and anesthesiology departments), respiratory therapy clinics, extended care facilities, nursing homes and home health.
Veterinary Technology
TRU has offered the two-year Registered Veterinary Technologist (RVT) diploma program since 1981. A registered veterinary technologist works under the supervision of veterinarians and veterinary scientists in a variety of areas including diagnostic testing, radiography, medical procedures, office protocol, animal nursing, anaesthesia and surgical assistance.
RVT Careers
Although most graduates are employed in private veterinary practices, positions may be obtained with the Health of Animals branches of the federal and provincial governments, animal shelters, medical research centers, zoological parks and other animal-oriented areas in the public and private sectors.
The program trains students for careers as veterinary professionals and is fully accredited by the Canadian Veterinary Medical Association.
