Hands-On Research

Water Science and Environmental Health offers students multiple opportunities to do fieldwork, lab work, and in-depth research.

Many of the courses offered in this program through the three collaborating departments offer either a laboratory or fieldwork component. Courses specifically designed for the Water Science and Environmental Health program include a third-year course in Field Methods in Water Science (WASC303) and a fourth-year course in Lab Techniques in Water Science (WASC403). These will be offered when the program has third- and fourth-year students.

Geography and Environmental Studies offers two courses that are specifically designed for fieldwork in physical geography: Field and Laboratory Techniques (GG380) and Physical Geography Field Project (GG480).

Honours Thesis

Students are encouraged to undertake a fourth-year thesis project in one of the three participating departments. Professors in Biology, Geography and Environmental Studies, and Chemistry and Biochemistry all have long records of hiring senior undergraduate students to participate in both laboratory and fieldwork. See faculty research interests for more information.

Student Testimonials

"Having the opportunity to go to a remote Arctic research station was one of the best educational and personal experiences I've had. It allowed me to discover my passion for research and aided me in continuing my studies at Laurier after my undergraduate degree."

Evan Wilcox, fourth-year Honours BSc Student, Geography and Environmental Studies

“Being able to design and implement my own research project involving aqueous nickel toxicity has given me skills and experience that I will be able to use for the rest of my career as a biochemist. Above all, it has allowed me to make a genuine difference in marine ecosystems, something I’ve seen first-hand my whole life while growing up in Nova Scotia.”

Mack Thompson, fourth-year Honours BSc Student, Biochemistry

"My honours thesis provided me with the opportunity to apply my undergraduate knowledge towards a scientific investigation that studied real-world problems related to invasive species in the Great Lakes. I was able to bridge the gap between the classroom and the laboratory because of the guidance and advice provided by experienced scientists, while also developing the skills necessary to work on an unexplored project, independently. By stepping outside my own comfort zone, I completed my undergraduate research thesis and I am now on my way to completing my MSc in Integrative Biology at Laurier. I hope to pursue a future career in fisheries."

Scott Hepditch, Honours BSc, Biology, 2016