A specialization in breadth may be an oxymoron but UBC Science students will soon be able to do just that through the new Combined Major in Science (CMS).
On offer this fall, CMS is designed to equip students with the necessary skills to evaluate scientific issues from a number of disciplines – and apply them to solve real-world problems, such as climate change.
“The CMS allows students to get a broader perspective on science,” says Shona Ellis, a senior instructor in the Department of Botany and director of the program. “The diversity and flexibility of course offerings means students can design the focus of their program and really develop a breadth of knowledge across disciplines.”
Required courses that cover data interpretation, the scientific peer-review process, laboratory procedures and communications ensure that students are firmly grounded in scientific discourse while developing high-level skills to put their knowledge to use.
“For students who aren’t going into a specific research area – such as physics or computer science – the CMS lays the groundwork for specializations where broader-based and interdisciplinary knowledge of science is crucial,” says Ellis. “It’s also a great option for students who are interested in medicine, law, education or journalism after their undergraduate studies.”
