Chemistry

What is Chemistry?

Chemistry is the study of the properties of the fundamental building blocks of matter, ranging in size from single hydrogen atoms to complex aggregates of biologically important species. Chemists prepare new compounds and study their composition and structure. This activity, coupled with studies of the way in which chemical reactions occur, allows theories on chemical bonding and reaction to be formulated.

Program Options

There are five chemistry degree programs:

• Chemistry Major
• Chemistry Honours
• Medicinal Chemistry Major
• Medicinal Chemistry Honours
• Honours Co-op

The chemistry major, honours and honours co-op, have national accreditation under the canadian society for chemistry. the honours and honours co-op programs are recommended for students pursuing graduate studies and careers in chemistry. the medicinal chemistry honours program is recommended for students pursuing graduate studies leading to careers in the pharmaceutical industry.

What Can You Be With A Bachelor of Science in Chemistry?

• Lab Technician/Assistant
• Crime Lab Analyst
• Product Development Manager
• Product Tester
• Quality Controller
• Science Museum Curator
• Pharmaceutical Sales Representative
• Pharmacy Technician

Search for Careers for more career possibilities.

With additional education/training…

• Professor
• Teacher
• Chemist
• Geochemist
• Physician
• Hydrologist
• Metallurgical Engineer
• Patent Agent
• Forensic Chemist
• Researcher
• Toxicologist

Where Can You Work?

The chemical fields are vast and varied and expand into almost every discipline.

• Government Laboratories
• Environmental Protection Organizations
• Colleges and Universities
• Schools
• Centers for Disease Control
• Medical Research Firms
• Biotechnology Firms
• Waste Management Firms
• Chemical Companies
• Pharmaceutical Industry
• Perfume & Cosmetic Industry
• Food Industry
• Industrial Production and Inspection Agencies
• Pulp and Paper Industry
• Mining Industry
• Oil and Petroleum Industry

What Skills Can You Develop?

Employers value the specific subject knowledge and the wide range of technical and interpersonal skills you’ll acquire through your Chemistry degree. These skills include:

• Strong science and math background
• Strong analytical skills
• Ability to analyze causes & effects
• Ability to gather & tabulate data
• Ability to operate scientific equipment
• Presenting & writing proposals and reports
• Testing ideas and hypotheses
• Ability use scientific formulas
• Oral and written communication skills
• Ability to work as an individual or in a team environment
• Data processing and good computer skills
• Ability to use the practical knowledge learned in chemistry labs
• Ability to remain objective
• High attention to detail
• Analysis and interpretation of scientific data
• Knowledge of laborartory techniques

Professional Associations

Professional associations can be a great way to meet, learn from and network with professionals in your field of interest. Some associations offer student memberships, often at a reduced rate. Below is a sample of professional associations and industry-related websites you can explore.

• The Canadian Society of Clinical Chemists
• The American Association for Clinical Chemistry
• Chemsoc
• American Chemical Society

Contact the Department

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