Degree Programs

The BSc (Hons.) in Chemistry, which is accredited by the Canadian Society for Chemistry (CSC), is the most intensive program of study in chemistry, with the most demanding requirements for subject credits and grades. A minimum GPA of 3.00 in chemistry classes is required, and an honours research project must be completed. The honours degree is ideally suited to students who are planning to pursue graduate programs in Chemistry or closely related fields. Students who are planning to do an honours degree need to speak to a Chemistry advisor for program approval.

The BSc in Chemistry is also accredited by the CSC and is the core degree program for students whose main interest is chemistry. It is a rigorous course of study that involves broad exposure to all areas of Chemistry, with slightly less demanding class requirements and grade restrictions than the honours degree. Students may complete a research project if desired, but this is not required. The BSc Major is often suitable for admission to post-graduate study in Chemistry, depending on grades and class distribution.

The BSc with Combined Honours in Chemistry is suitable for students who want to combine Chemistry with a second discipline in a rigorous program of study. The other subject can generally be any discipline from the Faculty of Science or the Faculty of Arts and Social Sciences, or may be a program in Computer Science or Environment, Sustainability and Society. Chemistry may be the primary subject (the subject with the larger number of honours credits) or the secondary subject, and the requirements vary for each case. The specific requirements for the Combined Honours degree are generally less restrictive than a specialized Major or Honours degree, permitting the student more flexibility in choosing the most appropriate interdisciplinary program. The other subject may be chosen in a closely complementary field, such as Biology or Physics, or one which is more distinct, such as Economics or French. (Note that if the primary subject is from the Faculty of Arts and Social Sciences, the degree will be a BA.) The suitability of the Combined Honours degree depends on the objectives of the student. While it can provide the student with a more diverse background and a unique combination of skills, it may also diminish the specialization required for postgraduate studies. Students planning to do a Combined Honours degree need to have their academic program approved by advisors in both departments.

Like the Combined Honours BSc, the Double Major allows students to diversify their studies over two disciplines, but with fewer constraints. The same combinations are permitted as for the Combined Honours degree, where one subject is the primary subject and the other is the secondary. Chemistry requirements differ in the two cases. The double major allows students to expand the components of their education and is well-suited to those interested in pursuing an education degree or entering professions that benefit from a broad-based background. As with the Combined Honours degree, however, the Double Major may limit post-graduate specialization.

The 15-credit BSc with a concentration in Chemistry is appropriate for students who do not wish to complete a conventional four year program. It is often chosen by students planning to enter a professional program following their studies. The 15-credit degree can also be completed in parallel with a Diploma in Engineering. Generally, this program is not recommended as it does not meet the standards of a conventional four-year degree and does not provide the qualifications for a professional chemist. It is possible, however, for students who obtain this degree to upgrade to a 20-credit major or honours degree with additional study.