First Year: The BSc in Chemistry shares a point of entry with the BSc programs in Biology, Contemporary Science, and Medical Physics, through which all new science students at Ryerson complete a common first year. This allows students to explore various science-based routes to degree completion before they commit to the Chemistry program. In addition to BSc foundation courses, the first year of studies will include an introduction to the use of computers as scientific tools, and an orientation course that will support students in making a successful transition to university and planning their steps to degree completion. All students in Science programs must enroll in SCI 180 in their first semester of studies.

Upper Years: Because this is a strongly applications-oriented program, a large proportion of student learning will take place in the laboratory. Lab hours account for a significant amount of learning time in every semester, supported by a solid grounding in the theory and principles of chemical science. In the upper years of the curriculum, students will focus on developing their technological expertise and exploring the research and industrial applications of chemical science. Depending on the course sequence selected they may pursue a BSc in Chemistry, Chemistry with a Biology Minor, Chemistry with an option in Applied Physics.

In the final year, with permission of the Department, students may opt to undertake an independent, faculty-supervised thesis project.

Chemistry with a Biology Minor: Students who wish to pursue a Biology Minor may do so by selecting six biology courses from Table I as professional and professionally-related electives, subject to the Biology Minor requirements and restrictions. Please refer to the Minors Policy section of this calendar for further information.

Applied Physics Option: This option will be of interest to students who wish to pursue a chemistry degree with a greater emphasis on physical chemistry and a more interdisciplinary focus towards physics. By selecting from a range of professional and professionally-related electives, students may acquire expertise in solid state physics, biophysics, radiation biology or medical diagnostic techniques – all within the context of an undergraduate chemistry program. This option begins in third semester. Students who wish to select the Applied Physics Option must make an Academic Plan change when choosing their courses for second year. Students may choose to pursue a regular or co-operative educational program within this option.

CO-OPERATIVE PROGRAM

An optional co-operative program is available which provides the graduating students with 20 months of work experience that enhances their organizational and technical abilities as well as their oral and written communication skills.

Although the Office of Co-Operative Education cannot guarantee a placement, they provide assistance in locating suitable positions and counseling of students in their search for suitable jobs. This co-operative program enables students to earn competitive wages to offset the costs of a university education.

Students who have completed the first year of the program must apply through this department for admission to the co-operative program prior to the beginning of the second year. Enrolment in the co-op program is limited. Admission will be based on the student's grade point average.

The sequencing of academic and work terms is shown below:

Students must successfully complete a minimum of four terms in order to graduate from the co-op program.

The co-op program requires five years to complete the degree in Chemistry. The regular program can be completed in four years. 

All co-op placements must be approved by the Office of Co-operative Education and the Dean's designate responsible for administering science programs. 

Optional Specialization in Management Sciences (OSMS)

Students can enrich their studies and hone their management skills with the Optional Specialization in Management Sciences. Courses within the optional specialization cover four major areas in management sciences: Strategic Engineering Management, Operations Management/Operations Research, Finance and Organizational Behaviour. For eligibility, registration, and course information see Optional Specialization in Management Sciences (OSMS).

Career Opportunities

• Scientist, Researcher, or Science Manager (government, academia, or industry) through further studies and completion of a Master's or a PhD
• Regulatory Official (biotechnology and environment sector)
• Product Development (chemical, food, biopharmaceutical and cosmetic industries) 
• Quality Control (food, biopharmaceutical and cosmetic industries) 
• Patent Agent/Attorney (pharmaceutical and biotechnology sectors, law firms, patent agency)
• Laboratory Analytical Services (health sciences, environmental assessment, regulatory compliance)