Chemistry Major

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Program Overview

Chemistry is the science that examines the building blocks of all matter; it attempts to explain the similarities and differences between substances and materials, and explains and theorizes how some substances react with others. Chemistry at UTSC is both a challenging intellectual pursuit and a powerful and practical tool for managing resources. The program includes four sub-disciplines: Analytic Chemistry, Inorganic Chemistry, Organic Chemistry, and Physical Chemistry. Laboratory work is an integral component of the program. The labs are sized to offer a small student/demonstrator ratio (maximum 20), which allows for close interaction and positive teaching and learning experiences.
 

Complementary Programs: Human Biology, Conservation and Biodiversity, Computer Science, Environmental Science, Neuroscience, Plant Biology, Health Studies

Check out future career opportunities and skills acquired from completing this program:

1. Competencies & Skills

  • Engage in team-based research, analysis and problem solving
  • Design and conduct laboratory research including data collection, analysis and interpretation
  • Write technical reports and project proposals
  • Present scientific research in an organized and succinct manner for a wide variety of audiences

2. Careers for Graduates

  • Document Controller in Manufacturing
  • Quality Control in Pharmaceuticals
  • Chemist
  • Policy Analyst in Government
  • Clinical Research in Hospitals
  • Clinical Sales in Medical Supplies
  • Quality Assurance
  • Scientific Writing

3. Further Education

  • Chemistry
  • Chemical engineering
  • Education
  • Medicine
  • Pharmacy

Program Pathway

Year 1
CHOOSE YOUR COURSES WISELY
DEVELOP YOUR ACADEMIC & RESEARCH SKILLS
APPLY THEORY TO PRACTICE
  • Attend the UTSC Faculty Mix & Mingle Fair to connect with professors and learn more about their specialties.
  • Start building your Co-Curricular Record (CCR) and search for Experiential Learning opportunities.
BECOME AN ENGAGED CITIZEN (LOCALLY & GLOBALLY)
PLAN FOR YOUR FUTURE CAREER
Year 2
CHOOSE YOUR COURSES WISELY

DEVELOP YOUR ACADEMIC & RESEARCH SKILLS

  • Check the Research Catalogue and jobs on CLNx for possible research opportunities.
  • Drop by the Math & Statistics Learning Centre to have your course-related questions answered.
  • Consider doing a directed research course: PSCB90H3 - Physical Sciences Research Experience.

APPLY THEORY TO PRACTICE

BECOME AN ENGAGED CITIZEN (LOCALLY & GLOBALLY)

PLAN FOR YOUR FUTURE CAREER

  • Gain experience by applying for a summer, part-time or Work Study position via CLNx (>Jobs & Recruitment).
  • Considering grad school? Speak to professors and advisors early so you are on track.
  • Explore careers through the AA&CC’s Job Shadowing and In The Field programs.
Year 3

CHOOSE YOUR COURSES WISELY

  • 2.5 credits in CHM of which at least 2.0 credits must be at the C- or D-level and 0.5 credit at the D-level. Of these C- or D-level credits 0.5 must include a laboratory component (taken in year 3 or 4).
  • Use Degree Explorer to ensure you are on track with your degree.
DEVELOP YOUR ACADEMIC & RESEARCH SKILLS
APPLY THEORY TO PRACTICE
  • Build on your skills and knowledge through relevant events offered through your department, student groups, DSL and the AA&CC.
BECOME AN ENGAGED CITIZEN (LOCALLY & GLOBALLY)
PLAN FOR YOUR FUTURE CAREER
Year 4 or Final Year
CHOOSE YOUR COURSES WISELY
DEVELOP YOUR ACADEMIC & RESEARCH SKILLS
  • Apply for the Academic Travel Fund through DSL to conduct research, present at a conference, or engage with the academic community internationally.
APPLY THEORY TO PRACTICE
  • Attend the Summer & Full-time Job Fair in January to meet with potential employers looking to hire students for summer and full-time positions relevant to your field.
BECOME AN ENGAGED CITIZEN (LOCALLY & GLOBALLY)
  • Participate in the AA&CC’s Partners in Leadership program to learn and network with an alumni mentor about transitioning into the work field or further education.
PLAN FOR YOUR FUTURE CAREER
  • Attend the AA&CC’s Get Hired job search conference in April/May.
  • Attend a Jobs for Grads orientation for a job search “crash course” and for access to full-time job listings.
  • Discuss grad school plans early with staff at the AA&CC and your professors; get your Personal Statement reviewed in the AA&CC.

Contacts

Did You Know

You can participate in directed research while pursuing a chemistry major.