Chemistry (BSc) or (BA)
Chemistry is a central science; everything you see, touch, and experience involves chemistry. Discover how the world works at a molecular level.
Why choose this program?
Chemistry dictates everything around us — and within us. It is the science of transformation, dictating how elements interact to build our physical world, drive biological systems, and fuel new technologies. In chemistry classes we learn about the properties of molecules, we make new molecules and we measure their properties. Chemists use molecules to make medical devices, pharmaceuticals, systems to harvest solar energy, and improved materials like stronger concrete and safer glass - the list is endless.
Our Department of Chemistry offers considerable training in the major branches of chemistry and degree options accredited by the Canadian Society for Chemistry (CSC).
Careers
Chemistry is known as the central science because its main theme, transformations of matter and energy, is at the core of many fields of science and engineering. Solid training leads to employment not only as a chemist but in many other fields. In addition to gaining chemical knowledge, you'll develop your analytical, problem-solving, and communication skills.
What you will learn
Studying chemistry at Dalhousie involves training in the four main areas of chemistry: inorganic, organic, analytical, and physical chemistry. Through courses and labs, you'll build useful skills such as solving problems and using math and data to understand results.
Sample courses
- Concepts in Chemistry I
- Writing for the Sciences
- Introduction to Physics
- Life Science Calculus
Our Organic World
Introductory Inorganic Chemistry
Introductory Analytical Chemistry
Organic Chemistry I
Advanced Analytical Lab
Materials Science
Experiential Learning Chemistry
Chemistry of Living Systems
Inorganic Materials Synthesis
Theory of Chemical Bonding
- Electrochemistry
- Analytical Mass Spectrometry
Gain experience outside of the classroom
Enroll in a first-year interest group (FIGs) like Innovation and Entrepreneurship in Science
Be mentored by an upper-year student
Enroll in co-op
Apply for 1 of 70+ Faculty-coordinated summer research awards available each year
Gain teaching and communication skills as teaching assistant or working with a science outreach organization
Attend career prep workshops
Other opportunities include science communication internships, and student society leadership roles.
Customize your degree
The following Chemistry program options are offered by Dalhousie University’s Faculty of Science. Connect with an academic advisor after you start your studies to explore options such as:
BSc or BA (120 credit hour) Honours (Concentrated)*
BSc or BA (120 credit hour) Combined Honours*
BSc or BA (120 credit hour) Major*
BSc or BA (120 credit hour) Double Major*
BSc or BA (90 credit hour) Minor in Chemistry
Minor in Chemistry
Add a minor to your Chemistry degree to expand your skill set and perspective with a second discipline, allowing you to study everything you’re passionate about at Dal.
Visit the Academic Calendar to browse the minors you can take with this degree.
Complete a certificate alongside your regular degree requirements and graduate with additional skills in specialized areas. Options include:
- Materials Science
- Medicinal Chemistry
- Science Communication and Leadership
As a Science Co-op student, you’ll undertake three work terms interspersed with your academic study terms. Science Co-op degree programs allow you to apply your growing knowledge directly while providing paid career-related experience helping to offset academic costs while arming you with the information you need to make educated career choices.
The Dalhousie Integrated Science Program (DISP) is a unique, immersive first-year option for motivated students looking to complete their first year of a science degree. You’ll work effectively in teams, explore connections across scientific disciplines, and complete a hands-on research project while building critical skills in data analysis, tech, and scientific communication.
Dalhousie’s CSC-accredited Chemistry (BSc/BA) program combines core study in organic, inorganic, analytical, and physical chemistry with hands-on labs, paid Co-op, and research. Prepare for careers in industry, medicine, and graduate studies.
Admission requirements
Minimum admission requirements
To be considered for admission to this program, you must meet minimum academic criteria:
- Completion of secondary school (Grade 12)
- Achievement of the minimum average for your program of choice.
- Completion of Grade 12 English (or equivalent course).
Admission to many Dalhousie programs is competitive. This means that meeting minimum requirements does not guarantee admission.
Program-specific admission requirements
To enter the Bachelor of Science program in your first year, you must meet the following high school course requirements:
Minimum overall average: 75%
Academic English 12
Pre-calculus Math 12
Three additional academic subjects
Note: All Bachelor of Science students enter the Faculty of Science as undeclared majors. This gives you the freedom to explore your scientific interests during your first year.
You will officially declare your Chemistry major, minor, or specialized options at the end of your first year using your first-year science and math prerequisites.
Need Pre-Calculus, Chemistry, Physics, or another admission requirement? Our online, self-paced UPrep courses can help you earn the prerequisite you need, upgrade your marks, and build confidence before starting your degree at Dal. Explore UPrep courses.
