Honours Degree in Chemistry (Biological)

The following information about programs of study in Chemistry has been taken from the University Calendar. While every attempt has been made to ensure that it is accurate, you should refer to the current edition of the University Calendar for the most reliable and complete information about program requirements and course list.

*This degree is accredited by the Canadian Society for Chemistry.*

Students wishing to take Honours in Chemistry (Biological) should consult the sections of the Calendar dealing with Regulations for the Honours Degree of Bachelor of Science.

See the suggested timetable for the Honours in Chemistry (Biological)

  • Chemistry 1050 and 1051 (or 1200 and 1001), 2100, 2210, 2301, 2302, 2400, 2401, 3110, 3211, 4410, 490A and 490B, and at least 3 credit hours selected from Chemistry 4151, 4201, 4206, 4305, or 4701 and at least 3 credit hours from Chemistry 3210, 3303, 3411 or any 4000-level Chemistry courses.

  • Biology 1001, 1002, 2060, 2250, and 3050 and at least 6 credit hours chosen from Biology 3530, 3950, 3951, 4010, 4050, 4200, 4245, 4251, 4404, 4605, Ocean Sciences 3002 and 3600.
  • Biochemistry 2201 and 2901 and at least 6 credit hours from Biochemistry 3105, 3206 or 3106, 3207 or 3107, 4101, and 4201.

  • Physics 1050 (or 1020) and 1051 (or 1021).

  • Mathematics 1000, 1001. Statistics 2550 is strongly recommended.

A thesis based on a biologically-related research topic is to be submitted in the final year.

Chemistry 490A/B will require the equivalent of nine hours per week for two semesters. Registration in Chemistry 490A/B is restricted to those students who have honours standing. The Honours dissertation will be assessed by the supervisor and one other faculty member.

In the first year, prospective Honours students in Chemistry (Biological) should take

Chemistry 1050 and 1051 (or 1200 and 1001)
Biology 1001 and 1002
Physics 1050 and 1051 or 1020 and 1021
Mathematics 1000 and 1001 
Six credit hours in Critical Reading & Writing (CRW) courses including at least 3 credit hours in English.

The Honours Chemistry program is a four year program. Students should consult the Undergraduate Student Handbook for timetabling details.

Students completing first year requirements for any of Chemistry, Mathematics or Physics via the three course options (i.e. Chemistry 1010, 1050, 1051 (or 1010, 1011, and the former 1031), Mathematics 1090, 1000, 1001, Physics 1020, 1021, 1051) instead of the two course options (Chemistry 1050, 1051, Mathematics 1000, 1001, Physics 1050, 1051) will require the corresponding number of extra credits to obtain an Honours degree.

Arrangements for subsequent years will depend on the other science subjects being studied and should be made in consultation with the Faculty Advisor.

Certain advanced courses may only be offered in alternate years. Candidates therefore should consult the Head of the Department before registration.

Certain of the Graduate courses may be taken in the final year of the Honours Program with the permission of the Head of the Department.

Course Restrictions

Students should be aware of a number of credit restrictions. For further information see the Chemistry course descriptions section found at the end of the Faculty of Science section in the Calendar under Course Descriptions, Chemistry.