Join the Bachelor of Science in Chemistry at Vancouver Island University. Gain hands-on experience and prepare for diverse career opportunities. Apply now!
Program Description B.Sc., Major in Chemistry: The goals of the program are to provide students the opportunity to pursue employment and post-graduate opportunities in Chemistry. The curriculum provides a molecular-level understanding of biological, chemical and physical processes and builds a strong appreciation for the underlying principles that govern structure reactivity, and bonding. The program builds foundational knowledge in the traditional sub-disciplines of chemistry, with a particular emphasis on the theory and practice of analytical and green chemistry. In the upper years, students can choose to specialize their Major in Chemistry by selecting electives in fields of Environmental Chemistry or Biological Chemistry. Students will gain an appreciation for the role of chemistry in many aspects of modern scientific enquiry, and all students will gain hands-on experience with modern chemical instrumentation and techniques. The program has been designed to be at the forefront of teaching and learning in the chemical sciences by incorporating an emphasis on conceptual learning and the integration of inquiry-based learning experiences, computer assisted learning and undergraduate research opportunities. Chemistry is taught through a combination of lectures and laboratory exercises with close student - instructor interactions and mentorship being a hallmark of the program. Current issues such as the fate and distribution of chemical species in the environment and biological systems, bio-mimetics, environmental ecology, toxicology, molecular design and catalysis as well as development of modern instrumental methods are introduced. Critical thinking, problem solving, and communication skills are emphasized throughout the program and refined in the integrated laboratory experience and independent student projects. Students graduating from the program have gained highly transferable employment skills and will have a wide range of career opportunities in fields including secondary education, chemical forensics, chemical analysis, environmental monitoring, consulting, science communication, manufacturing, medical lab science, instrument development and sales, food science, material science, pharmaceuticals, quality control, remediation, food security, academic and government research, science policy and government regulation. The program provides a solid foundation for students who wish to further their studies in professional programs such as medical, dental, law, and pharmacy schools and graduate studies at the M.Sc. and Ph.D. level. Graduates with this degree will be qualified to apply for a 'Professional Chemistry' designation. Students graduating from the program will have career opportunities in secondary education, chemical forensics, chemical analysis, environmental monitoring, consulting, science communication, manufacturing, medical lab science, instrument development and sales, food science, material science, pharmaceuticals, quality control, remediation, food security, academic and government research, science policy and government regulation. The program provides a strong foundation for students who wish to further their studies in professional programs such as medical, dental, law, and pharmacy schools and graduate studies at the M.Sc. and Ph.D. level in Chemistry or related disciplines. Graduates with this degree will be qualified to apply for a 'Professional Chemist' designation.
