Chemistry

Location:	Chemistry Building 6274 Coburg Road 2nd Floor P.O. Box 15000 Halifax, NS B3H 4R2
Telephone:	(902) 494-3305
Fax:	(902) 494-1310
Website:	chemistry.dal.ca
Email:	chemistry@dal.ca

Introduction

Chemistry is often called the central science because of its relevance to so many other disciplines. Understanding the composition and properties of matter, as well as the manner in which one substance is transformed into another, is essential to the study of our physical and natural worlds. As such, chemistry is often a starting point for many different careers in science. A variety of programs are available, ranging from focused studies to interdisciplinary options to suit the interests of the student.

A chemistry degree involves considerable breadth of training in the major branches of chemistry. These include organic, inorganic, physical, analytical and biological chemistry. In addition to establishing a solid foundation in the fundamental principles of chemistry, students who undertake a chemistry degree develop essential skills that include problem solving, critical thinking, organization, data analysis, and written and oral communication. The laboratories associated with courses develop the necessary experience with laboratory procedures, equipment and safety, and serve to reinforce the concepts learned in lecture.

Degree Programs

The Department of Chemistry offers the following degree programs in Chemistry

• 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

* BSc Co-op option available
* May be combined with Minor programs from other disciplines

Departmental requirements for each degree program can be seen by following the links in the menu to the right.

In addition to departmental requirements, students must satisfy the requirements outlined in the Academic Regulations and the College of Arts and Science Degree Requirements sections. Students are advised that a number of requirements differ for the BA and BSc degrees.

A student is governed by the academic regulations in place at the time of initial enrolment in the Faculty of Science, as long as the degree is completed within the time permitted (10 years). Subsequent changes in regulations shall apply only if the student so elects; otherwise the student should consult the calendar of the appropriate year.

The 120 credit hour Concentrated Honours and Major degrees, as well as corresponding Co-op programs, are accredited by the Canadian Society for Chemistry (CSC). CSC accreditation ensures that graduates of these programs have met certain criteria concerning the quantity and quality of their instruction. It qualifies such graduates for membership in the CSC and to practice chemistry as professionals.

Students should plan their programs of study carefully and are strongly encouraged to do so in consultation with a Chemistry undergraduate academic advisor.

Students who participated in the Integrated Science Program in their first year should consult the Undergraduate Calendar for first year course equivalencies.