Chemistry at University of Waterloo

Programme overview

Leads to the Bachelor of Science in Chemistry. Fire up the Bunsen burners in one of Canada’s top five chemistry programs (QS World University Rankings by Subject 2026). You’ll study everything from organic chemistry and analytical chemistry to polymer chemistry, nanoscience, and more. Customize your learning experience by selecting electives that reflect your unique passions and academic goals. Available in the regular system of study or the co-op system.

Faculty: Faculty of Science | Study mode: full-time | Location: Waterloo, Ontario, Canada

What you will study

Most of the classes you’ll take will be Chemistry courses. With your remaining classes, you can choose electives from many of the 100 subject areas at Waterloo. Sample upper-year courses include Bioorganic Chemistry, Physical Biochemistry, Introductory Computational Chemistry, Introductory Quantum Mechanics.

Career pathways

Many students choose to continue their education (such as a specialized Master's degree) to pursue careers in research or teaching. There are also many chemist positions if you plan to start your career upon graduation.

Official programme page

Application information

Entry requirements

Ontario applicants: Six Grade 12 U and/or M courses including English (ENG4U) (minimum final grade of 70% is required); Advanced Functions (minimum final grade of 70% is required); Calculus and Vectors (minimum final grade of 70% is required); Two of Biology, Chemistry, Earth and Space Science, Mathematics of Data Management, or Physics; Admission averages: Low 80s. How to apply: Apply to Physical Sciences and choose Chemistry as your major.

Tuition is charged per credit, so the total depends on the courses you register for each year. Current fees are listed in the official fee schedule.

First-year students are admitted for the September (fall) term only. Terms: fall (September to December), winter (January to April), spring (May to August). Part-time, online, post-degree and non-degree studies can start in the winter, spring or fall term.

Applications for September 2027 entry close on 1 February 2027 for programs other than Engineering (documents due 15 February 2027) and on 15 January 2027 for Engineering programs other than Architecture (documents due 1 February 2027). International students have the same deadlines. Full-time applicants apply through the Ontario Universities' Application Centre (OUAC).

Part-time, online, post-degree and non-degree studies: winter 2027 applications close 30 October 2026 for degree and non-degree (13 November 2026 for post-degree); spring 2027 applications close 26 February 2027 for degree and non-degree (12 March 2027 for post-degree). Optometry closes 12 November 2026 and Pharmacy closes 6 January 2027.

Apply through the official page: https://uwaterloo.ca/future-students/admissions/how-to-apply

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