Chemistry is a "physical" science which deals with structures, properties, reactions, syntheses and uses of substances. The general purpose of studies in chemistry is to increase our understanding of the structure and behavior of the matter of our environment. By its nature, chemistry is interdisciplinary and occupies a central position among the sciences.

Society requires chemists to apply their particular knowledge to present and future needs. A knowledge of chemistry is important to the solution of problems in important areas of the environment, medicine, and the utilization of resources. Thus the study of chemistry leads to a wide variety of professional vocations. The large science-based industries (petroleum refining, plastics, pharmaceuticals, synthetic fibers, etc.), all employ chemists and chemical engineers in key operational roles and in production, research and development. An increasing number of federal and provincial departments and agencies employ chemists in research and testing laboratories. The teaching of chemistry in a high school, technical institute or university is also a rewarding way to contribute to the needs of society.

In the Mount Allison Chemistry program, the subject matter of the several sub-divisions of chemistry is interrelated and integrated. The first year program is designed to consolidate and elaborate on students' previous background in chemistry. All first year students in B.Sc. programs are required to enroll in Chemistry 1001/1021. Students who have completed the International Baccalaureate chemistry program, "A" Level Chemistry (UK) or the Advanced Placement Program (chemistry), should consult with the Department Head for possible credits and/or admission into second year courses.

The second and third year program introduces and explores the core areas of Analytical, Organic, Inorganic, and Physical Chemistry in depth, usually in small classes.

The fourth year program offers students some choice and flexibility in their course selection. The curriculum covers advanced courses in a variety of areas of chemistry. In addition, students can take Selected Topics in Chemistry or Special Topics in Experimental Chemistry.

Research projects are available for Honours students in the summer months following the third year and sometimes after the first and the second years. Financial support for up to 4-months is available through scholarships, fellowships and other support made available especially for this purpose.

Students with a special interest in Chemistry and those who, after obtaining the B.Sc. degree, wish to continue their studies at the post-graduate level, should consider following the Chemistry Honours program. The courses required for the B.Sc. Chemistry Honours degree are given below.

Honours* (programme outline)

48 credits as in first 7 lines of Major**, plus
24 from BIOC 2001 and Chemistry at the 3/4000 level, chosen in consultation with the Program Advisor
3 from CHEM 4903
6 from CHEM 4990

Major (programme outline)

6 from CHEM 1001, 1021
6 from MATH 1111, 1121
3 from Mathematics at the 2000 level**
3 from BIOC 1001
6 from PHYS 1051, 1551
12 from CHEM 2111, 2211, 2311, 2411
12 from CHEM 2121, 3231, 3321, 3421
12 from BIOC 2001 and Chemistry at the 3/4000 level, chosen in consultation with the Program Advisor

Minor (programme outline)

6 from CHEM 1001 , 1021
3 from MATH 1111
9 from Chemistry at the 2000 level***
6 from Chemistry at the 3/4000 levels

Note: ***Where insufficient Chemistry courses are available at the 2000 level to fulfill this requirement, Chemistry courses at the 3/4000 levels may be substituted. Students cannot count CHEM 1501 or CHEM 2511 towards a Minor.

Note: *STUDENTS INTENDING TO STUDY FOR A CHEMISTRY HONOURS DEGREE SHOULD INDICATE THIS TO THE DEPARTMENT HEAD IN WRITING BY OCTOBER 1 OF THEIR PENULTIMATE YEAR. They are to indicate their Honours Program and the University calendar under which they intend to graduate. Honours students are given a special opportunity to participate in chemical research with faculty members in the Thesis (C4990) course. This research is normally carried out in the summer months following the third year; some financial assistance is provided.

Note: **MATH 2111 is required for CHEM 3241 which is a requirement for taking additional upper year Physical Chemistry, including CHEM 3251, 4211 and 4241.

Note: ***Where insufficient Chemistry courses are available at the 2000 level to fulfill this requirement, Chemistry courses at the 3/4000 levels may be substituted. Students cannot count CHEM 1501 or CHEM 2511 towards a Minor.

Biochemistry is the study of the chemical structures and processes of living organisms.