Chemistry is committed to offering a curriculum that meets the accre
ditation guidelines of the Canadian Society for Chemistry. While specialization in a number of sub-disciplines is possible, the
Chemistry B.Sc. at UNBC provides the necessary background and
understanding for students to tackle any job within the realm of the
working chemist. In addition, the courses offered will serve as
preparation for students that are contemplating advanced studies,
whether they are at the post-graduate level in Chemistry or in other
disciplines such as Medicine, Pharmacy, or Veterinary Medicine.
Chemistry is also fundamental to a number of other disciplines
including Geology, Forestry, and Biology. In addition to the chemistry
stream, the program is offering a minor in Biochemistry, which
compliments the life science programs.
As well, a degree in
Biochemistry & Molecular Biology (BSc Program) is now being offered to compliment the Chemistry Program
The program at UNBC focuses on the five primary disciplinary areas:
Analytical Chemistry - the
determination of the amount of a compound present, what form it is in,
and the structure of the complex. Job opportunities within this
discipline are available with a number of large corporations interested
in quality control and understanding environmental hazards.
Biochemistry
- the molecules and chemistry of living organisms, from DNA to proteins
to lipids to carbohydrates. This an area of recent growth within the
chemical industry as many companies have shifted emphasis to
bio-engineering techniques for the synthesis of pharmaceuticals and
common chemicals.
Inorganic Chemistry - the
study of the chemistry and reactivity of molecules built from all of
the elements. The job opportunities in this area of chemistry are
related to all areas of the manufacturing sector but in particular is
the field of metal ion catalysis.
Organic Chemistry - the study
of the synthesis and reactivity of compounds involving carbon atoms as
a primary constituent. The synthesis of compounds from polymers, such
as Nylon, to pharmaceuticals provides job opportunities for organic
chemists.
Physical Chemistry - the
measurement and calculation of the physical changes that chemical
compounds undergo. Job opportunities range from the modelling of
atmospheric release of chemical compounds to the synthesis of
superconducting materials to the design and construction of new laser
systems and fibre optics. In addition to the above areas, the Chemistry
Program offers course in Environmental Chemistry and Advanced Research
Techniques. Chemistry will also be offering courses in a number of
joint degree programs with Physics, Mathematics, and Computer Science
and within the Biological Technician Program.
