Top 10 Chemistry Degrees in Canada

As a category of physical science required to create many useful products and services, chemistry deals with matter’s structure, composition and properties. A chemistry degree will allow students to explore chemical bonds, intermolecular forces, and the properties of atoms, all of which play an important role in giving matter their unique properties.

Chemistry degrees typically cover a wide range of topics related to the chemical sciences. At the best chemistry universities in Canada, students have a strong foundation in fundamental chemistry concepts, including atomic and molecular structure, chemical bonding, thermodynamics, kinetics, and quantum mechanics. Students will also have the opportunity to choose from a range of elective courses to specialise in particular areas of chemistry, such as organic chemistry, analytical chemistry, biochemistry, or materials science.

By studying chemistry in Canada, students gain useful reasoning, logic, and problem-solving skills. Canada has become a favourite destination for pursuing higher studies in many disciplines. Some reasons why students choose Canada to take up degree programs include exciting post-study work permit options and affordable education in a friendly environment. Canadian universities are also among the top-ranked educational institutions offering world-class services in terms of studying a subject and research initiatives that lead to various innovations.

Learn more below about the best universities for the study of chemistry in Canada (QS World University Rankings by Subject of 2025), and begin your application by arranging a free consultation with StudyIn today.

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Best 10 Chemistry Degrees in Canada

1. University of Toronto

The University of Toronto’s Department of Chemistry, established in 1859, is internationally renowned for its excellence in teaching and research. The department offers a wide range of facilities, including a dedicated library, electronics and computing labs, chemical stores, glassblowing shop, NMR lab, machine shop, X-ray analysis lab, and spectrometry lab. Undergraduate and postgraduate programmes provide students with specialised knowledge and hands-on experience in the field.

Suggested course: Master of Science in Chemistry
Entry requirements: International applicants typically require a BSc in Chemistry or a closely related discipline. Due to high competition, most international students are considered for direct-entry PhD programmes. English language proficiency is mandatory.

2. University of British Columbia

UBC is one of Canada’s leading research-intensive universities and attracts a high number of international students. Its Department of Chemistry, part of the Faculty of Science, offers undergraduate and postgraduate programmes, including co-operative education options with up to sixteen months of work placement. Research at UBC addresses global challenges through innovative chemical studies.

Suggested course: BSc Honours in Chemistry
Entry requirements: Completion of a university-preparatory senior secondary programme with strong grades in Chemistry, Mathematics, and English. English language proficiency is required.

3. McGill University

Founded in 1821, McGill University is one of Canada’s top institutions. Its Department of Chemistry offers Honours, Major, Minor, and Liberal BSc programmes, supported by state-of-the-art laboratories and expert faculty. Graduates enjoy strong career prospects in North America and Europe.

Suggested course: BSc Honours Chemistry
Entry requirements: Completion of senior secondary education with grades between 75%–85%, including Mathematics and two science subjects (Biology, Physics, Chemistry). English language proficiency is required.

4. University of Alberta

The University of Alberta’s Faculty of Science offers high-quality chemistry programmes that explore real-world scientific challenges. Undergraduate students benefit from strong academic support and access to advanced research facilities. Postgraduate students may receive competitive stipends for research work.

Suggested course: Bachelor of Science in Chemistry (Major)
Entry requirements: Completion of five academic subjects at senior secondary level, including Chemistry, Mathematics, and English. English language proficiency is required.

5. University of Waterloo

The University of Waterloo’s Department of Chemistry offers interdisciplinary undergraduate and postgraduate programmes. Recognised as a “central science”, chemistry at Waterloo supports fields such as environmental science, health, nanotechnology, and materials development. Students benefit from a modern curriculum and award-winning faculty.

Suggested course: Bachelor of Science in Chemistry
Entry requirements: Completion of senior secondary education with at least 70% in Mathematics, English, and two science subjects, and an overall average of 80%. English language proficiency is required.

6. University of Montreal

Founded in 1878, the University of Montreal is one of the largest French-language universities in the world. Its Department of Chemistry is internationally recognised for its research excellence, advanced infrastructure, and distinguished faculty. The department offers nearly 70 undergraduate and postgraduate programmes, with graduate research forming a core part of student training. Interdisciplinary collaboration is common, particularly with biochemistry, biological sciences, and physics.

Suggested course: Master’s in Chemistry
Entry requirements: Applicants must hold a BSc in Chemistry or a related discipline and demonstrate proficiency in both French and English. A minimum academic average of 70% is typically required.

7. University of Calgary

The University of Calgary’s Department of Chemistry, part of the Faculty of Science, offers undergraduate and postgraduate programmes with a strong emphasis on theoretical knowledge and experimental skills. Students benefit from state-of-the-art laboratories and can pursue interdisciplinary studies in areas such as environmental science, nanoscience, and neuroscience. Graduate programmes include specialisations in biological and medicinal chemistry, computational chemistry, and energy and environment.

Suggested course: Bachelor of Science in Chemistry
Entry requirements: International applicants must complete senior secondary education with strong grades in Chemistry, Mathematics, English, and one additional science subject. A minimum average of 80% is recommended. English language proficiency is required.

8. McMaster University

McMaster University’s Department of Chemistry and Chemical Biology explores the chemistry of solids and living systems. The department offers cutting-edge undergraduate and postgraduate programmes supported by advanced equipment and internationally recognised faculty. Undergraduate students receive strong theoretical and laboratory training, while postgraduate students engage in high-level research. The department’s labs comply with Good Manufacturing Practices, a rare standard in academic settings.

Suggested course: BSc Honours Chemistry
Entry requirements: Applicants must have completed senior secondary education with at least five academic subjects, including Chemistry and Mathematics. A minimum average of 80% is recommended. English language proficiency is required.

9. Queen’s University, Kingston

Queen’s University offers a highly regarded Chemistry programme through its Faculty of Arts and Science. The department is known for its research in materials chemistry, environmental chemistry, and chemical biology. Students benefit from small class sizes, hands-on lab experience, and access to cutting-edge research facilities.

Suggested course: BSc Honours Chemistry
Entry requirements: International students must complete senior secondary education with strong grades in Chemistry, Mathematics, and English. A minimum average of 80% is typically required. English language proficiency is mandatory.

10. University of Ottawa

The University of Ottawa’s Department of Chemistry and Biomolecular Sciences is one of Canada’s leading centres for chemical education and research. The department offers programmes in pure chemistry, biochemistry, and biopharmaceutical science, with training in organic, inorganic, biological, and medicinal chemistry. Students benefit from innovative teaching methods and access to nationally and internationally recognised faculty and research chairs.

Suggested course: Master of Science in Chemistry
Entry requirements: Applicants must hold a BSc in Chemistry or a related field with a minimum average of 75% (B+). English language proficiency is required.