Bachelor of Science in Medicinal Chemistry

University of Waterloo

As well as covering all the basics of physical, analytical, and organic chemistry, you’ll also take specialized courses like biobased chemistry and pharmaceutical drug design.

Meanwhile, you’ll hone essential research and laboratory skills through your choice of 20+ chemistry lab courses and an independent research project in fourth year. Students also have the opportunity to enrol in the co-op stream, where they'll gain paid work experience as they pursue their degree.

As a Medicinal Chemistry graduate, you’ll be equipped to design, create, and evaluate potential medications, setting the stage for a career with real impact. You'll also qualify for membership in the Canadian Society of Chemistry and the Chemical Institute of Canada.

Co-op

By alternating school terms and paid co-op work terms throughout your degree, you can explore new career areas and types of employers as your career interests evolve.

Sample co-op job titles

• Discovery analyst (Pharmacology)
• Research and development technician
• Pharmaceutical R&D
• Undergraduate research assistant
• Quality control assistant analyst
• Science tutor
• Pharmacist assistant

WHAT CAN YOU DO WITH A DEGREE IN MEDICINAL CHEMISTRY?

The program focuses on preparing you for drug research-based positions such as working in universities, pharmaceutical companies, and government research labs. One of the great aspects of the program is that it gives you such a broad background in chemistry. You'll be able to work in more general chemistry fields, such as quality control and the oil and gas industry, if you decided that’s a route you wanted to take.

Our graduates often pursue careers in drug discovery and design, organic chemistry, industrial research and development, and experimental research. Many graduates also pursue specialized master's and PhD degrees.

What is the difference between a medicinal chemist and a pharmacist?

Medicinal chemistry is about creating and studying new drug candidates. You'll learn how drugs are made in the lab and how they impact people or animals. A pharmacist prescribes drugs and ensures patient safety.