First-year courses
Programs/majors in the Faculty of Science start right in first year. To select your program with confidence, here’s some handy info to get you started.
September to December
- BIOL 130 – Introductory Cell Biology
- CHEM 121/121L – Physical and Chemical Properties of Matter/ Chemical Reaction Laboratory 1
- MATH 127 – Calculus 1 for the Sciences
- ENGL 193/COMMST 193 – Communication in the Sciences
Plus one course from
January to April
- CHEM 125/125L – Chemical Reactions, Equilibria and Kinetics/Laboratory
- CHEM 140 – Introduction to Scientific Calculations
- MATH 128 – Calculus 2 for the Sciences
- One elective
Plus one course from
This a sample schedule. Courses or when a course is offered may change depending on availability.
After first year
What other courses will you take? 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.
View all the courses required for your degree.
Sample upper-year courses
CHEM 357 – Physical Biochemistry
CHEM 381 – Bioorganic Chemistry
CHEM 333 – Metabolism 1
CHEM 382L – Advanced Organic Synthesis Lab
Types of courses you'll take
This is a general guideline. The ratio of courses may change slightly from year to year.
Skills you'll develop with this major
- Synthetic organic chemistry skills
- Ability to design and execute scientific experiments safely and accurately
- Analytical skills needed to identify organic compounds
- Ability to analyze scientific and technical data
- Problem-solving, critical thinking, and time management skills
This isn't an exhaustive list – rather a glimpse into the skills a Medicinal Chemistry major can provide.
Your experience will be unique, and the skills you develop will depend on your goals; which courses you take; and your involvement with any clubs, jobs, or research projects.
Advisors are here to help
With so much flexibility, you might have a lot of questions. We're here to help! If you're applying for admission, contact our Faculty of Science recruitment co-ordinator.
Once you're a Waterloo student, you'll have access to academic advisors who can help you
- choose your courses,
- select minors and specializations,
- ensure that you're meeting the requirements for your degree, and more.
Learn more
Overview of Waterloo's Medicinal Chemistry degree program.