Skills Developed through a Chemistry Degree

Studies in Chemistry can develop many different professional abilities and can introduce you to a vast body of technical and theoretical knowledge.

Core Chemistry Skills

• Comprehensive knowledge of the structure and properties of matter, including the energy changes that accompany chemical reactions
• The ability to predict the behaviour of matter and interpret a wide variety of phenomena
• The skills to formulate and test scientific hypotheses

Communication, Data Gathering and Organizational Skills

• The skills to collect various types of information, assess them, analyze and incorporate potential linkages from different fields, put them into writing and efficiently convey your message and the goal of your work
• The ability to present your thoughts clearly and intelligently in written statements
• Deduction of information from various sources and the ability to concentrate on relevant resources
• An ability to prepare oral and written presentations and reports using current data and technology
• The ability to learn new information and apply this to professional demands
• The capacity to critically analyze problems, think creatively and make sound decisions while considering different sides of an argument

Management and Teamwork

• The ability to interpret and analyze information presented by peers and efficiently and constructively support or challenge their proposals, theories, ideas and reports in order to achieve a project’s intended and successful end result
• Logical thinking skills and the ability to lead and interact with a variety of people with different approaches and personal and professional backgrounds
• Skills enabling you to work effectively in group situations, partaking in decision-making, leading and contributing in various capacities to the ultimate success of the team and task
• The ability to debate, persuade, mediate and present your thoughts and opinions clearly to others, as well as the capacity to recognize and incorporate other potential solutions or applications to given problems
• The capability to identify priorities and proper courses of action, to plan the execution of tasks and to determine and delegate responsibilities to group members to most effectively carry out projects

Professional Associations and Organizations

Knowing the industry and how to excel in it after receiving a degree are key elements of future success. University study sets up the building blocks you will need to develop and enhance your understanding and knowledge in your career. Being part of a professional organization or network and gaining further insight through training are excellent ways of increasing your knowledge of the field.

• Canadian Society of Clinical Chemists
• The Society of Chemical Industry
• The Chemical Institute of Canada
• Association of the Chemical Profession of Ontario
• American Chemical Society
• Canadian Society for Molecular BioSciences