BSc Chemical Biology

You’ll gain practical skills through a five-year Co-operative Education (co-op) option, which includes multiple paid, full-time work terms embedded in your degree. The co-op program is direct-entry and provides real-world experience with leading employers in Durham Region and beyond.

• Co-op work terms: Co-op work terms in biotechnology companies, pharmaceutical firms, government, or private research labs

• Honours research thesis: Two-semester honours research thesis in your final year, supervised by faculty, where you’ll conduct and present original research

• Laboratory courses: Organic chemistry, biochemistry, and chemical biology laboratory courses, with the latest instrumentation and analytical methods

• Networking opportunities: Opportunities to network with professionals and create a professional resume

• Modern techniques: Exposure to modern laboratory techniques and participation in research projects

• Business integration: Option to integrate the program with the Bachelor of Science and Management for business and leadership studies

Ontario Tech University’s BS in Chemical Biology (5 Years On Campus, Co-op) program introduces students to a career-focused blend of chemistry and biology with real-world experience through co-op. Graduates are highly employable, moving into roles such as research scientist, biotechnologist, drug discovery specialist, laboratory technologist, pharmaceutical analyst, regulatory affairs associate, and positions in government or private research labs. Many alumni also pursue graduate studies (including MSc in Materials Science or Applied Biosciences at Ontario Tech), or professional programs in medicine, pharmacy, or related health fields.

Here’s how Ontario Tech supports your future:

• Career Services & Experiential Learning: The program offers a direct-entry, five-year co-op option that integrates full-time, paid work terms with academic study. Co-op placements are available with leading employers in Durham Region and beyond, providing hands-on experience, professional networking, and a competitive salary. The co-op option is designed to help students clarify career goals, build résumés, and graduate with less debt, and is recognized by the Canadian Association for Co-operative Education. Studies show that co-op graduates secure employment faster and command higher starting salaries.

• Industry Partnerships & Research: Ontario Tech has developed strong partnerships with employers in business, industry, and government, particularly in the Durham Region. These partnerships provide students with opportunities to work on real-world projects and connect with experts in chemical biology, pharmaceuticals, biotechnology, and applied science. Co-op students frequently gain placements in pharmaceutical monitoring and regulation, drug discovery, and research labs, and the university’s connections help facilitate career entry and advancement.

• Accreditation: The Chemical Biology specialisation is taken within the Honours Chemistry program and is fully recognised in Canada and internationally. The co-op option satisfies the guidelines of the Canadian Association for Co-operative Education, ensuring high standards for work-integrated learning.

• Graduate Outcomes: Students develop strong laboratory, analytical, and scientific communication skills through a curriculum that includes advanced biochemistry, advanced organic chemistry, advanced topics in chemical biology, and bio-organic chemistry. The program emphasises the synthesis and use of small molecules and chemically modified macromolecules to answer key biological questions, preparing graduates for both employment and further study.

Further Academic Progression: After your BS in Chemical Biology at Ontario Tech, you can pursue a Master of Science in Materials Science or Applied Biosciences at Ontario Tech or other universities, or enter professional programs in medicine, pharmacy, or related fields, supported by the program’s strong research and industry connections