Chemistry & Biochemistry
What can I do with my degree in Chemistry & Biochemistry?
About the Chemistry & Biochemistry programs
Concordia’s Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry features state-of-the-art labs and equipment that introduce students to techniques used in the fields. As a student in Chemistry, you explore the building blocks of matter and their chemical reactions which could lead to the creation of environmentally friendly materials like compostable plastics or medications that fight disease.
As a student in biochemistry, you will study the chemical processes that occur within the cells of living organisms. As a Biochemist, you could use your knowledge of cellular processes and molecular inheritance to combat disease, engineer pest-resistant crops, or develop microorganisms to clean up oil spills.
Concordia’s honours and specialization in Chemistry and Biochemistry programs are accredited by the Ordre des chimistes du Québec.
For the latest information on programs, visit the Department of Chemistry & Biochemistry.
Skills developed
As a student in Chemistry, you will have the opportunity to develop a wide range of skills, some of which are listed below. Your transferrable skills can be applied to many different jobs and situations that go beyond your field of study.
- A solid foundation in carbon-based (organic), non-carbon (inorganic), physical chemistry and analytical chemistry.
- Analytical abilities
- Computer knowledge
- Examine biochemical responses to toxic compounds in the environment
- Familiarize with field work techniques
- Identify and analyze compounds and study the mechanics and energetics of chemical reactions
- Operate scientific equipment, laboratory technique
- Organize, analyze and interpret scientific data and conduct research
- Study the role of proteins, carbohydrates and lipids in cellular processes
- Communicate ideas clearly by listening carefully and responding comprehensively
- Read scientific journals and articles critically and write persuasively.
- Explain complex concepts and ideas to others effectively
- Write reports and articles
- Interact with others and build professional relationships
- Manage multiple tasks and meet deadlines
- Work under pressure
- Influence and persuade
- Make decisions and use sound judgement
- Delegate tasks and responsibilities
- Manage conflict
- Give and receive feedback
- Lead and follow
- Negotiate
- Observe and interpret data
- Analyze and evaluate conflicting information to make a good judgement or conclusion
- Understand complex problems and identify solutions
- Agricultural products companies
- Biotechnology firms
- Chemical equipment manufacturers
- Chemical industries
- Consulting firms
- Educational institutions
- Engineering firms
- Environmental protection organizations
- Food & beverage manufacturers
- Health sector
- Libraries
- Natural resources organizations
- Oil & gas companies
- Pharmaceuticals companies
- Pulp & paper industries
- Scientific publications
- Quality control laboratories
- Textile industries
- Waste management firms
What jobs can a Bachelor’s degree in Chemistry & Biochemistry lead to?
Please note that many positions listed below may require related extra-curricular activities, volunteer or work experience.
For details on these job titles, main duties and employment requirements visit Canada’s National Occupational Classification (NOC).
- Biotechnologist
- Chemical laboratory analyst
- Chemical operations specialist
- Chemical operator
- Chemical research technician
- Chemical specialist
- Chemical technician/technologist
- Chemistry intern
- Clinical chemist
- Clinical research supervisor/coordinator
- Clinical tester
- Environmental technologist
- Field test services technician
- Food technologist
- Forensic lab technologist
- Health technologist
- Inspector
- Junior chemist
- Junior research associate
- Lab assistant
- Nanotechnologist
- Paint technician
- Patent agent/examiner
- Product tester
- Project coordinator/lead
- Quality assurance chemist (chemical processing)
- Soil tester
- Textile specialist
- Water quality analyst/technician
- Account manager
- Business development manager
- Event planner/coordinator (pharmaceutical industry, food industry)
- Food and drug inspector
- Food technologist
- Laboratory technician
- Market researcher (pharmaceutical, food industry)
- Marketing specialist / representative
- Pharmacy technician
- Product safety officer
- Project coordinator/assistant
- Public relations consultant
- Quality assurance technician (food processing, cosmetics, animal products etc.)
- Regulatory affair associate/specialist
- Risk management analyst
- Sales representative (pharmaceutical, food, agriculture, etc.)
- Academic advisor
- Alumni relations officer
- Chemistry instructor/tutor
- Department assistant
- Editor
- Lab technician in school boards
- Program coordinator
- Research assistant / associate
- School outreach programmer
- Science and technology educator
- Technical writer
- Chemical safety officer
- Chemist policy analyst
- Inspector
- Natural resource policy analyst
- Patent agent
- Program officer
- Research officer
Jobs and career possibilities with a Master's and PhD in Chemistry & Biochemistry
The job titles listed below are examples of careers requiring further education such as an MA or PhD degree, a second bachelor degree, a certificate or a graduate diploma and relevant work experience.
For details on these job titles, main duties and employment requirements visit Canada’s National Occupational Classification (NOC).
- Agricultural chemist
- Analytical chemist
- Atmospheric chemist
- Bio analyst
- Biological chemist
- Chemical oceanographer
- Chemist
- Cytotechnologist
- Entomologist
- Food chemist
- Forensic chemist
- Hydrologist
- Industrial chemist
- Materials scientist
- Nuclear chemist
- Organic chemist
- Petroleum chemist
- Pharmaceutical chemist
- Pharmacist
- Project leader
- Quality assurance inspector
- Research scientist
- Scientific photographer
- Scientist
- Service representative
- Soil chemist
- Teacher, professor
- Water purification chemist
- Water scientist
Start your job search
Explore career options
Explore the types of jobs for each industry and find out about required skills, education level and salary ranges in Canada:
Occupation - Government of Canada Job Bank: Find out about job prospects, wages and skills for specific job titles. You can use the job titles listed in the Career Possibilities – Bachelor degree and Career Possibilities – Beyond the bachelor degree for your search.
Field of study – Government of Canada Job Bank : Find out about employment rates, wages and the types of jobs related to a specific field of study.
Search job titles or companies - LinkedIn: Search by job title or field of study. You can also find out what type of positions individuals with the same degree as you have occupied.
Career Cruising
Explore your interests, learn about careers and find jobs on the Career Cruising website. Find the link and login information in the Student Hub's My CU Account.
Search for jobs
Browse the websites below to find jobs available in Quebec and Canada related to your field of study. You can also search the CAPS online job bank or find employers in Canada that hire new graduates in your field.
Book an appointment
To get help with your career exploration and goal setting, book an appointment with a career counsellor. For job search tips on finding the job you want, book an appointment with a career advisor.
To book an appointment with either professional, please call 514-848-2424 ext. 7345
*Only current Concordia students and recent alumni can access this service
Networking and professional associations
Connect with professionals in the field and professional associations to find out what a day in your career of choice looks like. Professional associations websites also provide useful career descriptions and job hunting tips, and sometimes list job openings and potential employers. You can also attend one of our career workshops, career fairs or career panels to get a head start.
