Career Compass: Chemistry

As a chemistry student, you will study the properties of atoms and molecules, of which all matter is composed. The department offers study in analytical, inorganic, organic, and physical chemistry. The Chemistry B.Sc. and B.Sc. (Hon.) programs are accredited by the Canadian Society for Chemists. The Department of Chemistry, in conjunction with the Department of Microbiology, also offers joint programs in Biochemistry (see the Life Sciences compass for additional Biochemistry resources). In conjunction with the Department of Physics, the Department of Chemistry also offers the joint Chemistry-Physics joint program.

Skills you will gain by studying CHEMISTRY

• The ability to observe the natural world and develop hypotheses or explanations of physical phenomena.
• The ability to design and conduct experiments to quantitatively test hypotheses, selecting appropriate techniques and procedures.
• The ability to build and operate complex equipment and follow technical manuals with accuracy and proficiency.
• The ability to collect and analyze data using statistical analysis and computer modelling techniques and make reasoned judgments on the basis of available data.
• The ability to communicate effectively both verbally, by giving effective presentations, and in writing, by preparing technical reports.

ACADEMIC SUCCESS

Course requirements:
Chemistry: CHEM 1100, CHEM 1110, CHEM 1120, MATH 1500, MATH 1700, PHYS 1050 (or PHYS 1020), PHYS 1070 (or PHYS 1030)

Biochemistry: BIOL 1020, BIOL 1030, CHEM 1100, CHEM 1110, CHEM 1120, MATH 1500, STAT 1150 (or STAT 1000), PHYS 1050 (or PHYS 1020)

To do this year:

1. Chemistry or Biochemistry – what's right for you? An Academic Advisor in the Faculty of Science can help you decide.
2. Use UM Achieve by running "what-ifs" to explore different program options & corresponding requirements.
3. If you need academic support, talk to your professor, attend a Supplementary Instruction session through the Academic Learning Centre or connect with a tutor through the Science Student's Association.

CAREER TIPS

Start planning your career:

1. Meet with a career consultant to generate career ideas based on your interests, values, personality and skills.
2. Research occupations that match your skills and interests.
3. Set up a UM Connect account to view job postings and register for workshops and events.
4. Set up your Experience Record, an official record of university-approved activities.

VOLUNTEER & WORK EXPERIENCE

Link experiences to your career interests. Options include:

1. Student groups including Chem Club and Science Students’ Association.
2. Volunteer for UM Orientation events to help welcome new students to campus while gaining experience.
3. Student work opportunities including Work-Study, STEP Services or Federal Student Work Experience Program.
4. Experiential education opportunities such as Community Engaged Learning programs and the Student Leadership Development Program.

CULTURAL OPPORTUNITIES

Considering international opportunities? Visit the International Centre website to learn more international opportunities for UM students.

Explore communities and cultures you want to work with: Visit the Indigenous Student Centre or learn about local agencies via 211 Manitoba. 

ACADEMIC SUCCESS

Course requirements:
Refer to the Academic Calendar for course requirements in your program

To do this year:

1. Submit an online request through the Science Office to declare your Honours or Major program.
2. Use UM Achieve to prepare a plan for registration.
3. Considering a professional program? Refer to the Applicant Information Bulletin to familiarize with the pre-professional requirements.
4. Consider taking an optional minor, and choosing courses that will open opportunities.

CAREER TIPS

Make professional connections:

1. Join the Career Mentor Program to learn from professionals.
2. Attend career fairs to connect with employers.
3. Attend a Seminar Series through the Department of Chemistry.
4. Register as a student member with industry associations such as the Biological Sciences Association of Manitoba (BAM), Canadian Institute of Food Science and Technology, Manitoba Environmental Industries Association and attend professional development events.
5. Develop professional connections with professors by applying for an Undergraduate Research Award.

Market your skills: Develop your resumé and cover letter and refine your interview skills.

VOLUNTEER & WORK EXPERIENCE

Explore student research opportunities: Apply for a research assistant position, Undergraduate Research Award or NSERC grant.

Check out student job opportunities with: Companies, government and not for profit organizations through industry directories and employer associations (see bottom of page)

Earn while you learn: Consider applying to the Science Co-operative education program.

CULTURAL OPPORTUNITIES

Develop global career skills and expand intercultural learning: Consider an international student exchange or service-learning program, My World Abroad or SWAP for a "working holiday".

Staying local? Check out the WUSC Student Refugee Program or Community Engaged Learning. Practice your use of additional languages through the Language Partner Volunteer Program.

ACADEMIC SUCCESS

Course requirements: 
Refer to the Academic Calendar for course requirements in your program.

To do this year:

1. Meet with the department or a science advisor to discuss course selection.
2. Use UM Achieve to prepare a plan for registration.
3. Meet with your co-op advisor (if applicable).
4. Consider focusing your education by choosing an area of specialization and selecting courses within your stream.

CAREER TIPS

Investigate your career options:

1. Look at sample job postings to ensure you have the qualifications upon graduation.
2. Develop employability and essential skills sought by employers.
3. Explore supports available to entrepreneurs for business planning including the Stu Clarke Centre for Entrepreneurship, World Trade Centre Winnipeg, and the Manitoba Government.
4. Create a LinkedIn profile to network with professionals.

Consider continuing your studies: Check out the Faculty of Graduate Studies, Extended Education or other professional programs.

VOLUNTEER & WORK EXPERIENCE

Continue your research: Participate in the Undergraduate Research Poster Competition.

Gain practical experience by volunteering: Check out Let’s Talk Science, Science FUNdamentals, Winnipeg Regional Health Authority.

Search for job opportunities online: Check out UM Connect, Biotalent, Eco Canada, BAM, and other search engines.

Use your networks and connections: Inquire about unadvertised job openings (the “hidden job market”). 

CULTURAL OPPORTUNITIES

Did you travel abroad? Become an exchange mentor for the International Student Mentorship Program, join the exchange student community at the University of Manitoba or write an article about your experience.

Participate in the multicultural opportunities on campus such as the Intercultural Development and Leadership Program, volunteer for the International Student Mentorship Program or take part in Graduation Pow Wow.

ACADEMIC SUCCESS

Course requirements: Run an audit in UM Achieve for your course requirements in your Honours or Major program and refer to the Academic Calendar.

To do this year:

1. Meet with your department advisor and an academic advisor for Honours or Major program approval.
2. Meet with your Co-op Advisor (if applicable).
3. Confirm eligibility to graduate with an academic advisor and declare intent to graduate in Aurora.

CAREER TIPS

Start job search 9 months in advance: Contact Career Services to refine your job search and self-marketing strategies. You can visit the office up to 6 months after graduation.

If you are continuing on to graduate school: Finalize your application materials and required tests. Use the awards database to search for funding and awards to help finance your continuing education. Contact your department to find out how their awards deadlines are advertised.

VOLUNTEER & WORK EXPERIENCE

Ensure you have references in place: Ask your professor for a reference or a letter of recommendation if you're applying for graduate school.

Find opportunities to market yourself: Present your research at the Canadian Chemistry Conference.

Assess your resumé: Identify any gaps in experience and fill them through volunteering, work placements or internships such as the Post-Secondary Recruitment Program.

CULTURAL OPPORTUNITIES

Prepare to work in a multicultural environment: Visit Canada's National Research Centre for Truth and Reconciliation on campus.

Sample jobs with an undergraduate degree and related experience

• Brewer
• Chemical Technician
• Environmental Assessment Specialist
• Food Safety Coordinator
• Forensic Specialist
• Health and Safety Officer
• Junior Chemist
• Laboratory Analyst
• Laboratory Technologist
• Science Policy Analyst
• Technical Sales Representative
• Quality Control Technician
• Water Quality Technician

Options requiring other education

• Chemist
• Dietitian
• Engineer
• Materials Scientist
• Medical Doctor
• Medical Laboratory Technologist
• Pharmacist
• Pharmacologist/Toxicologist
• Physician Assistant
• Science Teacher
• Technical Writer
• University Professor

Industries like aerospace, biotechnology, business, education, medicine, and pharmaceutical development would value a Chemistry degree in combination with the employability skills that are highly sought after by employers. These include:*

• Oral and written communication
• Numeracy & data use
• Critical thinking
• Problem solving
• Teamwork
• Digital literacy
• Industry specific knowledge
• Continuous learning

*Information has been adapted from Employability Skills 2000⁺ and Workplace Education Manitoba – Essential Skills.

Details of that report can be found here.