About
Chemistry is a central science that underlies all natural, health and applied science disciplines. Students in science, engineering, and health science programs will have a learning advantage over their peers by having a better understanding of the chemical foundations that underlie their disciplines and professions. Graduates from these programs will enjoy an advantage in competitive program enrolment and employment by being able to demonstrate integral/advanced knowledge of the foundational core areas of chemistry.
Chemistry Foundations I will recognize completion of foundational courses in the Chemical Sciences. Chemistry Foundations II will recognize a student’s advanced proficiency in fundamental concepts in the course areas of Chemistry.
- Two-year certificate
- Part-time program
- You may enter this program directly from high school
- You may enrol at either the P.A. or Saskatoon USask campus
What you will learn
Students completing Chemistry Foundations I will understand the foundational concepts in pure chemistry, including a broad introduction to structure and bonding, thermochemistry and kinetics, synthesis, and characterization. This knowledge will be useful to individuals teaching chemistry at a high school level and for those completing programs in other disciplines where a familiarity with foundational chemistry concepts will be advantageous.
Students completing Chemistry Foundations II will achieve advanced proficiency in the concepts in the core areas of chemistry (analytical, inorganic, organic, and physical), with specialization in one (or more) sub-disciplinary area. This knowledge will be useful to individuals who seek an advanced secondary school chemistry teaching specialty, and for those completing programs in other disciplines where an advanced knowledge of the foundational areas of pure chemistry will be an asset.
CHEM 112.3 General Chemistry I Structure Bonding and Properties of Materials
Topics include atoms and molecules, bonding, molecular structure, intermolecular forces, states of matter, and properties of materials. The laboratory illustrates material covered in the lectures.
CHEM 242.3 Thermodynamics and Kinetics
The study of the structure of matter and the changes it undergoes. Topics include properties of materials, thermodynamics, chemical equilibria and chemical kinetics. The laboratory provides experience with the use of physical-chemical equipment and problem-solving skills.
CHEM 250.3 Introduction to Organic Chemistry
An introduction to organic chemistry; students will learn to name organic compounds, predict some of the properties and reactivity of compounds based on molecular structure, and grasp the importance of these concepts and their application to all sciences and life in general. Almost all the reactions in living matter involve organic compounds, and it is impossible to understand the molecular processes of living systems without knowing organic chemistry. CHEM 250.3 is intended as a basis for other courses, and a beginning for understanding organic and bio-organic chemistry. The laboratory will introduce students to basic chemical laboratory skills frequently used in organic chemistry.
The Course and Program Catalogue has the complete and official listing of required classes and their descriptions for this program.
The Chemistry Foundations certificate programs are unique to USask among the prairie provinces.
Hands-on experience
The majority of classes needed for these programs include both a lecture and a hands-on lab experience in which students will develop skills necessary to the study and application of chemistry techniques.
Facilities
You will receive hands-on education in our new, modern laboratories equipped with state-of-the-art instrumentation.
Careers
Integrating this certificate with further studies, you can seek employment in a variety of areas. Your knowledge of chemistry is very important in many aspect of the engineering, health and science world.
The following are a few opportunities:
- Brewmaster
- Chemical Technician
- Chemist
- Engineer
- Environmental Scientist
- Lab Technician
- Medical Laboratory Technologist
- Teacher
- Technical Writer
- Water Quality Analyst
Tuition estimates
| Canadian students | International students | |
|---|---|---|
| Tuition | $815 per 3 credit unit class | $3,945 per 3 credit unit class |
| Student fees | $1,121 per year | $1,121 per year |
Tuition will vary depending on the type and number of classes you take in a year. This estimate reflects a typical amount you could expect to pay per class (2024-2025 Canadian dollar rates).
Student fees are used to fund specific student benefits, including health, vision and dental coverage, a bus pass, recreational programs and fitness centre access. This estimate reflects the price you would pay if you are a full-time student.
The cost of books and supplies varies widely depending on the courses you choose. It is recommended that you budget between $1,500-$2,500 for this program.
Program options
This certificate is offered by the College of Arts and Science. You may earn the certificate on its own, concurrently with a degree program from this college or others, or after completing a degree.
If you are already enrolled at USask, consult your academic advisor regarding enrolling in this program.
The Course and Program Catalogue has the complete and official listing of required classes and their descriptions for this program.
International students:
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The College of Arts and Science strongly recommends that international students do not enrol in a certificate program alone, as course offerings per term and program length may not be sufficient to maintain eligibility for a study permit, on/off-campus work permit, or post-graduation work permit when taken as a stand-alone program.
If you are interested in pursuing a certificate program, plan to enrol in your certificate of interest only alongside a degree. Learn more by visiting the International Student Guide and connect with an academic advisor if you are interested in adding a certificate to your degree program after you become a student!
- International Student Guide
- Academic advising
Admission requirements and deadlines
Deadlines
Ready to apply?
If you are a current USask student, consult your academic advisor about enrolling in this program.
To apply to this program as a new student, create an admissions account and apply for admission to any undergraduate program in the College of Arts and Science. When you are ready to submit your application, you will be assessed a non-refundable application fee of $120 CAD. After you are admitted, declare your plans to the college.
If you are interested in more information about this certificate, please contact student-advice@artsandscience.usask.ca