University of Saskatchewan

What you'll study

The Master of Science in Chemistry at the University of Saskatchewan emphasises original research supervised by a faculty member, combined with advanced coursework to broaden and deepen chemical knowledge. Students typically undertake a programme composed of a thesis project plus a selection of graduate-level courses drawn from core areas including physical chemistry, inorganic chemistry, organic chemistry, analytical chemistry and materials chemistry.

• Research thesis: The central element is an independent research project carried out in a faculty laboratory. Projects span areas such as catalysis, spectroscopy, nanomaterials, environmental and atmospheric chemistry, polymer and materials chemistry, computational/theoretical chemistry, and bioanalytical chemistry.
• Coursework: Graduate courses may cover advanced physical chemistry (quantum mechanics, statistical mechanics), advanced spectroscopy, organometallic and inorganic reaction mechanisms, synthetic methods in organic chemistry, analytical methods and chemometrics, and materials science topics.
• Skills and training: Students gain practical laboratory skills, experimental design, data analysis, scientific writing and presentation, safety and good laboratory practice, and training in research ethics. Opportunities exist for interdisciplinary collaboration with centres on campus.
• Facilities: Graduate students have access to modern instrumentation and core facilities, including high-field NMR, mass spectrometry, electron microscopy, X-ray diffraction and the Canadian Light Source synchrotron located on campus, which supports advanced spectroscopy and materials characterisation.

Entry requirements

Applicants should hold a four-year honours degree or equivalent in chemistry or a closely related discipline with strong preparation in core chemistry subjects. Admission is typically based on academic performance, an indication of research potential, and availability of a research supervisor.

• Academic background: A solid undergraduate record with substantial coursework in physical, organic, inorganic and analytical chemistry is expected.
• Research fit: Prospective students are usually required to identify and contact potential supervisors whose research aligns with their interests; a letter of intent or research proposal strengthens the application.
• Supporting documents: Applications generally require transcripts, curriculum vitae, letters of reference, and a statement of purpose. International applicants must demonstrate English language proficiency through accepted tests unless exempt.
• Funding and supervision: Admission often depends on securing a supervisor and available funding or teaching/research assistantships; applicants are encouraged to discuss potential funding with prospective supervisors.

Career prospects

Graduates of the MSc programme move into a wide range of careers where advanced chemical knowledge and research experience are valued. Common paths include:

• Research and development: Positions in chemical, pharmaceutical, materials, and biotechnology companies conducting product development and process optimisation.
• Analytical and quality laboratories: Roles in environmental and industrial testing labs, food and agricultural testing, and quality control across multiple sectors.
• Energy and natural resources: Employment with mining, oil and gas, and environmental remediation companies, particularly relevant in a resource-rich regional economy.
• Government and regulatory agencies: Scientific roles in government research institutes, public health laboratories, and regulatory bodies.
• Academic and further study: Many graduates continue to doctoral study (PhD) or enter teaching and postdoctoral research positions.
• Other careers: Opportunities in patent examination, technical consulting, scientific communication and data science where analytical and problem-solving skills are transferable.

Why study at University of Saskatchewan

The University of Saskatchewan offers a supportive research environment with strengths in materials chemistry, spectroscopy, environmental chemistry and interdisciplinary applications tied to agriculture and natural resources. The presence of the Canadian Light Source synchrotron on campus provides unique experimental capabilities for advanced structural and spectroscopic studies.

• Research expertise: Faculty conduct research across theoretical and experimental chemistry, enabling diverse thesis topics and collaborative projects with other units on campus.
• Facilities and resources: Access to modern instrumentation, core labs and campus-wide research centres enhances training and enables high-quality experimental work.
• Support for graduates: Graduate students benefit from mentorship, opportunities for teaching and research assistantships, and professional development workshops through the university's graduate college.
• Regional and industrial links: Strong ties with regional industries and government labs offer applied research opportunities and pathways to employment in sectors such as mining, agriculture, and environmental technology.