Honours BSc Biochemistry and BASc Chemical Engineering

Integrated Masters with deeper specialization and research focus
Taught in English
Duration 6 Years
Mode On Campus
Level Undergraduate
Degree Bachelors Degree
Next Intake TBA

Course Overview

The Honours BSc Biochemistry and BASc Chemical Engineering at the University of Ottawa is designed for ambitious students seeking to bridge the fundamental principles of life sciences with the innovative applications of engineering. This dual-degree program prepares you for impactful careers in rapidly advancing sectors such as biotechnology, pharmaceuticals, and biochemical engineering, where a deep understanding of both molecular biology and chemical processes is essential. You will develop a robust scientific foundation and gain the problem-solving and technical skills critical for addressing complex challenges in health, sustainability, and industrial development.

This comprehensive, full-time, on-campus program is studied over six years, providing an immersive educational experience. You will engage with rigorous coursework in organic chemistry, numerical methods, thermodynamics, and molecular biology, alongside practical laboratory sessions and a significant honours project or thesis. The curriculum is enhanced by opportunities for Co-operative Education placements, allowing you to gain invaluable industry experience. You will graduate with a dual qualification, equipped to pursue diverse professional pathways in research, development, and management within leading scientific and engineering organisations.

Course Curriculum & Details

Detailed information for serious evaluators

Program Overview

This program offers a comprehensive education in both Biochemistry and Chemical Engineering, integrating foundational scientific principles with advanced engineering applications. Students will explore core concepts in biology, chemistry, and engineering, progressing through specialized courses in areas such as metabolism, protein structure, fluid flow, heat transfer, and process design. The curriculum culminates in an honours project and extensive practical experience, preparing graduates for diverse careers in research, development, and industry.

1 Basic Skills (3 Units)

Technical Report Writing

2 Compulsory First-Year Courses (30 Units)

Introduction to Organismal Biology
Introduction to Cell and Molecular Biology
Chemical Engineering Fundamentals 1
Numerical Methods and Engineering Computation in Chemical Engineering
Principles of Chemistry
Organic Chemistry I
Introduction to Engineering Design
Engineering Mechanics
Introduction to Computing I
Calculus I
Calculus II
Introduction to Linear Algebra
Fundamentals of Physics II

3 Compulsory Second-Year Courses (24 Units)

Introduction to Biochemistry
Genetics
Organic Chemistry II
Laboratory of Organic Chemistry II
Physical Chemistry: Introduction to the Molecular Properties of Matter
Analytical Chemistry
Ordinary Differential Equations and Numerical Methods
Engineering Economics
Introduction to Product Development for Engineers and Computer Scientists

4 Compulsory Third-Year Courses (30 Units)

General Intermediary Metabolism
Protein Structure and Function
Molecular Biology
Biochemistry Laboratory II
Molecular Biology Laboratory
General Microbiology
Cell Biology
Fluid Flow
Heat Transfer Operations
Introduction to Chemical Process Analysis and Design
Fundamentals and Applications of Chemical Engineering Thermodynamics
Calculus III for Engineers
Technology, Society and Environment Since 1850
Scientific Thought and Social Values

5 Compulsory Fourth-Year Courses (30 Units)

Topics in Biotechnology
Biochemistry Seminar 2
Unit Operations
Process Synthesis, Design, and Economics
Chemical Engineering Practice
Chemical Reaction Engineering
Advanced Materials in Chemical Engineering
Transport Phenomena
Principles of Phase Equilibria and Chemical Reaction Equilibria
Process Control

6 Honours Project (9 Units)

Honours Research – Biochemistry

7 Compulsory Fifth-Year Courses (33 Units)

Data Collection and Interpretation
Chemical Engineering Laboratory
Plant Design Project
Process Risk Management and Sustainability
Computer-Aided Design in Chemical Engineering
Biochemical Engineering
Engineering Law

8 Fifth-Year Options (6 Units)

9 Electives (6 Units)

Cost & Affordability

A clear picture of what this course will cost you

Program Costs

First Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 30,726.00
Second Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 30,726.00
Third Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 30,726.00
Fourth Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 30,726.00
Fifth Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 30,726.00
Sixth Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 30,726.00
Total Program Cost Estimated total tuition
USD 184,358.00

Currency note: Program costs shown in USD based on the available tuition breakdown.

Living Costs

Accommodation
USD 937.00 - USD 1,171.00
Food & Groceries USD 5,981.00 - USD 6,068.00
Transport USD 867.00 - USD 1,041.00
Utilities & Bills USD 1,734.00 - USD 2,167.00
Estimated Total USD 8,582.00 - USD 9,276.00

Living cost estimates are based on Ottawa Campus.

Outcomes & Employability

What happens after you graduate

97%
Graduate Employment Rate Within 6 to 12 months of graduation

Common Graduate Roles

Coal & Consumable FuelsEnergy Engineering & InfrastructureEnergy Policy & RegulationEnergy Trading & MarketsHome Health & Long‑Term CareHydropower & Alternative RenewablesMental Health & CounselingPower Generation & UtilitiesPublic Health & EpidemiologyRenewable Energy (Solar & Wind)

Top Employers Hiring for this course

Environment and Climate Change Canada

Health Canada

Why Study Honours BSc Biochemistry and BASc Chemical Engineering at University of Ottawa

What makes this program stand out

Top 20 in UK For Computer Science

Exeter's Computer Science department consistently ranks among the top 20 in the UK for both teaching quality and research output.

Fast Offers Quick turnaround

Exeter typically responds to applications within 2-3 weeks, giving you clarity on your options quickly.

Flexible Intakes September start

Primary intake in September with January start available for some pathways through the INTO foundation program.

Accredited Industry recognized

Accredited by BCS, The Chartered Institute for IT, meeting requirements for Chartered IT Professional (CITP) status.

Life at University of Ottawa in Canada

What daily life looks like for international students

Language

English

Primary language everywhere

Climate

Mild & Rainy

10-20°C average, pack layers

Safety (Numbeo Safety Index)

Very Safe

Exeter is one of UK's safest cities

Frequently Asked Questions

Common questions about Honours BSc Biochemistry and BASc Chemical Engineering at University of Ottawa

Can I work while studying?

International students can work up to 24 hours per week off-campus during term time. They can work unlimited hours during breaks and on-campus without a separate work permit.

What English language score do I need for this course?

Applicants must meet specific English proficiency scores: Duolingo (overall 120), TOEFL (overall 86), IELTS (overall 6.5), and PTE (overall 60). Scores must meet minimum requirements in listening, reading, speaking, and writing.

What jobs can I get after studying this course?

Potential job titles include Research Scientist, Biochemist, Laboratory Technician, Clinical Research Coordinator, and Quality Control Analyst.

What will I actually study in this course?

The Honours BSc in Biochemistry offers a deep understanding of biological processes and the molecular basis of human diseases. It prepares you for a career in medical research and provides options for majoring or minoring in biochemistry.

When can I start — what are the intake months?

The course intake begins in September. Make sure to apply in advance to secure your place.
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