PhD in Chemistry

Learn how to identify, separate and measure chemical substances using modern analytical techniques.

Approximate solutions of the Schrödinger equation and calculations of atomic and molecular properties.

Physical organic chemistry, including a discussion of reactive intermediates, substituent effects, pericyclic reactions, radical chemistry and a basic theoretical description of the bonding in organic molecules.

Conduct original research that contributes new knowledge to chemistry and defend your findings in a doctoral thesis.

Admission Requirements

An applicant is eligible for admission to the PhD program at the discretion of the director. In general, an applicant must possess the qualifications listed for the MSc program, together with a Master of Science degree comparable to those awarded by North American universities and suitable references from the institution at which the MSc degree was awarded. However, direct admission to the PhD program is available to applicants with an overall A standing in an Honours B.Sc. degree.

A total of 3 references must be presented, which must be from academic sources (faculty, lecturer, etc.). Your referees will be emailed with instructions on submitting forms electronically. The reference form looks for an evaluation of the applicant’s preparation for graduate study, range of abilities and accomplishments, and creative and intellectual promise.

Supplementary Information

Completed areas of research interest, goals and objectives (Supplementary Information Form).

Additional Documentation (if applicable)

• English Proficiency Certification. English tests are considered valid within two years of the start of a program, not when you apply.
• GRE – The GRE and the GRE subject area test in chemistry and/or biochemistry are not required.
• Funding Support Letter. If an applicant will be funded through scholarships provided by their country or institution, this letter must be provided, detailing the duration and level of funding.
• Proof of Immigration Status (if applicable). Permanent Residents of Canada must provide a copy (front and back) of their Record of Landing form (IMM 1000) or Permanent Residence card.

Complete application submission instructions may also be found on the Office of Graduate Studies webpage or in the Graduate Calendar.

Direct Entry from a B.Sc.

Outstanding students with an overall ‘A’ standing at the undergraduate level may be eligible for direct admission to the PhD program. Students admitted directly to the PhD program from a BSc must successfully complete one semester-long course beyond those required for the master of science degree. In addition, students must also complete CHEM*7950 PhD Seminar, pass an oral qualifying examination in their major field, and submit and defend an acceptable thesis. The Direct Entry PhD program is typically completed in 15 terms.

Direct Transfer from an M.Sc.

Exceptional M.Sc. students may be eligible to transfer directly into the PhD program before completing all master’s requirements. Applicants should demonstrate strong academic performance, research potential, and effective communication skills. Students complete graduate coursework, seminars, an oral comprehensive examination, and a thesis defence as part of the PhD program.

Entry points for the PhD in Chemistry are Fall (September), Winter (January), and Summer (May). The application deadline is August 31 (domestic) and February 1 (international) for Fall; December 31 (domestic) and June 1 (international) for Winter; May 1 (domestic) and October 1 of the previous year (international) for Summer. International applicants are encouraged to apply at least nine months in advance of their start date, and all applicants are advised to apply as early as possible due to supervisor availability.

The PhD in Chemistry is typically completed in four years of full-time study or eight years of part-time study.

Full funding is typically provided for full-time, thesis-based students (who do not receive external funding) through a combination of scholarships, teaching assistantships, and/or research assistantships. For more information about funding your graduate studies at Guelph, please visit Funding Graduate Studies.

The Office of Graduate and Postdoctoral studies provides estimated annual full-time tuition, fees, and living expenses for graduate students at the University of Guelph: Tuition, Fees and Cost of Living.

The Guelph-Waterloo Centre for Graduate Work in Chemistry and Biochemistry, (GWC)², is housed in the Chemistry Departments at the University of Guelph and Waterloo, two of Canada’s leading Universities. A diverse team of world-class faculty from both Departments provide research opportunities in a myriad of chemical research areas.

PhD students may enhance their studies by pursuing a collaborative specialization alongside their degree:

• Toxicology: The collaborative specialization is the focal point for graduate teaching and research in toxicology.

Learn more about Toxicology and eligibility in the Graduate Calendar.