COURSE CURRICULUM

The Department of Chemistry Graduate Studies program at StFX offers a research-intensive, thesis-based Master of Science degree designed to provide students with advanced training in chemical research and scholarship. The MSc program requires the completion of 36 total credits, consisting of 12 credits of graduate-level coursework and 24 credits dedicated to original research. The coursework component is equivalent to four one-term graduate courses and allows students to build advanced theoretical knowledge and technical skills that support their research focus. The research component forms the core of the program and includes hands-on laboratory or theoretical research, the preparation of a written thesis based on original work, and a formal thesis defence. Through this structure, students develop strong competencies in experimental design, data analysis, critical thinking, and scientific communication. The program emphasizes academic rigor and high standards, requiring students to achieve a minimum passing grade of 70 in each graduate course and to maintain an overall average of at least 70 throughout their studies. This combination of advanced coursework and substantial independent research prepares graduates for further academic study at the doctoral level, as well as for research-oriented careers in industry, government, and other science-based professional fields.