Chemical engineering is at the intersection of many disciplines, linking knowledge of basic and applied sciences, economics, and health and safety. Chemical engineering graduates use a series of operations to sustainably process raw natural materials into finished products. They work in any number of industries and during their careers, they may face a variety of challenges, such as optimizing processes and monitoring pollution, converting waste materials into renewable energy, processing foods and drugs, and manufacturing new materials.

The Chemical Engineering program is accredited by the Canadian Engineering Accreditation Board (CEAB). Learn more about the uOttawa Engineering accreditation and the attributes gained during your academic journey.

Studies made for you

Programs available

Regular path - 4 years

Chemical Engineering

Dual fast-track degree - 5 years

CO-OP

With the Co-operative Education (CO-OP) Program, you can gain hands-on experience in your field of study while you complete your degree.

CO-OP program requirements, employers, salaries, and details

Languages

  • This program is offered in English and in French.
  • All courses are offered in English.
  • French courses are available in first and second year, and are very limited in third and fourth year.

Suggested course sequences

Explore your options and see which courses you'll be taking each year.
Explore the detailed course sequences

Careers

  • Agricultural engineer
  • Bio-resource engineer
  • Food technology engineer
  • Chemical engineer
  • Petroleum engineer
  • Process engineer
  • Petrochemical engineer
  • Biotechnological engineer
  • Environmental engineer
  • Biomedical engineer

Salary and placement rate

Estimated salary: $69,460 - $91,278

Job placement rates: Employment rate 2 years after graduation: 89.6%

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Student testimonial

“I recommend uOttawa because it provides opportunities to do undergraduate research with exceptional professors and to pursue diverse employment opportunities through the CO-OP program.”

Benjamin King

— Chemical Engineering Graduate, with CO-OP

Admission requirements

Admission averages vary between English and French programs. See the French page for the French program requirements.

Please note these minimum requirements are subject to change without notice. Since the number of qualified applicants is typically greater than the number of available spaces, cut-off averages vary. Admission is not guaranteed.  

See the full undergraduate admission requirements for more information. 

General requirements

A minimum combined average of 70% is required for all prerequisite courses in science and mathematics.

Prerequisite courses

  • English 4U or Français 4U
  • Advanced Functions 4U
  • Calculus and Vectors 4U
  • Chemistry 4U
  • Physics 4U

Admission average: mid 80s

Contact us

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If you have questions about this program, send us an email

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Join one of our online drop-in information sessions for future students to ask your questions.