Hey so I am a transfer student that recently transferred to McMaster from another university. I wanted to get answers to a few questions if possible. I am a 2nd year student technically, going into chemical engineering.

1. Firstly, after receiving all my transfer credits, I still need to take 4 1st year courses. If I finish those courses in the fall semester, can I take the second year engineering courses in the winter semester?

2. If I am not able to take them in the winter semester, is it possible to take them in the summer?

Any further advice would also be appreciated

First, make sure the courses that you want to take are actually offered in first term.
Second, you should probably speak with an academic advisor from engineering. They know best what can be done for your specific situation.

There is a solid chance that second year winter term classes have courses from first term as prerequisites. So it is completely in your best interest to schedule a meeting with the academic advisor to see if anything can be done for you.

Unfortunately many engineering courses are not offered in the summer. :(

Academic advisors are definitely your best bet here. Best of luck!