Encompassing the synthesis and study of molecules and materials, you will explore their properties and develop new ways to use them. You will understand the mechanisms of reactions and processes that occur at the molecular level and the chemical principles underpinning disciplines such as biochemistry, engineering, food science, materials science, nanotechnology and pharmacy. You may choose to focus on a particular area of chemistry such as synthetic chemistry, polymer chemistry, computational chemistry or surface chemistry.

There is a high demand for chemistry graduates. Employment opportunities for chemists are numerous and diverse, in both specific and broad areas. A chemistry degree is one of the most versatile you can obtain because of the fundamental nature of the discipline, and also because it can be combined with so many other sciences, leading to powerful and sought-after skills. Examples of the types of careers for chemists are:

• Environmental and Analytical Chemists - May work in the pharmaceutical industry, environmental testing, or forensic science laboratories
• Research Chemists - May work in universities, scientific institutes, government or the private sector
• Chemistry teachers - Can gain employment in secondary or tertiary institutions

In addition, chemists may be employed in diverse roles in private companies, local councils, state and federal government regulatory authorities (such as the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), and CSIRO), universities and hospitals.

This major is accredited by the Royal Australian Chemical Institute for the educational relevance of its chemistry content.