Can you guess what is the similarity between someone who is working on a cure for cancer, a person monitoring the ozone, and someone who is working on new textiles to be used in the latest fashions? They are all chemistry majors!
Contrary to the myth that the study of chemistry is restricted only to those who either want to get into research or teach the subject at a school or college, the subject has opened up so many different career opportunities for students across the globe. In fact employment rate for chemists is expected to grow at a fast rate over the next few years and will compete with other professions. Fast growth is expected especially in biotechnology, pharmaceuticals, food science and analytical chemistry.
As a chemist you study the composition and properties of chemicals and the way the chemicals interact with each other. Many leading U.S. universities offer accredited courses in chemistry at the postgraduate level. These courses allow you to get a basic foundation in physical, organic and analytical chemistry, and then take up optional or additional subjects in your specific area of interest. Master’s and doctorate degrees are offered in chemistry, with a specialization in a particular branch. Areas of concentrations or branches in chemistry at the master’s level include biochemistry, drug design, computational chemistry, quantum chemistry, and polymers. At the doctorate level, you could study environmental chemistry, organic chemistry or pharmaceutical chemistry.
Opportunities in the industry are plenty and in diverse fields of work. For example, a chemical engineer looks at the practical application of chemistry in areas like production and research. In other words, he/she applies their findings to large scale production.
An environmental chemist works with companies to ensure they comply with government regulations and the products they manufacture or the chemicals they use are environment friendly. They also help in assessing and mitigating environment pollution, and improve waste management techniques. You will also find chemists in the lab doing research work, doing field work, or at universities teaching. The career options are extensive both in India as well as abroad.
The excellent academics, flexibility in course curriculum, state-of-the-art facilities and the internship opportunities which U.S. colleges and universities are added advantages you can enjoy by doing your postgraduate studies in chemistry in the U.S.