Chemistry is the branch of science focusing on the formation, unique properties and reactions of elements, matter and substances. A degree in chemistry is designed to help students understand the chemical processes that underpin life and matter.
Chemistry is a broad subject with many specialist fields ranging from medicine to cosmetics to materials production. As such, chemists play an important and continuous role in our society and economy.
A degree in chemistry will enable you to specialise in the modules and areas that interest you. Studying chemistry will prepare you for a career in several scientific or health fields. You will need to have an aptitude for science and maths before starting your course, but are taught all the essential skills needed to become a chemist.
Subjects related to chemistry include chemical engineering, biochemistry, forensic science, materials technology and natural sciences.
Studying chemistry at the undergraduate level typically takes between three and four years, depending on your study destination, degree and mode of study. A postgraduate chemistry degree may take one to three years.
Chemistry can be studied at certificate, diploma, associate degree, bachelor’s degree, master’s degree and PhD level. Chemistry is typically taught as a mixture of lectures, seminars, tutorials and laboratory work.
You’ll be expected to engage in group work at times and also conduct your research and experiments. Some chemistry degrees offer an industrial placement where you can practise and improve your skills within a working environment in a specific industry. Some areas that you may cover in a chemistry degree include:
1. Astrochemistry
2. Biological and medicinal chemistry
3. Computational chemistry
4. Environmental and sustainable chemistry
5. Genetics
6. Nanotechnology
7. Physical chemistry
8. Quantitative chemistry
Some chemistry specialisations include biochemistry, neurochemistry, nuclear chemistry, and theoretical chemistry.
To study chemistry abroad, you will need to meet basic entry requirements. Whilst these vary between institutions, generally you will need:
1. Three A-Levels (or equivalent).
2. To have studied chemistry at A-Level (or equivalent).
3. Some universities may also ask that you have an A-Level in a second science or maths.
4. Results equivalent to AAB at A-Level / International Baccalaureate score of 35 points.
At the postgraduate level, you will usually need to have attained a 2:1 in chemistry or a closely related undergraduate degree. At the postgraduate level, you may need to have experience working or job shadowing in a laboratory.
To enrol on any chemistry degree, you will likely also need an overall IELTS score of 6.5 with a score no lower than 5.5 in any one band. Always check with your prospective university before you apply to make sure they will accept your existing qualifications.
If you want to study chemistry overseas but aren’t sure which country or university to choose, you can explore some of the top-rated institutions for the subject. The QS World University Rankings by subject lists the top five universities in the world to study chemistry:
1. Harvard University
2. Massachusetts Institute of Technology
3. University of Cambridge
4. Stanford University
5. University of Oxford
If you hope to study chemistry in Canada as an international student, why not consider one of the top three institutions in the country for chemistry, according to the Times Higher Education World University Rankings by subject:
1. University of Toronto
2. University of British Columbia
3. McGill University
Or perhaps you’re interested in studying chemistry in Australia. The top three Australian universities for studying chemistry, according to the Times Higher Education World University Rankings by subject are:
1. Australian National University
2. University of Melbourne
3. University of Queensland
Chemists are in demand globally, and a degree in chemistry may give you a chance to work internationally. The amount you may expect to earn as a chemist will vary depending on your career path and industry.
A graduate chemist in the UK can typically expect to earn GBP 18,000 to GBP 25,000. With experience and/or a postgraduate qualification, you can expect this amount to rise considerably. For example, a biochemist in the UK may earn up to GBP 50,000. Some roles you can fulfil or are related to your chemistry degree include:
1. Biochemist
2. Forensic scientist
3. Medicinal chemist
4. Pharmacologist
5. Nanotechnologist
6. Researcher
7. School teacher
8. University lecturer
The primary employers of chemists include academic institutions, governmental laboratories, and pharmaceutical and cosmetics companies.
