Bachelor of Science (Chemistry)

Overview

• Learn the basics before developing a more detailed understanding of analytical, inorganic, organic, and physical chemistry.
• Complete a one-semester research project in your final year, and take field trips to major industrial sites.
• Choose a degree that's recognised by employers for its analytical chemistry component and focus on safe laboratory practices.
• Prepare for a career as an industrial chemist, materials scientist, environmental chemist, quality control analyst, laboratory supervisor, food chemist, or an organic/inorganic chemist.
• Learn in our new multimillion dollar research and teaching facilities.

Details

Chemists are involved in most areas of science, technology, environment and industry; for example, medicinal drugs, nanotechnology, water and air quality and energy production. Manufacturing industries rely on chemists to ensure that quality and safety standards are maintained. The development of better and safer drugs depends heavily on the input of chemists.

Chemistry is the study of structures, properties, synthesis and reactions of molecules and materials. It is the enabling science fundamental to many other scientific disciplines, including biotechnology, environmental science, geosciences, materials science and food science.

At QUT you will study analytical, physical, organic and inorganic chemistry with an additional focus on modern applications such as nanotechnology, analytical chemistry, and spectroscopy.

Why choose this course?

QUT chemistry is a qualification that is known and respected by employers. Many employers prefer QUT chemistry graduates, especially those with an extension minor in chemistry, because of their advanced technical skills, their experience with modern instrumentation and their training in scientific communication.

Through a mix of theory and practice, you will develop a depth of knowledge and skills in chemical principles and concepts. This will equip you to apply chemical and generic scientific techniques to develop solutions to real-world problems throughout your professional career.

After two years’ study, you will be eligible to apply for the Queensland Health Analytical Chemistry Scholarship (available only to QUT chemistry students), which pays $21 000 for your third year, with guaranteed employment for two years after graduation#.

The Chemistry major includes Analytical Chemistry and a strong focus on safe laboratory practice, which sets it apart from many Chemistry course at other institutions. These attributes are well known and respected amongst employers of Chemists in Queensland. You will learn under the guidance of highly respected lecturers, most of whom are actively involved in cutting-edge research.

As a QUT Chemistry graduate, you will have developed a thorough understanding of chemistry principles and advanced concepts in chemistry and have a demonstrated ability to extrapolate and adapt knowledge, skills and applications into industry and research practice with technical proficiency. You will also develop effective communication skills to promote your outcomes within the scientific and broader communities.

The coverage of frontier areas of Chemistry and the opportunities to undertake research during your studies, will also prepare you for the opportunity of post-graduate study and a research career.

Career outcomes

Chemistry at QUT has strong links to the Chemistry profession through direct involvement with the Royal Australian Chemical Institute, employers of our past graduates and QUT Chemistry alumni.

Career opportunities are many and include diverse roles in:

• Chemistry-related manufacturing industries, including petroleum, mining and minerals processing, plastics, pharmaceuticals and food,
• Public instrumentalities and Government bodies, including careers in policy-making in areas such as water and wastewater treatment and environmental monitoring,
• Chemistry education, science communication or scientific instrument sales and/or development, and
• Research in public research institutes or private research and development facilities.

Your interaction with QUT researchers in current fields of interest, including drug development, clay and minerals chemistry, renewable energy sources, nanotechnology, environmental monitoring, and applications of modern analytical instrumentation, may lead to careers in these areas.

Professional recognition

Accreditation by the Royal Australian Chemical Institute is being sought. Application for Graduate membership is expected to be possible where the Chemistry major is combined with specific Minors. Application for Associate membership is expected to be possible for all Chemistry graduates regardless of second study areas.

Studied at university or TAFE before?

Bachelor of Science is a new course, and we're only offering first year units in 2013.

This means if you're offered a place in 2013 and you're eligible for at least the first year of credit for prior learning (advanced standing), you'll be admitted to Bachelor of Applied Science (SC01).

Units

Entry requirements

Minimum academic requirements

Did you complete secondary school in Australia?

Course fees

Your actual fees may vary depending on which units you choose. All fees are based on current fixed fee prices. We review fees annually.

Scholarships and financial support

You can apply for scholarships to help you with study and living costs.

These scholarships are available for this course:

View all scholarships