Chemistry

Chemistry is an enabling science that provides a foundation for fields such as education, technology and the environment.

You’ll learn the fundamentals of general, physical, organic and inorganic chemistry and specialise in areas such as:

synthetic chemistry, where you explore the synthesis of complex molecules used in drugs, explosives, paints and cosmetics
computational chemistry, involving the use of advanced theoretical calculations and high-power supercomputers to understand and predict the structures and reactivities of molecules and short-lived intermediate species
nanoscience, to explore the processes of self-assembly enabling the controlled arrangement of atoms and molecules and the chemistry at interfaces
medicinal chemistry, to explore molecular design and the modification of compound properties to enhance pharmaceutical applications as evaluated through bioassays.

All of these areas involve access to advanced instrumental techniques and the development of skills that employers value.

You will be equipped to pursue a diverse range of career opportunities. These include roles as a chemist, materials scientist, environmental scientist, biochemist, toxicologist or forensic scientist.

Other jobs include scientific journalist, quality assurance manager, pharmaceutical sales representative, patent examiner, teacher, and roles in marketing and conservation.

This major is accredited by the Royal Australian Chemical Institute.

Highlights

1 in Queensland for chemistry

QS World University Rankings 2024

Career possibilities

Our programs prepare you for your first job and beyond. Here are some of the careers you could be on your way to:

Chemist
Materials scientist
Environmental scientist
Biochemist
Toxicologist
Medical laboratory scientist
Pharmaceutical scientist

$40K–$85K

compared.edu.au

Employers value transferable skills such as problem solving and analytical skills that are acquired and developed throughout the UQ science program. Studying at UQ gave me the opportunity to learn from leading researchers and gave me insight into their world class research

Michelle Dintner

Graduate, Bachelor of Science in Chemistry, Master of Commerce

During my science degree I had the opportunity to work alongside accomplished researchers and work on active research projects. It was a great learning experience for me and helped me with my own research later on in life.

Bianca McCarthy

Graduate, Bachelor of Science (Honours) (Chemistry)

Studying at UQ gave me a strong technical background and plenty of opportunities to be actively involved in cutting-edge research to ensure I was well equipped to rapidly acquire the skills and knowledge needed to become an expert within my field.

Katelin Haynes

Graduate, Bachelor of Science (Honours) (Biochemistry and Molecular Biology)