Chemistry is sometimes called the ‘central science’ because it connects other sciences such as physics, biology and geology. It is science at a molecular level, where major advances are being made in areas such as medicine, IT, nanotechnology and new materials.

In this course you will gain the knowledge to become a skilled chemist. You'll study theoretical and practical aspects of chemistry, including synthesis, analysis and molecular modelling. Your learning will be largely laboratory-based, in Curtin’s Resources and Chemistry Precinct.

You'll also learn problem-solving, teamwork and critical analysis skills, which can open opportunities for other careers within science.

For your degree, you will specialise in one the following streams:

Analytical and Forensic Chemistry

In this stream you will learn how to use sophisticated scientific instruments to solve complex analytical problems.

You’ll develop effective problem-solving and decision-making skills within the ethical and professional context of analytical and forensic science.

Biological Chemistry

This is a crossover field of chemistry in which you will study the essential processes of life on the molecular level. 

You’ll use complex equipment and procedures to understand the biomolecular world, explore applications in biosensors and drug design, and monitor the effects that new substances, such as food additives and medicines, have on living organisms.

You could also have a role in discovering new molecular pathways to design and synthesise new medicines.

Geochemistry

In this stream you will study the chemical make-up of the Earth and other planets. You’ll focus on chemical reactions and processes that show how various soils and rocks are created.

Materials Science

This stream looks for connections between the underlying structure of a material, its properties and applications, and how processing changes the material.

You will study materials including metals, semiconductors, glasses, ceramics and polymers. You’ll also learn about analytical instruments and radiation that materials scientists use to investigate the microstructure of samples.

This major sits within the Bachelor of Science (Science) degree. It can also be studied as part of the Bachelor of Advanced Science course.

Why study

The Chemistry and Resources Precinct, supported by ChemCentre and BHP, provides exceptional facilities and an outstanding learning environment.

At Curtin, you'll study undergraduate chemistry in the same building as up to 300 practising graduate chemists – maximising your exposure to industry, potential employers and real-world applications of chemistry. In your third year there are opportunities to undertake research projects within those organisations, or collaboratively with your staff.

How this course will make you industry ready

In this course you are encouraged to undertake at least two weeks of work experience in industry.

You'll have the opportunity to undertake research projects with industry at the Resources and Chemistry Precinct, which accommodates Western Australia's primary analytical chemistry facility, ChemCentre.

Professional recognition

Graduates are eligible for membership of the Royal Australian Chemical Institute (RACI).

Careers

• Analytical chemist
• Environmental chemist
• Forensic scientist
• Materials scientist
• Medicinal chemist
• Synthetic chemist

Industries

• Environment
• Forensics
• Health
• Manufacturing
• Petrochemical engineering