Overview
Overview
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'll gain the knowledge to become a skilled chemist. You’ll study theoretical and practical aspects of chemistry, including synthesis, analysis and spectroscopy. 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.
You'll specialise in one the following streams:
Analytical and Forensic Chemistry
In this stream you'll learn how to use sophisticated scientific instruments to solve complex analytical problems.
You’ll also 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'll study the essential processes of life at 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.
Double degree options
You can study a Bachelor of Science (Chemistry) with either a Bachelor of Arts, Bachelor of Commerce or Bachelor of Engineering (Chemical Engineering).
How this course will make you industry ready
In this course you're encouraged to undertake at least two weeks of industry work experience.
You'll have the opportunity to undertake industry research projects at the Resources and Chemistry Precinct. The precinct accommodates Western Australia's primary analytical chemistry facility, ChemCentre.
What jobs can the Chemistry course lead to?
Careers
- Analytical chemist
- Environmental chemist
- Forensic scientist
- Materials scientist
- Medicinal chemist
- Synthetic chemist
Industries
- Environment
- Forensics
- Health
- Manufacturing
- Petrochemical engineering
Further study
What you'll learn
- apply chemistry knowledge, principles and concepts
- apply critical creative and reflective thinking to chemistry problems
- access, evaluate and synthesise information relating to chemistry
- effectively communicate chemistry ideas and concepts
- use a range of technologies to collect and analyse data with appropriate regard to uncertainties
- work as responsible self-directed and motivated learners
- apply internationally accepted scientific conventions standards and protocols
- demonstrate respect for cultural diversity in professional life
- work safely effectively and ethically in a multifaceted scientific environment