What Chemists Can Do

Chemistry is the fundamental science. It is often referred to as the Central Science because the information chemists learn is essential to all other areas of science. Discoveries such as glass, plastic, aluminum, and even new medicines in chemistry have significantly influenced and will continue to shape our society.

Everything you see is made of chemicals. Likewise, many of the natural changes you see taking place around you are the results of chemical reactions. For example, the blooming of flowers in the spring, the color change of leaves in the fall, and the growth and aging of a human body all constitute chemical reactions. To have an understanding of these or any other processes in life you must have a basic understanding of chemistry.

A chemistry degree is a powerful springboard which can launch you into a fascinating and rewarding career. Some discover new concepts and laws about matter and the universe; others apply chemistry to a range of industrial and societal needs. A bachelor level graduate in chemistry is able to assume a variety of positions in industry, government or academia. More opportunities are also available to those who combine their undergraduate chemistry degree with advanced studies in other fields. Those with a significant knowledge of chemistry are also employed in related professions such as molecular biology, biotechnology, materials science, forensic science, hazardous waste management, textile science and information management.

There are a cornucopia of applicable chemical principles and many specialties within the field of chemistry. This creates the need for a variety of chemists. Therefore, students desiring to have a future in chemistry should familiarize themselves with the options available in their desired career field. By doing this the student will have successfully completed the first step in initializing their future career. This will ensure them to achieve their career goals. The following list of career areas is by no means exhaustive; however, it presents options available to those who obtain degrees in the chemical sciences. A sample of career areas are: Agricultural Chemistry, Analytical Chemistry, Biochemistry, Biotechnology, Catalysis, Chemical Education, Chemical Engineering, Chemical Information, Chemical Sales and Marketing, Chemical Technology, Colloid and Surface Chemistry, Consulting, Consumer Products, Environmental Chemistry, Food and Flavor Chemistry, Forensic Chemistry, Geochemistry, Hazardous Waste Management, Inorganic Chemistry, Materials Science, Medicinal Chemistry, Oil and Petroleum Chemistry, Organic Chemistry, Physical Chemistry, Polymer Chemistry, Pulp and Paper Chemistry, R&D Management, Science Writing, Textile Chemistry and Water Chemistry.