Chemistry is the study of the composition, structure, properties and reactions of matter, so the study of chemistry is central to understanding many other scientific disciplines. All human activities deal with a material world, which consists of chemicals both natural and manufactured. The contributions of chemistry to modern society occur in diverse fields, such as pharmaceuticals, polymers, agricultural chemicals, petroleum products and biotechnology. Chemistry also plays a role in cleaning up the environment; improving methods of producing, processing and packaging food; and making automobiles safer and more fuel-efficient. Thus, a world of opportunities awaits the student who majors in chemistry.

Chemists are employed in industrial, government and academic positions. Chemistry graduates find positions in research and development, analytical services, quality control, chemical sales, and marketing. Chemistry graduates with education credentials are in demand to teach in high schools and middle schools. Chemistry majors earning a Bachelor of Science often go on to graduate school to earn a master’s or doctorate degree. Graduate students in chemistry usually receive a tuition waiver and a modest salary for their work as a teaching or research assistant while pursuing advanced studies and research. A chemist with an advanced degree qualifies for a variety of opportunities in both industry and education. Chemistry professors at colleges and universities are PhD chemists who teach chemistry to undergraduate and graduate students and conduct research in chemistry. Chemistry majors earning a Bachelor of Arts have excellent credentials for admission to professional schools such as medicine, pharmacy, dentistry, optometry and veterinary medicine or admission to graduate programs in areas such as business, law, education and journalism.