
Australian National University
Bachelor of Science (Chemistry)
Nationally Recognised Higher EducationA basic understanding of chemistry is critically important for anyone planning a career in science, medicine or engineering. Chemistry impacts on all of our lives from the safe handling of common household chemicals to understanding the chemical effects of compounds on our health from dietary intake including foodstuffs and medicines, the air we breathe, the fuels we burn, the chemicals we manufacture and use, and their environmental consequences.
The major in Chemistry will provide students with a depth and breadth of understanding of chemical knowledge that is essential for anyone contemplating further study in chemistry or a career in the chemical or pharmaceutical industries. In combination with a major in Biology it forms an ideal background for further study in biological or medicinal research. The highly transferable lab-based skills in the manipulation of glassware, the safe handling and use of chemicals, the application of techniques and instrumentation, and experimental process will stand students in excellent stead in a variety of disciplinary contexts.
The major in Chemistry will provide students with the chemical basis for understanding biological structures and processes; the effects of drugs and other chemicals in the body; the electrical, magnetic and photochemical properties of materials; geological and atmospheric processes; and environmental issues.
Delivery mode
Australian National University offers this course through the following delivery modes:
On campus
Work with instructors and classmates in a supportive and collaborative environment.
- Brinkin
- Observatory Rd, Coonabarabran
- 496 Murramarang Rd, Kioloa
- Canberra
- Cotter Rd, Weston Creek
Entry requirements
Domestic Students
- There are no mandated entry requirements.
Applicants with recent secondary education are assessed on:
- completion of Australian Year 12 or equivalent, and the minimum Selection Rank (from their academic qualifications, plus any adjustment factors) requirement for this program; and
- co-curricular or service requirement (applies to applicants who complete secondary education in the year prior to commencing at ANU); and
- English language proficiency; and
- any program-specific requirements listed below.
Applicants with higher education study are assessed on:
- previous higher education studies; or secondary education results if completed less than one full-time equivalent year (1.0 FTE) of a degree; or the result from a bridging or preparatory course; and
- English language proficiency; and
- any program-specific requirements listed below.
Applicants with vocational education and training (VET) study are assessed on:
- previously completed VET qualifications at AQF level 5 or higher (i.e. a Diploma or above); or secondary education results if the VET qualification is not completed; and
- English language proficiency; and
- any program-specific requirements listed below.
Applicants with work and life experience are assessed on:
- ATAR or equivalent if secondary education was completed; or the Special Adult Entry Scheme (SAES); or work experience; and
- English language proficiency; and
- any program-specific requirements listed below.
Course fees
For more information about this course and payment options please enquire now.
Career opportunities
The Bachelor of Science (Chemistry) will prepare you for the following roles.
Analytical Chemist
Analytical Chemists are scientific professionals who analyse the properties and behaviour of different chemical substances and compounds, especiall...
Chemist
Chemists are scientific professionals who study the properties and behaviour of different chemical substances and compounds. They work in laborator...
Environmental Chemist
Environmental Chemists are conservation scientists who study and monitor the presence of foreign chemicals and contaminants in the Earth’s groundwa...
Industrial Chemist
Industrial Chemists are scientific professionals who use chemical compounds (and apply chemical theory and processes) to manufacture products on an...
Medical Chemist
A Medical Chemist conducts research and development on pharmaceuticals to ensure their safety, efficacy, and quality. You might work in a laborator...
Cosmetic Chemist
A Cosmetic Chemist develops products used in the beauty industry such as skin creams and make up. You’ll trial new products in various colours and...
Research and Development Chemist
A Research and Development Chemist creates new products for customers in a range of industries. You might experiment with a range of product items,...
Physical Scientist
A Physical Scientist studies the natural phenomena of the physical world. You might work in a research laboratory, a university, or an industry set...
Forensic Chemist
Forensic Chemists are specialist scientists who use the theories and practical aspects of chemistry to solve crimes. Their skills can be used in se...
Medicinal Chemist
A Medicinal Chemist researches and develops new pharmaceutical compounds to treat diseases and improve human health. You might work in laboratories...
Materials Scientist
A Materials Scientist studies and develops materials with specific properties to improve their performance and application. You might work in resea...
Laboratory Scientist
A Laboratory Scientist plays a crucial role in conducting experiments and analyses to support various scientific and medical initiatives. Typically...
Science Technician
A Science Technician supports scientific research and education by preparing and maintaining laboratory equipment and materials. You might work in...
Nanoscientist
A Nanoscientist conducts research at the atomic and molecular level to develop new materials and technologies. You might work in a research institu...
Chemistry Teacher
Chemistry Teachers are secondary science teachers who specialise in chemistry. They work at high schools and middle schools across Australia and in...
About Australian National University
ANU is a world-leading university in Australia’s capital. Excellence is embedded in our approach to research and education.
ANU has seven academic colleges that house a number of schools and research centres that specialise in a range of disciplines - all relevant but some unique in Australia and our region.