Undergraduate study in Chemistry
What can you study in Chemistry?
You can study Chemistry as a major in the Bachelor of Science (BSc).
Chemistry is the science of atoms and molecules. It deals with molecular structure and synthesis, chemical reactions and theoretical models that explain molecular behaviour.
Chemistry is a central science – it aims to understand the structure and properties of the world around us, and underpins fields as diverse as biology, geology, environmental science, medicine and engineering. The study of Chemistry leads to new substances, better processing reactions and greater understanding of materials, biological processing and the environment.
Your Chemistry studies will develop your ability to think logically, analyse complex systems and communicate clearly. It will also help you to be creative, numerate and computer literate. All core courses have a hands-on laboratory component and, as part of your major, you’ll complete the Chemistry capstone course, CHEM 399, where you’ll undertake an original laboratory research project or experiment and communicate your findings to others.
You’ll gain experience in:
- Laboratory skills and quantitative measurements
- Experimental design, data processing and computer modelling
- Synthesis and chemical analysis
- Chemical safety and advanced instrumentation
Structuring your programme
Explore the Bachelor of Science major in Chemistry schedule in the Curriculum Catalogue to find the courses you can study in this major.
You must also complete a capstone course in your final year of study. The capstone course is a student-led project where you integrate and apply your learning to a real-world problem in your chosen major or specialisation. For Chemistry we recommend the capstone course, CHEM 399.
For other capstone options, see our Capstone courses page.
Complementary majors
- Anthropological Science
- Biodiversity, Ecology and Evolution
- Cell and Molecular Bioscience
- Earth Sciences
- Environmental Science
- Geography
- Mathematics
- Statistics
Preparing for your Chemistry major
Some students will feel more prepared for our Chemistry courses if they have already studied certain subjects in high school.
Find out which school subjects will help you feel prepared by reading our Subject guide for school students.
Where can undergraduate study in Chemistry take you?
You may end up working in the fields of food, paper, brewing, paint and plastics, ceramics, metals and agricultural products. Special applications include forensic science and the running of hospital laboratories. You could also work in a Crown Research Institute.
Jobs related to Chemistry
- Analytical, inorganic, organic, materials, physical chemist
- Biochemist
- Chemistry technician
- Lecturer or secondary school teacher
- Research scientist
- Science technician or technical assistant
- Scientific adviser
Further study options
- Bachelor of Science (Honours)
- Master of Science
- Postgraduate Diploma in Science
- Doctor of Philosophy
Help and advice
Student Hubs
Visit a hub for help and advice on any aspect of your studies and life at University.
The Student Hubs are your physical gateway to Waipapa Taumata Rau, University of Auckland.
Our friendly staff are available seven days a week at the City, Grafton and Tai Tonga campuses and six days a week at Tai Tokerau. They can provide you with advice on any aspect of your studies and life at the University.