Bachelor of Science(Chemistry)

3 Years On Campus Bachelors Program

Curtin University Perth

Program Overview

The Bachelor of Science (Chemistry) at Curtin University gives you a solid foundation in chemical sciences while letting you explore areas like analytical, organic, and environmental chemistry. It’s ideal for curious minds who enjoy problem-solving and want hands-on laboratory experience to prepare for careers in research, industry, or further study.

Curriculum Structure

First Year
In your first year, you’ll build a strong understanding of fundamental chemistry concepts, including chemical reactions, molecular structures, and lab techniques. Units like Chemistry 1A, Chemistry 1B, and Introduction to Analytical Chemistry give you the practical and theoretical foundation needed for more advanced studies.

Second Year
The second year focuses on applying core chemistry principles to real-world scenarios. You’ll study units such as Organic Chemistry 2, Physical Chemistry 2, and Instrumental Analysis, where you’ll learn advanced laboratory methods and gain experience with chemical instrumentation.

Third Year
In your final year, you’ll deepen your expertise and undertake research projects that showcase your skills. Units like Advanced Analytical Chemistry, Organic Synthesis, and Chemistry Capstone Project allow you to work independently and collaboratively on complex experiments, preparing you for professional or academic careers.

Focus Areas

Analytical chemistry, organic chemistry, physical chemistry, environmental chemistry, and chemical research.

Learning Outcomes

Develop practical lab skills, analyze and interpret chemical data, design experiments, solve complex chemical problems, and communicate scientific findings effectively.

Professional Alignment (Accreditation)

The program is accredited by the Royal Australian Chemical Institute (RACI), ensuring your qualification meets national professional standards.

Reputation (Employability Rankings)

Curtin University is ranked among the top 1% of universities globally, with strong graduate employability in the chemical sciences according to QS Graduate Employability Rankings.

Experiential Learning (Research, Projects, Internships etc.)

At Curtin, chemistry isn’t just learned from books — you’ll be working with real scientific tools and techniques from day one in world‑class laboratories. The Resources and Chemistry Precinct gives you hands‑on access to advanced analytical instruments, letting you design and conduct experiments that mirror what professional chemists do in industry and research settings. You’ll build practical skills while working alongside peers on real projects, solving problems and interpreting data in ways that deepen your understanding and confidence:

State‑of‑the‑art labs: Work with high‑end equipment like GC‑FID, HPLC, mass spectrometry, NMR spectrometers and microscopy tools in teaching labs designed to support modern chemical analysis and synthesis.
ChemCentre collaboration: Through Curtin’s alliance with ChemCentre, you may engage with Western Australia’s primary analytical chemistry facility, connecting academic learning with real‑world industry research and challenges.
Problem‑solving and teamwork: Many units include group experimental work where you’ll plan, execute and troubleshoot experiments as a team, reflecting the collaborative nature of modern science.
Industry research opportunities: You’re encouraged to take part in research projects at university facilities that focus on areas like environmental chemistry, medicinal chemistry and materials science.
Industry work experience: The course structure supports industry work placements or research experiences that help bridge academic study with professional practice and networks.

Progression & Future Opportunities

As a graduate of Curtin’s Bachelor of Science (Chemistry), you’ll be well‑positioned for a range of exciting careers where scientific expertise makes a real impact. Many alumni go on to roles such as analytical chemist, pharmaceutical scientist, environmental consultant or forensic laboratory specialist — all in demand across industry, government and research sectors:

Career support services: Curtin’s Careers and Employment team offers dedicated chemistry graduate support, including personalised job advice, CV building, interview preparation and access to employer networks.
Strong employment outcomes: Curtin graduates are highly regarded by employers, with many securing roles soon after graduation thanks to industry‑aligned training and practical lab experience.
Industry partnerships: Curtin collaborates with organisations like ChemCentre and WA’s key scientific employers, giving you opportunities to connect with real industry settings and potential work experience.
Accreditation advantage: The program’s alignment with standards recognised by professional bodies such as the Royal Australian Chemical Institute (RACI) adds value to your qualification and builds long‑term career credibility.
Graduate destinations: Graduates work in sectors including pharmaceuticals, environmental monitoring, materials science, food and health industries, as well as governmental and forensic labs.

Further Academic Progression:
Many students choose to continue their studies after completing the Bachelor of Science (Chemistry). You could pursue an Honours year to deepen your research skills, or enrol in postgraduate programs like a Master of Science, Master of Research, or even a PhD if you’re passionate about advanced scientific inquiry and research leadership.