Bachelor of Science(Chemistry), Bachelor of Innovation

4 Years On Campus Bachelors Program

Curtin University Perth

Program Overview

The Bachelor of Science (Chemistry) / Bachelor of Innovation at Curtin University in Perth is an exciting double‑degree that blends deep scientific knowledge with creative, future‑focused problem‑solving skills. It’s perfect for students who want to understand chemistry at a molecular level while also developing the innovation mindset needed to launch new technologies, products, or ventures.

Curriculum structure:

Year 1:
In your first year, you’ll build a strong scientific base with foundational chemistry units while also starting core innovation modules that introduce you to business and creative thinking essentials. You might dive into early units such as Introduction to Chemistry (covering key principles and laboratory techniques) alongside Introduction to Innovation Principles, where you’ll explore the basics of innovation and creative problem solving. This mix ensures you’re grounded in science while already thinking like an innovator.

Year 2:
By the second year, you’ll be deepening your understanding of chemistry through more specialised units (such as analytical or physical chemistry topics), while in innovation you’ll study business core units like Financial Decision Making and Analytics for Decision Making to strengthen your commercial awareness. These units help you connect scientific ideas with practical business insights, equipping you to identify opportunities and challenges across industries.

Year 3:
In your third year, your science studies might include more advanced chemistry units that build laboratory expertise and critical thinking, and in innovation you’ll complete transformational experiences such as a Sustainable Business Innovation Project or Business Innovation Lab. Here you’ll bring together your science and innovation skills to solve real problems, work in teams, and begin thinking about future careers or ventures.

Year 4:
Your final year is about refinement and real‑world application — in chemistry you’ll undertake higher‑level units that can lead into specialised fields like medicinal or analytical chemistry, and in innovation you’ll continue to apply leadership and strategic thinking to complex projects. This year ties together your ability to think scientifically and innovatively, preparing you for diverse pathways as a well‑rounded graduate.

Focus areas (in a string):
Chemical theory and lab practice, advanced analytical methods, innovation and entrepreneurship, business fundamentals, problem solving, sustainable technology.

Learning outcomes (in a string):
Develop core chemistry expertise and lab skills, apply innovation principles to real‑world challenges, integrate scientific and business thinking, communicate complex ideas clearly, design and test solutions with a future‑focused mindset.

Professional alignment (accreditation):
Chemistry graduates are eligible for membership of the Royal Australian Chemical Institute (RACI), and the innovation components benefit from Curtin’s internationally recognised business and innovation education standards.

Reputation (employability rankings):
Curtin University is ranked among the top 1 % of universities worldwide and is known for its strong employability outcomes and industry‑relevant degrees that prepare graduates for careers in science, technology, business, and entrepreneurship.

Experiential Learning (Research, Projects, Internships etc.)

At Curtin, practical experience is at the heart of your learning, so you’ll step out of the lecture hall and into real‑world science and innovation environments from early in your studies. In chemistry, you’ll work in purpose‑built laboratories using modern analytical tools that mirror professional research and industry settings, and in innovation you’ll get hands‑on with projects, design work, and problem‑solving activities that reflect how businesses and startups operate today. Alongside classwork, you’ll be supported by industry connections, digital tools, and cross‑disciplinary facilities that help you turn ideas into practice and prepare you for the workplace:

Purpose‑built chemistry laboratories: You’ll conduct experiments and analyses in facilities within the Resources and Chemistry Precinct, working with industry‑standard instruments for chromatography, spectroscopy, mass spectrometry and more.
Transformative innovation experiences: Throughout your innovation studies, you’ll engage in real‑world units like Sustainable Business Innovation Project and Business Innovation Lab that connect you with industry challenges and opportunities.
Work‑integrated learning opportunities: Curtin embeds work‑integrated learning (WIL) so you can gain experience through fieldwork, placements, projects, or industry collaborations that build your professional skills and confidence.
Industry‑connected software and tools: In innovation subjects you may use design and business tools aligned with professional practices — for example, design computing tools, business analytics platforms, and project‑management frameworks as part of the innovation curriculum.
Collaborative group projects: Across both science and innovation units you’ll work in teams to solve complex problems, sharpen your communication skills, and learn how professionals collaborate in research and business environments.
Supportive research and innovation network: You’ll be part of Curtin’s broader research ecosystem, with access to world‑class research institutes and facilities that support discovery and innovation across science, technology, and industry.
Curtin campus resources: From libraries stocked with scientific and business collections to digital learning platforms and entrepreneurial programs like Curtin Ignition and Curtin Accelerate, you’ll have the support and tools to grow your skills beyond textbooks.

Progression & Future Opportunities

Graduates of this double degree leave Curtin ready to make an impact in both scientific and innovation-driven industries. You’ll be equipped to tackle complex problems, develop new technologies, and drive creative solutions in professional environments. Typical roles include chemical analyst, innovation consultant, product development manager, and business strategy analyst:

Curtin Careers and Employment Services: Receive tailored career guidance, resume and interview workshops, internship placements, and networking events that connect you with industry professionals.
Employment stats and salary figures: Curtin graduates enjoy strong employability, with many chemistry and innovation graduates securing roles with starting salaries typically ranging from AUD 65,000 to 75,000, depending on the sector.
University–industry partnerships: Benefit from Curtin’s collaborations with organisations such as CSIRO, Wesfarmers Chemicals, and various innovation hubs, providing opportunities for real-world projects, mentorship, and networking.
Long-term accreditation value: Chemistry graduates are eligible for membership of the Royal Australian Chemical Institute (RACI), while the innovation components are recognised for their alignment with professional innovation and entrepreneurship standards.
Graduation outcomes: Graduates are prepared for careers in chemical analysis, product development, consultancy, corporate innovation, and start-up leadership, giving you flexibility to pursue multiple career paths.

Further Academic Progression:
After completing this double degree, students can continue their studies with postgraduate programs such as a Master of Professional Accounting, Master of Business Administration, or Honours/Master by Research in Chemistry. These pathways allow you to specialise further, engage in advanced research, or enhance leadership and management skills for senior professional roles.