Bachelor of Arts and Bachelor of Science(chemistry)

4 Years On Campus Bachelors Program

Macquarie University

Program Overview

The Bachelor of Arts and Bachelor of Science (Chemistry) at Macquarie University is a flexible double degree for students who want to study science while also exploring the humanities. Over four years, you’ll build strong chemistry knowledge and laboratory skills while developing communication, analytical, and critical-thinking abilities through your chosen arts major.

This program is ideal for students who enjoy chemistry but also want a broader academic experience. By combining science with an arts discipline, you graduate with a unique skill set that allows you to approach scientific problems from both technical and social perspectives.

Curriculum structure

Year 1 – Building strong foundations

Your first year focuses on the core principles of chemistry while introducing you to your chosen arts subjects. Chemistry units such as CHEM1001 Foundations of Chemical and Biomolecular Sciences 1 and CHEM1002 Foundations of Chemical and Biomolecular Sciences 2 cover topics like atomic structure, chemical bonding, reactions, and essential laboratory techniques. At the same time, your arts units help you strengthen communication, research, and critical-thinking skills.

Year 2 – Developing deeper scientific knowledge

In the second year, you begin exploring chemistry in greater depth while continuing to build your arts expertise. Units like CHEM2201 Analysis and Measurement, CHEM2401 Physical Chemistry I, and CHEM2601 Synthesis introduce analytical techniques, thermodynamics, and chemical synthesis. These subjects also provide more hands-on laboratory experience and strengthen your scientific problem-solving skills.

Year 3 – Advanced chemistry and interdisciplinary learning

By the third year, your studies become more specialised as you move into advanced chemistry topics and continue progressing in your arts major. Units such as CHEM3202 Advanced Analysis and Measurement and CHEM3601 Advanced Synthesis focus on complex chemical analysis, laboratory research methods, and experimental design. This stage also helps you connect scientific knowledge with broader analytical and communication skills gained from your arts studies.

Year 4 – Specialisation and real-world applications

In your final year, you’ll complete higher-level units that allow you to focus on areas of chemistry that interest you most. Subjects such as CHEM3801 Medicinal Chemistry explore how chemistry contributes to drug design and pharmaceutical research. By the time you graduate, you’ll have both strong scientific expertise and valuable transferable skills such as communication, research, and critical analysis.

Focus areas (in a string):

Analytical chemistry, organic synthesis, physical chemistry, medicinal chemistry, interdisciplinary learning, laboratory analysis, scientific communication, critical thinking

Learning outcomes (in a string):

Understand core chemical principles, perform and interpret laboratory experiments, analyse chemical data, apply scientific methods to real-world problems, communicate complex scientific ideas clearly, combine scientific and social perspectives in problem-solving

Professional alignment (accreditation):

The chemistry component aligns with international standards in chemical sciences and prepares graduates for careers in laboratories, environmental science, pharmaceuticals, science communication, and policy-related roles.

Reputation (employability rankings):

Macquarie University is ranked among the top 1% of universities worldwide in the QS World University Rankings, reflecting its strong global reputation and focus on graduate employability.

Experiential Learning (Research, Projects, Internships etc.)

At Macquarie University, learning chemistry goes far beyond the classroom. Students gain hands-on experience through regular laboratory sessions where they test chemical reactions, analyse samples, and learn how to use the same scientific instruments found in professional research labs. Because this degree combines science with an arts discipline, students also strengthen important skills like communication, research, and critical thinking alongside their technical laboratory training.

Throughout the program, students work in modern science facilities and collaborative learning spaces across the Faculty of Science and Engineering. These spaces allow students to practise experimental techniques, work on group projects, and explore scientific ideas in a practical setting:

Chemistry teaching laboratories – Students carry out regular practical experiments connected to units like CHEM1001 Foundations of Chemical and Biomolecular Sciences 1, helping them develop core laboratory techniques and safe scientific practices.
Wet chemistry laboratories – Dedicated lab spaces equipped with fume cupboards, centrifuges, ultrasonic baths, and pH meters used for chemical experiments and sample preparation.
Advanced analytical instruments – Students gain exposure to professional research equipment such as particle-analysis tools like the Zetasizer Nano-ZS, which measures molecular and particle properties.
Research facilities and instrumentation – Access to specialised scientific equipment such as Nuclear Magnetic Resonance (NMR) spectrometers and geochemical analysis laboratories used by researchers across the university.
Collaborative “mega-labs” – Modern science teaching labs designed for group-based experiments and project work, encouraging teamwork and problem-solving.
MAPS Maker Space – A creative innovation space where students can experiment with tools like 3D printers, electronics kits, and prototyping equipment to explore new ideas and interdisciplinary projects.
Scientific computing labs – Campus computer laboratories provide digital tools and software used for analysing experimental data and conducting research projects.
Academic resources and research support – Students can access extensive scientific journals, databases, and study spaces through the Macquarie University Library to support their coursework and research.

These practical learning experiences ensure that students graduate not only with strong chemistry knowledge, but also with real laboratory skills and interdisciplinary abilities that are valuable in many professional fields.

Progression & Future Opportunities

Graduating with this double degree gives you a powerful mix of scientific knowledge and strong communication or analytical skills. That combination opens doors to careers where science meets real-world decision-making. Many graduates go on to work as Analytical Chemists, Environmental Scientists, Laboratory Scientists, or Science Communicators, finding opportunities in industries such as pharmaceuticals, environmental consulting, research organisations, and government agencies.

Macquarie University also makes sure students are well supported when it comes to building their careers and connecting with employers:

Career and Student Employment Service – Students can access career coaching, resume and CV reviews, interview preparation sessions, and employability workshops to help them confidently enter the job market.
Employability Connect – A dedicated online platform where employers advertise internships, graduate programs, and part-time roles specifically for Macquarie students and graduates.
PACE (Professional and Community Engagement) – Many students complete a PACE unit, which may involve a professional placement, research project, or collaboration with industry or community organisations. This gives students valuable real-world experience before they graduate.
Industry partnerships – The university works with organisations such as 3M, Deloitte, PwC, Commonwealth Bank, and Ecolab, helping students connect with industry through projects, placements, and networking opportunities.
Macquarie Park Innovation District – The campus is located in one of Australia’s major innovation hubs, surrounded by more than 180 global companies, which creates strong networking and employment opportunities for graduates.
Graduate employment outcomes – According to the Graduate Outcomes Survey, about 70% of Macquarie graduates seeking work find employment within four months of graduating, highlighting the strong employability support offered by the university.
Long-term career value – The chemistry training in this degree builds strong laboratory, analytical, and research skills that are recognised internationally and valued across science-based industries.

Further Academic Progression:

If you decide to continue studying after graduation, there are several excellent pathways available. Many students choose to complete an Honours year in Chemistry at Macquarie University, where they undertake an independent research project and gain deeper expertise in the field.