Chemistry - Undergraduate options

Chemistry is the science of atoms and molecules. It deals with molecular structure and synthesis, interactions between molecules, chemical reactions, and theoretical models that explain molecular behaviour. Since Chemistry aims to understand the structure and properties of matter in the world around us, it is a central science, with impacts on fields as diverse as biology, geology, environmental studies, medicine and engineering.

Undergraduate Chemistry

All undergraduate core courses have a practical component in which students gain experience in laboratory skills, experimental design, synthesis, chemical analysis, quantitative measurements, chemical safety, advanced instrumentation, data processing and computer modelling.

The study of Chemistry will help you to develop the ability to think logically, analyse complex systems, communicate clearly, and be creative, numerate and computer-literate.

Postgraduate Chemistry

The School of Chemical Sciences covers a wide range of areas including analytical, educational, environmental, inorganic, materials, medicinal, organic and physical chemistry. In addition to these traditional Chemistry disciplines, Forensic, Food, Wine, and Polymers and Coatings Science programmes within the school reflect their diverse and active research and teaching endeavours.

In addition to individual research programmes, staff members are involved in many collaborative projects with both national and international academic and industrial partners.

Research workers at the School of Chemical Sciences have access to a wide range of facilities including various spectrometers and in-house glassblowing, mechanical and electronic workshops. This collection of research equipment makes the school one of the best and most extensive analytical centres in the country.

Bachelor of Science (BSc) - Chemistry major

Single or first major must include:

• 30 points: CHEM 110, 120
• at least 45 points from CHEM 210–240
• 30 points from CHEM 310–340
• at least 30 further points from CHEM 310–392

Second major must include:

• 30 points: CHEM 110, 120
• at least 45 points from CHEM 210–240
• 30 points from CHEM 310–340
• at least 15 further points from CHEM 310–392

For students who do not have a strong background in Chemistry, the school offers a Preparatory Chemistry course before Semester I. Students with a limited background in Chemistry should take CHEM 150 in Semester I.

Career opportunities for Chemistry graduates are many and varied. In industry you might be employed in applied research and development, chemical analysis, quality control, pollution control, environmental monitoring, marketing or management. Some of the industries that employ chemists are food processing, paper manufacturing, winemaking and brewing, paints, plastics, ceramics, metals, pharmaceuticals, agricultural products and fertilisers.

Chemistry graduates also work in Crown Research Institutes, medical and forensic laboratories, public bodies such as regional authorities, and in the teaching profession in secondary schools and tertiary institutions. Many graduates with higher degrees in Chemistry have made successful careers in basic or applied research.

For further information, refer to the Chemical Sciences Handbook

or contact our Stage I/Undergraduate Advisers in Chemistry

Malini Arewgoda
Room 427B, Floor 4
Building 301, 23 Symonds Street
Phone: +64 9 373 7599 ext 87318

Judy Brittain
Room 427A, Floor 4
Building 301, 23 Symonds Street
Phone: +64 9 373 7599 ext 88292

David Salter
Room 429B, Floor 4
Building 301, 23 Symonds Street
Phone: +64 9 373 7599 ext 84957

Alternatively, staff at the School of Chemical Sciences, located on Level 5 of Building 301 (23 Symonds Street), can help you with general enquiries and refer you on to the relevant academic advisors. Their opening hours are 8.30am - 5pm.

Phone: +64 9 373 7599 ext 88328
Email: ugadvice-chemistry@auckland.ac.nz
Web: www.chemistry.auckland.ac.nz

• How to apply
  
• General Education requirements for undergraduates
• Postgraduate Chemistry
• Preparatory Chemistry Course