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Careers in chemistry

Discover where studying at Australia's #1 university can take you.

Whether it's harnessing renewable energy sources, next-gen nanotechnology or new medical breakthroughs, chemistry is an ever-present and vital tool for shaping the technologies of the future.

You’ll be valued for your critical thinking and problem-solving skills, as well as the ability to collaborate with other professionals and communicate your findings. During your studies, you’ll become familiar with software such as SAP, Veritas NetBackup, ERP and Oracle – all systems that are widely used in industry.

Industry/market salary guide

$90,000

is the average chemist salary

$77,000

is the average salary for entry-level positions

Up to $117,112

is an experienced chemist's salary

647

chemistry jobs advertised in 2023

Sources: au.talent.com and EmployMe 2024

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Where do our graduates go?

Chemistry is vital for advancing the technologies of the future. As a Master of Science (Chemistry) graduate, you'll bring specialist expertise to commercial laboratories, or work as consultants in marketing, sales, teaching and patent law.

Employers can include: Universities, research institutions such as CSIRO, Murdoc Children's Research Institute, CSL and the Walter and Eliza Hall Institute.

Profile picture of Mariah Cotter
The biggest contributor to my ongoing success was having completed my Master of Science (Chemistry) in the Bieske Research Group.  Not only did I delve into even newer areas of chemistry through the coursework, but my research project required me to learn how to construct, modify, and operate novel and complex equipment, which is extremely helpful for me in my role today. Mariah Cotter

Get your career started

A career in chemistry begins with a Bachelor of Science, majoring in Chemistry.

The major is a great foundation for the Master of Science (Chemistry), but you may also choose to pursue other graduate programs such as the Master of Industrial Research (Chemistry). Alternatively, you can go straight into the workforce and work in fascinating areas – both in and out of the lab.

Study chemistry