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Chemistry

View the employability skills

A graduate in chemistry typically will have the ability to:

  • demonstrate knowledge and understanding of chemical terminology, essential facts, concepts, principles and theories relating to chemistry and physicochemical fundamentals
  • apply such knowledge and understanding to the solution of qualitative and quantitative problems of a familiar and unfamiliar nature
  • recognise and analyse novel problems and plan strategies for their solution
  • evaluate, interpret and synthesise chemical information and data
  • recognise and implement good measurement science and practice
  • present scientific material and arguments clearly and correctly, in writing and orally, to a range of audiences
  • apply computational and data-processing skills relating to chemistry
  • handle chemical materials safely, taking into account their physical and chemical properties, including any specific hazards associated with their use
  • conduct standard laboratory procedures involved in synthetic and analytical work, in relation to both inorganic and organic systems
  • monitor and systematically record chemical properties, events or changes
  • plan, design and execute practical investigations, from the problem-recognition stage through to the evaluation and appraisal of results and findings; this to include the ability to select appropriate techniques and procedures
  • operate standard chemical instrumentation such as that used for structural investigations and separation
  • interpret data derived from laboratory observations and measurements
  • demonstrate awareness of issues that overlap with other related disciplines
  • use computer software and models to demonstrate skills in the practical application of theory
  • conduct risk assessments concerning the use of chemical substances and laboratory procedures
  • apply problem-solving skills relating to qualitative and quantitative information, extending to evaluations based on limited information
  • apply numeracy and computational skills, including error analysis, order-of-magnitude estimations, correct use of units and modes of data presentation
  • apply information-retrieval skills including through online computer searches
  • apply IT skills such as word-processing and spreadsheet use, data-logging and storage, internet communication
  • exercise written and oral communication skills plus interpersonal skills, and engage in team-working
  • demonstrate skills in communicating scientific material and arguments
  • apply time-management and organisational skills
  • apply study skills needed for continuing professional development.

Undergraduate courses can cover chemical terminology, chemical reaction, chemical analysis, the different states of matter, quantum mechanics, thermodynamics, the kinetics of chemical change, structural investigations, the properties of elements and their compounds, organic chemistry, the relation between bulk properties and atoms and molecules including macromolecules, and analytical chemistry concerned with identification and composition of materials. Programmes are increasingly designed to address the interfaces of chemistry with other areas such as chemical biology and chemical physics as well as applied fields of study. Typical aims are to instil a sense of enthusiasm for chemistry, an appreciation of its application in different contexts and an understanding of the importance of the chemical sciences in those contexts. Students are given a foundation in chemical knowledge and practical skills, and develop a range of transferable skills of value in a wide range of employment.

Did you know graduates in this subject develop skills in communication, teamwork and organisational understanding?


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