Careers With a Chemistry Degree

If you’re fascinated by the chemical elements that make up the world around you, then a degree in chemistry is worth consideration. Chemistry is the scientific study of substances, including their composition and properties. Chemists also look at how substances interact, which means chemistry is a major part of the other life sciences like biology.

A chemistry student spends a lot of time in the lab. They also undertake high-level math courses. These skills alone mean that a degree in chemistry is versatile and could lead to career paths in many related fields. In addition, chemistry degree majors are taught how to be problem solvers and innovators. They can tackle problems with unknown variables and work through them using scientific method.

In This Article:

• What Can I Do With a Chemistry Degree?
• Career Opportunities in Chemistry
• Types of Chemistry Degrees Offered at GCU

What Can I Do With a Chemistry Degree?

Chemistry courses will comprise the bulk of your course load as a chemistry major. You can expect to take classes in general, organic, inorganic, environmental, physical and biochemistry. You’ll also examine competencies in the use of laboratory instruments and the analysis of samples. Chemistry students typically take related science classes, as well, such as biology and physics.

There are plenty of potential chemistry careers to consider as you look ahead to your graduation date. Chemistry majors may find themselves working in industries such as education, forensic science, medical science, research and development and many other possibilities.¹ 

Career Opportunities in Chemistry

With all of the potential careers with a chemistry degree, it can be tricky to narrow down your options. As you consider various careers, think about your strengths and personal characteristics. You might determine, for example, that a career as a natural sciences manager, food science technician or forensic science technician interests you. Keep in mind that some of the following career options may have job requirements beyond a bachelor’s degree.

Natural Sciences Manager

Natural sciences managers may work in areas such as agriculture, food and natural resources. They are responsible for planning, directing and coordinating research, development or production activities. They may be charged with any of the following tasks:

• Testing for the purposes of quality control
• Hiring, training and supervising staff members
• Establishing goals, strategies and budgets for their department
• Ensuring that the labs are properly stocked and equipped
• Liaising with management and clients about project proposals and research findings

Chemist

Chemists are responsible for analyzing the chemical properties of various substances with the intent of developing new knowledge in the field or new products. They work in a lab, preparing samples, conducting tests and analyzing the results. Some of their tasks can include:

• Planning and implementing research projects
• Supervising lab technicians
• Conducting tests to ensure quality and safety standards are met
• Developing reports that explain their findings

Food Science Technician

Food science technicians assist food scientists with their research and testing requirements when working on food and beverage products. They may investigate new processing techniques or inspect various chemicals, foods and additives to ascertain safety and quality. Some of their typical tasks include:

• Collect, prepare and store samples of foodstuffs and beverages
• Test food samples, additives and food containers
• Analyze chemical properties of foods
• Maintain the laboratory environment
• Prepare reports detailing findings

Chemical Technician

Chemical technicians work in labs in a support role for scientists. They are responsible for setting up, operating and maintaining laboratory equipment, as well as monitoring chemical processes. Other tasks can include:

• Prepare chemical solutions
• Test product quality
• Conduct tests and interpret the results
• Prepare reports explaining findings

Forensic Science Technician

If you’re interested in career opportunities in chemistry that intersect with the law, you might consider pursuing a job as a forensic science technician. Forensic science technicians play a support role in criminal investigations. They may work at crime scenes, where they analyze the scene, take photographs, make sketches and take samples. They may also work in labs, performing tests on samples taken from crime scenes and analyzing the results. 

Chemistry Teacher

Chemistry careers extend to the education field. As a chemistry teacher, you would teach chemistry classes in universities or high schools. It is important to note that in order to be a K12 chemistry teacher, you will need to pursue a program that leads to initial teacher licensure. Some of your responsibilities may include the following:

• Developing class curriculum, lessons and assignments
• Giving lectures and facilitating classroom discussion
• Grading essays and other assignments
• Working with students one-on-one during office hours
• Attending departmental meetings

Environmental Engineer

Environmental engineers apply engineering principles toward solving environmental problems, which can include site remediation, pollution control and waste treatment. They may design systems or processes that protect the environment and also promote human health. Some of their tasks can include:

• Inspecting industrial and municipal facilities to check for compliance
• Providing support for environmental remediation projects
• Advising companies and other organizations about the environmental impact of projects
• Monitoring environmental improvement programs

Health and Safety Engineer

Some career opportunities in chemistry involve occupational health and safety. Health and safety engineers, aside from those who work on mine inspections, are responsible for promoting worksite or product safety for a range of workplaces. They ensure that workplaces are in compliance with regulations and that industrial processes do not jeopardize safety. Some tasks can include:

• Reviewing plans for new equipment and machinery
• Inspecting facilities, machinery and safety equipment
• Overseeing the installation of safety devices 
• Investigating industrial accidents

Types of Chemistry Degrees Offered at GCU

Grand Canyon University offers degrees in chemistry at the baccalaureate and graduate level to prepare you to pursue an entry-level career or to further your career qualifications, respectively. Our curriculum focuses on a blend of hands-on experiential education and didactic education, which teaches both theoretical concepts and applied skills.

Bachelor of Science in Chemistry

The Bachelor of Science in Chemistry degree explores all of the sub-disciplines of chemistry, including biochemistry, physical chemistry and organic and inorganic chemistry. Students also take advanced math courses in algebra and calculus, as well as courses in biology and physics.

This degree explores foundational knowledge and skills in chemistry, such as:

• Chemical structure, chemical bonding, chemical reactions and acid-base principles
• Structures, functions and compositions of proteins, lipids, nucleic acids and carbohydrates
• Principles of thermodynamics
• The scientific process and the systematic use of data

Master of Science in Chemistry With an Emphasis in Education

After earning a bachelor’s in chemistry, you might consider strengthening your career qualifications with a master’s degree.

Chemistry students in this master's program take a deeper dive into organic, biochemical, physical analytical chemistry and teaching techniques.

Bachelor of Science in Environmental Science With an Emphasis in Environmental Chemistry

Another area of specialization to consider is environmental chemistry. A Bachelor of Science in Environmental Science with an Emphasis in Environmental Chemistry allows you to focus more narrowly on chemistry competencies that pertain to environmental health, such as water quality, air pollution, toxic spills and climate change. 

In this program, you’ll explore how chemicals like contaminants affect the ecosystem and everything living in it, including humans, plants and animals. You’ll closely examine environmental remediation strategies and how public policies and regulations can protect environmental and human health.

GCU invites STEM-minded students to explore our degree programs further. Apply online to earn a Bachelor of Science in Chemistry degree or further your education with one of our master’s degrees. Fill out the form on this page to speak with a university counselor about the many possibilities at GCU.