Associate of Science in Chemistry

Chemistry is the study of material on the molecular level: how molecules are structured, how they react with each other and under what conditions, how can they be modified and how each modification affects physical properties. Chemistry affects everything from food to medicine, from pollution control to paint formulation, from permanent-press clothes to kitchen counter tops. Most of the work of chemistry is done in research, applications or quality-control laboratories. Many who study chemistry do so as preparation for a career in medicine or pharmacology. This program provides you with the first two years toward completion of a bachelor’s degree in chemistry. Success You should have good math and problem-solving skills, enjoy science and be detail oriented. You should also enjoy hands-on work and have a high tolerance for unpleasant odors. Career A bachelor’s degree is the minimum educational requirement for many beginning jobs in chemistry. Although your career opportunities are somewhat limited without an advanced degree, you can start your career in testing and inspecting, quality control or as a chemical research technician. You may, like many chemistry graduates, also enter medical, dental, veterinary or allied health professional schools. While a master’s degree is sufficient for some jobs in applied research, you will need your PhD for college teaching, independent research and for advancement to administrative research and management positions.