Bachelor of Science - Chemistry major

Bachelor of Science - Chemistry major

Your guide to majoring in Chemistry with the Bachelor of Science at RMIT.

Full course information Enquire Download Brochure
Student type:
Learning mode:
On campus
Entry score:

See course admissions

Duration:
Full-time 3 years
Part-time 6 years
Fees:

Commonwealth Supported Places (CSP)

Next intake:
February, July
Location:
Melbourne City
Learning mode:
On campus
Entry score:

See course admissions

Duration:
Full-time 3 years
Fees:

AU$40,320 (2025 annual)

Next intake:
February, July
Location:
Melbourne City

Introduction to the major

Chemistry is known as the central science that connects all other science areas.

Whether looking at climate change, harnessing renewable energy sources, investigating next-gen nanotechnology or discovering medical breakthroughs, chemistry is vital in understanding and developing technologies of the future. This major explores chemical structures, the properties of organic compounds and the biomedical applications of chemistry.

Students will study across materials science, organic, inorganic, physical and analytical chemistry. Build strong research and laboratory skills, preparing for careers that require skills and knowledge related to analysis of substances at the molecular level and exploring chemical structures.

The Chemistry major will strengthen your practical skills in laboratory science, building on specific training which include chemical analysis, laboratory science, data analysis and materials science.

Key soft skills include include leadership, teamwork, empathy, interpersonal communication and listening skills, as well as time management, problem-solving, research, critical thinking and organisation skills. 

 

 

Lauren Giles, Bachelor of Science (Chemistry) BP350
The Honours project I have chosen is investigating the development of nanomaterials to aid in drug delivery. Overall, I hope to end up in the field of research in the space of developing tools for drug delivery and antibiotics, which I have gained a love for after exploring it in some of my subjects throughout my course.

- Lauren Giles, Bachelor of Science (Chemistry) 

About the Bachelor of Science

With the Bachelor of Science at RMIT you will enjoy a cross-disciplinary, flexible and personalised degree that allows you to pursue a range of diverse interest areas across science. You will gain practical real-world experience throughout your degree.

RMIT provides a wonderful environment for your learning, both in the classroom and in the laboratory. The chemistry department faculty are always seeking ways to make our learning experience better by offering useful feedback and being passionate about what they are teaching us.

- Valerie Chow, Bachelor of Science (Applied Chemistry)  

 

 

Valerie Chow, Bachelor of Science (Applied Chemistry) BP350

Why choose to major in Chemistry with the Bachelor of Science?

Tailor your learning

Undertake in-depth study in chemistry, complemented with a choice of majors and minors.

Global reach

Apply your learnings to a wide range of areas, to solve emerging global challenges.

Skills-based learning

Build strong research and laboratory skills, as well as critical thinking and teamwork.

Career outcomes

RMIT’s Bachelor of Science will equip you with the expertise, experience and professional skills to have a successful career as a scientist.

With the practical, research and other essential skills developed and gained through your study in this degree, you can go on to work or undertake further study in a range of areas.

Potential careers for graduates of the Bachelor of Science who choose to major in chemistry include:

  • laboratory technician
  • environmental scientist
  • chemist
  • forensic scientist
  • chemical technician
  • academic researcher
  • climate scientist
  • toxicologist
  • chemical engineer
  • teacher.

Understanding your course options

This combination of knowledge and skills will prepare you for the complexities of the modern science landscape and equip you to make a meaningful impact in your chosen career.

As a student in the RMIT Bachelor of Science, you will have the opportunity to focus your studies on a single major complimented with a related generalist and advanced minors, or to select a second major and graduate your degree with a double major. Whether you chose a single or double major, your degree will consist of 24 subjects total.

The below guide will help you understand your options:

Chemistry major subjects

You will undertake eight chemistry subjects focusing on:

  • Chemistry fundamentals 1
  • Chemistry fundamentals 2
  • Concepts in chemistry
  • Analytical techniques
  • Further concepts in chemistry
  • Chemistry laboratory
  • Advanced chemistry laboratory
  • Advanced chemistry theory

The chemistry single major consists of eight subjects focused on your chemistry major, complemented with an advanced minor linked to your major, in addition to a generalist minor or science options subjects of your choice.

RMIT Bachelor of Science - single major course structure

Four subjects per semester
Year 1 Semester 1

Foundations of Science:

Physical sciences, Life sciences, Maths, Data and Science communication
Semester 2

CHEMISTRY MAJOR

Generalist minor*
(or Science subjects of your choice)
Year 2 Semester 3
Semester 4
  • Complete your Chemistry major

AND

  • An advanced minor**

AND

  • Complete electives

AND

  • 3rd year CAPSTONE PROJECT
    Work integrated Learning (WIL)
Year 3 Semester 5
Semester 6
Please note: Some majors have constraints on combinations of majors/minors and electives.

Complementary advanced minors

Advanced minors are extended studies that follow on from your chosen major. There are two available options for the Chemistry major:

  • Advanced chemistry advanced minor
  • Environmental and analytical chemistry advanced minor

Complementary generalist minors

A Generalist minor is four subjects completed in an alternative area of science to your major. It provides some understanding and specialisation (minor) in another discipline. For example, a Chemistry major combined with a biosciences minor may provide good grounding for a career as a biochemist.

Suggested generalist minors to combine with the Chemistry major include:

  • Food science
  • Biosciences
  • Environmental science

*You can only complete one generalist minor

**Your advanced minor must be linked to your chosen major

By electing to choose a second major instead of a combination of minors with your major in Chemistry, you will focus on your studies equally on your two areas of specialisation.

The double major option consists of eight subjects in each chosen major.

RMIT Bachelor of Science - double major course structure

Four subjects per semester
Year 1 Semester 1

Foundations of Science (4 subjects):
Physical sciences, Life sciences, Maths, Data and Science communication
Semester 2 Chemistry major (2 subjects)
Second major (2 subjects)
Year 2 Chemistry major (4 subjects)
Second major (4 subjects)
Year 3 Chemistry major (2 subjects)
Second major (2 subjects)
Electives (2 subjects)
Capstone project (2 subjects)
Please note: Some majors have constraints on combinations of majors/minors and electives.

Complementary majors

The following majors allow for a double major with chemistry:

Biological sciences major

Biological studies involve keen observation, classical experimentation, and the development of new technologies and applications. With their new ideas and modern tools, biologists are driving many innovations in today’s world, ranging from molecular engineering that improves lives to tackling the numerous threats facing the biodiversity of our planet.

Biotechnology major

Biotechnologists play a crucial role in advancing scientific knowledge, developing innovative products and addressing societal challenges through the application of biotechnology principles and techniques. The Biotechnology major gives you breadth of knowledge across life sciences and related disciplines, practical skills in the lab and field, and a specialisation in your chosen area.

Food Science and Technology major

This exciting field combines scientific principles with the art of creating safe, nutritious and delicious food. As a food scientist, you will explore the chemistry, microbiology and engineering behind food production and processing. By choosing this major, you will gain practical skills in food safety analysis, innovative food processing techniques and product development.

Mathematics major

With the mathematics major you will learn to think logically, approach problems in analytical and creative ways, and prepare for career opportunities in areas such as banking finance, information security, cybersecurity, public health, logistics, government agencies and research organisations, mathematical biology, and environmental modelling to name a few.

Nutrition science major

In a world where nutrition plays a central role in public health, there is a growing need for experts who can address global challenges such as malnutrition, obesity and food insecurity. By pursuing a Nutrition Science major, you will be prepared to make a positive impact through community outreach, public health initiatives and entrepreneurship.

Statistics

Statistics is the study of data, from design, collection, visualisation, analyses and interpretation. Informed statistical insight is often crucial in influencing and guiding the strategies and decisions taken by organisations, industries, and businesses.  In the Statistics major, you’ll be taught to think logically, and learn how to approach theoretical and real-world problems in analytical and creative ways and apply your knowledge to professional and academic contexts.   

Bachelor of Science full course information

This is just one of the 8 majors that you can choose from. Visit the Bachelor of Science course page to find full course information, explore your study options, and get details on entry requirements, pathways, fees, plan structure and more.

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Acknowledgement of Country

RMIT University acknowledges the people of the Woi wurrung and Boon wurrung language groups of the eastern Kulin Nation on whose unceded lands we conduct the business of the University. RMIT University respectfully acknowledges their Ancestors and Elders, past and present. RMIT also acknowledges the Traditional Custodians and their Ancestors of the lands and waters across Australia where we conduct our business - Artwork 'Sentient' by Hollie Johnson, Gunaikurnai and Monero Ngarigo.

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aboriginal flag
torres strait flag

Acknowledgement of Country

RMIT University acknowledges the people of the Woi wurrung and Boon wurrung language groups of the eastern Kulin Nation on whose unceded lands we conduct the business of the University. RMIT University respectfully acknowledges their Ancestors and Elders, past and present. RMIT also acknowledges the Traditional Custodians and their Ancestors of the lands and waters across Australia where we conduct our business.

More information