University of Adelaide

What you'll study

This degree builds a solid foundation in core chemical disciplines — inorganic, organic, physical and analytical chemistry — while offering applied topics that connect chemistry to industry and technology. Early years focus on fundamental concepts such as atomic and molecular structure, bonding, stoichiometry, thermodynamics, kinetics and laboratory technique. As you progress, you will study more specialised subjects including spectroscopy and instrumental analysis, quantum and computational chemistry, materials chemistry, polymer and industrial chemistry, environmental and green chemistry, and chemical process and safety.

• Core laboratory skills: quantitative analysis, synthesis, purification, instrumental methods (e.g. NMR, IR, mass spectrometry, chromatography), waste and safety management.
• Physical and theoretical chemistry: thermodynamics, kinetics, quantum mechanics and statistical methods applied to chemical systems.
• Organic and inorganic chemistry: reaction mechanisms, synthesis design, coordination chemistry and solid-state chemistry.
• Analytical and spectroscopic methods: modern techniques for structure determination and trace analysis.
• Applied topics and electives: materials chemistry, polymer chemistry, catalysis, process chemistry, environmental chemistry and computational modelling.
• Research and project work: an advanced laboratory project or research dissertation that develops experimental design, data analysis and scientific communication.

The degree is typically structured with compulsory core units to ensure broad chemical literacy, plus elective units that allow you to tailor the degree toward pure research or applied/industrial pathways. Laboratory classes and practical sessions are integrated throughout the programme to reinforce theoretical learning.

Entry requirements

Admission is competitive and based on academic achievement in relevant senior secondary subjects and equivalent qualifications for international students. Successful applicants normally have strong results in chemistry and mathematics or physics at secondary level. The University also considers recognised alternative qualifications, foundation programs and mature-age pathways.

• School prerequisites: prior study in chemistry and a satisfactory level of mathematical preparation is expected.
• International applicants: must present an equivalent secondary school qualification and meet the University’s English language proficiency requirements (for example, accepted IELTS, TOEFL or equivalent scores).
• Other pathways: tertiary transfer, bridging or enabling courses and recognised prior learning may be considered for applicants who do not meet direct entry requirements.

Career prospects

Graduates with a major in Pure and Applied Chemistry have a wide range of career options across industry, government and research. Chemical training prepares you for roles that require analytical thinking, laboratory competence and problem-solving skills.

• Laboratory scientist or analyst in pharmaceutical, environmental, food or materials testing laboratories.
• Research scientist in academic, government or industrial research centres, often progressing to honours and postgraduate study (Masters/PhD).
• Process or production chemist in chemical manufacturing, polymer and materials industries, or petrochemicals.
• Quality control, regulatory affairs, product development and technical support roles.
• Specialist careers in catalysis, nanomaterials, sustainable chemistry and environmental monitoring.
• Related roles in patent examination, science communication, education and consulting where a strong science background is valued.

Why study at University of Adelaide

The University of Adelaide offers chemistry teaching from an established School of Chemistry and Physics with dedicated teaching laboratories and modern instrumentation. The programme emphasises hands‑on laboratory experience alongside theoretical understanding, and students benefit from opportunities to undertake research projects with academic staff across areas such as materials chemistry, catalysis, environmental chemistry and computational modelling.

• Access to well‑equipped chemical laboratories and contemporary analytical instruments for learning and projects.
• Strong research links and collaborations with local industry, government research agencies and national facilities, supporting internship and employment pathways.
• Clear progression routes to honours and postgraduate research degrees for students pursuing research careers.
• Support services for career development, industry engagement and practical skills training relevant to graduate roles in the chemical sciences.